This report describes the experiences of the Board of Senior Secondary School Studies in implementing a subtest consisting of test items in short response mode in the Queensland Core Skills (QCS) Test. Following initial developmental stages, the Board conducted a pilot study of short response items (SRIs) in 1991. This report describes the processes by which SRIs were created and refined. It also discusses how the items to be included in the pilot test were selected, sequenced and presented in the final paper. Details are provided on the administration of the test on a trial population outside of Queensland, and the marking of SRIs, including the selection, training and monitoring of markers. The report also analyses student responses to particular items and provides feedback on the paper from students and feedback on the marking operation from markers. The analysis of results suggests ways in which SRIs can be efficiently and effectively integrated into the first QCS Test. It was concluded that SRIs provide worthwhile information about student achievement not accessible through other modes, and that the SRI paper will be a valuable part of the overall QCS Test.