MAST: Scoring and interpretation

The Michigan Alcohol Screening Test (MAST) is a 24-item self-report tool designed to identify lifetime problems with alcohol use [523]. Several modified versions of the MAST have been developed, varying in length (e.g., the Short MAST or SMAST, containing 13-items; the Brief MAST or bMAST, containing 10-items), and for use in different population groups (e.g., MAST-Geriatric version, MAST-Adolescent version).

The MAST can either be scored using a weighted scoring system or by assigning one point per item. Raw unweighted scores are calculated by summing the points assigned to each question (yes = 1, no = 0). Questions 1, 4, 6 and 7 are reverse scored (yes = 0, no = 1). Raw scores range from 0 to 24 with higher scores indicative of more problematic alcohol use. Weighted scores are calculated by summing the weighted points assigned to each question (see Table 71). Weighted scores range from 0 to 53, with higher scores indicative of more problematic alcohol use. While there is little evidence for one scoring method over another and weighted and unit scoring systems are highly correlated [524], treatment recommendations are based on weighted scores (see Table 72).

Table 71: Calculating MAST scores

Questions	Points for raw (unweighted) score	Points for weighted score
1, 4, 6, 7	Yes = 0, No = 1	Yes = 0, No = 2
2, 10 – 15, 17, 18, 21 – 24	Yes = 0, No = 1	Yes = 2, No = 0
3, 5, 9, 16	Yes = 0, No = 1	Yes = 0, No = 2
8, 19, 20	Yes = 0, No = 1	Yes = 5, No = 0

Table 72: Interpreting MAST weighted scores

Weighted score	Interpretation	Suggested action
0 - 4	No alcohol use disorder indicated	No need for further action
5 - 6	Further evaluation by a healthcare professional indicated	Possible alcohol use disorder
7 – 53	Comprehensive AOD use evaluation by a healthcare professional indicated	Indicates alcohol use disorder

Source: PAR Staff. (2021). Administration and Scoring of the Michigan Alcoholism Screening Test (MAST) [technical supplement]. Florida, US: PAR Inc.