Style, Editorial, and Publication Guidelines for Items in the Multiple-Choice Format

Abstract

When authors refer to style, they usually mean the expression of ideas in a smooth, orderly, pleasing manner. Each author develops an individual style of expression that allows for a personal presentation of his or her own thoughts and emotions. For editors, however, style connotes something different. Editorial style refers to the consistent use of a set of rules and guidelines. These rules and guidelines prescribe a consistent use of punctuation, abbreviations, and citations, a uniform and attractive format for tables, graphs, and charts, and a correct form for the many other elements that constitute written communication. Test-item writers are both authors and editors. As authors, they can express their ideas in novel, creative, and personal ways; as editors, they must be aware of and follow consistent editorial principles.