Home LMS Question Types in the Test Builder: Free Answer

Question Types in the Test Builder: Free Answer

Last updated on Jul 10, 2026

The Free answer question type is used when the user needs to write a text answer in their own words. It is a format for explanations, reasoning, short essays, descriptions of experience or answers that an administrator reviews manually.

This type is useful when staff testing needs to assess not only the choice of the correct option, but also the logic of the answer, reasoning or way of thinking.

If you need to collect media or a document, use a separate question type:

  • Video answer - for a video recording or a prepared video file;

  • Audio answer - for an audio recording or a prepared audio file;

  • Upload file - for a document, spreadsheet, presentation, PDF or another supported file.

When Should You Use It?

Choose Free answer if the answer should be text and cannot be checked reliably by the system.

Examples:

  • "Describe how you will apply the rule in your work";

  • "Explain why this solution option is the best";

  • "Write a short conclusion after the case";

  • "Describe the risks in this situation".

How Do You Set It Up?

  1. Choose the Free answer type.

  2. Write the question text.

  3. If needed, add an image to the question.

  4. Click Save.

With this type, you do not need to create answer options or mark a correct answer.

What Does the User See?

During the test, the user sees a text input field. The answer button becomes available only after the user enters text.

How Is It Marked?

Free answer is not marked automatically and is not included in the test percentage result.

The answer is saved in the report as text. An administrator must review it manually and make their own judgement about the quality of the answer.

If the test consists only of manually reviewed, unmarked questions, the automatic result in the report may appear as -.

Nuances and Limitations

  • this type is for text only;

  • files, video and audio are not added in this type;

  • the question wording should explain how detailed the answer should be.

What Should You Check Before Publishing?

  • the wording makes it clear exactly what the user should write;

  • you do not expect automatic score calculation.