Guide to Cognitive Ability Tests: Types & Free Practice Questions

What Is a Cognitive Ability Test?

A cognitive ability test measures a person’s intellectual abilities, including verbal, numerical, spatial, and logical reasoning. It typically involves answering questions or solving problems that test these cognitive skills within a specific time frame.

These tests are widely used in employment settings, academic environments, and even for self-assessment. They aim to measure cognitive skills that can predict job performance, learning ability, and decision-making.

On this page, you’ll find precise examples of cognitive ability test questions similar to those featured in top cognitive ability assessments used across various industries.

Looking to practice a specific test? Check out our practice tests below:

Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test (CCAT) | Cubiks Logiks General Intermediate Test | Predictive Index Cognitive Assessment (PLI -Test) | Universal Cognitive Aptitude Test (UCAT) | Revelian Cognitive Ability Test (RCAT) | The Caliper Assessment | Core Abilities Test | Matrigma Test

How Cognitive Ability Testing Works?

In a cognitive ability exam, candidates are often asked to answer multiple-choice questions(anywhere between 30 to 50), within a set time limit(generally 12 to 15 minutes). These tasks test various cognitive abilities such as:

• Numerical Reasoning
• Verbal Reasoning
• Abstract Reasoning
• Deductive Reasoning
• Logical Reasoning

These tests aim to create a standardized evaluation that highlights cognitive strengths and areas where further development may be needed.

Types of Cognitive Ability Tests

There are various types of cognitive ability tests used across industries. Some of the most popular include:

**Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test (CCAT)** The Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test (CCAT) is a widely used cognitive ability assessment that measures a candidate’s ability to solve problems, think critically, and apply logical reasoning. It consists of 50 questions and has a 15-minute time limit.

**Predictive Index (PI) Cognitive Assessment** The PI Cognitive Assessment evaluates learning agility, or the ability to grasp new concepts quickly. This test measures abstract reasoning, numerical reasoning, and verbal reasoning. It is also known as Professional Learning Indicator (PLI), is a 12-minute cognitive test comprised of 50 questions

**The Universal Cognitive Aptitude Test (UCAT)** The UCAT focuses on general cognitive abilities and is used for a broad range of job roles . It is a 20-minute cognitive test comprised of 40 questions numerical and abstract reasoning

**Revelian Cognitive Ability Test (RCAT)** The Revelian Cognitive Ability Test (RCAT) is a gamified approach to cognitive testing, focusing on problem-solving and decision-making skills. It’s often used to assess the overall cognitive abilities of candidates for management roles.

Core Abilities Test The Core Abilities Test is an assessment that measures verbal, numerical, and abstract reasoning abilities, often used for roles requiring analytical thinking and problem-solving skills.

The Caliper Assessment The Caliper Assessment combines personality testing with cognitive assessments to give a more comprehensive view of a candidate’s capabilities, focusing on how cognitive skills influence behavioral tendencies.

SHL Tests SHL Tests include a variety of assessments aimed at evaluating cognitive skills such as verbal reasoning, numerical reasoning, and inductive reasoning. SHL assessments are commonly used by organizations worldwide to measure cognitive aptitude in the recruitment process.

**Wonderlic Test** The Wonderlic Cognitive Ability Test assesses general mental aptitude, including problem-solving skills, memory, and comprehension. It is again a 12-minute cognitive test comprised of 50 questions

Procter and Gamble Assessment This test is specifically designed for roles at Procter & Gamble. It measures candidates’ ability to solve complex problems, understand patterns, and think critically about challenges they may face on the job.

Pymetrics The Pymetrics cognitive test is a neuroscience-based assessment that uses games to measure cognitive and emotional attributes, often used by companies like Unilever and Accenture.

Hogan Business Reasoning Inventory The Hogan Business Reasoning Inventory measures candidates’ ability to reason and make decisions in business contexts, making it particularly useful for managerial and leadership roles.

Aon Assessments Aon offers a range of cognitive aptitude assessments that test critical thinking, numerical reasoning, and abstract problem-solving skills. Their assessments are widely used for recruitment in various industries.

Mercer Mettl Test The Mercer Mettl Cognitive Test measures cognitive abilities such as attention to detail, logical reasoning, and numerical skills. It is commonly used for pre-employment screening.

The IBEW Aptitude Test This test is specific to the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers and measures both cognitive and technical skills, evaluating whether candidates have the necessary aptitude for technical roles.

How to Prepare for a Cognitive Ability Test

Preparation is key to performing well on any cognitive skills test. Here are some tips:

-Practice regularly: Use free cognitive assessment tests online to practice.

• Improve your problem-solving skills: Engage in puzzles, logic games, and reading to sharpen your cognitive skills.
• Time yourself: Many cognitive ability tests are timed, so practice completing questions within a set limit.
• Focus on weak areas: Identify any specific cognitive abilities where you feel less confident and focus on improving those areas.

Practice Questions :

1. If an assembly line produces 4 Industrial Equipment per hour, how many engines would it produce in 18 hours? A. 36 B. 48 C. 60 D. 72 E. 84
2. Which of the following is the smallest value? A. 1.3860 B. 0.1386 C. 0.3861 D. 2.0381 E. 1.0386
3. Which of the following boxes should replace the question mark(?) to complete the pattern?

4. CULPABLE is to BLAME as …

A.EDIBLE is to TASTE

B.MALLEABLE is to CENSURE

C.MENIAL is to DISGUST

D.PENAL is to INCARCERATION

E.LAUDABLE is to PRAISE

5. 15 is 30% of what number?

A. 5

B. 30

C. 55

D. 45

E. 50

6. Assume the first two statements are true. Is the final statement: 1) True, 2) False, or 3) Uncertain based on the information provided?

Geoffrey is older than Harry.

Harry is older than Gavin.

Gavin is older than Geoffrey

A. TRUE

B. FALSE

C. UNCERTAIN

7. How many of the five items in the left-hand column are exactly the same as the corresponding entry in the right-hand column?

Nucor Steel Co. — — — — — — — — — — — Nucor Steel Comp.

Starks Industrial, Inc. — — — — — — — Starks Industrials, Inc.

Hennery & Davidson — — — — — — — Hennery & Davidsen

Dalliers, Cleeve and Sons — — — — — Dalliers, Cleve and Sons

Titan Chemicals Co. — — — — — — Titan Chemicals Co.

A. 1

B. 2

C. 3

D. 4

E. 5

8. Choose the word or words that, when inserted in the sentence to replace the blank or blanks, best fits the meaning of the sentence.

The beloved celebrity spokesperson, who was featured in the dramatic advertisement for the well-known charity,__ any and all sympathetic viewers to make a donation to the worthy cause.

A. defrauded

B. implored

C. exhumed

D. articulated

E. entrapped

9. A company has three production plants: A, B, and C. The table below shows the production output (in units) for each plant over a span of four years:

What is the total production output for all plants combined in Year 3?

A. 470

B. 475

C. 510

D. 520

E. 530

10. A Television’s original price is $1100. It is first discounted by 25%, and then another 20% discount is applied to the reduced price. What is the final sale price?

A. $660

B. $660.8

C. $661

D. $662

E. $663

11. Linda is 4 times as old as Tom. In 6 years, Linda’s age will be twice that of Tom’s age. How old is Linda now?

A. 10 years

B. 12 years

C. 8 years

D. 6 years

E. 14 years

12. What would be the next group of letters in the following series: vpx … wqy … xrz … ysa … ?

A. ztb

B. zuc

C. zva

D. zwa

E. ztd

13. Which of the following does not belong?

14. A group of 3 numbers has an average of 17. The first two numbers are 12 and 19. What is the third number?

A. 17

B. 19

C. 20

D. 23

E. 30

15. Choose the word that is most nearly OPPOSITE to the word in capital letters.

LENGTHEN

A. abdicate

B. truncate

C. elongate

D. stifle

E. resist

ANSWERS

1. Correct Answer: D If an assembly line produces 4 industrial equipment per hour, to find out how many industrial equipment it would produce in 18 hours, you can multiply the production rate by the number of hours:

4 engines/hour * 18 hours = 72 industrial equipment

So, the correct answer is:D. 72

2. Correct Answer: B

To determine the smallest value among the given options, we need to compare the numbers digit by digit, starting from the leftmost digit.

Looking at the options:

A. 1.3860 B. 0.1386 C. 0.3861 D. 2.0381 E. 1.0386

Option B has the smallest digit in the first decimal place (0.1), which is smaller than any other first decimal digit in the other options. Therefore, 0.1386 is the smallest value among the given options.

3. Correct Answer: B

The series alternates between ‘×’ and ‘ ÷’ . So the next element in the list is ‘×’

4. Correct Answer: D

The relationship between “CULPABLE” and “BLAME” is that culpable means deserving blame or responsible for wrongdoing. Similarly, the analogy is looking for a pair where the second word conveys the action or consequence associated with the first word.

Among the given options:

D) PENAL is to INCARCERATION

Explanation:

• “PENAL” is related to punishment or relating to penalties.
• “INCARCERATION” is the action or consequence associated with wrongdoing or breaking the law.

This pair reflects the relationship between “CULPABLE” and “BLAME” in terms of the action or consequence resulting from culpability.

let’s explore the relationships in the other options:

A) EDIBLE is to TASTE: This relationship is more about the nature of the item (something that can be eaten) and the associated sensory experience, rather than a connection between culpability and its consequence.

B) MALLEABLE is to CENSURE: “MALLEABLE” means capable of being shaped or influenced easily, while “CENSURE” means strong disapproval or criticism. The relationship here is more about susceptibility to influence rather than culpability and its consequences.

C) MENIAL is to DISGUST: “MENIAL” refers to tasks that are considered lowly or degrading, and “DISGUST” is a feeling of intense dislike or revulsion. The relationship is more about the nature of the tasks rather than a connection between culpability and its consequences.

E) LAUDABLE is to PRAISE: “LAUDABLE” means deserving praise, and “PRAISE” is the expression of approval or admiration. This relationship is more about positive qualities deserving positive feedback, rather than culpability and its consequence.

In summary, option D (PENAL is to INCARCERATION) is the most fitting analogy as it reflects the relationship between culpability and the consequential action or penalty.

5. The correct answer is: (E) 50

To find the number, you need to set up an equation where 30% of the unknown number is equal to 15:

30% of x = 15

To solve for x, divide both sides by 30% (or 0.30 as a decimal):

x = 15 / 0.30 x = 50

So, 15 is 30% of the number 50.

Tips and Tricks for Solving This Question Faster

A quick look at the options will tell you, that Option A can not be the answer since it is smaller than 15

Quick calculations of 30% of 45 and 55, will give you decimal values, which is not the case here. So Option C and D are negated.

Option B, 30, 15 is half of 30, which is 50%, so option B can not be the correct answer.

30% of 50 = (30/100) * 50 = 15

Hence E is the correct option

6. Correct Answer: B

Let’s employ mathematical symbols to aid in our comprehension. “Greater than” (>) signifies “older than,”

(1) Geoffrey is older than Harry: Geoffrey > Harry.

(2) Harry is older than Gavin: Harry > Gavin

Hence, we deduce that — Geoffrey > Harry > Gavin

Hence, the Third statement says which says Gavin is older than Geoffrey is False

Hence the correct answer is B) — False

7. The correct answer is (A)

The completely identical items: Titan Chemicals Co.

mistakes are marked in bold :

Nucor Steel Co. — — — — — — Nucor Steel Comp.

Starks Industrial, Inc. — — — — -Starks Industrials, Inc.

Hennery & Davidson — — — — — Hennery & Davidsen

Dalliers, Cleeve and Sons — -Dalliers, Cleve and Sons

Titan Chemicals Co. — — — — — — Titan Chemicals Co.

8. Correct Option : B

let’s analyze each option:

A) defrauded

• “Defrauded” means to deceive someone for financial gain, often involving dishonesty or fraud. This term does not fit the context of the sentence, as it suggests illegal or dishonest behavior, which is not implied in the sentence.

B) implored

• This is the correct choice. “Implored” means to beg or earnestly request. In the context of the sentence, it aligns with the idea of the celebrity spokesperson urging viewers to make a donation to the charity.

C) exhumed

• “Exhumed” means to dig up (a body) from the ground. This term does not fit the context of the sentence, as it is unrelated to the celebrity spokesperson’s plea for donations.

D) artculated

• “Articulated” means expressing oneself clearly and effectively. While this term could be used in different contexts, it doesn’t convey the urgency or pleading tone suggested by the sentence.

E) entrapped

• “Entrapped” means to catch or trap someone, often implying deceit or trickery. This term is not suitable for the sentence, as it implies a negative action, which is not the case in the context of the celebrity spokesperson encouraging donations.

In summary, option B (implored) is the most appropriate choice as it aligns with the idea of the celebrity earnestly urging viewers to make a donation to the charity.

9. Correct Answer: A

To calculate the total production output for all plants combined in Year 3, you need to sum up the production output of each plant in Year 3.

Total production output = Production output of Plant A + Production output of Plant B + Production output of Plant C in Year 3

Total production output = 140 + 210 + 120 = 470 units

So, the correct answer is: A) 470 units

10. The correct answer is: A) $660

To find the final sale price, let’s calculate the discounts step by step:

First, calculate the discount of 25% on the original price of $1100: Discount = 0.25 * $1100 = $275.

Price after the first discount = $1100 — $275 = $825.

Next, calculate the discount of 20% on the price after the first discount: Discount = 0.20 * $825 = $165.

Price after the second discount = $825 — $165 = $660.

11.The correct answer is: B) 12 years

Let’s solve this age problem step by step:

Given information: Linda’s age = 4 * Tom’s age In 6 years, Linda’s age will be twice Tom’s age

Let’s assume Tom’s current age is x years.

So, Linda’s current age is 4x years.

After 6 years: Linda’s age = 4x + 6 Tom’s age = x + 6

According to the given information, Linda’s age in 6 years will be twice Tom’s age: 4x + 6 = 2(x + 6) 4x + 6 = 2x + 12 2x = 6 x = 3

Now we can find Linda’s current age: Linda’s age = 4x = 4 * 3 = 12 years

12. the correct answer is: A) ztb

In this series, it appears that each letter in the group is being shifted by one step forward in the alphabet, while considering their positions. Let’s analyze:

• vpx -> wqy (each letter shifted forward by one)
• wqy -> xrz (each letter shifted forward by one)
• xrz -> ysa (each letter shifted forward by one)

Following the same pattern, the next group would be: ysa -> ztb (each letter shifted forward by one)

13. Correct Answer: B

Explanation: This is an outlier identification problem. To solve it, study all 5 options and see what they have in common. In this case, each choice has three shapes. What are those shapes? Each one contains a circle, a pentagon, and a square. Except Choice B. Instead of a square, it has two pentagons. Since this is the only one that doubles up on shapes, it’s the one that doesn’t belong.

14. Correct Answer: C

Explanation: An average is the sum of all the numbers in a set, divided by the number of numbers in that set.

To figure this one out, set up a simple equation and solve for X:

(12 + 19 + X) ÷ 3 = 17

You want to isolate the X, so first multiply both sides by 3. 17×3 = 51, so the equation becomes:

(12 + 19 + X) = 51

Subtract both 12 and 19 from 51 to isolate the variable:

X = 20

15. Correct Answer: B

Explanation: “Truncate” — which means to shorten or cut something off — is the best choice here as the opposite of “Lengthen.” “Elongate” is a synonym of “Lengthen,” and we’re looking for antonyms. “Abdicate,” “Stifle,” and “Resist” all relate to stopping something in one way or another, but none of them refer to a physical dimension the way that both “Truncate” and “Elongate” do. Since you’re looking for the opposite of lengthen, choose “Truncate.”