What are Numerical Reasoning Tests & Top Tips to Pass

What is a Numerical Reasoning Test?

A numerical reasoning test is a type of psychometric test designed to assess a candidate’s mathematical and statistical skills. This is often used for fresh graduates and early-career professionals whose jobs involve working with numbers and making decisions based on the interpretation of numerical data. Some specific examples include financial planning, accountancy, engineering, market research, and consulting.

Many employers require candidates to complete a numerical reasoning test as part of the early stages of their assessment process. They use this to gauge an applicant’s capability to determine critical business-related issues and formulate logical conclusions from quantifiable data such as performance figures, financial results and analysis reports.

Below is a list of some companies that use numerical reasoning tests as part of their selection process.

What should you expect?

Numerical reasoning tests are often conducted online, however, they could also take place in a company’s assessment centre in some cases. In these tests, you’re given tables and graphs describing different business-related situations. Then, they’re followed by a series of multiple-choice questions related to the information presented. Your goal is to select the correct answer for each question based solely on the numerical data supplied.

While these tests aim to assess a candidate’s level of competency when working with numerical information, they differ from a maths test. Numerical reasoning tests don’t require memorising complex formulas and equations or writing lengthy mathematical solutions. Hence, candidates are often allowed to use a simple calculator to solve the test questions.

Apart from the accuracy of responses, candidates are also assessed based on how long it takes them to move through the questions. So, you can expect the numerical reasoning test to be under a strict time limit. Although different tests may have varying time constraints, you may anticipate being allotted approx. 60–90 seconds per question.

How to prepare for a numerical reasoning test?

With strict time limits and multiple stages of calculations for each question, taking a numerical reasoning test can be challenging. However, there are plenty of ways you can prepare and enhance your chances of nailing your test scores. Firstly, we recommend checking the company’s Glassdoor Interviews page about their hiring procedure, including numerical reasoning tests.

You may also reach out to the recruitment team for information, such as the test provider, the type of the question, and the duration of the test. This information will enable you to do a more targeted preparation. One of the most effective ways to prepare for your numerical reasoning test is by taking practice questions.

Doing so can help you become familiar with the format and layout of the assessment, boosting your probability of performing well during the actual test. Apart from the test practice materials that your target employer may provide, here are some of the external online practice tests you can use to prepare.

Top tips for passing a numerical reasoning test

Treat practice tests like the real test

It can be easy to take practice tests without exerting much effort. However, practice tests are more effective if you treat them as seriously as you would the real test. What this means is replicating the actual conditions of the numerical reasoning test.

Some of the ways to do this are by timing yourself, doing the test in a space with no distractions, and attempting to hit a benchmark score. These will help you improve your mathematical and statistical abilities and get more comfortable working under time pressure.

Read the questions thoroughly

Numerical reasoning test questions often contain graphs and charts with distracting and irrelevant information to the answer. In such a case, it is easy to be caught out if you don’t read the questions carefully and rely solely on assumptions. This may cause you to miss vital information, costing your chances of progressing to the next round of the recruitment process. Hence, understanding what’s being asked is imperative before attempting an answer.

Manage your time effectively

Given the strict time constraints, effectively managing your time for each question is imperative. Avoid spending too much time trying to find a solution to a problem that is too challenging or on a question you can’t answer.

If the numerical reasoning test allows you to go back through the questions, the best tactic is to simply leave questions you can’t solve quickly and return to them later if you have time. On the other hand, if the test does not employ negative marking and has no option to come back to a question, make your best guess and move on to the next one.

Bring your own calculator

Calculators are typically allowed for numerical reasoning tests. However, we still suggest checking with the employer before taking the test to ensure you can use one.

In case you’re taking the test in an assessment centre and a calculator is allowed, it is best to bring and use your own. Your familiarity with your own device’s buttons and functionalities can help you save time. Remember, every second counts for a strictly timed test.

Get a good rest

It may sound simple but proper rest can mean the difference between passing and failing your numerical reasoning test. When you are working on challenging problems while under time pressure, it is essential that you are clear-headed and focused. This allows you to perform your best and get as many correct answers as possible. So, make sure you get a night’s rest before your assessment day.