This research examined 2 elements of multiple-choice test construction, balancing the key and optimal number of options. In Experiment 1 the 3 conditions included a balanced key, overrepresentation of a and b responses, and overrepresentation of c and d responses. The results showed that error-patterns were independent of the key, reflecting selection of the most plausible foil. Experiment 2 examined the optimal number of options. The comparison of a 3-option to a 4-option test showed that the 3-option test retained reliability, while allowing for a greater sampling of information. These findings suggest channeling of effort to the content of items, rather than focusing on the convention wisdom in mechanics of test construction.