Companies (mostly in the technical industries) make candidates sit for placements tests to 1. Test their knowledge of their niche and 2. To see how well they can reason. Never mind that studies have shown this kind of reasoning ability has nothing do with real life decision making.
Anyway, about the reasoning tests:
1. Verbal reasoning: Verbal reasoning is understanding and reasoning using concepts framed in words.
Verbal reasoning tests are not precise. Reasoning is a subjective thing – it is not mathematics.
Standard numerical reasoning tests are better because they are more precise.
2. Non-verbal reasoning
Non-verbal reasoning require you to work out similarities in sequences of shapes or codes.
To be successful in a non-verbal reasoning test, you will need to:
- Be able to see how objects relate to each other
- Apply logical deduction skills
- Understand maths concepts such as symmetry and rotation
Each question will usually have a sequence of 3 – 5 shapes and the you are required to find the shape that best completes the sequence.
There are numerous elements in each non verbal reasoning question such as the outline shape, the fill, the direction of the shape. The shape may rotate, be inverted, have different layers, increase or decrease in size. Some also require basic counting skills.
Non-verbal reasoning requires good spatial awareness.
To increase your spatial awareness, visual ability and non-verbal reasoning skills. Jigsaws, model-making kits, interlocking puzzles, and visual logic games are useful.
You will find more about psychometric tests in this quick guide to psychometric tests.
Thank you for reading.
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