Which test is described as a screening tool for mild cognitive impairment and is distinct from MMSE and MOCA?

• A. Montreal Cognitive Assessment
• B. Mini-Cog
• C. Clock drawing test
• D. MMSE

Answer: (A)

The Montreal Cognitive Assessment is designed specifically to screen for mild cognitive impairment by evaluating multiple cognitive domains in a short, practical format. It goes beyond basic memory and orientation, tapping executive function, attention, language, visuospatial skills, abstraction, calculations, and recall. Because it covers more domains and uses tasks sensitive to subtle deficits, it tends to pick up early or mild cognitive changes that broader screens like the MMSE can miss. It’s administered in about 10–15 minutes and scored out of 30, with a common cut-off around 26, adjusted for education as needed. This broader, more sensitive profile makes it a preferred choice when screening for MCI, distinguishing it from simpler or more domain-limited screens and from the MMSE.