If you’re applying for a graduate scheme, chances are you’ll face a numerical reasoning test early in the recruitment process. For many graduates, this is the first time encountering timed psychometric testing — and it can feel high stakes.
Employers use numerical reasoning tests to screen large applicant pools quickly and fairly. But here’s the thing to note; numerical reasoning is a learnable skill. Success in a graduate numerical reasoning test comes simply from understanding the format, mastering common question types, and applying a structured answering method under time pressure.
In this guide, you’ll learn what a numerical reasoning test involves, what to expect on the day, the most common question types, and exactly how to answer numerical reasoning questions strategically. You’ll also find a practical preparation plan — and where to practise realistic questions with full explanations.
What is a numerical reasoning test and why do graduates face it?
A numerical reasoning test is a timed assessment that measures your ability to interpret workplace-style numerical data and make accurate decisions from it. Unlike maths exams at school, these tests don’t focus on abstract theory. Instead, they present charts, tables, percentages, and business scenarios, similar to those you could encounter in a real company — and ask you to draw logical conclusions.
Numerical reasoning measures:
- Data interpretation skills
- Accuracy under time pressure
- Comfort working with percentages, ratios, and rates
- Business judgement using numbers
Graduate employers rely on numerical reasoning tests because they allow fair benchmarking across thousands of applicants. Rather than relying solely on CVs, they assess practical decision-making skills relevant to the role.
These tests are especially common for roles in:
- Finance and accounting
- Consulting and strategy
- Operations and supply chain
- Marketing analytics
- Technology and data roles
If you want to see how these tests are structured, explore our full range of numerical reasoning tests and our guide on how to answer basic numeracy tests.
What to expect in a graduate numerical reasoning test
A typical graduate numerical reasoning test is:
- Timed (often 30–90 seconds per question)
- Multiple choice
- Based on tables, graphs, and short workplace scenarios
- Completed online
On screen, you will usually see a data set followed by a specific question about that information. You may need to calculate a percentage change, compare ratios, identify trends over time, or determine which option best reflects the data. The format remains broadly similar across employers, although difficulty level, timing, and interface can vary depending on the test provider.
Calculator rules differ with some employers allowing a basic or on-screen calculator, while others expecting mental maths and estimation. It is important to check the instructions carefully before starting so there are no surprises. If a calculator is permitted, practise using one efficiently — knowing when to estimate versus calculating precisely can save valuable seconds.
Scoring is typically based on the number of correct answers, however your results may be presented as a percentile ranking. This shows how your performance compares to other candidates. In competitive graduate schemes, a “good” score usually means performing above the average applicant pool, not necessarily answering every question correctly.
Because these assessments are usually taken remotely, don’t forget to prepare with practical setup considerations. Choose a quiet environment, ensure your internet connection is stable, and you have rough paper available (if permitted). Small details like these reduce distractions and allow you to focus entirely on performing well in your numerical reasoning test.
Common numerical reasoning test providers for graduate schemes
Graduate employers often use external publishers to administer tests. Two major providers include:
Provider differences can include:
- Adaptive vs non-adaptive testing
- Calculator permissions
- Question layout and interface
- Level of time pressure
Adaptive tests adjust difficulty based on your responses, while non-adaptive tests give all candidates the same questions.
If you know which provider your employer uses, you can practise in the correct format — improving preparation efficiency significantly.
You can usually find the provider in the invitation email, the test portal login page or the employer FAQ’s. If unsure, practise broadly but focus on realistic simulations aligned to graduate-level difficulty.
Common question types
Most numerical reasoning questions fall into predictable categories. Mastering these high-frequency skills gives graduates the fastest improvement.
1. Data interpretation
Tables, bar charts, line graphs, and pie charts are common. The real skill is filtering only relevant figures.
Learn more about data interpretation questions and practise them in our guide: How To Solve Data Interpretation Questions.
Common pitfalls in data interpretation questions often come down to small but costly errors. One frequent mistake is using the wrong time period — for example, calculating growth from the previous quarter instead of the previous year. Another is misreading axis labels, particularly when charts include similar categories or uneven scales that can distort visual comparisons. Candidates also lose marks by ignoring units, such as confusing thousands with millions or mixing percentages with absolute values.
2. Percentages and percentage change
You may need to calculate increases, decreases, or proportions.
A quick refresh on the basics can help you avoid common errors. Start with revisiting how to work out both a percentage increase and a percentage decrease.
Remember the key formula when calculating percentage change:
Percentage change = (Difference ÷ Original value) × 100
A common mistake is using the new value as the base instead of the original value, which can lead to incorrect answers. Keep the original number as your reference point when working through percentage change questions.
3. Ratios and proportions
Questions in this area often require you to divide totals into shared parts or compare different quantities. It’s helpful to review ratio methods like how to divide ratios and how to simplify ratios.
When solving ratio problems, first check whether the ratio can be simplified before allocating values across the parts. This helps avoid calculation errors and keeps the numbers manageable.
4. Rates and unit conversions
Rate questions often involve working out measures such as revenue per employee or distance travelled per hour. These problems test your ability to switch between units and apply consistent measurements.
Watch carefully for mixed units, such as hours versus minutes, currency differences, or mismatched time periods. Always convert values into the same unit before starting your calculation.
5. Estimation and rounding
In some questions, estimating the answer can save valuable time. If the available answer choices are widely spaced, approximation may be enough to identify the correct solution.
Use rounding to simplify complex numbers, but keep enough precision to ensure your estimate stays close to the true value.
How to answer numerical reasoning questions
This is where many graduates gain the biggest advantage. Instead of diving straight into calculations, use a structured framework.
The 5-step answering method
Step 1: Read the question first
Identify exactly what’s being asked (timeframe, unit, comparison type).
Step 2: Identify only the data you need
Ignore irrelevant figures.
Step 3: Choose the fastest valid approach
Can you estimate? Or do you need precision?
Step 4: Calculate carefully
Watch units, decimals, and rounding.
Step 5: Sense-check the result
Does the magnitude make logical sense?
Worked Example 1: Percentage Change
Sales increase from 200 to 250 units. What is the percentage increase?
Difference = 50 50 ÷ 200 = 0.25 ×100 = 25%
Common trap: dividing by 250 instead of 200.
Worked Example 2: Ratio Allocation
Budget split 3:2 between Marketing and Operations. Total = £50,000.
Total parts = 5 50,000 ÷ 5 = 10,000 per part Marketing = 30,000
Quick check: 30,000 + 20,000 = 50,000
When to guess and move on
If stuck after 45–60 seconds:
- Eliminate clearly wrong answers
- Make an informed guess
- Move on
Consistency beats perfection in a timed numerical reasoning test.
Help with numerical reasoning tests
If you’re juggling multiple graduate applications, preparation must be efficient. Here’s a minimum effective plan.
Option 1: 7-day sprint
Day 1–2: Revise percentages and ratios
Day 3–4: Data interpretation practice
Day 5: Mixed timed questions
Day 6: Review mistakes
Day 7: Full timed test simulation
Option 2: 2–4 week build
Week 1: Core maths refresh
Week 2: Question-type drills
Week 3: Timed sets + accuracy tracking
Week 4: Provider-style simulations
Track errors in an “error log” under categories:
- Maths mistake
- Misread data
- Time pressure
- Misinterpreted question
For a structured preparation guide, see our article How to prepare for your numerical reasoning test.
The most effective help with numerical reasoning tests combines realistic timed practice, detailed answer explanations, and repetition of weak areas.
A graduate numerical reasoning test is not about being “naturally good at maths.” It’s about understanding the format, mastering common question types, and applying a consistent answering method under time pressure.
Graduates improve fastest when they:
- Learn the structure of the test
- Practise high-frequency question types
- Review mistakes systematically
Your next step? Take a timed numerical reasoning test, analyse your errors, and repeat using the 5-step framework. With structured preparation, confidence and performance increase quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good numerical reasoning score?
A good score typically means performing above the average candidate pool. In competitive graduate schemes, scoring in a higher percentile band improves progression chances.
What happens if I fail a numerical reasoning test?
Some employers allow retakes after a waiting period, while others do not. Failing one test does not prevent you from applying elsewhere — and focused practice often leads to significant improvement.
What is the difference between numerical reasoning and maths tests?
Numerical reasoning tests focus on workplace data interpretation and decision-making under time pressure, whereas maths tests often assess broader theoretical knowledge.