Psychometric Preparation

Article Source: https://www.assessmentday.co.uk/aptitudetests_numerical.htm

 

Does your job application require you to pass a numerical reasoning test? This page should give you all the practice and advice you need. Our practice tests are created by the same psychologists who design tests for the likes of CEB SHL, Kenexa, Talent Q, and Saville Assessment. So our test platform and example questions will give you a good feel for the numerical tests employers use. Performing your best in your numerical reasoning test is all about practice, and knowing what to expect!

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What you should know before taking your numerical reasoning test

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With thousands of job applicants to choose from, it's common for employers to use aptitude testing to sift the good candidates from the mediocre. The most common way for employers to use numerical reasoning tests is online, after they have accepted your CV or initial application form. If you pass your online test larger employers tend to then invite you to an assessment centre. Often employers ask you to sit a repeat test at the assessment centre to verify that you are indeed the same person who scored that great score on the online test, so don't get your friends to help with your online test! The best way to familiarise yourself with these tests is to take one of our free example numerical reasoning tests below.

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As well as taking example tests, you should read the advice and findings below on how these tests work and what they measure.

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By taking example numerical reasoning tests you will become familiar with the question format. Luckily for you most employers use a similar format of numerical reasoning test, which means it's easy to get some realistic practice beforehand.

The great thing about the numerical reasoning tests used for employment selection is that they are not the same as a math test. You don't have to remember formulae or write long proofs. The important characteristics of a numerical reasoning test are:

• Multiple choice answers - no longhand answers or showing your working-out.

• No prior knowledge required - no equations to memorise (or surreptitiously write on your arm).

• Strict time limits - some are generous while some are very short.

• Relevant to the workplace - modern tests are based on the kind of numerical information you would deal with in the job.

• Based on only the information given - you should not make assumptions about data you are not given.

 

Free example numerical reasoning tests

If you don't feel comfortable with any of these questions, focus your practice on that type of question. You could also dig out your GCSE notes if you still have them. And remember you are more often than not allowed to use a calculator with these tests.

Try to work both quickly and accurately during your test. Most tests don't employ negative marking but some new tests are starting to, so ask the test administrator about this before you start. Whilst they might not tell you, bear in mind that your accuracy score is visible to the employer, so guessing answers will result in a low accuracy score and may suggest to the employer that your numerical work is prone to error.

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Research has shown that people who do well in their numerical reasoning test tend to perform better in the job. That's precisely why employers use them!

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Graduate and professional level numerical reasoning tests are the most difficult, reflecting the calibre of candidate they are trying to select. They still use only the seven basic math skills listed above but they require you to analyse and interpret more advanced data, and they have several steps to the same question.

 

The use of numerical reasoning tests

If a job requires working with numbers and numerical information, the employer would be sensible to use numerical psychometric testing to predict which candidates are likely to perform well in the role. If a role doesn't require strong numerical skills, the employer shouldn't be using a numerical test as a selection criteria. We know how much importance employers place on numerical reasoning ability, we also know that performing your best under strict timed conditions can be difficult. That's why we want to open up the test process and let you know what to expect. Practice can mean the difference between securing that position and losing it.

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Our practice tests will ensure that you're fully prepared for your real test, letting you relax and perform to the best of your ability. You'll have a much better idea of what to expect and will be able to get your numerical reasoning skills up to scratch, hopefully leaving you in a much better position than you would otherwise be.

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So, if you're looking for a way to improve your aptitude test score, practice can help significantly. Since our practice tests are designed by experts, they could make all the difference.

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And finally...

Not many people enjoy being tested but it remains an effective way for employers to find the most suitable candidates.

 

Remember psychometric tests are as much about checking your fit with the organisation as they are for the job's fit for you. So take heart from the fact that if you didn't pass a particular test the chances are that you wouldn't have found the job enjoyable or suitable.

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If you've done lots of practice questions, read our tips and had a good night's sleep you've done everything you can do to give yourself the best chance of success in your numerical reasoning test.