MMSE Reading and Writing Tasks 2

Question 1

In the MMSE writing task, what is the minimum requirement for a spontaneously written sentence to receive full credit?

Accepted Answer

It must contain a subject and a verb and make sense

Answer

The written sentence must contain a subject and a verb and make sense; spelling and grammar errors do not affect the score.

Question 2

A patient writes 'Cat run fast' when asked to write a sentence on the MMSE. How should this be scored?

Accepted Answer

1 point, because it has a subject and verb and makes sense

Answer

The sentence contains a subject (cat) and a verb (run) and makes sense, so it earns 1 point despite the grammatical error.

Question 3

On the MMSE reading task, the patient is shown a card that says 'CLOSE YOUR EYES.' What must the patient do to receive credit?

Accepted Answer

Actually close their eyes after reading the command

Answer

The patient must carry out the written command by actually closing their eyes to receive the 1 point.

Question 4

Why is the reading command on the MMSE printed in large letters?

Accepted Answer

To account for visual acuity limitations and ensure the task tests reading comprehension, not vision

Answer

Large print minimizes the influence of poor vision so the task specifically measures reading comprehension ability.

Question 5

A patient with limited education cannot write a sentence but can print simple words. How does the MMSE account for this?

Accepted Answer

The examiner notes limited education and may adjust interpretation, but the item is still scored as 0 if no sentence is produced

Answer

The writing task is scored 0 if no complete sentence is produced, but education level is noted as context for interpreting the total score.

MMSE - Mini-Mental State Examination Practice Test