How this calculator works
Bush and colleagues evaluated the first three AUDIT items as a short consumption screen in 1998. Complete the original instrument, then enter its three coded points. Each item has five response codes, 0 through 4. Do not mix the original six-drink third item with later national adaptations using a different drink size or threshold. This calculator deliberately reports the original numeric sum: sex-specific positive-screen thresholds come from later validations and are not an intrinsic part of the three-item arithmetic. The result is an estimate for information only and is not medical advice.
Formula
AUDIT-C = Q1 + Q2 + Q3. The possible total is 0 to 12.
Worked example
Item scores 2, 1 and 1 give 4. Item scores 4, 4 and 4 give 12.
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Frequently asked questions
Can AUDIT-C tell me whether I have alcohol use disorder?
No. It is a screening score, and a positive screen needs a fuller assessment.
Why is there no sex selector?
Sex is not part of the original sum. Thresholds vary by validation study and clinical system, so this companion does not silently choose one.
Can I use points from a local form?
You can add correctly coded points, but interpretation must follow that exact form and its validation. Read the original source to distinguish it from local adaptations.