There are two main aspects of multiple choice exams that create possible cheating opportunities. First, during the exam, copying answers from others may be easier than with subjective answers. Second, after the exam, changing answers, or attempting to submit other's work may be easier. With a little forethought, these can both be dealt with very effectively.

Before and During the Exam

The most common way to prevent cheating is to use multiple versions of the exam. It is important to mix the order of the questions and the order of the items. There are many test-bank computer programs available that will automatically do this for you. If you change the order of the questions, make sure that all versions are equally logically ordered. For example, if one version was in a logical order and the others were in a random order, those students with the added cues of order may do better on the exam.

Make sure the versions alternate when they are handed out.

Have students keep the exams face down until you signal the start.

Some instructors choose to identify the versions on different colors of paper. This means that the proctor can identify if students have shuffled the order of the exams and are sitting next to others with the same version. However, this also means that students may be able to identify a potential source for cheating.

You may also choose to use 'phantom' versions where you indicate that you have more versions than you actually have. For example, use four 'versions', but have only 2 keys (i.e., version 1 and 3 are actually the same, as are versions 2 and 4).

Other tips

Be sure all desks are clear and materials placed out of sight before starting the exam.

Have students turn any caps backwards in case there are notes written under the brim.

Have students turn off any walkmans and take out any ear phones.

If you allow students to keep the exam, do not let late arrivals take the exam after someone has left.

After the Exam

Students may change the ScanTron/answer form. There are two great ways to eliminate this.

The first is to have the students put their names and mark their answers on the exam questions as well as on the answer form. Be sure to collect all the exam question forms and hold onto them until all grading questions have been addressed. If there is a question about grading, you can produce the test form and double check all the answers. (Be sure to double check all answers so that students don't 'hedge their bets' by answering questions in different ways on the test and on the answer form.)

The second way to eliminate the benefit of changing the answer form is make copies of the ScanTron forms. This can either be done on a photocopy machine, or electronically by the ScanTron scanner (be sure to use the computer-compatible form. If you have any questions, call the TRC: 752 6050).

If a student changes an answer form and resubmits it for a grade change, and you have a copy of the answer form as it was originally handed in, then you have a clear case for Student Judicial Affairs.

A variation on this theme is that a student may change the name on the answer form of a friend who got a better grade and try to make you believe that you incorrectly recorded the grade. This can be eliminated by using the two techniques above or by asking students to write their name in pen.

See tips for constructing a multiple choice exam, / item construction, / item examples

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