Ability tests: Advice for Test Takers
How can you do well at tests?
Practice. Completing example test questions can help to familiarise you with the format of an ability test so that, on the day, you know what to expect. Many people get nervous when completing tests but being prepared may help you to control your nerves. Books containing example tests for practising purposes are widely available.
Grow your abilities. Your performance on tests will improve if you develop the abilities they measure. You can grow an ability by completing lots of example tests and questions. Numerical ability can be developed through completing maths problems, making financial calculations or analysing numerical data at work. Your verbal abilities will improve if you read complex written materials, tackle problem-solving quizzes or follow complex arguments and discussions.
Ask questions. If there is anything that you don't understand, make sure you ask about it before taking the test.
Pace yourself. Most tests are timed so make sure you know how much time you have for the test so that you can pace yourself.
Do not get stuck. If you find a particular question difficult do not spend too much time on it. Give your best answer and go on to the next.
Concentrate. Work as quickly and accurately as you can and do not get distracted.
Why do organisations use ability tests?
- Many employers use ability tests when selecting people for jobs. They help them make accurate predictions about whether a person has the aptitude needed to succeed in a particular job.
- Ability tests are used to help identify appropriate training for individuals. They give objective information about people's strengths and limitations.
- Organisations use the ability tests to help individuals understand the abilities they need to work on in order to develop.
How can ability tests help you?
- Ability tests give you an opportunity to demonstrate aptitudes which are important for success. They may help you to show that you are the right person for a job.
- You can use ability tests to identify those abilities which you need to improve.
- Aptitudes which are actually used in jobs are tested using questions that are related to work.
- You can use the tests to help you be sure that you pick a job that actually suits you, that you will do well in, and that you will gain satisfaction from.
