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Verbal Reasoning

Verbal reasoning tests are multiple-choice tests which measure your ability to reason with words. They are widely used in recruitment to select staff, simply because the ability to understand the written word is an essential skill for most jobs.

• In critical reasoning tests, always read the passage thoroughly. Don't skip through sections, or scan the text at high speed. Reading with understanding requires concentrated effort - not an easy thing to do however good your reading skills. Reread anything of which you are unsure.
• Also read the questions very carefully to ensure you understand exactly what you are being asked.
• Look at the answer choices and quickly eliminate any you know to be incorrect.
• Concentrate your energies on deciding between the most likely possibilities.
• Think carefully before selecting an answer which includes words like 'always', 'never', 'true', 'false', 'none' and 'all'. These words leave no room for manoeuvre or any exception whatsoever.
• Answer the questions using only the given information. Don't let prior knowledge or your opinion on the subject matter influence you. Only your ability to understand and make logical deductions from the passage is being tested.
• Verbal reasoning tests demand a high level of concentration, so treat yourself to a break every now and then. Sit up straight, shut your eyes and take a few deep breaths, just for 20 seconds or so. This will calm you down, relax your back and give your eyes and brain a well deserved rest.

To improve general performance in verbal reasoning tests:

• Read books and newspapers.
• Do verbal problem-solving exercises like crosswords.
• If applying for a managerial position, read reports and business journals.
• If applying for a technical job, read technical manuals and instruction books.