A system and method enable processing and displaying of test results in accordance with information and specifications provided by the client requiring such services. Skills examined by a test are identified, and skill-by-skill analysis of test results is provided. Performance within constituent skill categories are compared to applicable standards, thereby providing criterion-referenced conclusions about a student's performance within each skill category tested. Evaluation and recommendation statements are generated for students or groups of students based on their test performance and procedures for automatically generating such statements are provided. Test results are also used to identify skills in which individual students and groups have the greatest potential for growth. Test reports are produced in print and electronically using the same electronic document structures and data source files to ensure consistency between the two display mechanisms. The analyses and reports generated provide instructional information tailored to the student's or group's needs, as identified by analysis of test performance. Teachers and administrators can track the progress of students and groups through useful, accurate, and easily accessible test reports.