How is the final score of the MoCA determined?

The final score of the MoCA (Montreal Cognitive Assessment) is determined by summing the points from each of the cognitive domains tested. Each section of the MoCA assesses different cognitive functions, such as attention, memory, language, and visuospatial skills. The maximum score on the MoCA is 30 points, with specific point values assigned to tasks within each section.

By adding the points together, clinicians can obtain a comprehensive score that reflects the individual's overall cognitive performance. This method allows for straightforward interpretation and comparison across different individuals and helps in identifying potential cognitive impairments.

The other methods mentioned in the other choices would not accurately reflect the intended design of the MoCA. For example, averaging scores could obscure the nuances of individual domain performance, and weighting more difficult tasks could introduce subjectivity. Calculating a percentage of correct responses does not provide a clear and standardized scoring method, which could lead to misinterpretation of cognitive abilities. Thus, summing the points provides a direct and effective measure of cognitive function as intended in the MoCA assessment.