Assessments: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'assessments' when referring to any broad measurement of skills, performance, or understanding in various contexts, including education, work, or health.

• The teacher carried out regular assessments to monitor the students' progress.
• The company conducts annual assessments of all employees.

Use 'tests' for less formal or more frequent checks of knowledge or skills, both in education and other contexts. Tests can range from quick quizzes to more comprehensive assessments but are generally viewed as less critical than exams.

• The math teacher gives a quiz every Friday to test understanding.
• He took a driving test to get his license.

Use 'evaluations' to describe the careful observation and judgment of value, performance, or significance, especially in an educational or professional setting. Evaluations often imply a more detailed and critical analysis than just a test or exam.

• The manager's evaluations of the projects were thorough and detailed.
• Student evaluations of the course were generally positive.

Use 'exams' when referring specifically to formal tests of knowledge or ability in the educational context, usually occurring at the end of a course or term. They are often high-stakes and cover a wide range of material.

• The final exams are scheduled for next week.
• She spent the entire weekend studying for her chemistry exam.

Generally used in educational settings or to evaluate progress and understanding. Often associated with tests, quizzes, or formal evaluations.

• The teacher gave the students regular assessments to monitor their progress.
• The company conducted a risk assessment before starting the project.

Used in various settings including education, work, and scientific research. Typically refers to a systematic determination of merit, worth, or significance.

• The scientist conducted a thorough evaluation of the new device.
• After the training program, there was an evaluation to measure its effectiveness.

Commonly used in professional or work environments, especially relating to employee performance or the value of objects such as property or goods.

• During her annual appraisal, Jane received feedback on her performance.
• The real estate agent requested a home appraisal before finalizing the sale.

Often used in contexts where feedback, opinions, or critiques are given. This can be for products, literature, movies, or performances.

• The film received excellent reviews from the critics.
• After the software update, users were asked to leave a review of their experience.