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Numerical reasoning tests are designed to evaluate your ability to deal with numbers. The questions you’ll see in the test will include everything from diagrams and traditional maths problems, to everyday scenarios that test how you process numerical data under pressure. You’re likely to encounter one of these tests if you’re applying for a role in the financial services or administration. So if you’re readying yourself to take one, here are five steps to set you on the path to success!
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1. Practice, practice, practice
Reading up on the test you’re about to take is a really smart way to get ahead. You might be able to learn exactly what type of numerical test the organisation you’re applying to will set, allowing you to hone your preparation. Taking as many practice numerical tests as you can will help you to identify your strengths and weaknesses, anticipate what to expect on the big day, and ultimately, improve!
Understanding the types of questions you’ll see and the different formats may take time. By practising, you increase your confidence and learn from your mistakes. This will help you answer each question faster.
Whether it’s a mock test or the real deal, ensuring you have everything you need both mentally and practically will really help you get into the right headspace to maximise your chances of success.
Tweet This2. Preparation is everything
Whether it’s a mock test or the real deal, ensuring you have everything you need both mentally and practically will really help you get into the right headspace to maximise your chances of success. On the day, make sure you’re as well rested as possible, that you’ve had something to eat and that you have a glass of water with you. When practising at home, try and find a private space and gather the equipment you’ll need, such as paper, pen and calculator, before getting started.
3. Read everything through carefully
Of course the testing conditions and time pressure make this a little more complicated than it sounds, but it’s important to take the time to slowly and carefully consider each question. Focus on the question before you begin looking at the data. Ignore the information that is irrelevant to the answer. Read everything through twice before trying to work the answers out.
4. Focus is key
An important competency that’s being tested is your ability to read through complex information and focus in on what’s significant. Drawing out the crucial information and using it to work the problem out shows you have the type of mindset that’ll be sought after in financial industries.
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5. Check your measurements
One of the most common mistakes in numerical tests is people getting measurements and currencies wrong. Diagrams and tables can also often be misread when people don’t look at them carefully.
As with most tests, the key to success is a combination of pre-preparation and applying your focus on the day. Keep this in mind and we’re sure you’ll find the numerical reasoning test much more enjoyable, and hopefully simpler, than you first thought.
