1.
essay-type; descriptive; free-response format
A test format where students write their own answers in sentences or paragraphs, rather than choosing from given options. Requires the ability to organize and express thoughts in writing.
この試験は記述式だ。
This exam is essay-type.
記述式の問題は時間がかかる。
Essay-type questions take time.
選択式だけでなく記述式の問題も出題されるので、しっかり準備してください。
Not only multiple-choice but also essay-type questions will be given, so please prepare thoroughly.
Compound of 記述 (description/writing) + 式 (style/format). Contrasts with 選択式 / マークシート式 (multiple-choice format) and 穴埋め式 (fill-in-the-blank format). Common collocations: 記述式の問題 (essay-type question), 記述式試験 (essay-type exam). In Japanese education, there has been ongoing debate about introducing more 記述式 questions into university entrance exams.