Assessment tests

Many employers use tests as a way of choosing the right person for a job.

What kind of tests are there?

There are different kinds of tests for different jobs. The most common are:

Number tests

These include tests in adding, subtracting, multiplying etc.

Literacy tests

Including tests in spelling, reading and understanding words and writing.

Mechanical tests

Solving problems for jobs in motor vehicle trades and engineering. These tests involve using numbers, understanding written instructions and mechanical ideas. Engineering and motor industry employers and training organisations such as LAGTA and SECTT use this kind of test.

Clerical accuracy tests

Checking ability to do the kinds of jobs done in an office. Clerical or administrative work involves using numbers as well as classifying and understanding information. Employers such as Inland Revenue and Scottish Provident use this kind of test.

Retail tests

Checking ability to follow instructions and deal with the public. Large retail employers such as Sainsbury test each person who applies for a job whether full time or part time. This kind of test checks your ability to understand instructions, follow procedures and solve problems. You may also be asked questions about what action you would take in certain work situations.

Armed Forces tests

Including reasoning and number work in a group of tests. As part of the recruitment procedure, applicants for the Army take the British Army Recruitment Battery Test. This test is done on a computer and covers reasoning, number work, spotting the odd-one-out and symbol rotation.

Construction Industry tests

Problem solving, mathematical ability and interpretation of plans. People applying for apprenticeships in the construction industry will sit the Construction Industry Training Board test.

In this test you will have to read and understand building drawings, answer multiple choice questions and use your number skills to work out lengths and amounts. The CITB send out example questions to every applicant who completes a CITB application form.

Personality tests

Personality tests are different from the tests above. They are designed to find out about you as a person, what you think is important and how you would react in different situations. For example, you might be asked how you would behave at a party where you did not know anyone or whether you would help someone who had an accident in the street.

There are no right or wrong answers in this kind of test. Sometimes personality tests are conducted over the telephone or you may get a written set of questions to answer. It is important to listen or read each question carefully and give an honest response.

Before the test

Plan your route to the test centre so that you arrive in plenty of time
Try any practice questions sent to you in advance
Take items such as pen, pencil, rubber, calculator [if allowed]
Create a good impression by dressing smartly
Wear a watch for time keeping
Be prepared - there may be an interview after the test

During the test

Listen carefully to any instructions. If there is something you don't understand - ask! It is important that you know what you have to do and how much time you have
Read each question carefully
Don't spend too long on one question - if you can't answer it go on to the next one
Take a guess if you don't know the answer to a multiple choice question
Work quickly and accurately - remember it is all about getting as many right answers as you can within the time limit
Remember that questions often get harder at the end of the test
Go back over your answers if you have time when you are finished
Don't worry if you have not answered all the questions - many people do not finish every question but still get a good score
Turn over the sheet - there may be more questions on the other side

Try some of the practice tests below - these questions are similar to those set by a wide range of companies.

After the test

If you have passed - well done! Now it is time to prepare for your interview.
Don't worry if you did not pass - many people don’t pass.
Don't give up! Find out whether you can resit the test.
Use this section to improve your chances for next time.