This paper describes the characteristics of the Minimum Skills Diagnostic Tests (MSDTs) components of the statewide testing program in North Carolina. The MSDTs' validity, method for deriving test scores, reliability and other statistics, test content, and test norms are discussed. These tests--given in grades 3, 6, and 8--assess an individual's strengths and weaknesses (degree of mastery) in reading, language arts, and mathematics skills necessary for successful performance at the next grade level. The MSDTs form the second phase of a state program that begins with the California Achievement Tests. Those who perform at or below an established cut-off score on the MSDTs receive remedial instruction during a state-funded summer program. There are two forms (Forms A and B) of the MSDTs, each of which contains three subtests corresponding to the three subject areas. Each subtest consists of 99 items in objective sequence, with the exception of grade 3 mathematics, which has 104 items. After the summer program, students retake the MSDTs (Phase III of the state testing program) in long or short versions to show improvement in the mastery of standard objectives. Thirteen graphs give comparisons of Forms A and B. Nine tables present item difficulty by item number, and three additional tables give state norms. Three appendices show the item content and item representation by objective for the tests. (SLD)