Momentary Time Sampling (MTS) stands for which of the following?

• A. Momentary Time Sampling
• B. Multi-Time Sampling
• C. Minute Time Sampling
• D. Momentary Time Segments

Answer: (A)

Momentary Time Sampling is a data collection method where you check and record whether the target behavior is occurring at the end of each predetermined time interval. You set an interval (for example, every 30 seconds), and at the exact end of that interval you note whether the behavior is happening at that moment. If it is, you record a yes for that interval; if not, you record a no. Doing this across many intervals gives you an estimate of how often the behavior occurs over the session.

This naming is exactly what the acronym stands for, and it differs from other interval methods that look for behavior at any point during the interval or for the entire duration of the interval. MTS is typically easier to implement and requires less continuous observation, which is why it’s used when a quick, pattern-based glimpse of behavior over time is sufficient.