How to prepare for a numerical reasoning test?
Zuzana Robertson CPsychol
Copyright 2011 by Zuzana Robertson CPsychol
Smashwords Edition
What is a numerical reasoning test?
Numerical reasoning tests are mental ability psychometric tests often used in selection for graduate or managerial roles where critical analysis of numerical information is important. They are often used in management consultancies, investment banks, accountancy and other professional services firms.
Mental ability tests including numerical reasoning tests are one of the best predictors of work performance especially if used in combination with other valid selection techniques such as structured interviews and work sample. Research shows a relationship between mental ability and work performance. Numerical reasoning tests are often used as a part of a selection process in addition to an interview or assessment centre for example at earlier stages of a selection process and often repeated at assessment centres to prevent possible candidates' cheating online.
Numerical reasoning tests attempt to measure a candidate's potential to critically evaluate numerical information. They arrive at a score comparing a potential in relation to the comparison group e.g graduates or managers in professional services.
Most numerical reasoning tests have a time limit and you are usually allowed to use a calculator.
10 tips on preparing for a numerical reasoning test
You applied for a job and have been invited to take a numerical reasoning test. Don't panic !
Here are my top 10 tips on how to prepare for a numerical reasoning test as part of a selection process:
Read any instructions or preparations guides given for the numerical reasoning test.
Complete any practice tests given and make sure you understand how you arrive at the answer for each question.
Brush up your maths if rusty especially percentages and fractions. Make sure you are familiar with the following basic mathematical operations at GCSE level: finding percentages, percentage increase, percentage decrease, reverse percentages, changing a fraction to a percentage, currency conversions and interpretation of data from tables, graphs and charts
Do more practice tests. Practice makes perfect. The more you practice the better. Here are some great free sources from the biggest and most used test publishers:
http://www.shldirect.com/practice_tests.html
http://www.savilleconsulting.com/products/aptitude_preparationguides.aspx