Which test assesses dexterity and fine motor coordination?

• A. Minnesota Manual Dexterity Test
• B. Nine Hole Peg Test
• C. Purdue Pegboard
• D. Box and Block Test

Answer: (C)

Dexterity and fine motor coordination hinge on precise fingertip control and the ability to coordinate both hands to manipulate small objects. The Purdue Pegboard does this best because it includes tasks that require placing tiny pins into small holes with each hand and then assembling components that need coordinated, sequential hand movements. This combination directly taps into fine motor skills (small, accurate movements) and bimanual coordination, mirroring the kinds of precise tasks common in daily and work activities.

Other tests tend to emphasize different aspects. The Nine Hole Peg Test focuses on finger dexterity and speed for inserting pegs into holes, a precise single-hand task without the broader assembly and bilateral coordination demands. The Box and Block Test measures gross manual dexterity by transferring larger blocks and doesn’t probe fine motor control. The Minnesota Manual Dexterity Test assesses somewhat broader, gross manual dexterity and speed with larger objects.