I like all the questions as they were not easy.
Cognitive Ability Tests
Cognitive ability tests are predictors of general intelligence. Like IQ tests, they examine your ability to solve problems and think logically, via verbal, numerical, mechanical, spatial and logical questions.
Cognitive tests are popular with employers, as the broad range of aptitudes covered can give a good overview of each candidate’s strengths and weaknesses, and indicate whether they have what it takes to succeed in the role.
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Free Practice Cognitive Ability Test Questions
As mentioned, the cognitive ability test covers a huge variety of topics and question styles.
Most people will naturally be stronger at some areas and have to work a little harder on others, so it’s important to try your hand at all the various different types of questions as part of your preparation.
Below are five practice cognitive ability questions for you to try out. All answers are below.
Numerical Reasoning
What was the total power in gigawatts generated by thermal power over the full year?
- A) 11
- B) 30
- C) 47
- D) 62
Verbal Reasoning
Statement: A derivative could be used by an airline to secure the price of oil now, which it won’t use until six months time.
Logical Reasoning
Which of the given shapes would complete the sequence?
Mechanical Reasoning
How much force is required to lift the weight?
Spatial Reasoning
Which of the given shapes is the unfolded net of the 3D shape?
Answers
Numerical reasoning: Q1 = 10 GW Q2 = 10 GW Q3 = 14 GW Q4 = 13 GW
So the total is C) 47 GW produced by thermal power.
Verbal reasoning: True – “to secure the price of a commodity which is to be “bought” at a future date, but at a price that is set today.”
Logical reasoning: The shapes are moving around the points of the polygon. The circle and arrow are both moving anti-clockwise 2 points, and the square is moving 4 spaces in a clockwise direction. So the answer is C.
Mechanical reasoning: There is only 1 load-bearing section of rope, which means that the force needed to lift the weight is the same as the weight itself. So the answer is 10kg.
Spatial reasoning: If you look at the two ends, you can see that the only correct answer could be C.

I could prepare for specific companies and industries. It’s been an invaluable resource.Sean used Practice Aptitude Tests to prepare for his upcoming job applications. Start your success story
Cognitive Ability Tests Tips
1Try out each of the different test types
We recommend working through the different types of tests we’ve listed that sit within the overall cognitive ability test. This will help you identify your stronger and weaker areas.
2Work harder on your weaker areas
It’s tempting to spend more time on the areas you enjoy, but ignoring this urge in favour of working on your weaker spots will pay dividends when it counts. So whether it’s logic slowing you down or verbal reasoning causing you a little uneasiness, spend the extra time on the topics you find more challenging.
3Practice in a suitable environment
Practically speaking, there’s no substitute for a quiet environment when taking mock tests. Try to find as peaceful an area as possible when you’re taking a mock test, and ensure you have everything you need before you start.
4Put the timer on
It’s essential to time yourself while doing any practice tests, so you can see how well you fare against the clock. At the end, go over your answers and spend time evaluating your score, and if there were mistakes, why they happened.
Cognitive Ability Tests Video Tutorials
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Cognitive Ability Tests 01
20 Questions|20 Minutes
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Cognitive Ability Tests 02
20 Questions|20 Minutes
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Cognitive Ability Tests 03
20 Questions|20 Minutes
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Reviews of our Cognitive Ability Tests tests
What our customers say about our Cognitive Ability Tests tests
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Ahmed Abdulkadir
Nigeria
May 16, 2023
Impressive and thought provoking
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Francisco Burgos gutierrez
United Kingdom
May 01, 2023
The knowledge that you need
I really liked it because I can see how well I did and how it’s up levelling my understanding of a cognitive ability test.
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Julie Bentley
United Kingdom
April 28, 2023
Made me think!
I find these types of tests particularly hard to do but was interested to see how I scored and what I need to improve
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Kristiana Sefere
Netherlands
April 26, 2023
Interesting
It was very interesting. Struggled with finding some patterns, however, I think this is a good practice.
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Patrick Owusu
Ghana
April 25, 2023
Critical thinking involved
I appreciate the critical thinking nature involved in answering the questions.
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Gayan Pradeep
Sri Lanka
April 19, 2023
Not easy but very interesting
This is a really impressive test. It is not easy which it should be. It gives two kinds of test simulations which also help to practice. Highly recommend it to everyone. Hope to upgrade to next level.
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kudakwashe chipunza
South Africa
March 18, 2023
It was fair
It was thought provoking. I would have hoped that the practice test is different from the actual test.
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Roisin NicDhonnacha-Nagorcka
Australia
March 12, 2023
Challenging
I’m sure this is an excellent tool but I found it difficult and found myself guessing or spending a long time trying to work out the answer.
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Bayabonga
South Africa
March 10, 2023
Interesting
My first time writing an aptitude test and I’m reeling from shock. I want to do more so I can pace myself well.
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Mwansa Ng'andu
South Africa
March 06, 2023
Patterns
I liked that there was more than a pattern to keep track of. That really challenged my concentration and focus. The patterns were also uniquely difficult!