Folstein Language 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: How many total points can be earned on the language section of the MMSE?
Correct answer: 8
The language section of the MMSE is worth a maximum of 8 points across its naming, repetition, command, reading, writing, and construction subtasks.
Question 2: What common objects are typically shown to the patient for the MMSE naming task?
- A pen and a watch (Correct answer)
- A key and a coin
- A pen and a book
- A watch and a ring
Correct answer: A pen and a watch
The standard MMSE naming task presents a pencil (or pen) and a wristwatch for the patient to identify by name.
Question 3: What phrase must the patient repeat verbatim in the MMSE repetition task?
- No ifs, ands, or buts (Correct answer)
- Neither here nor there
- Every good boy does fine
- Rain in Spain falls mainly
Correct answer: No ifs, ands, or buts
The patient must repeat the phrase 'No ifs, ands, or buts' exactly, testing phonological processing and verbal repetition.
Question 4: In the MMSE three-stage command, what is the first action the patient performs?
- Fold the paper in half
- Take the paper in your right hand (Correct answer)
- Put the paper on the floor
- Read the paper aloud
Correct answer: Take the paper in your right hand
The three-stage command is 'Take this paper in your right hand, fold it in half, and put it on the floor,' with taking the paper being the first step.
Question 5: How many points can be earned for correctly following the three-stage command?
Correct answer: 3
Each of the three steps in the command earns one point, with a maximum of 3 points for the three-stage command.
Question 6: What instruction is written on the card shown during the MMSE reading comprehension task?
- SAY YOUR NAME
- CLOSE YOUR EYES (Correct answer)
- RAISE YOUR HAND
- STAND UP
Correct answer: CLOSE YOUR EYES
The patient is shown a card with 'CLOSE YOUR EYES' printed on it and must read and carry out the instruction to earn the point.
