Numerical Reasoning
Numerical reasoning tests are written, multiple-choice psychometric tests which are used as part of the selection procedure for jobs with any element of figure work. This includes a wide range of jobs, such as those dealing with money, buying, administration, engineering, statistics, analytical science, and any sort of numerical calculations.
Psychometric Theory - Improving Numerical Reasoning
However numerical reasoning questions are presented, and at whatever level, you really do need a sound understanding of the following basic maths skills:
- addition
- subtraction
- multiplication
- division
- decimal numbers
- fractions
- percentages
This is essential, especially for questions which require any sort of mental calculation.
Remember that for many numerical reasoning tests, the use of a calculator is prohibited (however, take along a calculator, just in case).
Basic maths skills are all very well, but in higher level tests your ability to reason with numbers is also being tested. Here are some ways to improve your numerical reasoning ability:
- Practice maths with and without a calculator. Practising really does make a difference.
- Do number puzzles in newspapers and magazines.
- Keep score when playing games like darts, card games, etc.
- Calculate how much your shopping will cost before you reach the till.
- Work out how much change you should receive when you pay for something.
- Learn your times tables off by heart.
- Read financial reports in newspapers.
- Study tables of data.
