Information on what practice tests are available
Practice Tests
Before an ability test commences, information is given to guide candidates on what the test is measuring, what they will be presented with, and what is required to complete the test. Instructions are provided for how best to complete the test including the number of questions given, the test time limit, what the test icons mean when navigating the site, and what to do if any reasonable adjustments are required.
- After candidates have read the instructions and clicked 'Next', they will be presented with a short set of practice questions suited to the difficulty level of the test they are undertaking.
- Further practice questions are available (for Numerical and Verbal tests only) from the candidate dashboard on the platform by clicking the ‘Help’ button.
- There are alternative practice questions available on the article for Psychometric Test Advice on our website, which includes helpful hints and tips for test takers. The 'Take practice test' link will take them to the Joy at Work platform where they can sign up and complete a Soft Skills Quiz to receive a free soft-skills strengths profile.
- Please note, we do not have practice questions available for Situational Judgement Tests.
Reducing Practice Effects
As psychometric testing becomes an increasingly popular tool for recruitment and development, the chance of candidates having completed a similar test in the past also increases. Consequently, for new campaigns, the degree of familiarity among candidates with psychometrics is likely to vary. Prior experience could give a degree of advantage to candidates compared to those who have never sat a test before – this is known as the practice effect. Paradoxically, the solution for reducing practice effects is providing practice materials. By providing all candidates with information about the format of the test and some example questions, you are ‘levelling the playing field’ and minimising the advantage the more seasoned test-takers may have. Access to suitably detailed practice material enables all candidates to understand what is being asked of them, this is especially beneficial for candidates from backgrounds where testing is less widespread.
Candidates can find practice questions following the instructions of each assessment. Further practice questions are available from the candidate dashboard by clicking the ‘Help’ button. Guidance on practice tests can be found here.
Last Updated: January 2024