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Test reliability calculator (KR-21)

Estimate how consistent your test is from three numbers you already have: how many questions, the average score and the standard deviation.

Reliability (KR-21)–
Verdict–

How it works

KR-21 = (k ÷ (k − 1)) × (1 − M × (k − M) ÷ (k × s²)), where k is the number of questions, M the average number correct and s the standard deviation of total scores. It is a quick estimate; Examopotamia calculates the more exact KR-20 automatically for every test. Read test reliability explained for what the number means.

Frequently asked questions

What is KR-21?

KR-21 is a quick estimate of test reliability for right-or-wrong questions, using only the number of questions, the average score and the standard deviation. It assumes questions are of similar difficulty, so it slightly underestimates KR-20.

What is a good reliability score?

Around 0.80 or higher is good for graded exams and hiring decisions, 0.70 is acceptable for screening and quizzes, and 0.90+ is expected for certification.

How can I raise reliability?

Add good questions on the same skill, remove confusing ones, replace questions that everyone gets right or wrong, and improve wrong answer options nobody picks.

Get exact reliability for every test.

Examopotamia calculates KR-20 and grades each question’s health from real results.

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