A numerical reasoning test is usually a type of psychometrics, used in the selection processes of the employment application stages. They’re also commonly used in conjunction with various other personality tests, such as verbal reasoning tests and personality tests. These types of tests offer some insight into the candidates potentials, as well as assisting in making decisions regarding suitability for particular positions. In this article I will explain what a numerical reasoning test involves and give guidance on how to prepare for these examinations.
In order to take numerical reasoning tests in person, you will first need to find a testing centre. These can be found in most major towns and cities, as well as at colleges and universities. The majority of centres that offer these tests offer a test book and preparation material which you should take with you prior to attending the examination. Some also allow students to book a seat ahead of time, so that they are guaranteed to get to take the test when it is due. If you are unable to join in a scheduled session you will still be able to take part in the examination as long as you have brought along a printed copy of the questions you will be answering.
During the numerical reasoning tests you will normally be asked to carry out basic arithmetic problems, as well as complete various logical problems. The aim of the tests is to assess your basic mathematical skills, and the different types of numerical calculations. One of the main types of questions will be ones that ask you to solve for a number N, such as 2N, 3N, etc. In these situations you will be expected to solve for the denominator or factors as well as the constant.
Most tests will include a range of numerical reasoning tests; however you should always take a sample test to find out just what type of questions are on it. You will need to pass the full test in order to successfully obtain a degree or certificate. There are two main types of numerical reasoning tests; these are psychometric tests and synthetic tests. The psychometric test is based on the theory that people are able to understand the mind’s processes and use this knowledge to predict certain behaviour. This has been found to be accurate about 60% of the time.
Synthetic numerical reasoning tests work by having you complete a questionnaire which then involves various aspects of numerical reasoning. These questions are chosen at random and are often very difficult. To help you make the best answers you may be given a small amount of money to spend on a drink or food item. This then ties in with how you might normally answer a question. However, it can also help you in predicting your own answer. A synthetic numerical reasoning test will typically give you a range of correct answers along with a range of incorrect answers.
These types of tests can also help you in understanding the meaning behind fraction results. For example a fraction problem can involve finding the percentage increase or decrease of a number over a series of fraction solutions. The original number and fraction solution are typically given alongside the fraction and can help you understand why the results are what they are. Using the percentage increase or decrease of a number can help you in understanding why the original number came out as what it did.
A common problem requiring numerical reasoning is to find the square root of an unknown number using only the denominator. This can prove to be quite difficult and if you don’t know how to take a calculator into the equation in order to find it you are out of luck. Luckily, there are some excellent programs out there that will help you find the square root of any number using just the denominator, and even with no denominator at all!
