The logical conclusion that can be drawn from being forced to stay indoors for the foreseeable future (thank you coronavirus) is to use this time wisely to improve your interview skills. Get started with some example logical reasoning questions to improve your confidence in problem-solving and to ensure you're interview-ready when lockdown ends.
What is a logical reasoning test?
Logical reasoning tests measure your ability to draw logical conclusions from a series of different puzzles or challenges. Questions are often shown as diagrams or figures, rather than words or numbers - and you’ll need to identify the pattern shown in order to continue the sequence correctly. These tests are sometimes known as critical reasoning tests as well.
What is the format of a logical reasoning test?
The format of a logical reasoning test may depend on the form of reasoning. However, all will involve looking for patterns or sequences to identify rules and draw conclusions. There are normally three different forms of logical reasoning questions; deductive, inductive, or abstract.
Deductive is sometimes known as ‘top down’ reasoning. This is where you follow general given rules to get to a specific conclusion.
Inductive is the opposite, so ‘bottom up’ reasoning. This uses specific rules to reach a general conclusion, often using predictions or forecasting behavior to reach the general conclusion and because of this, the reasoning is not always accurate.
Abstract or abductive reasoning uses given observations to find the simplest explanations. These are seen as plausible, but unverified conclusions.
Why do employers use logical reasoning tests?
Employers use logical reasoning tests to evaluate your logical thinking and ability to problem solve. They can test how you work with data and unfamiliar information which can be useful in roles where diverse situations are common. As the test assesses your decision-making skills, it is often used by a wide range of large and small enterprises in the interviewing process, either to decide who to invite to interview or to narrow down applicants to offer specific roles to.
Examples of publishers of logical reasoning tests used during the application process:
How can I prepare?
Candidates can find logical reasoning tests difficult, especially as there are lots of different formats of the tests. It is useful to practice as many tests as possible for this reason. Practicing will also help you improve your confidence and time management so you are ready for the real deal.
As with all aptitude tests, it is useful to practice them in timed exam conditions - try and work through one question a minute during the test. Make sure you read all the information and the questions thoroughly before beginning. If you are struggling with a question, try to isolate the important data or if needed, eliminate wrong answers to find the correct one.
Practice makes perfect, so we would highly recommend picking up your laptop and using this time to familiarise yourself with some logical reasoning tests. Because preparing could make all the difference in helping you land your dream job.
