Tips for How to Pass Verbal Reasoning Tests

If you’re looking to get a new job in 2019, it’s a good idea to brush up on your verbal reasoning skills. Many employers use verbal reasoning tests as part of selection processes, both in the public and private sector. Here, we’re going to look at a few tips for how you can pass verbal reasoning tests.

Develop an Action Plan – How to Pass Verbal Reasoning Tests

When preparing for your verbal reasoning tests implement an action plan of preparation. We recommend carrying out at least 30 minutes practice per day/evening in the fortnight before the test. The reason why we state a fortnight is simply because this is an approximate amount of time that the employer will give you to prepare before your test date. If you get longer to prepare, use the time wisely.

Time Yourself From the Outset – How to Pass Verbal Reasoning Tests

Prepare for the tests by using ‘time’ from the outset. This means timing yourself even when carrying out practice tests. Get used to the feeling of the clock ticking down and the pressure you will be under. Many people do not carry out practice tests under timed conditions. When it comes to the real test day they suffer as a result. It is also important to be aware that you should time yourself from the point that you start reading the verbal comprehension passage. Some people believe that the test only starts when you study the answer options; this is incorrect.

Have an Organised Mindset – How to Pass Verbal Reasoning Tests

Develop an organised mindset. There is a difference between a ‘seasoned’ test taker and a novice test taker. A seasoned test taker will approach the test in a formalised manner, whereas the novice will bluff their way through the test. Your approach to verbal reasoning tests should include the following:

1. The only way to gain high scores is to ensure that your mind and body are at their best. In the fortnight before the test avoid alcohol, cigarettes, coffee and junk food. Make a conscious effort to eat healthily, drink plenty of water and get plenty of sleep/rest.

2. A large percentage of test takers fail to follow the instructions provided at the commencement of the test. Listen to what the test administrator tells you. Most candidates are more concerned about the other test takers in the room rather than being concerned about the rules of the test. Focus on your own performance only and do not worry about anyone else in the room. Listen to what is being said and follow all instructions carefully. If you are unsure, ask.

Accurate Marking is Crucial – How to Pass Verbal Reasoning Tests

The vast majority of verbal reasoning tests are multiple-choice in nature. The main reason for this type of test is because it allows the employer/ assessor to score a large number of tests quickly. Because of this fact it is essential that you complete the marking sheet accurately. If you miss a question be sure to leave a space on the marking sheet. People will occasionally fail an entire test because they failed to leave a space on the marking sheet after missing out a question.

Pace Yourself According to the Allocated Time – How to Pass Verbal Reasoning Tests

Just before the test commences the test administrator will inform you of how many questions there are within the test and also the time limit you have to complete it. This is your opportunity to provide yourself with an ‘approximate’ time to answer each question. For example, if you are informed that there are thirty questions in the test and you have twenty minutes to complete them, this gives you an average of forty seconds per question. If you find yourself spending up to two minutes on a question then you are probably spending far too much time trying to answer it.

Concentrate Fully – How to Pass Verbal Reasoning Tests

During the test concentrate fully on the passage of text you are reading. It is pointless reading the passage unless you are concentrating fully on the content. It is very easy to get distracted, either by other test takers or by worrying about the remaining time.

Use an Approach that Suits You – How to Pass Verbal Reasoning Tests

The vast majority of people who take verbal reasoning tests approach them by reading the entire passage through once before turning to the questions. Try reading the question first and then scan the passage for ‘keywords’ and ‘phrases’ which match the question. The bottom line is this: there are no hard and fast rules for approaching the questions. Choose a method that works for you. We can guarantee you that you will have developed your own method for answering the questions by the time you have completed this workbook.

Answer the questions based solely on the information provided. Candidates who sit verbal reasoning tests often fall into the trap of answering the question based on fact, rather than answering the question based solely on the information provided in the text. The type of question you are likely to encounter will involve a passage of text followed by a series of questions which must be answered either TRUE, FALSE, or CANNOT SAY based on the information given.

How to Pass Verbal Reasoning Tests – Conclusion

If you’re interested in learning more about how to pass verbal reasoning tests, check out our guide: Verbal Reasoning Tests. Packed with sample questions, this book is guaranteed to give you the tools you need to improve your chances of success in 2019!