Recognizing these disadvantages, the test constructor may sti ll favor the use
of situation-based items. For they do test examinee understanding , abi lities to
apply knowledge, and abi lity to think. Is there any better alternative? There may
be . Whereas items involving complex , realistic problem situations are often
inefficient, ambiguous, and indeterminate, items testing elements of knowledge
tend to be efficient and can be less ambiguous and more determinate. There are
reasons for believing that most cognitive abilities that can be measured by situation-
based test items can also be measured, perhaps with greater efficiency and
re li ability , by proposition-based items. In many situations , tests composed of
simple items may provide more efficient and accurate measures of mental abilities
than can be provided by complex test items. In item writing as in many other
arts, simplicity can be a virtue.