In this article, we will explain the branching questions. Branching in online assessments, or adaptive testing, tailors question sequences based on a candidate’s answers. This dynamic approach enhances efficiency by adjusting question difficulty and content in real time. Starting with a baseline question, the system analyzes responses to determine the next step, creating a personalized assessment pathway that adapts to each candidate’s performance.
Branching applies to multiple-choice, single-choice, and true/false questions. Below, we explain how branching is enabled for each question type.
Single-choice question
Single-choice questions provide multiple answer options, but candidates can select only one correct answer. To add a single-choice question to a question pool, follow these steps:
- Navigate to the Tests > Question pools.
- Select a question pool and navigate to the Questions tab.
- Select the Add question button and select the Single-choice option.
- Show more settings by selecting the toggle
- Enable branching option
Click the Add new question to branch option to add a question to a branch and select a question type from the dropdown menu.
Note: You can add any question type as a branching question.
Configure branching question settings and save the branch for the answer.
Note: The branching question will only show if the candidate selects Answer 1.
Each answer can have multiple branching questions, allowing for a dynamic assessment flow. You can view the entire branching structure by selecting the “Show Structure” option. Once you’re satisfied with the question setup, you can add it to the pool.
Candidate’s perspective
If the candidate selects the answer linked to the branching question, in our case, “Identify the root cause of the issue.”, and clicks the “Next Question” button, the corresponding branching question will be displayed.
Multiple-choice branching
Multiple-choice questions provide a set of possible answers, allowing candidates to select one or more correct options. To add a branching question, follow these steps:
- Enable Branching: Branching for multiple-choice questions is only available with the “By a combination of answers” scoring method. To enable it, open the Scoring Method dropdown and select “By a combination of answers.”
- Set Up the Question: Enter the question text and answer options. Click “Add Combination” to create a specific answer combination.
- Assign a weight (points) for the combination.
- Use the “+” button to include answers in a combination or the bin icon to remove them.
- Save Changes: Once you’re done, click the “Save” button to apply the settings.
After saving a combination, you can perform the following actions:
- Check the Weight: Review the assigned weight (points) for the combination.
- Modify Answer Groups: In the Actions column, edit or delete an answer group as needed.
- Add Branching Questions: Click “Add new question to branch” and select a question type from the dropdown.
- Once added, you can edit or delete the branching question.
You can review the branching question structure by selecting the “Show Structure” option. Once satisfied, click “Add to Pool” to include the question in the question pool.
Candidate’s perspective
If the candidate selects the correct combination of answers linked to the branching question and clicks the “Next Question” button, the corresponding branching question will appear.
True/False branching
True/False questions present a single statement, requiring candidates to determine whether it is true or false. To enable branching for a True/False question, follow these steps:
- Enable Branching: Select the “Enable Branching” option.
- Follow Single-Choice Branching Steps: The process for adding branching questions is the same as for single-choice questions.
- Manage Branching Questions: Once added, you can edit or delete branching questions as needed.
You can review the branching question structure by selecting the “Show Structure” option. Once satisfied, click “Add to Pool” to include the question in the question pool.
Candidate’s perspective
If the candidate selects the answer linked to the branching question, in this case, “FALSE,” and clicks the “Next Question” button, the corresponding branching question will be displayed.
For additional instructions, please refer to the following video.
