The Wonderlic test, explained

The Wonderlic Personnel Test, now the Wonderlic Cognitive Ability Test, has been used in hiring since the 1930s. It measures how quickly you understand instructions, solve problems and learn. Newer bundles such as WonScore add personality and motivation questionnaires.

At about 14 seconds a question, very few people finish, so the score reflects speed as well as accuracy. Some nursing and vocational colleges use a schools version, the Wonderlic Scholastic Level Exam (SLE).

One point per correct answer, 0 to 50, with no penalty for guessing. The average for working adults is about 20 to 21, 30 is roughly the top 10 percent, and 40 or more is very rare. The Wonderlic score chart gives the percentile for every score.

Employers compare your score with a target for the role. Guidance quoted from Wonderlic's manual runs from the low teens for routine work, through 20 to 26 for clerical and supervisory jobs, to around 28 to 30 for managers, engineers and attorneys. See what is a good Wonderlic score for the full list.

For decades the NFL gave the Wonderlic to draft prospects at its scouting combine, and leaked scores became a media tradition. Reported scores range from a perfect 50 to single figures and never tracked on-field success closely. The league dropped the test in 2022.

• Take a full timed Wonderlic practice test to find your level and which types slow you down.
• Practice answering in under 15 seconds; guess anything that stalls you.
• Drill quick arithmetic without a calculator: fractions, percentages, comparing decimals.
• Read directions questions carefully. They are easy points people lose by rushing.
• Take two or three timed tests in the week before, reviewing every mistake.