Writing tests are part of the mandated statewide proficiency examination in Nevada. The ninth-grade screening test and the eleventh-grade diploma-certifying test require that a student write a paragraph and a business letter, each on an assigned topic and each at an acceptable level of proficiency. Pilot tests, extended discussion, and statistical analysis are used in developing the bank of selected topics. The Nevada writing test is administered in October and March. Evaluating the more than 26,000 writing samples is a formidable task, requiring the training of teachers from every school district as scorers. The instructions for the test are included and the arrangements for the test reading and scoring process are described. Each sample is read independently by two readers, with review by table leaders or the head reader as necessary. Papers are scored from four to zero, with any score below "two" unacceptable. Score criteria are defined and sample papers are given for each score category for the paragraph and business letter. It is emphasized that the tests are not intended to be diagnostic, although help in writing is recommended for students who receive a grade lower than "two." (SLD)