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Abstract
Multiple choice question papers form the major or sole method of assessment at all levels of tertiary education world-wide. The most common type of MCQ is the multiple true/false variety where the stem is followed by five statements, any number of which can be correct. The time allowed per question, which optimises students marks is unknown.
To assess the optimum time we divided second year medical students (N=212) into 3 groups. The groups were matched for academic ability. Each group received the same set of 40 MCQs. One group had 1 1/2 min to answer each question. Another group had 2 1/4 min per MCQ and a third group 3 min per MCQ.
The students who had 21/4 min to answer each MCQ scored significantly better than students who had 1 1/2 min per MCQ. The marks of students who had 3 min per MCQ fell between the 1 1/2 min group and 2 1/4 min group. Weak students' marks improved as time per question increased. Good student's marks decreased as time increased.
We conclude that students' marks for MCQ are significantly affected by the amount of time allowed per question.