One of the less often known tests, yet are very commonly used, are Error Checking Tests; another name for these is Data Checking Tests. Their names are pretty much self-explanatory, the tests simply involve tasks regarding finding mistakes in sets of information. However, how they are carried out and the skills needed to pass these tests with a high score are a different matter, as they do require an ample amount of practice. This article will offer detailed insights into this type of Aptitude Tests, where they are most regularly used and some further resources to help you successfully complete them.
Why Error Checking Tests
Error Checking Tests, or Data Checking Tests, assess two main things: your attention to details and your ability to perform under pressure. Given a limited amount of time for each question, you are to compare one piece of data, either a code or an alphanumeric against a set of seemingly similar data, to see whether it appears within that set or not. This is generally the format, but the best way to thoroughly understand how these tests work and any of their variations, is to practice some of the FREE tests until you are familiar with them.
The questions are not rocket science, in fact, they are designed by psychologists to ensure everyone with various cognitive abilities can complete them; however, it is the time pressure and the large number of questions you have to do in a short space of time that will determine who the best candidates for the job are. Error Checking Tests are normally used by employers in the early stage of the recruitment process for operational, administrative or customer facing roles; to evaluate how well and how long you are able to focus and go through tasks accurately in a fast-paced environment. If you are looking to break into Sales, Retail or perhaps, Public Sector, this type of tests will be one of those you should keep an eye out for.
Go-to rules for Error Checking Tests and further resources
As mentioned earlier, the number one rule is practice, practice and more practice. It is also extremely important how you do it, as the timer and the abundance amount of questions you will have to get through are the key to this assessment method; thus, setting yourself up in a quiet, distraction-free environment, a fresh mind and time yourself (although, many free practice tests will already have a timer) is essential. Due to the highly practical and applicable nature of these tests, training yourself into a habit of thoroughly scanning for errors when sending someone an email or a text message, is another way you can improve observational skills on a daily basis, besides your practice sessions. And as counter-intuitive it is to remind yourself not to panic, don’t panic! With a good practice routine and the self-awareness that you are the right fit for your chosen role, you will be able to confidently and calmly nail these tests.
Lastly, know the test publisher used by your employers, and you are ready to start!
