Writing Quizzes, Tests and Exams (Ory & Ryan, 1993)

The tips and advice in the sections below have been extracted and/or adapted from:
Ory, J. C. and K. E. Ryan. (1993).  Tips for Improving Testing and Grading.  Newbury Park, CA: Sage Pubs. Inc.

General Advice on Writing Tests and Exams:

Test directions should include statements about:

• how much time is available
• how to record answers
• whether to show work on problems
• total points on different items
• whether there is a penalty for guessing
• whether texts, class notes or calcultors can be used during the test
• whether student scan make notes or write comments in the test booklet.

Test assembly - Does your exam or test look professional?

• Check for misspelled words and misnumbered items or pages
• Check for typographical errors
• Is there an item that has been split between 2 pages?
• Is the exam format consistent throughout the exam?
• Are there any formatting errors?
• Is there ample blank space for "constructed response" items (In cases where student must write down their answers, fill in the gaps, make check-marks, etc). 
• Are directions provided throughout the exam?