Which method assigns a certain percentage of employees to each category in a set of categories?

• A. Rating Scales Method
• B. 360-Degree Feedback Evaluation Method
• C. Essay Method
• D. Forced Distribution Method

Answer: (D)

This item tests allocating employees into fixed proportions across predefined categories. In the forced distribution method, managers must place a specified percentage of staff into each category (for example, top performers, solid performers, underperformers), creating a set distribution that resembles a bell curve. This enforces relative ranking and quotas rather than relying on absolute scores.

The other approaches work differently. A Rating Scales method uses a numeric score along a scale for each employee but doesn’t mandate how many people must fall into each category. A 360-Degree Feedback method gathers input from multiple sources and provides a holistic view without enforcing category quotas. The Essay Method relies on written narratives rather than assigning people to fixed percentage-based categories.