Large Score Changes on the Scholastic Aptitude Test

Sixty candidates showing large increases or decreases in score on the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) from junior to senior year were interviewed. The candidates' explanations for the score changes were placed into Thorndike's categories of possible sources of test score variance, with the largest number falling into the category “lasting and general characteristics of the individual.” The implication of each category for testing and guidance procedures is discussed.