Free Practice Numerical Reasoning Tests

Numerical reasoning tests are designed to assess an individual’s abilities in understanding and evaluating numerical data.

Commonly used as part of a recruitment process, candidates are asked to complete numerical reasoning tests to identify those who have the skills employers want. 

Numerical reasoning testing is particularly common in industries such as finance and engineering, where the ability to draw accurate conclusions from data is essential. 

Numerical reasoning tests are usually timed, computerized, multiple-choice assessments that provide candidates with a range of questions covering several core numerical reasoning skill areas. 

This article aims to provide candidates with practical advice, resources and guidance when facing numerical reasoning assessments. You will also find free numerical reasoning test questions and answers.

Why You Should Practice for Numerical Reasoning Tests

If you’ve been asked to take a numerical reasoning test after applying for a job, it’s a good idea to spend some time preparing – for example, taking a free basic numeracy test online.

Many of the roles requiring numerical reasoning testing will have a highly competitive application process. Often, there will be dozens, if not hundreds, of applicants for each role.

So, it’s important to show yourself in the best possible light every step of the way.

Although most questions on a numerical reasoning test will aim to assess relatively standard core skills, practice will help you brush up on anything that you might be out of practice with. 

It will also help you to get used to the format and timed nature of your assessment. You will also be able to identify any areas of weakness and devote additional time to improving these.

If you choose to take free online numerical reasoning tests, make sure to select ones that provide answers and explanations. Paid for or free numerical reasoning test questions and answers will offer insight into your mistakes and allow you to answer more effectively.

Simple preparation strategies can help to improve your performance on the day, enhancing your chances of moving to the next stage of the recruitment process. 

Numerical Reasoning Practice Test Questions

Numerical reasoning tests typically assess your ability to work with numbers, interpret data, and solve mathematical problems.

The common types of questions include:

1. Basic Arithmetic
2. Percentages
3. Ratios and Proportions
4. Data Interpretation (Tables and Graphs)
5. Word Problems

Here are practice questions for each section, along with answers and explanations:

1. Basic Arithmetic

Example 1:

What is the result of 876 ÷ 12

a) 72
b) 73
c) 74
d) 75

The correct answer is: b) 73

You simply divide 876 by 12 to get the result.

Example 2:

What is 54 × 32

a) 1,678
b) 1,728
c) 1,788
d) 1,738

The correct answer is: b) 1,728

Multiply 54 by 32 using long multiplication or a calculator.

2. Percentages

Example 1:

What is 15% of 240?

a) 24
b) 30
c) 36
d) 45

The correct answer is: c) 36

To find 15% of 240, multiply:

$\text{240<br>}<span\; style="font-weight:\; 400;">\times </span>\frac{\mathrm{<br>}15}{100}=\mathrm{36<br>}$

Example 2:

The price of an item increased from $150 to $180. What is the percentage increase?

a) 10%
b) 15%
c) 20%
d) 25%

The correct answer is: c) 20%

To find the percentage increase, use the formula:

$\text{Percentage increase = }\frac{\mathrm{ <span\; style="font-weight:\; 400;">New\; Price\; -\; Original\; Price</span>}\mathrm{<br>}}{\mathrm{<span\; style="font-weight:\; 400;">Original\; Price</span>}}<span\; style="font-weight:\; 400;">\times \; 100\; </span>$

$\text{Percentage increase<br>}=\frac{\mathrm{<br>}\mathrm{<span\; style="font-weight:\; 400;">180-150</span>}}{150}<span>\times \; 100\; =\; 20\%</span>$

3. Ratios and Proportions

Example 1:

If the ratio of boys to girls in a class is 3:5 and there are 24 girls, how many boys are there?

a) 12
b) 14
c) 16
d) 18

The correct answer is: b) 14 boys

Set up a proportion:

$\frac{\mathrm{3}}{5}=\mathrm{<br>}$$\frac{\mathrm{<br>}\mathrm{Number\; of\; Boys}\mathrm{<br>}}{24}<br>$

Solve for the number of boys:

$\text{Number of Boys}=\frac{\mathrm{3}\mathrm{<br>}}{5}<span\; style="font-weight:\; 400;">\times \; 24\; =\; 14.4</span>$

Since the number of boys must be a whole number, round to 14.

Example 2:

A recipe calls for a 2:3 ratio of sugar to flour. If you have 300g of flour, how much sugar should you use?

a) 100 g
b) 150 g
c) 200 g
d) 250 g

The correct answer is: c) 200 g

Set up a proportion:

$\text{<br>}\frac{\mathrm{<br>}2}{3}=\mathrm{<br>}$$\text{<br>}\frac{\mathrm{Sugar}}{300}\mathrm{<br>}$

 Solve for the amount of sugar:

$\text{Sugar}=\frac{\mathrm{<br>}2}{3}<span\; style="font-weight:\; 400;">\times \; 300\; =\; 200\; g</span>$

4. Data Interpretation (Tables and Graphs)

Example 1:

By what percentage did sales of Product B increase from Q1 to Q2?

a) 15.56%
b) 20%
c) 22.22%
d) 25%

The correct answer is: c) 22.22%

Use the percentage increase formula:

$\text{Percentage Increase = }\frac{\mathrm{<br><span\; style="font-weight:\; 400;">110\; -\; 90</span>}}{90}<span\; style="font-weight:\; 400;">\times \; 100\; = </span>$$\frac{\mathrm{<br>}20}{90}<br>\mathrm{<span\; style="font-weight:\; 400;">\times \; 100\; =\; 22.22\%</span>}$

Example 2:

Which product had the highest sales, and by how much did it exceed the sales of Product 1?

a) Product 2, by 50 units
b) Product 3, by 100 units
c) Product 4, by 150 units
d) Product 4, by 200 units

The correct answer is: c) Product 4, by 150 units

From the chart, Product 4 had 250 units sold, and Product 1 had 100 units sold.

250 − 100 = 150, so Product 4 exceeded Product 1's sales by 150 units.

5. Word Problems

Example 1:

Tom bought 4 notebooks for $3 each and 2 pens for $2.50 each.

How much did Tom spend in total?

a) $16
b) $17
c) $18
d) $19

The correct answer is: b) $17

Tom spent:

(4 × 3) + (2 × 2.50) = 12 + 5 = 17

So, Tom spent $17 in total.

Example 2:

A car rental company charges a flat fee of $40 plus $0.25 per mile driven. If a customer drives 200 miles, how much will they pay?

a) $80
b) $85
c) $90
d) $95

The correct answer is: c) $90

The total cost is calculated as:

Total Cost = 40 + (0.25 × 200) = 40 + 50 = 90

 So, the customer will pay $90.

Tips for Practicing Effectively

Candidates completing numerical reasoning assessments will usually only have one attempt to impress recruiters. Those who do not score highly enough will not move on to the next stage of the recruitment process.

Because of this, effective preparation and practice, such as taking free numeracy tests, are essential.

Take Free Numerical Practice Tests 

Paid for free numerical practice tests are an incredibly valuable resource when it comes to preparing for an assessment.

TestHQ provides sample questions and complete practice tests that are formatted in the same way as real numerical reasoning tests. These will allow you the opportunity to familiarize yourself with the format of the assessment.

Practice Under Timed Conditions 

Numerical reasoning tests are typically completed under timed test conditions. You will need to answer as many questions as possible within the time limit, with speed and accuracy being equally important. 

Because of this, you should practice completing free numerical tests under similar conditions.

Questions With Explanations 

Try to select paid for or free numerical tests and sample questions that include explanations of the answers. 

These explanations can help you to understand where you have gone wrong if you answer incorrectly and can provide insight as to what employers are looking for. 

Managing Anxiety

If you get worried or anxious before tests, try practicing mindfulness techniques and other anxiety-management tools.

These can help you to regain focus during your numerical reasoning test, improving recall and allowing you to perform to the best of your ability on the day.

Other Useful Tips

As well as using practice tests and sample questions, puzzle books and sudoku can help to improve and strengthen your numerical reasoning skills. 

Candidates should also never underestimate the importance of being well-rested ahead of an assessment. Studies have shown that a good night's sleep can improve memory and focus. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a numerical reasoning test used for?

They are primarily used to help shortlist the best possible candidates for a role. Employers want to know that the individuals they hire will have the skills required, and testing helps to highlight potentially suitable candidates. It can also be used as part of employee review and internal promotion processes.

Where can I find free numerical reasoning tests with answers?

There are a number of online resources offering free numerical reasoning practice tests and sample questions. Many of these will also provide answers and explanations to help improve your approach to practice. 

TestHQ provides complete practice tests for numerical reasoning, which will help you to thoroughly prepare.

How many questions are in a typical numerical reasoning test?

This will largely depend on which numerical reasoning test you are asked to take. Typically, tests will contain between 15 and 30 questions that are taken under strictly timed conditions. The time limit you will have will also vary depending on the assessment you take.

Can practicing numerical reasoning tests improve my test performance?

Yes. Taking the time to work through paid for or free numerical reasoning practice tests will familiarize you with the format of testing and the time constraints. 

It will also enable you to identify any areas of weakness and allow you the opportunity to focus on these and improve them. 

Are free numerical reasoning practice tests similar to the actual numerical reasoning tests used by employers?

Yes. The majority of free numerical reasoning tests are based on real tests which are used as part of recruitment and evaluation processes. This makes them a valuable tool when it comes to preparing for assessments. 

Final Thoughts

Tests and assessments are often stressful experiences, especially when they are being used as part of a recruitment or employee evaluation process. 

Practicing your numerical reasoning skills with the help of free online numerical reasoning tests ahead of any assessment can help boost your confidence and finetune your skills in a way that wouldn’t be possible otherwise.

There are plenty of free numerical reasoning tests and resources you can use to help polish your numerical reasoning skills. These are designed to mimic the real test, providing you with an opportunity to familiarize yourself with the format and requirements for passing, as well as the ability to identify any areas that may need additional work.

Taking the time to work through numerical reasoning practice tests can help you to perform to the best of your ability on the day, allowing you to impress employers and reach the targets you’re aiming for.