Brilliant Numeracy Tests

8 brill iant numeracy test s

say you cannot buy these tests in advance of sitting them – so it

is essential that you prepare thoroughly.

Why do I have to take a numeracy test?

The modern world’s recruitment and selection processes are

increasingly sophisticated. Many medium-sized and large

employers now make extensive use of

ability tests as part of their standard

recruitment processes. Numeracy

tests are also increasingly part of the

entry requirements for certain pro-

fessions and postgraduate degree

courses.

Ability tests allow employers and university admissions offices to

assess a large number of applicants for competitive positions in

a standardised way. In other words the same ability test can be

given to a large number of applicants and the standardised

results used as an efficient means of comparision.

There is another key attraction to using a standardised process

rather than, for example, relying upon old-fashioned, unstruc-

tured interviews where every applicant would be asked different

questions. Any selection process should be fair to all applicants

and provide a clear picture of individual strengths and weak-

nesses in particular areas. Even if you do not like the idea of

being tested on your numeracy skills at least you know that it is

fair, since everyone has to do the same test!

brilliant

tip

Calculators are allowed so ensure that you know how to use one

effectively. It is important for you to be able to input complex

calculations quickly.

many medium-sized

and large employers

now make extensive

use of ability tests

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The overall aim is for the best people to be selected – and the

use of ability tests differentiates the high performers from the

low performers. A numeracy test will sort out the better per-

formers on mathematical ability. A well-designed numeracy test

is a reliable and consistent means of assessing the numeracy

skills required for effective work performance.The more difficult

numeracy tests are suitable to use where a higher level of numer-

ical ability is required to operate effectively in that working

environment.

What are numeracy tests? 9

You might be thinking, ‘Why do I

have to take a numeracy test? I don’t

want to be a mathematician!’ But it

is not just mathematicians – or even

bankers – who need proficient

numeracy skills. Many different jobs

require an ability to work confidently with numbers in order to

carry out a range of responsibilities effectively.This could involve

anything from interpreting production quotas to carrying out

technical work that relies upon detailed calculations.Whereas an

accountant will have demonstrated his or her numerical abilities

in the process of acquiring a professional qualification, other

career paths depend on numeracy tests to measure applicants’

skill in this area. Even managers who are not going to be respon-

sible for producing financial reports are still likely to be

presented with a numeracy test at interview.This is because they

would still be expected to understand any data that is presented

as tables, graphs or charts.

brilliant

tip

There is a way to tip the scales in your favour. You can probably see

this coming... practising and familiarising yourself with the right

type of numeracy questions will give you an advantage.

many different jobs

require an ability to

work confidently with

numbers

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