Test vs. exam

Question

Hi. Could you please tell me the difference between "test" and "exam"? Thanks.

Clive · Accepted Answer

Hi,

A 'test' sounds shorter and less important.

Clive

Anonymous · Answer

Hi Minhhai2209. A test and an exam are both tools or instruments of evaluation. A test is diagnostic in nature as in checking learning after a lesson or series of lessons, while an examination is summative as in investigating the extent of learning after a series of lessons or after a period of time, some schools or universities call it "periodical test" or "periodical exam". Many educators all over the world are still confused with the use of both words and its meaning, not just you and me. On the other hand, a quiz is a shorter version of a test focused on a specific lesson or topic which could be given unannounced or announced by a teacher after a lesson.

Results of your quizzes, tests and exams are combined together to make a measurement of your performance so that your teacher or professor could make a decision or judgement whether you are failed or passed at the end of the school year. This is called evaluation.

Anonymous · Answer

The two words are often used synonymously, but they are not true synonyms. The word "test" means to assess the quality, value, or extent of something by looking at the data or results. Think "yes or no". The word "exam" is a shortened version of "examination", which means to consider, ponder, or evaluate through comparison. Think "to what extent".

Academically a "test" is a simple "q

Academically a "test" is a simple "question-answer-grade" vehicle. Tests are generally used to measure how well you remember facts. In contrast, an "examination" measures your comprehension of a subject or topic as the instructor/professor takes what you answer and determines (ponders) your overall level of understanding. Examination grades are generally more subjective than test grades.

So relating this to a common event, you may go to the doctor's office for an annual check-up. The doctor will give you an "examination." He will look at you and perform various "tests" (blood test, blood pressure test, reflex test, etc.) The results of those "tests" will enable him to make an assessment (examination result) of your state of health.

I hope this helps.

Test vs. exam

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