Psychometric testing, or aptitude testing, is used to a considerable degree throughout the UK. You’ll find these tests used in schools, during the hiring process and in many other ways. An immense number of people have a deep-rooted fear of test taking, though there is really no need for this. Employers do not base their hiring decisions solely on psychometric tests, as they use the results from interviews, as well as applications and even personal references to determine the best candidate for a position. However, knowing how to pass psychometric tests will certainly be of use to you.
First, most timed tests are not actually designed to be finished. You are expected to make the best effort possible, but your score will be ranked according to a normalised group, and finishing your test is not usually a part of that. However, this is not always the case, as there are thousands of different tests, as well as different reasons for testing. One of the first tips for success is to bring your own calculator. Often, these are allowed to be used during the test, but they might not be provided for you. Ask the instructor if using your calculator is allowed prior to starting the test, though. Also, accuracy is looked at more than completion. Therefore, it is more important that the ones you complete be correct than to finish the entire test and only get half of your questions correct. Another important tip for those about to undergo psychometric testing is to take lots of practise tests.
There are many websites on the Internet that offer free practise tests for people, often at no cost at all. Taking practise tests can help you familiarise yourself with the overall process and become more familiar with taking online tests, as more and more of these tests are given on a computer rather than on paper.
Finally, you need to watch for similar questions within each grouping of questions in your test. Often, a test is designed to determine whether or not you contradict yourself during testing, so make sure that you read each question closely and do not simply rush through the test. Many questions will be statements that you are asked to rank your level of agreement/disagreement with, and similar phrasing can be tricky, so be very careful when filling out these tests.
The most effective way to pass your psychometric test is to simply carry out plenty of sample testing questions. Do this and success will be sure to follow.