What is an Optical Mark Reader?

An Optical Mark Reader (OMR) is a machine which rapidly processes paper forms by scanning the page for marks such as crosses or ticks. For example, the National Lottery uses OMR technology and many universities process student questionnaires in this way.

For assessment purposes, pre-printed paper tests are taken by students using pen or pencil and fed into an OMR at rates of up to 2200 forms per hour. Exam questions must be objective (such as multiple choice or true false) and the answer sheets must be printed on special machine-readable paper.

The advantages of OMR assessment include

• Swift, objective marking


• Automatic creation of reports on exam results


• No need for examinees to access special equipment (e.g. terminals)


• Elimination of data entry errors when recording scores

Disadvantages include

• Limitations of question type


• Expense of machines and possibly stationery

Visit the CAA Unit at Loughborough to see how OMR technology is used for assessments at Loughborough University.

For more information about choosing an OMR system, click here.

(See also computer-based assessment.)