Answers are grounded in this paper and cite their sources.
Compares test scoring formats in general physics, showing multiple-choice questions yield higher scores.
This study looks at a comparison between test problems graded free response (with partial credit) and those graded by five multiple-choice questions (with no partial credit). Data was taken over several years and scores were used to make a direct comparison between the two formats. It was determined that the test problems graded multiple choice scored roughly 17% higher on average than those graded free response. The reasons for this are discussed.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
D. Richardson (2026) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 10 related papers. Consider them for comparative context: