Mastering Case-Based Questions in the NDEB Virtual OSCE

The NDEB Virtual Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) challenges candidates with approximately 150 case-based questions, making them a cornerstone of the exam. These questions require you to analyze detailed clinical information—such as case histories, dental charts, photographs, radiographs, or 3D models—and apply your knowledge to answer. Let’s dive into what makes these questions unique and how to tackle them effectively.

Case-based questions come in three flavors: single-answer multiple-choice, multi-answer multiple-choice, or short-answer (like writing a prescription). They’re built on the Virtual OSCE Frameworks, available in the How to Prepare section of the NDEB website. Each framework may include multiple questions and a long list of distractors—possible answers designed to test your precision. Not all distractors appear in every question, so staying focused is key.

Single-Answer Multiple-Choice Questions
Identified by ‘Select ONE correct answer,’ these questions ask you to pick the most likely or appropriate option. There’s no penalty for guessing, so always choose an answer. For example:
[Image of a panoramic radiograph provided.]
What is the most likely radiographic diagnosis?
○ Impacted tooth.
○ Hyoid bone.
○ Torus (Tori).
○ Osteoma.
○ Sclerosing osteitis.
○ Cementoblastoma.
○ Odontoma.
○ Sialolith(s).
○ Calcified lymph node(s).
○ Calcified stylohyoid ligament.
○ Tonsillolith(s).
○ Phlebolith(s).
○ Foreign body.
Here, you’d analyze the radiograph and select the best fit—say, Impacted tooth—based on your radiographic interpretation skills.

Multi-Answer Multiple-Choice Questions
Marked with ‘Select ONE OR MORE correct answers,’ these are trickier. You might need to pick one answer or several, and your score (0 to 1) depends on accuracy. Get all correct answers for a full point; pick a wrong one, and you score zero—even if some choices were right. This format tests depth and decision-making under pressure.

For instance, imagine a multi-answer question about treatment options for a patient. Three examinees might respond differently:

• Examinee 1 selects all correct answers (score: 1).
• Examinee 2 picks some correct answers but misses one (score: partial).
• Examinee 3 chooses a wrong answer alongside correct ones (score: 0).
  This scoring system rewards precision, so double-checking your choices is crucial.

The value of mastering case-based questions lies in their real-world relevance. They mirror the complexity of clinical practice, where you’ll interpret data—like a radiograph or patient history—and make informed decisions. Practicing with the Virtual OSCE Frameworks can help you get comfortable with distractors and sharpen your analytical skills.

To excel, simulate these scenarios during prep. Review radiographs, study case histories, and practice both single- and multi-answer formats. The case-based portion is a hefty chunk of the Virtual OSCE, but with the right approach, it’s an opportunity to showcase your clinical expertise.