Top Tips To Ace The Numerical Reasoning SHL Aptitude Test

How to Pass Your Numerical Reasoning Test

  • A numerical reasoning test does not test you on difficult math problems, but on how you can reason with the information presented in an array of different forms (graphs, tables, etc.) under time pressure.
  • SHL is a unique and different kind of test that looks at your ability to handle numerical information and data in a short span of time.
  • The SHL Test starts with a short introduction that includes guidelines for computer orientation and basic English language skills.
  • The questions are such that they can't be googled online. You won't be asked closed questions like "4 times 5" or "the fastest animal on earth".
  • You are expected to work out the answer from the graphs and tables provided using basic numeracy and reasoning skills.
  • These kinds of questions test your ability to answer questions without thinking about them, by using your innate numerical reasoning skills.
  • As human beings, we are more emotionally inclined. Our natural instincts are emotional in nature, logical and reasoning thought is less instinctive than our emotions.
  • Most people hate mathematics and the daunting nature of it in our daily lives. Through practice learning and testing, we can improve our math skills and knowledge, especially important when applying for a job that requires numerical reasoning aptitude tests.
  • You can’t say that the section which contains numbers is easy, but many who fail in Maths frequently claim that Maths is not for them.

Types of Numerical Reasoning Questions

Graphs and Tables

  • Describing a set of numbers in a logical, non-sequential manner, Listing out a series of events is a form of verbal reasoning typically encountered in Cognitive reasoning tests.
  • Vocabulary definition of words, extraction of word meanings, and how to improve oral answers and to write answers in list form.
  • rewrite, rewrite, and rewrite again until you feel you have reached a decent level.
  • Try to come up with different, original words Look for clues and triggers to an answer, hone your memory, list out events, draw diagrams of events to help you Identify coincidences.
  • Telling a story about past events Dictionaries Isolating specific words Dictionary Construction Giving a description and also showing its meaning.

Currency and Unit Conversion

  • Exchange rate calculations are a common numerical reasoning aptitude test encountered during assessment application processes
  • In each question, there will be a currency pair, a rate of exchange and an amount to be converted. To convert a volume of one currency into another, you will need to calculate the amount of one currency in the pair.
  • The concept of currency isn't something we are used to talking about in daily life. In most cases, you encounter exchange rates during trips abroad unless you are an active trader in the forex market. However, once you understand the basic method, it is very simple to perform the calculation.
  • It is helpful to learn how to calculate currency conversion questions quickly in order to succeed in a numerical reasoning test. You can confidently tackle any exchange rate question after becoming accustomed to the information and calculations needed in different scenarios.
  • Example question, convert £100 pounds into zloty, the exchange rate is as follows: 1 Pound sterling equals 5.46 Poland złoty = 100 x 5.46 = 546

Number Series

  • The term "Series" refers to a sequential arrangement of letters, numbers, or both that is structured so that each term in the series is obtained according to some particular rules.
  • Examples of number series that you may encounter is as follows
Number Series
Number series Arithmetic Sequences
Geometric Sequences Exponent Sequences
Two-Stage Sequences Mixed Sequences
Alternating Sequences Fibonacci Sequences
A Combination of Sequences' types

Basic Maths - Numeracy skills

  • Graduate employers often assess numerical reasoning skills - especially those in the engineering and financial sectors. You may be asked to complete online numerical reasoning tests before or during an interview.
  • An individual with basic numeracy skills is able to add, subtract, multiply, and divide.

General Tips for Numerical Reasoning

  1. Master the Basics
  2. Answer Only What You Were Asked
  3. Sharpen Your Data Interpretation Skills
  4. Learn How to Use a Calculator