You may be asked to take an inductive reasoning test as part of the assessment process for a graduate scheme or job. Like other forms of psychometric test, inductive reasoning tests tend to consist of a number of multiple choice questions that you have to complete against the clock. They are used to assess a particular type of logical approach to problem solving and may be set as part of a graduate assessment centre, or at an earlier stage of the recruitment process.
You are particularly likely to come up against inductive reasoning tests when applying for engineering, science and IT roles, including software development jobs and positions that involve technical design.
Inductive reasoning tests are sometimes described as diagrammatic or abstract reasoning tests. This is because they often consist of a series of simple pictures, each one of which is slightly different. You might then be asked to choose another picture from a number of options to complete the series.
This type of test, also known as an abstract reasoning test, assesses how well you can spot patterns. It’s a non-verbal test, which makes it truly international; it’s useful to employers because it reflects a candidate’s ability to think in a particular way regardless of their language skills. Arguably, it is also a test that assesses ability regardless of the advantages or disadvantages conferred by a candidate’s educational background. However, as with any test of this sort, you can improve your chances of performing well by practising beforehand.
You may also be set deductive reasoning tests, which assess a different type of logical problem solving. Broadly speaking, inductive reasoning moves from observation of specific instances to forming a theory that can be used to make predictions. Deductive reasoning starts with a number of rules and applies them in order to work out what happens in specific cases. Inductive reasoning can arrive at new solutions rather than using what is already known to solve a problem, so you can see why employers who focus on technological innovation are interested in it.
You need to look at the graphic, or series of graphics, and test out different solutions in your head to arrive at an answer. Typically, if you are presented with a series of pictures, each one might have two variables – a dot and a circle that move round within a hexagon, for example – and you need to work out what pattern each element is following as it changes from picture to picture. Typical patterns involve rotation, alternation, reflection or replacement.
Try to find out in advance if you will be set an inductive reasoning test. You’ll need to work accurately and aim to get as many correct answers as possible within the time allocated. The test may be set up so that only a very few candidates will be able to complete it, so bear that in mind and don’t rush.
Practice tests are widely available from providers of psychometric tests such as SHL. If possible, practise inductive reasoning tests both under timed conditions and without a time restriction. Tackle the tests online, but also see if you can print some off and have a go offline. If you can access the answers, so much the better, as you’ll be able to see where you have gone wrong. You’ll find sections on both inductive and deductive logical thinking in our TARGETjobs careers planner self-assessment tool, which will help to give you an idea of your strengths in these areas.
Posted by Alison_TARGETjobs on 9 February 2012
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