Numerical Reasoning Test
How do I prepare for a numerical reasoning test?
To prepare for a numerical reasoning test, start by reviewing key math concepts such as percentages, ratios, averages, and basic arithmetic. Practice interpreting data from graphs, charts, and tables, as these are commonly used in pre-employment assessments. Take timed numerical reasoning practice tests to improve speed and accuracy under pressure. Focus on understanding answer explanations to avoid repeated mistakes. Using free online practice resources can help you become familiar with the test format and boost your confidence before the real assessment.
Numerical Reasoning Tests are a core part of many pre-employment assessments used by companies across various industries. These tests evaluate a candidate’s ability to work with numbers, interpret data, and make logical decisions based on quantitative information.
If you’re preparing for a job that involves problem-solving, budgeting, data analysis, finance, or logical thinking, practicing numerical reasoning questions can give you a major edge.
What Is a Numerical Reasoning Test?
A Numerical Reasoning Test measures your ability to understand, interpret, and analyze numerical data presented in tables, charts, and graphs. You may be asked to perform basic arithmetic, percentages, ratios, data interpretation, and logical problem-solving.
These tests are usually multiple-choice and timed to simulate real workplace decision-making under pressure.
What Skills Are Tested?
| Skill Tested | Description |
|---|---|
| Arithmetic | Addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division |
| Percentages & Ratios | Finding proportions, comparing values |
| Interpreting Graphs | Understanding bar charts, pie charts, and line graphs |
| Data Tables | Extracting key information from tables |
| Word Problems | Solving logic-based questions using numerical facts |
Why Employers Use Numerical Reasoning Tests
Employers use numerical tests to:
Evaluate how well candidates can make decisions based on data
Predict job performance in roles requiring numbers or analysis
Ensure candidates meet a basic standard of numerical literacy
These tests are especially common in finance, engineering, sales, tech, business analytics, and management roles.
Try Our Free Numerical Reasoning Practice Tests
On our website, you’ll find realistic practice questions with explanations for every answer. These tests are designed to match the difficulty and format of employer assessments.
Most Common Numerical Reasoning Test Providers
SHL – Classic numerical logic and graph interpretation
Talent Q (Korn Ferry) – Adaptive questions with increasing difficulty
Aon / Cut-e – Fast-paced, time-pressured micro-assessments
Criteria Corp (CCAT) – Includes mixed numerical and logic questions
Thomas International – Simple math and data understanding
Wonderlic – Includes math word problems and basic operations
Tips to Succeed on a Numerical Reasoning Test
Practice regularly: Build speed and accuracy by solving a variety of problems.
Know your formulas: Percentages, ratios, averages, and basic algebra often appear.
Use estimation: Don’t waste time on perfect answers if you can eliminate wrong choices.
Read questions carefully: One small error in reading the data can lead to a wrong answer.
Time management: Work efficiently and move on if you’re stuck.
Numerical Reasoning Test by Job Position
Numerical reasoning tests are not one-size-fits-all. Different industries and job roles use these assessments to evaluate role-specific skills. Here’s how the test is applied based on the position you’re applying for:
1. Finance and Accounting Jobs
What to expect: Advanced numerical analysis, interpreting financial statements, working with percentages, profit/loss, and currency conversions.
Examples: Financial analyst, accountant, investment banker, auditor.
Tip: Focus on speed and accuracy in interpreting large data sets.
2. Sales and Marketing Roles
What to expect: Market trends, sales data, customer metrics, ROI calculations, pricing strategies.
Examples: Sales executive, marketing analyst, business development manager.
Tip: Practice interpreting bar charts, line graphs, and customer data summaries.
3. Engineering and Technical Jobs
What to expect: Unit conversions, formulas, measurements, and logic-based number problems.
Examples: Mechanical engineer, data analyst, IT technician.
Tip: Brush up on basic algebra and real-world problem solving.
4. Management and Executive Roles
What to expect: Strategic decision-making based on budgets, forecasts, KPIs, and business performance metrics.
Examples: Project manager, operations manager, department head.
Tip: Practice long-form word problems and multi-step calculations.
5. Graduate and Entry-Level Roles
What to expect: General arithmetic, percentages, graph reading, and basic logic questions under time pressure.
Examples: Graduate schemes, internships, entry-level analyst or associate roles.
Tip: Focus on time management and understanding test format.
6. Administrative and Customer Service Jobs
What to expect: Scheduling, basic math, billing data, order quantities, and invoice calculations.
Examples: Office assistant, admin coordinator, call center agent.
Tip: Practice basic math with speed, including decimals and tables.
Free Numerical Reasoning Questions
Question 1: Percentage Change
A company had revenues of $2.4 million in Q1 and $3.1 million in Q2. What was the percentage increase in revenue?
A. 22.5%
B. 25%
C. 29.2%
D. 31.5%
Answer: C
Explanation: ((3.1 – 2.4) / 2.4) × 100 = 29.17%
Question 2: Ratio Problem
A department has 6 managers, 18 analysts, and 12 interns. What is the simplified ratio of managers to total staff?
A. 1:4
B. 1:6
C. 1:5.5
D. 1:6.5
Answer: A
Explanation: Total = 6+18+12 = 36 → Ratio = 6:36 = 1:6
Question 3: Data Interpretation
| Year | Sales ($M) | Costs ($M) |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 5.6 | 2.3 |
| 2022 | 6.9 | 3.2 |
By how much did profit increase from 2021 to 2022?
A. $0.6M
B. $1.2M
C. $1.4M
D. $1.8M
Answer: B
Explanation:
Profit 2021 = 5.6 – 2.3 = 3.3
Profit 2022 = 6.9 – 3.2 = 3.7
Increase = 3.7 – 3.3 = 0.4 (Should be option A — corrected)
Correct Answer: A
Question 4: Numerical Series
Find the next number in the series:
2, 6, 18, 54, ?
A. 108
B. 162
C. 216
D. 324
Answer: B
Explanation: Each term × 3 → Next: 54 × 3 = 162
Question 5: Currency Conversion
If 1 USD = 0.85 EUR, and a product costs €255, how much is this in USD?
A. $210.75
B. $285
C. $300
D. $322.50
Answer: C
Explanation: $ = € / 0.85 = 255 / 0.85 = 300
FAQ
Employers use these tests to measure communication skills, critical thinking, and the ability to process information from written sources. It helps them predict how candidates will perform in roles that involve reading and decision-making.
Yes. Most numerical reasoning tests are multiple choice with 4–5 answer options per question. Only one answer is correct.
Most tests are scored based on:
Number of correct answers
Accuracy percentage (correct vs. total)
Percentile ranking compared to other test-takers
Some providers, like Korn Ferry or SHL, also use adaptive scoring or weighted difficulty based on the test version.
Yes. With regular practice, especially under timed conditions, you can improve both accuracy and speed. Reviewing explanations for your mistakes is key to boosting performance.
A good score usually places you in the top 30% or higher of test takers. However, passing scores vary depending on the employer or job level.
