Abstract: A method for creating a test for administration to a student includes creating a plurality of test items using a unitary software application. Each test item has a plurality of elements, including an item stem (a question or problem), at least one option (such as a choice of answers, including one correct answer and at least one “distractor” or an open-ended question), and metadata related to the test item. Next, if desired, an image is added to the test item using the software. Each test item is then stored in an electronic database. Access to each test item in the database is provided, wherein the test items are searchable by at least one of the test item elements. The test creator then electronically selects at least one test item from the database and views at least a portion of the selected test item. If desired, the at least one selected test item is assembled into a test.