For a variety of reasons, finding actual tests and psychological measurement instruments can be complicated. This guide aims to explain some of the complications and suggest strategies to find what you need. Although University of Iowa College of Education students in Iowa City may be able to take advantage of the resources in the Paul Blommers Measurement Resources Library and the many print test books available there, this guide is focused on helping off-campus students and emphasizes non-print resources where possible.

Why are tests so hard to find?

• Proprietary - Many standard test instruments are published and must be purchased.
• Ethical standards -Some researchers may want their test only used by those trained in its use.
• Size - some journals don't want to include tests along with articles because they take up a lot of room.

What can you do?

• Focus on tests available online through the PsycTESTS database.
• Use the techniques in the Finding Instruments in Articles tab to locate instruments appended to journal articles.
• Contact researchers or owners of the copyright for permission to use the test.
• Buy the published test. However, published tests are often expensive and purchasers must show that they have the credentials to administer the test.