Which term captures the ability of a test to forecast future performance?

• A. Aptitude Test
• B. Reliability
• C. Validity
• D. Predictive Validity

Answer: (D)

Predictive validity is the measure of a test's ability to forecast future performance. This sits within validity, which is about whether test scores support the intended interpretations and uses. To establish predictive validity, you compare scores obtained now with later outcomes such as grades or job performance, looking for a meaningful relationship. A strong correlation shows the test can effectively predict those future results. Reliability, while important for consistency, does not by itself guarantee future forecasting accuracy; a test can be reliable but not valid for predicting performance. An aptitude test is a type of assessment, but the concept that captures forecasting capability is predictive validity.