Have you recently applied to a job that has asked for you to complete a logical reasoning test? If so, don’t let it catch you off guard. Logical reasoning tests are a common form of assessment that recruiters and potential employers send out to screen for eligible job applicants.
To better your chances of passing a logical reasoning test, you will want to learn about the test format, questions, and procedures. Below, we have compiled a helpful guide on how to pass a logical reasoning test.
What Is a Logical Reasoning Test?
A logical reasoning test assesses your ability to use logic and reason to solve problems that may be related to the workforce. This psychometric IQ test evaluates areas such as math, figures, written language, and patterns to see how well you can use your logic to answer questions.
Logical Reasoning Format
There is no standard logical reasoning test available today. A number of test providers distribute logical reasoning tests, including Cubiks, cut-E, Talent Q, Kenexa, and SHL, though there are many different tests that you might encounter.
Most logical tests are strictly timed and conducted online, making it difficult to answer all of the questions accurately.
| Test Type | Format | Time Limit | Examples of Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Numerical Reasoning | Multiple Choice | 20 minutes | Identify the missing number in a sequence |
| Verbal Reasoning | True/False or MCQ | 30 minutes | Identify the assumption in an argument |
| Abstract Reasoning | Multiple Choice | 25 minutes | Identify the missing shape in a pattern |
| Inductive Reasoning | Multiple Choice | 20 minutes | Identify the next item in a series |
Common Logical Reasoning Question Types (with Sample Questions)
Generally speaking, logical reasoning tests have a similar set of skills that are tested to determine your aptitude in logical reasoning. The most common types of questions are as follows:
Inductive Reasoning Tests
Also known as abstract reasoning tests, inductive reasoning tests are used to evaluate your ability to use probability to spot patterns within a sequence or series. By looking at the relationship between the given figures, you must apply the underlying rules to solve for the missing figure, which may be anywhere within the given sequence.
Sample Question:
Find the missing number in the sequence:
2, 3, 6, 18, 108, 1944, _?_
A) 54 B) 648 C) 34992 D) 209952
Answer:
D) The rule is to multiply each number by the preceding number, so you multiply 1944 by 108 to arrive at the answer.
Deductive Reasoning Tests
Deductive reasoning tests assess your ability to take a given set of rules and apply it to a new clause. Unlike inductive reasoning, deductive reasoning gives you certain rules for basing the entirety of your answer. The two most common types of deductive reasoning questions are syllogisms and arrangements:
- Syllogisms– A seemingly logical argument is presented using a pair of words or phrases with a set rule. A third phrase follows, in which you determine whether or not it is logical.
- Arrangements– Information is presented about the relationship between given items or people. You are then given a question asking you about the specifics of the arrangement, in which you must rearrange the information to solve.
Free Sample Question:
Annabel was the last to complete her paper. Bob finished before Annabel, but Henry finished right after Bob. Jane completed hers before Henry but after Bob.
Who finished their paper first?
A) Annabel B) Bob C) Henry D) Jane
Answer: B) Bob finished before Annabel, Henry, and Jane.
Diagrammatic Reasoning Tests
Similar to inductive reasoning tests, diagrammatic reasoning tests are designed to evaluate how well you can identify patterns and apply the patterns’ rules to the questions. Unlike inductive reasoning, however, diagrammatic reasoning tests use diagrams.
There are often graphs with rotating shapes involved in diagrammatic reasoning tests, in which you must find the next or missing figure by applying the underlying rule of the given shapes in the diagram to the missing figure.
How to approach a logical reasoning test?
Approaching a logical reasoning test can be daunting, but there are steps you can take to increase your chances of success:
- Understand the format of the test: Before taking a logical reasoning test, it is essential to understand the format of the test, the number of questions, and the time allotted to complete the test.
- Review the instructions: Make sure you understand the instructions before starting the test. Ensure you know how to navigate through the test, how to select your answer, and how to move to the next question.
- Read the questions carefully: Logical reasoning tests often involve complex questions with multiple parts. Make sure you read each question carefully and understand what it is asking before selecting your answer.
- Eliminate unlikely answers: If you are unsure of an answer, eliminate any answers that are unlikely to be correct. This strategy will increase your chances of selecting the correct answer.
- Manage your time: Logical reasoning tests are often timed, and it is essential to manage your time effectively. Ensure you allocate enough time to each question and do not spend too long on any single question.
How to Pass a Logical Reasoning Test?
To pass and score high on your logical reasoning test, you will need to prepare in advance. Here are a few ways to prepare for your test:
- Research the testing company to help familiarize yourself with the specific test.
- Time yourself while you practice.
- Study common test questions, focusing on your weakest areas.
- Answer easy questions quickly.
- Don’t take too long to answer more challenging questions.
- Try to answer as many as you can with accuracy.
Even with these tips, it can still be hard to know just where to begin with your test-taking preparation.
Taking a high-quality logical reasoning practice exam can help familiarize yourself with the format and question types, without the added stress of trying to figure it all out on your own. More importantly, you can learn your strengths and weaknesses and improve on the areas that need extra preparation, all in one place.
Here at Prepare4Success, we have comprehensive practice tests that will prepare you for a number of logical reasoning tests, increasing your chances of doing well by up to 70%.
