Estimating and Adjusting Cutoff Scores: Features of Selected Methods

Establishing operational cutoff scores has traditionally been performed in two phases: (a) obtaining estimated cutoff scores based on expert judgments and (b) establishing the operational cutoff. The estimation phase involves selecting a method, collecting the data, and analyzing the results. In the second phase, the estimated cutoff score may be accepted or it may be adjusted after considering other pertinent information. This article provides an introductory review of several features of selected methods available at each of the two phases. Features of selected methods for estimating cutoff scores and methods for adjusting the estimated cutoff scores are discussed, and tentative recommendations for method selection at each phase are provided.