Numerical Comprehension

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Desmond Hutchins

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Aug 3, 2024, 5:01:59 PM8/3/24

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Numerical reasoning tests assess a candidate's ability to handle and interpret numerical data. You will be required to analyse and draw conclusions from the data, which may be presented in the form of tables or graphs.The tests are timed and in a multiple choice

Numerical reasoning tests differ from the sort of numerical tests you may be familiar with from GCSE or A level exams. The tests you will face are designed to measure your ability to problem solve, often mimicking the type of analysis you will be required to undertake in your future role e.g. Comparing the productivity of two different branches of a company. This type of workplace numerical data can often be tricky to understand if you are not familiar with it, so it's extremely important to take practice tests to familiarize yourself with these beforehand.

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 important thing to remember about numerical reasoning tests used for employment selection is that they are not the same as a math test. You will not have to remember formulae. Especially as they usually allow for calculators. The typical characteristics of a numerical reasoning test include but are not limited to:

You can practice numerical reasoning assessments to get a feel for the format of the questions. Fortunately for you, most firms use a similar format for their numerical reasoning tests, making it simple to prepare beforehand.

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

This shortened numerical test has 12 questions and will take 12 minutes to complete. We rate this as medium difficulty and is typical of the same level as graduate employer numerical reasoning tests.

The math required in a numerical psychometric test is determined by the difficulty of GCSE level. The part required from you, is to interpret and figure out what calculation is required from the question, and under pressure of time.

If there is a style of question that you find most challenging, we recommend you take a moment to focus your practice on that type of question. And as stated above, remember that you are usually allowed to use a calculator on your test.

Sometimes the difficulty of the psychometric tests between graduate and professional level is no different. The difference lies in the norm group - reflecting the caliber of candidate they are trying to select.

Practice is so useful in preparation for the reasoning test as it helps reduce the element of surprise and will give you the confidence to perform at your best. Be that as it may, there are some other, simple ideas you can use to help prepare from your test.

Our practice tests are created by the same psychologists who design tests for the likes of 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!

A numerical reasoning test is used to assess a candidate's ability to handle and interpret numerical data. You will be required to analyse and draw conclusions from the data, which may be presented in the form of tables or graphs. The tests are timed and in a multiple choice format.

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.

It's easy to be fearful of numerical tests as it's often believed the maths involved will be very complex, however, this is not the case. The tricky part is interpreting the numerical data and figuring out what calculation is required, under the pressure of the count-down timer. You will be asked questions involving the following 7 core mathematical principles:

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 can use your calculator and notes to help you if you're taking this online. We have over 700 numerical practice questions that are available to you to help remove any weaknesses you may have.

Try to work both quickly and accurately during your test. Most tests don't employ negative marking but do check the instructions 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.

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 maths skills listed above but they require you to analyse and interpret more advanced data, and they have several steps to the same question.

When you are invited by an employer to take a numerical reasoning test, try asking which test publisher they are using. You can then go to that test publisher's website to get more information and possibly example test questions. Some HR staff are surprisingly helpful with this.

If you are wishing to apply to a certain company then you may find our companies profile index useful. We have the collection of test-types you are likely to face if you are applying for 60 of the top employers.

The most important way to prepare for your test is to take practice questions because this will reduce the element of surprise and will allow you to perform to your true ability. But don't stop there; adopt these test-taking techniques to really make sure you shine on the day.

There are numerous types of numerical reasoning test, and many of these are used interchangeably. These tests tend to be similar in their layout and methodology, but with subtle and important differences.

So, you've prepared for your numerical reasoning test, how should you approach the questions when you are taking your test for real? As well as practice, there are some strategies to think about which might help.

It is in the interests of the employer to treat all applicants fairly; after all they don't want to overlook potential talent. Every employer must receive your informed consent to be tested, which in practice means providing you with information on:

Should your test time be adjusted? For example candidates with disabilities are sometimes entitled to extra time to complete their test (this can include dyslexia). Some test publishers prefer to give all candidates the same time limit but then make a judgement on whether raw scores should be adjusted. Employers aim to be fair to all candidates and want to avoid being accused of positive or negative discrimination. If you do have a disability, get in touch with the test administrator and they will make sure you are treated fairly.

If you are not happy with anything you are being asked to do, make sure you say something before you sit your test; otherwise they might just think you want to make excuses for a perceived bad performance.

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.

From our study, we found that numerical reasoning tests are most commonly used early on in the application process, likely before you have had any interviews. This is because many aptitude tests are used as a means of reducing the size of large candidate pools by filtering out those with weaker cognitive ability.

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.