In a written examination, what is the initial part of a question called?

The initial part of a question in a written examination is referred to as the stem. This component sets the context for the question and presents the problem or scenario that the examinee needs to respond to. The stem is essential as it provides the necessary information that enables the test taker to understand what is being asked, guiding them in selecting the correct answer.

A well-crafted stem clearly articulates the question or challenge without including any extraneous information that could confuse the candidate. This clarity is crucial for assessing the examinee's understanding of the material effectively.

Other parts of a question, such as distractors, serve to provide incorrect options that challenge the test-taker's knowledge and reasoning skills, while the key refers to the correct answer itself. However, it is the stem that forms the foundation upon which the question is built. This understanding is vital for creating effective assessments that accurately measure a learner's knowledge and skills in a particular subject area.