What is the definition of reliable test scores?

Reliable test scores are characterized by their consistency across different testing instances. This means that when a test is administered multiple times under similar conditions, the scores should be relatively stable and reproducible, reflecting the same underlying ability or characteristic being measured.

For example, if a student takes a math assessment today and scores a certain value, if they take a similar assessment in a week and score similarly, the test can be deemed reliable. This consistent performance indicates that the test effectively measures the intended construct without being significantly influenced by external factors or the specific conditions of each test administration.

The other choices do not encapsulate the essence of reliability. While a score reflecting a range of performance may suggest variability, it does not denote consistency. Scoring based on potential pertains more to validity rather than reliability, which assesses the stability of results. Immediate outcomes focus more on results at a given moment rather than the repeatability of those results over time, which is crucial for reliability.