Applying for a role with a big corporate employer? Chances are you’ll have to take a numerical reasoning assessment as part of the recruitment process. These tests assess how well you interpret and manipulate mathematical data. Plus, they give employers an insight into your intelligence, judgement and business acumen.
Want to show employers you’ve got what they’re looking for? We’re here to help you smash any numerical assessment test that comes your way.
We’ll cover:
Not a Bright Network member yet?
You’re missing out. Join our community of over one million students and graduates to get the insights, advice and opportunities you need to succeed in your career.
What is a numerical reasoning test?
First things first: you need to know what a numerical reasoning test is.
So, what exactly is it?
Numerical reasoning assessments are usually tests that are multiple-choice, timed and include questions on:
- Interpreting data from tables, graphs and charts
- Percentages and proportions
- Fractions and ratios
- Estimations
- Currency conversions
- Critical reasoning
- Inflation and rebasing, 'real' prices
Terms like ‘inflation and rebasing’ make the tests sound more complex than they are. But although they’re there to challenge candidates, they only use six basic maths skills: addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, percentages and ratios. You don’t need to know what’s Pi to the power of Pi.
Like with any exam, some questions will be trickier than others. So, you’ll need to analyse more advanced data to tackle questions with several steps. It’s doable though – especially if you follow our tips.
Top tips for passing a numerical reasoning test
Whether you’re already a maths whizz or find numbers intimidating, our advice will boost your confidence – and your chances.
Some of the things we recommend doing are:
Find out who your test provider will be
As soon as you find out you’re going to sit a numerical reasoning test, ask to see a sample of the questions. That’s because not all numerical reasoning tests are the same. They’re produced by several test providers. Knowing which provider is responsible for your assessment means you’ll practise the right type. That’ll be a big advantage when it comes to the real thing.
Practise, practise, practise
Getting to grips with the types of questions and the different layouts takes time. Practising increases your confidence, lowers stress levels and allows you to learn from your mistakes. Plus, it helps you answer each question faster. Just don’t get overconfident and rush through.
Read the questions carefully
Focus on the question before you look at the data underneath it. Then, seesaw back and forth between the question and the data. Often there’s distracting information in the graphs that’s irrelevant to the answer. And it’s easy to make a mistake if you don’t read the question properly. So, take the time you need to understand what you’re being asked.
Common errors include muddling up the units used, not seeing the applicability of a graph or table and making (incorrect) assumptions. Reading every word in each question will help you avoid these pitfalls.
Do a sense check
Once you’ve taken a minute or two to understand the data and calculate the answer, invest a few more seconds to re-read the question. It’s a little bit of extra time to double-check you’ve answered the question.
Manage your time
Employers measure numerical test takers on two things: how many questions they get right and how long they take to answer the questions. So, if you can’t answer something, move on. An examiner is unlikely to mark you down for a wrong answer so feel free to go with your best guess, but don’t waste time on something you don’t know.
Questions aren’t always in order of difficulty. So, don’t miss out on an easier one because you haven’t turned the page.
If you’ve got time at the end, use it to check over your answers and take another look at the tough questions you skipped.
Key takeaways
Numerical reasoning assessments are tests that employers use to check on your maths skills. You sit them like exams – and it’s worth revising for them, just like you did at school and university.
If you know who your test provider will be, you’ll be able to find examples online and practise their style of questions.
Once it’s time to take the test, read every question carefully, double-check your answers and manage your pace.
Don’t be intimidated by questions that have been worded in complex ways. Remember that employers are assessing your basic maths skills (and your general intelligence). You don’t need to be a maths whizz to shine here. So, give yourself the best chance by taking on our tips. Good luck!