How to pass numerical and verbal reasoning tests

Take the free reasoning practice test before you study. If numerical is weaker, give it two days out of three. The split in your result tells you where the marks are.

• Say in words what is being asked: a percent change, a share of a total, a ratio, a mean, or a growth rate. Then find the two cells you need.
• Percent change = (new − old) ÷ old × 100. The base is always the old value.
• Share of a total = part ÷ total × 100. Add the whole column first.
• Ratios: divide both numbers by their highest common factor, and check the order the question names them in.
• Currency: if the table says the amount for £1, multiply to convert from pounds, divide to convert back.
• Estimate before you calculate, so a mistyped number or a slipped decimal point stands out.

• Read the statement first, then read the passage looking for the one sentence that bears on it.
• True means the passage says it. False means the passage says the opposite. Cannot say means the passage does not settle it.
• Be suspicious of statements that are sensible but not mentioned: those are Cannot say, not True.
• Watch the qualifiers: "all", "only", "most", "at least", "unless". Changing one is how a true statement becomes a false one.
• If you have to use outside knowledge to answer, the answer is Cannot say.

On real tests you typically get roughly 80 to 90 seconds per numerical question and about 40 seconds per verbal question. If a question is eating more than double that, make your best guess and move on. Accuracy beats finishing.