What is the difference between norm referenced and criterion referenced tests?

Hey there fellow learners, Tests can be a real head-scratcher sometimes especially when it comes to figuring out what your score actually means. I recently came across these terms “norm-referenced” and “criterion-referenced” tests, and let me tell you, they were confusing!

From what I gather, they both assess knowledge, but in different ways. Can someone explain the key differences between norm-referenced and criterion-referenced tests?

A norm-referenced test compares your score to a group of other people’s scores to see how you rank. A criterion-referenced test compares your score to a set standard or specific criteria to see how well you know the material.