MoCA Cube Copying (Three-Dimensional Copy)

Question 1

In the MoCA, what geometric figure is the examinee asked to copy in the three-dimensional copy task?

Accepted Answer

A three-dimensional cube

Answer

The examinee is asked to copy a pre-drawn three-dimensional cube. This task specifically assesses the ability to perceive and reproduce three-dimensional spatial relationships — a visuoconstructional skill distinct from the executive demands of clock drawing.

Question 2

Which of the following criteria must be met to earn the 1 point on the MoCA cube copy task?

Accepted Answer

The drawing must be three-dimensional, all lines present, and no incorrect lines added

Answer

To score 1 point, the copy must be three-dimensional, all lines must be drawn (12 lines for a complete cube), and no extra lines may be added. Size matching, shading, and timing are not scoring criteria.

Question 3

How many points is the cube copy task worth on the MoCA?

Accepted Answer

1 point

Answer

The cube copy task is worth a maximum of 1 point. It is scored pass/fail based on whether the drawing meets the three-dimensional accuracy criteria.

Question 4

What is the primary cognitive function assessed by the MoCA cube copy task?

Accepted Answer

Visuoconstructional ability

Answer

The cube copy task measures visuoconstructional ability — the capacity to perceive a three-dimensional spatial arrangement and accurately reproduce it through a motor drawing response. Deficits often reflect posterior cortical or parietal lobe pathology.

Question 5

How does the cube copy task differ from the clock drawing task in what it primarily measures on the MoCA?

Accepted Answer

The cube copy tests pure 3D visuoconstructional ability while clock drawing additionally requires executive planning and number knowledge

Answer

The cube copy is a relatively pure measure of visuoconstructional ability. Clock drawing additionally requires executive planning (setting the hands to a specified time), conceptual knowledge (clock face layout, numerals), and abstract representation — making it a richer multidomain task.

(MoCA) Montreal Cognitive Assessment Practice Test

(MoCA) Montreal Cognitive Assessment Practice Test

MoCA Cube Copying (Three-Dimensional Copy)