Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) can be constructed in many formats. The format used in this examination is the ‘one-from-five’ or Type A question. Each question has an opening statement or ‘stem’ followed by five alternatives : A, B, C, D and E. The stem sets the theme of the question. You are required to choose the best of the five alternatives. Remember, it is not the one correct alternative, but the best alternative. It is imperative that you read the question carefully.

As a rule (there are no exceptions to this rule!) there are no language tricks in any of the questions. If at all a question appears tricky it is because the subject content of the question. This discussion is about tackling these questions. More samples for practice and self assessment appear in subsequent pages.

Answers are to be entered as a cross mark (X) in one of the boxes on the left side of a question, in the same manner it was done for the continuous assessment tests.

Each MCQ has only one answer. Writing in more than one answer disqualifies the answer. If you wish to change an answer make sure it is completely erased or covered by white before you enter a fresh answer. Do not detach any sheet from the exam booklet.

A question may be a straightforward one where the five alternatives are grammatically continuous completions of the stem :

A typical cervical vertebra has

    A. an almost circular vertebral canal.

    B. a quadrangular spinous process.

    C. a foramen in the transverse process.

    D. articular facets on the sides of its body.

    E. articular facets on the transverse process.

This question tests factual knowledge about cervical vertebrae. The correct answer is ‘C’. Regarding the other alternatives in this question : A, D and E are features of a typical thoracic vertebra, B is a feature of a typical lumbar vertebra.

Do not be in a hurry to write what you think is the correct answer until you have finished reading the entire question. There may be more than one correct answer, with an appropriate statement to that effect towards the end of the question. For example :

Regarding the features of thoracic vertebrae :

    A. A typical thoracic vertebra has two facets for ribs on either side of the body.

    B. Typical thoracic vertebrae have long, pointed spinous processes.

    C. The twelfth thoracic vertebra resembles a lumbar vertebra.

    D. ‘A’ and ‘B’ are correct.

    E. ‘A’, ‘B’ and ‘C’ are correct.

You may be tempted to mark A or B as your answer. Both are correct. But remember that you have to write the “single best” answer. The best answer here is ‘E’. If you mark ‘A’, ‘B’ or ‘C’ you are partially correct, but in questions of this type there is no credit for a partially correct answer.

Negative words or those that indicate exception are in upper case (capital letters), so that they are not overlooked. Questions with such words are few. When you do come across them, read them carefully.

All of the following are true for a typical thoracic vertebra EXCEPT :

    A. It has a quadrangular spine.

    B. It has an almost circular vertebral canal.

    C. It does NOT have a foramen transversarium.

    D. It has an articular facet on the transverse process.

    E. Its transverse process is directed backwards and laterally.

Since the stem says “All …… are true EXCEPT”, the false statement is the correct answer, which in this case is ‘A’. Also note that ‘C’ states that “(a typical thoracic vertebra) does NOT have a foramen transversarium” which makes it a true statement. In general however, double negatives are avoided.

The stem of this question may also be written as :

With reference to a typical thoracic vertebra, which of the following statements is INCORRRECT?

    A. It has a quadrangular spine.

    B. … …

The overall approach.

Students have different approaches in handling MCQs. Some students proceed serially through all the questions, some may feel confident about some questions and answer them first, returning to the remaining questions later. In any case it is important not to mix up answers and to keep track of time. In my opinion the first approach is better unless a particular question really stumps you.

Once you have answered a question it is better not to keep returning to it to check your answer. When you finish answering all questions, if time permits, you can go through all of them once. If on a second reading you feel like changing too many answers, relax for a few moments and attack again. It is my observation (not documented or statistically proven, but stemming from experience of over twenty years with MCQs) that when a student changes an answer, more often than not the second answer is wrong!

Wrong answers are NOT given a negative mark. In other words, a correct answer gets full credit, a wrong answer, zero. Do not be apprehensive if you are not sure. Select the answer you think is best. Above all, answer all questions.