IN THIS ARTICLE 

This article outlines the steps to use Gradient's auto-importer to create an assignment and automatically generate an answer key from test files.

Create an answer key using Auto-Import 

1. Open Gradient and select 'Create New Assignment'.
2. Choose 'Multiple Question Assignment'.
3. Select 'Auto-Import' instead of manually entering details. 
4. Browse your computer for the test and answer key files, or drag them into the upload window. The assignment title will be pulled from the file content, or teachers can type in their desired title.
5. You can upload a single test with answers indicated, a separate answer key and test, or simply an answer key. 
   **Note: If you're using separate files, please ensure all files belong to the same assignment. Multiple files will be combined into one assignment. 
6. Click 'Create' to upload the files.
7. Wait for a confirmation that the files are being processed. Check the bottom right corner for the import progress. You can continue working on other assignments while waiting.

Access the new assignment and review the answer key 

8. Once the import is complete, the new assignment will appear at the top of your assignments list.
9. Click on the assignment to view the imported files side-by-side with the answer key. We recommend perform a spot check to ensure the answers match your expectations. At this time, you may make any edits just as you would with a manually-created answer key. 
10. If needed, adjust the point values or grading scale (e.g., change to a rubric scale), add standards, or change question types according to your preference. 

Tag Standards with Auto-Import

11. Standard codes must be written in the assessment to be added with Auto-Import. Codes can apply to the whole test, a section, or individual questions.
12. Standard codes will be added as long as they match codes that are present in your Gradient account. This includes provided state and national standards, personal standards, and custom standards. 

Share Your Feedback

13. Let us know if the results were good or poor, and any other feedback you have about the experience. Your feedback will directly impact the final release of this feature. You may even notice changes over time based on feedback we receive! 

    

Deliver Assignment to Students 

14. Assignments made with Auto-import can be delivered either on paper using scan forms or online through the Student Portal, accommodating diverse teaching and learning preferences. Note that all imported files are now attachments on the assignment and can be selected to show in Student Portal. 

• Paper Assignment Delivery
• Online Assignment Delivery

Tips, Tricks, and Best Practices

• Ensure that both the test and answer key files are correctly formatted and belong to the same assignment to avoid errors during import.
• Each question or item in Gradient should be numbered or labeled clearly, especially for multi-part questions (e.g. 3a, 3b, 3c). 
• Double-check the answer key after import to ensure accuracy before sharing with students.
• Use drag-and-drop functionality for faster file uploads.
• While waiting for the import to complete, consider preparing or scanning other assignments to maximize productivity.
• Versions and Variations are not currently supported with Auto-Import. Teachers can import a primary test and then manually create a Version or Variation. 

Feedback

This feature is part of our beta testing cycle. In order to improve this features performance and accuracy, your feedback is vital. Please let us know your thoughts after using the feature by replying to the in-app questions, or email us your thoughts at success@gradecam.com.