What is a plausible incorrect answer?
A “plausible incorrect answer” is one which cannot be dismissed without careful thought or calculation. It should appear to be a viable answer to a candidate who has not mastered the knowledge and skills taught in the curriculum. For example, on a calculation question, incorrect choices might be the result of calculations that mix up the variables in a formula or represent interim calculations in a situation where two or more operations are required. Incorrect alternatives are often written in accordance with popular misconceptions about a particular topic. After a careful reading of the question and appropriate assessment of the possible answer choices, a well-prepared candidate should not find plausible incorrect answers to be attractive.
