How to Prepare for an Aptitude Test: Tips and Strategies for Success
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Psychometric testing includes a wide range of assessments, with aptitude tests being one of the most common. Also known as ability tests, they are designed to measure a person's natural talents in a fair, standardised way.
Aptitude tests highlight a candidate's potential, such as their reasoning ability, problem-solving skills, and decision-making under pressure, rather than how much they have practised. However, taking time to prepare can reduce stress, improve confidence, and help you perform at your best on the day.
Top Tips for Preparing for an Aptitude Test
1. Understand the Type of Test You Will Be Taking
Not all aptitude tests are the same. Some focus on numerical reasoning, others on verbal or logical thinking. Understanding which tests you will be taking helps you tailor your preparation effectively.
If you have been told you will need to complete an aptitude test as part of a recruitment or development process, ask which specific test it is. Common types include:
- Numerical reasoning – understanding and analysing data.
- Verbal reasoning – interpreting written information.
- Deductive reasoning – drawing logical conclusions.
- Inductive reasoning – identifying patterns and relationships.
- Critical thinking – evaluating arguments and evidence.
- Mechanical understanding – interpreting mechanical or physical processes.
Knowing what to expect will make your aptitude prep more focused and effective.
2. Practise Aptitude Tests Before the Real Thing
Familiarity is key. Practising similar tests will help you understand question formats, timing, and difficulty levels. Many candidates find that timing is the hardest part, so simulate real test conditions when you practise.
There are plenty of online aptitude test practice resources available, including free samples and mock tests. The more you practise, the more comfortable and confident you will feel when it matters.
3. Prepare Your Test Environment
If your test is online, set up your space in advance. Ensure your computer is working, your internet connection is stable, and your environment is quiet and distraction-free. Take the test at a time when you are alert and focused.
For in-person assessments, prepare yourself physically and mentally. Get a good night's rest, wear comfortable clothing, and avoid unnecessary stress before you arrive. Simple preparation can make a big difference to your performance.
4. Don't Get Stuck on One Question
It is easy to lose track of time on a difficult question. If that happens, move on and return to it later if you have time. This technique helps you manage your time wisely and maintain momentum throughout the test.
Remember, many aptitude tests are designed to challenge you and often include more questions than you can comfortably complete in the time available.
5. Remember You Are More Than Your Test Results
An aptitude test is just one part of a broader assessment process. Recruiters and managers also consider interviews, personality assessments, and experience.
If you do not achieve the score you wanted, ask for feedback. Many recruiters will share useful insights that can help you improve next time.
The Different Types of Aptitude Tests
Aptitude tests are used to assess a wide variety of skills and are valuable for both recruitment and employee development. At eras, we offer a comprehensive range of aptitude tests designed to remove bias and help organisations identify and nurture talent.
> Discover the eras aptitude tests
Managerial and Professional Aptitude Tests
Suitable for a range of individuals from graduate level right through to senior management and directors, managerial and professional aptitude tests, like numerical reasoning (MNR1) and verbal reasoning (MVR1), are used to test a candidate's ability to interpret and reason.
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Supervisory and Team Leader Aptitude Tests
Aptitude tests can be extremely useful in both the recruitment and development process. Supervisory and team leader aptitude tests help identify desirable traits in candidates for operational settings, such as budgets, policies, and complex procedures, through numerical reasoning (SNR1) and verbal reasoning (SVR1) tests.
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Clerical and Admin Aptitude Tests
Our clerical and admin aptitude tests are designed to assess candidates for clerical, administrative, and support roles. We use a combination of word usage (CWU1), proof checking (CPC1), computation (CCT1) and cross-checking (CCC1) tests.
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Operative Aptitude Tests
Certain industries, such as manufacturing, production, warehousing, and logistics, require certain skills. Our range of operative aptitude tests uses assessments including following instructions (OSF1), mechanical understanding (OSM1), and using numbers (OSN1) to highlight desirable traits in candidates.
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Specialist Aptitude Tests
The variety of aptitude tests means that potential candidates can be assessed in the correct way. Specialist aptitude tests will assess abilities to reason with symbols, rather than text or numbers, which is a key trait within specialist IT positions and areas like electric and chemical engineering. For these tests, eras use deductive reasoning (SPD1), inductive reasoning (SPI1), and spatial reasoning (SPS1).
Find out more →How Aptitude Tests Can Benefit Candidates and Businesses
Aptitude tests provide objective insights into a person's strengths and potential. They help employers make fair, data-driven decisions while supporting personal and professional development.
At eras, we have been delivering psychometric assessments and consultancy for over 30 years. Our tools are trusted by organisations of all sizes to identify, develop, and retain high-performing talent.
> Discuss your aptitude testing needs with eras todayFAQs About Aptitude Tests
How long should I spend preparing for an aptitude test? Start your aptitude prep at least a few days before the test. Short, focused practice sessions are more effective than cramming the night before.
Are aptitude tests the same as IQ tests? Not exactly. While IQ tests measure general intelligence, aptitude tests focus on specific abilities relevant to job performance, such as reasoning, logic, and comprehension.
Can I improve my aptitude test score? Yes. Practice, rest, and familiarity with test formats can significantly improve your accuracy and confidence.