In multiple choice question format, what does the ‘key’ provide?

The 'key' in a multiple-choice question format serves to identify the correct answer among the provided options. It is essential for evaluating the responses from learners, as it acts as a reference point to determine whether the answer chosen by a student is accurate. A key is fundamental in assessments, as it provides clarity and a definitive guide to grading, ensuring that there is a uniformly accepted criterion for what constitutes a correct response. This aspect is vital for maintaining the integrity and reliability of the evaluation process. Other elements, such as possible answers, instructional guidance, and assessment criteria, play specific roles in the question format, but the primary function of the 'key' is to pinpoint which answer is correct.