Editing NCLEX-RN Exam Blueprint (section)

== Item formats ==

Candidates should expect a mix of formats. Traditional formats include:

* '''Multiple choice, single response.''' The most common format.
* '''Multiple response, select all that apply.''' Choose every correct option.
* '''Fill in the blank calculation.''' Numeric answer, usually a dosage, intake and output, or intravenous flow rate. Follow the rounding and unit instructions in the item exactly.
* '''Ordered response or drag and drop.''' Place steps or priorities in the correct sequence.
* '''Hot spot or graphic.''' Click a location on an image, such as an auscultation site.
* '''Chart or exhibit.''' Interpret a simulated medical record with multiple tabs.
* '''Audio and graphic option items.''' Interpret a sound such as breath sounds, or select an image.

NGN formats include:

* '''Extended multiple response,''' which may award partial credit.
* '''Extended drag and drop,''' matching responses to categories or a sequence.
* '''Cloze, or drop-down,''' completing a sentence or a table by selecting from embedded menus.
* '''Enhanced hot spot, or highlight,''' selecting the relevant words or phrases in a passage of text such as a nurse's note.
* '''Matrix or grid,''' marking each row against columns such as indicated, contraindicated, or nonessential, or anticipated versus not anticipated.
* '''Bow-tie,''' placing the client condition in the center and dragging actions to take, parameters to monitor, and potential conditions into the surrounding boxes.

Scoring on NGN items may use dichotomous scoring, partial credit with a penalty for incorrect selections, or rationale-based scoring that links a condition to its supporting evidence. Traditional items are scored dichotomously.