Aptitude Tests:
What They Are and How to Pass Them
See also: Interview Skills
Aptitude tests, often referred to as psychometric tests, are a common feature of modern recruitment processes. Many companies use these standardized assessments to evaluate a candidate's potential capabilities across various skills relevant to the job.
Your results are typically compared against a benchmark group, which might include other applicants or existing employees. These tests aim to provide employers with an objective measure of how candidates might perform in specific work-related situations and respond to challenges.
The tests are developed by various specialized providers, with well-known names including Saville, SHL, Kenexa, Talent Q, and Cubiks, among others. Understanding what these tests involve and how to approach them can significantly improve your chances during the application process.
This page explores the different types of aptitude tests you might encounter and provides practical tips on how to prepare effectively and perform to the best of your ability.
What Kind of Aptitude Tests are There?
Employers use a wide range of aptitude tests designed to measure different cognitive abilities and personality traits. While the specific tests used will vary depending on the role and industry, some types appear frequently in recruitment. Here is a selection of commonly used aptitude tests:
Numerical reasoning: A numerical reasoning test assesses your ability to interpret and work with numerical data presented in tables, charts and graphs. It measures general numeracy skills relevant to everyday business activities, such as analyzing performance figures, understanding financial reports, or evaluating statistical information. These tests often involve calculations like percentages, ratios, and trend analysis under timed conditions.
Verbal reasoning: The verbal reasoning test typically provides a passage of text followed by one or more statements. Your task is to evaluate whether each statement is true, false, or cannot be determined based *only* on the information given in the passage. This test gauges your ability to understand written information, evaluate arguments, and draw logical conclusions from complex text – crucial skills for roles requiring report writing, analysis of documents, or clear communication.
Situational judgement: A Situational Judgement Test (SJT) presents realistic, hypothetical workplace scenarios and asks you to identify the most (or sometimes least) appropriate response from a list of options. SJTs aim to assess your judgment, problem-solving approach, and alignment with the company's values and expected behaviours in areas like teamwork, customer service, and ethical decision-making.
Logical reasoning: Logical reasoning tests evaluate your ability to identify patterns, understand logical sequences, and deduce rules from abstract information. These often involve sequences of shapes or patterns where you need to determine the next item in the series. They measure general problem-solving ability and are considered fundamental predictors of performance in many roles.
Inductive reasoning: Inductive reasoning tests, sometimes called abstract reasoning, are similar to logical reasoning tests. They typically present a series of shapes or patterns with underlying rules and require you to identify these rules and apply them to determine the correct continuation of the sequence. They assess your ability to work flexibly with unfamiliar information and find solutions – essentially, your capacity to learn and think logically.
Mechanical reasoning test: Mechanical reasoning tests assess your understanding of basic physical and mechanical principles, such as levers, pulleys, gears, springs, and simple electrical circuits. These tests are commonly used for technical, engineering, and skilled trade roles that require an intuitive grasp of how physical systems work.
Diagrammatic reasoning test: These tests, also related to abstract reasoning, assess your ability to understand and follow sequences represented by diagrams and symbols. You might need to identify rules governing a process shown in flowcharts or symbolic sequences and apply those rules to new inputs or scenarios. They measure logical process-thinking.
Spatial reasoning test: Spatial reasoning tests (or spatial awareness tests) measure your ability to visualize and manipulate shapes in two or three dimensions mentally. Tasks might involve rotating objects, visualizing folded shapes, or identifying patterns in spatial arrangements. These tests are often used for roles in design, architecture, engineering, and aviation.
Number sequences: Number sequence tests assess your ability to identify the logical pattern within a series of numbers and determine the next number in the sequence. They measure logical reasoning specifically with numerical patterns and relationships. These are frequently found in both aptitude tests and general IQ tests.
Syllogism: Syllogism tests evaluate your deductive reasoning skills. You are typically presented with two or more premises (statements assumed to be true) and asked to determine the logical conclusion that follows from them, or to evaluate whether a given conclusion is valid. They measure your ability to draw sound conclusions based purely on logical structure.
Watson Glaser Critical thinking test: The Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal is a specific, well-known test designed to measure critical reasoning ability. It assesses skills such as inference, recognition of assumptions, deduction, interpretation, and evaluation of arguments. It is often used for roles requiring high levels of analytical and decision-making skills, particularly in law and management.
How to Pass an Aptitude Test
Success in aptitude tests isn't solely about innate ability; effective preparation and strategy can significantly improve your performance. Anyone can develop and hone the skills needed to tackle these assessments confidently. Use the following tips to maximize your chances of achieving the best result possible.
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Practice Regularly and Strategically
The old adage "practice makes perfect" holds true for aptitude tests. Regular practice serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it familiarizes you with the typical question formats, structures, and types of reasoning required for different tests (numerical, verbal, logical, etc.). This reduces anxiety on the test day as you'll know what to expect. Secondly, practice helps you identify your personal strengths and weaknesses across different aptitude areas. You can then focus your preparation efforts more effectively, dedicating extra time to areas where you struggle. Thirdly, consistent practice under timed conditions improves your speed and accuracy. Many aptitude tests are time-pressured, so learning to answer questions quickly without sacrificing correctness is crucial. Look for reputable online practice tests that simulate the style and difficulty of the actual assessments used by employers. Aim for daily or regular practice sessions rather than cramming last minute.
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Understand the Specific Test Format
Not all aptitude tests are created equal, even within the same category (e.g., numerical reasoning). Different test providers use slightly different formats, time limits, and scoring methods (some penalize incorrect answers, others don't). Whenever possible, try to find out which test provider the employer uses (e.g., SHL, Kenexa). Research the specific format of their tests. Knowing key details like the number of questions, the total time allowed (and thus, average time per question), how the test is structured (e.g., sections, adaptive difficulty), and the scoring rules allows you to tailor your preparation. If the employer provides sample questions or information about the assessment, review it carefully. Understanding the specific 'rules of the game' prevents surprises and helps you manage your approach during the test.
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Read Instructions Meticulously
This might seem obvious, but rushing into questions without fully understanding the instructions is a common and costly mistake. Before starting any section of the test, read the instructions provided very carefully. Pay close attention to:
What you are being asked to do (e.g., select the *most* appropriate answer, identify the *false* statement, find the *next* item in the sequence).
The time limit for the section or the entire test.
How to navigate the test interface (e.g., how to select answers, move between questions, whether you can go back).
Any specific rules about scoring (e.g., negative marking for wrong answers).
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Practice Tests Specific to Your Target Role or Industry
While general aptitude practice is beneficial, tailoring your preparation to the specific demands of the role or industry you're applying for can provide an extra edge. Different professions emphasize different skills. For example, finance roles will heavily rely on numerical reasoning, while legal roles might prioritize verbal and critical reasoning (like the Watson-Glaser test). Technical roles often include mechanical or spatial reasoning tests. Research the types of aptitude tests commonly used in your target industry or for the specific job function. Many online resources offer practice tests categorized by industry or job level. Focusing your practice on these relevant test types ensures you're honing the specific cognitive skills the employer values most for that position.
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Master Time Management During the Test
Aptitude tests are almost always timed, and the pressure can be significant. Developing effective time management strategies during practice is crucial. First, calculate the average time you should spend per question based on the total time and number of questions. During practice, get a feel for this pace. On the actual test day:
Don't get bogged down on difficult questions. If you're stuck, make an educated guess (unless there's negative marking) or flag it and move on, returning later if time permits.
Consider tackling questions you find easier first to build confidence and secure points quickly.
Keep track of the time. Wear a watch (if allowed) or use the onscreen timer. Allocate time for reviewing answers if possible.
Stay calm. If you feel panicked, take a few deep breaths to reset. Rushing often leads to more errors.
Further Reading from Skills You Need
The Skills You Need Guide to Jobs and Careers: Getting a Job
Develop the skills you need to get that job.
This eBook is essential reading for potential job-seekers. It covers the entire process from identifying your skills through the mechanics of applying for a job and writing a CV or resume, to attending interviews.
Conclusion
Aptitude tests are a standard part of many recruitment processes, designed to objectively assess skills relevant to job performance. While they can seem daunting, understanding the different types of tests and employing effective preparation strategies can significantly boost your confidence and performance. By practicing regularly, familiarizing yourself with test formats, reading instructions carefully, focusing on relevant test types, and mastering time management, you can approach these assessments strategically.
Remember that these tests measure specific cognitive abilities, and consistent effort in preparation can lead to noticeable improvement. Ultimately, developing the skills to succeed in aptitude tests not only helps you navigate the recruitment process but also enhances valuable analytical skills and problem-solving abilities applicable throughout your career.