Which of the following is a characteristic of Criterion-referenced Tests?

Criterion-referenced tests are specifically designed to assess whether an individual has mastered particular skills or knowledge areas, rather than comparing a test-taker's performance to that of a group. This characteristic allows educators and organizations to determine if each individual meets certain predetermined standards or criteria.

By focusing on mastery of specific skills, these tests provide a clear indication of what students know and can do, which can be particularly beneficial in educational settings where accountability and skill development are key. This approach ensures that the evaluation is rooted in defined learning objectives, rather than in a comparative framework that might not accurately reflect an individual's understanding or capabilities.

Options that mention comparisons to group averages or national norms relate more closely to norm-referenced tests, which gauge an individual's performance in relation to others instead of predefined criteria. Similarly, options involving placement purposes typically pertain to assessments designed to categorize students rather than measure skill mastery directly.