Short Answer
This article shows you how to build a short answer question.
Last updated
This article shows you how to build a short answer question.
Last updated
Short answer (Paragraph Response) questions prompt students to write one or more paragraphs in response to a prompt. Unlike fill-in-the-blank or multiple-choice formats, this question type requires higher-order thinking, organization of ideas, and coherent expression.
This question type is ideal when you want students to apply, analyze, or synthesize knowledge rather than just recall facts. They encourage critical thinking, allow for nuanced understanding, and let students demonstrate their reasoning processes or interpret course materials in their own words.
Encourages deeper engagement with course content.
Provides insight into students’ reasoning, interpretation, and application skills.
Allows flexibility in responses, accommodating a range of acceptable answers.
Critical Thinking Exercises: Have students defend a position, analyze a scenario, or interpret data.
Reading Reflections: Ask students to summarize and reflect on a key concept from assigned readings.
Applied Problem-Solving: Have students explain how they would address a real-world situation or case study.
Short answer autograding is available in closed beta. Contact support@examind.io for more information.
Unique Scenarios: Use unique characters and vary the scenarios to reduce plagiarism.
Limited Time Windows: Give students a set amount of time to complete the question.
Students might write excessively long responses if guidelines aren’t provided. Specify a word limit.
Students may provide overly vague or unfocused responses. Encourage specificity and reference to course concepts.
Provide a rubric or set of criteria ahead of time so students know what aspects you value (e.g., accuracy, detail, coherence).
After grading, offer general class feedback addressing common strengths and weaknesses.
