This guide simplifies the concept of Equivalent Questions in Drillster. It explains what they are, why they are useful, and how to use them to create better learning content.

What are Question Equivalent?
Equivalent Questions is a different way of asking about the same piece of information (called a "learning element"). Instead of seeing the exact same question every time, a learner might see the same concept presented as a multiple-choice question, an open question, or a visual "hotspot" question. In Drillster, these grouped equivalents are treated as one unique question (or learning element).

▶ Why should you use them?

1. Prevents Rote Memorization: If a learner sees the same question repeatedly, they might start recognizing the look of the question rather than actually learning the material. Equivalents force them to think and apply their knowledge.
2. Increases Engagement: Switching between different question types (like text, images, or sequences) keeps the learner focused and interested.
3. Better Comprehension: Testing a concept from different angles ensures the learner truly understands it.

▶ How do they work?

• Random Selection: When a drill is played, the system picks one equivalent from the group to show the learner.
• Reduced Repetition: The more equivalents you create for a single concept, the less likely it is that the learner will see the same question twice.
• Autonomy: Each equivalent should be able to stand on its own. Drillster asks questions in a random order, so an equivalent shouldn't rely on the learner having seen a previous question first. 

▶ Examples of Equivalents 
Imagine you want to teach someone about Phishing Awareness:

• Equivalent 1 (Multiple Choice): "Which of the following is a common 'red flag' of a phishing email?"
  • Correct Answer: A sense of extreme urgency or a threat to close your account.
• Equivalent 2 (Hotspot): An image of a fake login alert is shown. The learner must click on the specific area of the email that looks suspicious (such as the sender's email address, which is support@outlook-security-fix.net).
• Equivalent 3 (Open Question): "Fill in the blank: Phishing is a form of ______ engineering where attackers trick people into revealing sensitive data."
  • Correct Answer: Social

▶  How to Create Equivalents in the Editor

1. The "Box" System: In the Drillster editor, you will see questions grouped together inside a box. These are your equivalents.
2. Linking Questions: You can link existing questions to turn them into equivalents of each other.
   • Note: When you link questions that weren't originally next to each other, the question numbers may change. Be mindful of this if you are collaborating with others.
3. Using "Drilldown" (Advanced): If you are using the text-based "Drilldown" format, you group equivalents by placing them inside curly braces { }.

▶  Recommendations for Authors

• Quantity: It is important to have 4 or 5 equivalents if it concerns a long period of learning in a permanent mode. This is to prevent question recognition after a period of a year or more. With sufficient question equivalents the learning impact will still be high, together with learner experience and engagement. 
• Question Crafter: Create at least 3 equivalents manually and 5 if you are using the question crafter. Very specific content (specialized knowledge) may be difficult for the question crafter. Always validate the AI-generated questions.  
• Vary the Question Type: Don't just change the wording; change the format (e.g., move from a text question to a sequence or image question).
• Revisit your drill: Even with 4 or 5 equivalent questions, people could recognize questions after a couple of years. So we recommend reviewing and updating question variants after a couple of years, to avoid the risk of question memorization and to keep the learner engagement high.