Study design: practice question

A PSM question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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PSM · Study design

Sample item

Why is blinding used in randomized trials?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

D. Reduce differential behaviour or outcome assessment bias

Blinding reduces the chance that expectations alter cointerventions, reporting, assessment, or interpretation of outcomes between trial groups.

Option by option

  • A. Replace random allocation

    It complements rather than replaces randomization.

  • B. Increase disease prevalence

    Blinding does not change underlying prevalence.

  • C. Avoid obtaining consent

    Consent remains required in ethical research.

  • D. Reduce differential behaviour or outcome assessment bias (correct)

    Correct: blinding protects against expectation-related bias.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

More PSM questions

Questions about this PSM question

What is the answer to this PSM question?

The best answer is D, Reduce differential behaviour or outcome assessment bias. Blinding reduces the chance that expectations alter cointerventions, reporting, assessment, or interpretation of outcomes between trial groups.

Why is "Replace random allocation" not the answer?

It complements rather than replaces randomization.

Why is "Increase disease prevalence" not the answer?

Blinding does not change underlying prevalence.

Why is "Avoid obtaining consent" not the answer?

Consent remains required in ethical research.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Study design in PSM. The correct option holds because: Correct: blinding protects against expectation-related bias.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Study design?

Practise biostatistics with small calculations until sensitivity, predictive values and risk measures are automatic. Then use the flashcards and the other PSM questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.