Study design: randomized trial: 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: randomized trial

Sample item

What is the main purpose of random allocation in a clinical trial?

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

The answer and the reasoning

C. Balance known and unknown confounders between groups on average

Randomization reduces systematic baseline differences between intervention groups, improving causal inference. It does not eliminate chance imbalance, measurement error, or ethical requirements.

Option by option

  • A. Replace informed consent

    Informed consent remains required.

  • B. Eliminate all measurement error

    Measurement error can still occur in randomized trials.

  • C. Balance known and unknown confounders between groups on average (correct)

    Correct. Random allocation is a key protection against confounding.

  • D. Guarantee every participant benefits

    An intervention may not benefit every individual.

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 C, Balance known and unknown confounders between groups on average. Randomization reduces systematic baseline differences between intervention groups, improving causal inference.

Why is "Replace informed consent" not the answer?

Informed consent remains required.

Why is "Eliminate all measurement error" not the answer?

Measurement error can still occur in randomized trials.

Why is "Guarantee every participant benefits" not the answer?

An intervention may not benefit every individual.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Study design: randomized trial in PSM. It does not eliminate chance imbalance, measurement error, or ethical requirements.

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: randomized trial?

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.