What are Numerical Reasoning Tests

Numerical reasoning tests are standardised psychometric assessments that provide information about aptitude, arithmetic or reasoning abilities of an individual. Note that these assessments are not measures of academic achievement but rather they test your innate abilities such as numerical problem solving, analytical or critical thinking skills. In particular, specific academic knowledge is avoided so that the test can be used for assessing applicants from wide range of industry sectors for number of different jobs. Each testing item is carefully reviewed for cultural sensitivity to ensure that that the test is equivalent and free of content bias across different cultural and gender groups. You can try our free numerical reasoning practice test to get most accurate picture as what to expect on a day.

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What is the task in numerical test

In terms of content, numerical reasoning tests involve problems related to percentages, ratios, proportions, fractions or currency conversions. Numerical data are usually displayed in tables, bar, pie or line charts and it will be your task to examine various relationships or trends to calculate the correct answer. A good example to demonstrate this is shown in the picture below. Note that numerical data is displayed in bar chart followed by question. Usually, numerical reasoning tests are multiple choice answer tests where you will be presented with four or five answer choices and only one will be correct. Prior to taking a real assessment you are recommended to undertake some practice tests that will enable you to become thoroughly familiar with real occupational tests.

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Difficulties and challenges in numerical reasoning

As mentioned above quantitative reasoning tests are aimed to test your numerical reasoning aptitude rather than pure knowledge of maths. For some people analysing large quantity of data in short time and reading trends from graphs can be challenge however there are number of steps you can take to improve your performance. For example, practicing numerical tests and analysing different aspects of task involved can help you enormously to gain required competence.

 

Scores and evaluation

Usually, standardised numerical reasoning tests are evaluated in terms of percentiles and occupational norms. Often, standards may be set by publisher or an employer where publisher assists an organisation to develop their own norms for accuracy and fair treatment of individuals. At times an organisation may want to verify measurements and re-test the candidate to ensure reliable consistency of performance in particular areas. Again, numerical reasoning practice can assist you in achieving desired score.

 

How to pass numeracy test

The extent of improvement of your score in numerical reasoning depends on the amount and type of material practiced. The closer the match between the real assessment content and the practice materials the greater will be the improvement in your scores. Specific familiarity with the types of questions used in similar recruitment exercises and effective course of preparation should significantly improve your test taking strategy. If you score is low don’t fret but rather revise from numeracy reasoning test guide and follow our advice and you will pass with confidence.