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Numerical Reasoning Tests

    • 30 tests |
    • 480 questions

Numerical reasoning tests demonstrate your ability to deal with numbers quickly and accurately. These tests contain questions that assess your knowledge of ratios, percentages, number sequences, data interpretation, financial analysis and currency conversion.

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What Is a Numerical Reasoning Test?

A numerical reasoning test is a psychometric assessment that measures how well a candidate interprets and analyzes numerical data. Unlike traditional math exams, these tests evaluate how you apply mathematical logic to real-world scenarios, often under time pressure.

You’ll typically work with:

  • Charts, tables, and graphs
  • Financial and statistical data
  • Word problems with quantitative reasoning

Candidates are required to perform calculations involving:

  • Percentages
  • Ratios and proportions
  • Fractions and decimals
  • Averages
  • Currency conversions

These tests are less about memorizing formulas and more about applying mathematical understanding in business contexts.

Why Do Employers Use Numerical Reasoning Tests?

Employers use numerical reasoning tests to screen candidates for:

  • Analytical and critical thinking skills
  • Accuracy under time constraints
  • Decision-making with incomplete or complex data
  • Quantitative aptitude relevant to the role

These tests are commonly used in:

  • Finance and banking – for investment analysts, accountants, and traders
  • Consulting – for strategy, operations, and performance roles
  • Engineering and tech – for roles involving modeling and data-driven design
  • Graduate programs – to fairly compare large applicant pools

By using numerical reasoning assessments, employers standardize the early stages of recruitment and gain data-driven insights into candidate performance.

What to Expect in a Numerical Reasoning Test

Numerical reasoning tests vary by provider, but most include:

  • Multiple-choice questions
  • Timed assessments** (typically 20–40 minutes)
  • Business-themed scenarios using real-world data

Typical Question Types

  • Data interpretation: Analyzing tables, line graphs, or pie charts
  • Profit/loss problems: Calculating margins, percentages, or trends
  • Word problems: Applying numerical reasoning to case-based scenarios
  • Time-based math: Scheduling, logistics, or productivity challenges

Leading Test Providers

  • SHL: Offers assessments focusing on data interpretation and numerical analysis.
  • Talent Q: Features adaptive tests that adjust in difficulty based on the candidate’s responses.
  • Cubiks: Provides tests emphasizing speed and accuracy in numerical computations.
  • Kenexa: Known for tests that assess numerical reasoning in business contexts.

Prepare yourself for leading employers

  • BBC
  • Deloitte
  • HSBC
  • Amazon
  • Google
  • NHS
  • Civil Service

Free example numerical reasoning questions

Try out these 4 example numerical reasoning questions. Answers to each are below the questions, with full explanations.

1. Percentages

numerical reasoning practice question

What was the average total percentage decrease in the number of homes sold by Bradfield Homes and Thompson Homes from May to June?

  • A) 18.18%
  • B) 13.26%
  • C) 13.04%
  • D) 8.33%

2. Ratios and fractions

numerical reasoning practice question

If there were 50,000 people employed in Blackpool in 2021 what is the ratio of employed to unemployed people in that year?

  • A) 25:1
  • B) 12.5:1
  • C) 10:1
  • D) 8.33:1

3. Tables and graphs

numerical reasoning practice question

If Heathrow Airport pledged in January to reduce cancelled flights by 80% by March, by how many cancelled flights have they failed to reach this target?

  • A) 4
  • B) 0
  • C) 14
  • D) 18

4. Conversions

numerical reasoning practice question

2,000 CHF was used to purchase USD in Q2 and then sold in Q4. How much will the amount be worth in CHF?

  • A) 2,117.65
  • B) 2,098.03
  • C) 2,077.67
  • D) 1,981.48

Answers

1) May = 110 + 120 = 230 June = 90 + 110 = 200 230 - 200 = 30

30 / 230 x 100 = 13.04%, so the answer is C)

2) 50k : 5k

50 / 5 = 10

10:1, so the answer is C)

3) Step 1: Take the number of flights cancelled in January and calculate an 80% reduction:

30 × (1-0.8) = 6

Step 2: Subtract this figure from the March figure:

10 - 6 = 4, so the answer is A)

4) Step 1: Calculate how many USD you can buy with CHF 2,000 in Q2:

2,000 × 1.08 = USD 2,160

Step 2: Calculate how many CHF you can purchase with USD 2,160 in Q4:

2,160 ÷ 1.02 = CHF 2,117.65, so the answer is A)

For more example questions and explanations, try our free practice test questions, or download our numerical reasoning questions and answers PDF.

If you’re keen to read more, here are some useful resources:

Sample Numerical Reasoning Tests question Test your knowledge!

Score: /5

A sequence starts with 3 and follows the rule 'Each number is the previous number plus the next integer multiple of 3'. What is the 5th number in the sequence?

  • 39
  • 33
  • 36
  • 42

A company's revenue increased by 15% in the first quarter and then by an additional 20% in the second quarter on the new amount. If the initial revenue was $200,000, what was the revenue at the end of the second quarter?

  • $276,000
  • $260,000
  • $240,000
  • $300,000

A retail store had a total sales amount of $500,000 for the year. If the cost of goods sold was $350,000, what was the gross profit margin percentage?

  • 30%
  • 40%
  • 25%
  • 35%

An investment of $1,000 yields an interest of 5% per annum, compounded annually. How much will the investment be worth after 3 years?

  • $1,157.63
  • $1,150.00
  • $1,200.00
  • $1,102.50

If the exchange rate is 1.25 USD to 1 EUR, how many USD would you receive for 600 EUR?

  • $750
  • $650
  • $725
  • $800

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Numerical Reasoning Tests Tips

1Be prepared

If taking your test at an assessment centre, make sure you know exactly where you’re going, and arrive early to avoid panic. If taking your test online, make sure you’ll have no interruptions, and double-check your internet connection for stability.

2Digest the practice questions in the real test

Most numerical reasoning tests start with a couple of practice questions to get you warmed up. Study these carefully and make note of structure, content and style. They’ll give you a good indication of what’s to come and get you in the right frame of mind.

3Pay close attention to detail

The easiest way to slip up on your test is to misinterpret the question. You may be working against the clock but don’t let that stop you from taking the time to understand what is being asked. Read each question carefully to avoid silly mistakes.

4Work with what you've been given

Each question will include all the information you need to draw the right conclusion, so don’t make assumptions about the data. Just work with what’s in front of you.

5Don't dwell on difficult questions

Remember, you’re working on a time limit, so if you find yourself stuck, move on. Often, the more you struggle with a complex problem, the more confused you become. You can always come back for another go if you have time to spare at the end.

6Take an educated guess

Where you are unsure of the answer, use a process of elimination to narrow down your options. An unanswered question will score you nothing. An educated guess may well prove correct.

7Beware of red herrings

As mentioned, multiple-choice options in numerical reasoning tests can often include distractors, and questions can include irrelevant information designed to put you off track. Keep your wits about you, double-check your answers for accuracy, and focus only on the information you need.

8Double-check what you're working with

Some questions may require you to work with varying units of measurement, multiple currencies, or different number representations. Make sure you’re using the right information in the right way to draw your conclusions.

9Pace yourself

Although it’s important not to let it become a distraction, you need to be aware of timing. As a rule of thumb, one question every minute is a steady pace, though some tests will allow more, and some less. Practice is essential here, so be sure to include pacing as part of your test preparation.

10Stay calm and focused

Numerical reasoning tests require fixed concentration, so shut yourself off from whatever surrounds you. Though it’s easier said than done for some, try not to let the pressure get to you, and keep a cool head that’s zoned in on the task at hand.

Numerical Reasoning Video Tutorials

Graph Interpretation

2 mins

Numerical Tests: A Guide

4 mins

Percentage Change

2 mins
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Numerical Reasoning Tests FAQs

How are numerical reasoning tests scored?

Numerical reasoning tests use various scoring systems, but the two most common are raw and comparative. Raw score is when all your correct answers are summarized and displayed in percentage ratio. Comparative score is when your results are compared to the results of other people who took the test in your group.

Where will I take my numerical reasoning test?

Depending on the employer, you may be asked to take your numerical reasoning test online, or in person at an assessment centre. If online, it may also be the case that you’re required to sit a second test in person as an anti-cheat precaution.

When should I expect my results?

Unfortunately, there’s no answer to this. It will vary between employers. If you’re unsuccessful in progressing to the next stage, you may not even receive your results at all. Where this is the case, you can always try contacting the HR department for feedback on your assessment. This can help you improve in future tests.

What's more important – speed or accuracy?

Ideally you want a fine balance between the two. The more questions you answer, the higher your score, but only if you get them right. Don’t take chances, and don’t let the time pressure get to you. Ultimately, practice is more important than either, since this is the best way to ensure you can work both quickly and correctly. 

Can you use a calculator in numerical reasoning tests?

In most cases, yes, you’ll be able to use a calculator, and we recommend using one that you’re familiar with. However, this might not always be possible. There are some numerical assessment tests that don’t allow them at all, and others where, if taking the test in person, you’ll be given a standard issue calculator at the assessment centre. Every test will have different rules, so if you can, check this information beforehand.

Why are numerical reasoning tests so hard?

Numerical reasoning tests are hard to ensure that there’s a nice spread of results for employers to gain a strong understanding of their candidates’ analytical abilities. On top of this, some numerical reasoning tests are purposefully written to be difficult to reveal how candidates perform under pressure.

Where can I practice numerical reasoning tests?

There are many general practice tests available online, as well as publisher specific tests from the providers themselves, including those mentioned above. Some of these are free to use, some are paid for services that offer additional support. You can also use our own resources. We have a range of free aptitude tests to help you prepare for whatever type of assessment you may be facing.

Can I get help if taking my test online?

Having someone to help you with your numerical reasoning test is not a good idea and getting someone to take it for you should be avoided at all costs. You’re taking the test as an indicator of how well suited you are for the role in question. Cheating is not only disrespectful to the employer, it will be of no benefit to you in the long run.

Reviews of our Numerical Reasoning tests

What our customers say about our Numerical Reasoning tests

  • India

    October 06, 2025

    Challenging yet insightful practice test!

    I found the numerical reasoning test very useful for assessing real analytical skills. The questions covered a good range of topics, including percentages, ratios, and data interpretation. The difficulty level was fair — some questions required quick calculations under time pressure.

  • Ireland

    October 01, 2025

    Challenging but very useful practice before the Garda Stage 1 test.”

    This test was an excellent way to understand how numerical reasoning questions are structured for Garda recruitment. I liked that it covered a variety of topics — percentages, ratios, averages, and graphs — with realistic time pressure. It helped me identify where I need to improvement.

  • India

    September 30, 2025

    Time management and careful observation of charts/graphs are the most important factors in this test. Small differences in values can change the answer.

    What i liked:- The questions were practical and closely related to real-life scenarios like comparing rainfall data, which made it interesting. What i disliked:- some bar chart values were a little tricky to estimate, which could be confusing without precise labels

  • Indonesia

    August 25, 2025

    Clear, challenging, and useful practice

    I liked that the test gave a realistic experience with time pressure and practical numerical reasoning questions.

  • India

    August 16, 2025

    “Realistic and well-structured test experience”

    This test was a great simulation of real-world numerical reasoning challenges. The questions were clear, varied, and required thoughtful analysis. I especially appreciated the mix of percentage-based and data interpretation problems. Perfect for job prep!

  • Kenya

    July 28, 2025

    Tough but good

    I recently used PracticeAptitudeTests.com to prepare for a formal reasoning and situational judgment test as part of a job application. Overall, the platform offers a solid and useful range of practice materials that mirror real assessment conditions.

  • United States of America

    July 15, 2025

    Clear, challenging and well structured test

    The test was engaging and balanced with a good mix of data interpretation, percentage change, and ratio-based questions. I appreciated the realistic business and weather-related scenarios. The graphs were clear, but a few values needed sharper detail for faster solving.

  • France

    July 14, 2025

    Great preparation tool for aptitude tests!

    This test was a great way to practice under realistic conditions. The format, timing, and types of questions helped me get used to the pressure and structure of actual recruitment tests. I appreciated the clear layout and useful feedback after completion. Highly recommend!

  • New Zealand

    June 29, 2025

    Clear, realistic, and helpful

    This was a well-structured test that closely mirrors the kind of reasoning and number-based logic expected in entrance exams. The graphs and tables were clear, and the question styles covered a strong range of skills. I appreciated how it mixed easy and more complex questions.

  • Canada

    June 25, 2025

    Great test to sharpen numerical skills

    I found the test very useful and engaging. It really challenged my ability to interpret graphs and perform quick calculations under time pressure. I liked how the questions covered different formats like percentages, ratios, and total values, also improve my reasons