How-to-guide for writing multiple choice questions for the pharmacy instructor

Background: Writing multiple choice questions (MCQ) takes a lot of practice. Often, pharmacy practitioners lack the training to write effective MCQ. Sources for instruction in effective MCQ writing can be overwhelming with numerous suggestions of what should and should not be done. Purpose: The following guide is prepared to serve as a succinct reference for creation and revision of MCQ by both novice and seasoned pharmacy faculty practitioners. Methods: The literature is summarized into 12 best practices for writing effective MCQ. Pharmacy specific examples that demonstrate violations of best practices and how they can be corrected are provided. Implications: The guide can serve as a primer to write new MCQ, as a reference to revise previously created questions, or as a guide to peer review of MCQ.