Clinical trials: practice question

A PSM question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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PSM · Clinical trials

Sample item

What is the principal purpose of random allocation in a controlled trial?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

B. Balance known and unknown confounders between groups on average

Random allocation gives comparison groups a similar distribution of measured and unmeasured prognostic factors on average, strengthening causal inference when combined with concealment, follow-up, and appropriate analysis.

Option by option

  • A. Eliminate the need for follow-up

    Follow-up remains necessary to measure outcomes and safety.

  • B. Balance known and unknown confounders between groups on average (correct)

    Correct: randomization helps balance confounding factors between groups.

  • C. Guarantee that results will be statistically significant

    Randomization cannot guarantee statistical significance.

  • D. Ensure every participant receives the experimental treatment

    Controlled trials require a comparison group and do not give everyone the intervention.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

More PSM questions

Questions about this PSM question

What is the answer to this PSM question?

The best answer is B, Balance known and unknown confounders between groups on average. Random allocation gives comparison groups a similar distribution of measured and unmeasured prognostic factors on average, strengthening causal inference when combined with concealment, follow-up, and appropriate analysis.

Why is "Eliminate the need for follow-up" not the answer?

Follow-up remains necessary to measure outcomes and safety.

Why is "Guarantee that results will be statistically significant" not the answer?

Randomization cannot guarantee statistical significance.

Why is "Ensure every participant receives the experimental treatment" not the answer?

Controlled trials require a comparison group and do not give everyone the intervention.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Clinical trials in PSM. The correct option holds because: Correct: randomization helps balance confounding factors between groups.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Clinical trials?

Practise biostatistics with small calculations until sensitivity, predictive values and risk measures are automatic. Then use the flashcards and the other PSM questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.