Pearson aptitude test

Pearson TalentLens is a large publisher of assessments and aptitude tests. Pearson TalentLens uses the DAT (differential aptitude test) to assess candidates for selection purposes. The DAT consists of the following topics:

  • Verbal analogies.
  • Numerical calculations.
  • Numerical sequences.
  • Abstract reasoning.
  • Space relations.

If you have to take the DAT Next Generation you will have to answer 15 questions per type. These questions are adaptive. Meaning, if you answer a question correctly, the next question will be harder. If you answer a question incorrectly, the next question will be easier. This makes the test for everyone challenging without demotivating you.

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Hellotest is not affiliated with, or endorsed by Pearson TalentLens. All practice materials are developed independently by Hellotest to support candidates preparing for their job application and not for selection purposes.

About the Pearson TalentLens aptitude tests

Pearson uses the assessment centre method to assess candidates for both selecting talent and developing talent. If you are applying for a job this means you may have to take a Pearson aptitude test. The Pearson TalentLens aptitude tests and assessments are also used for educational purposes. In both cases, you will have to take the same test:

  • Abstract reasoning – abstract.
  • Space relations – abstract.
  • Verbal analogies – verbal.
  • Numerical calculations – numerical.
  • Numerical sequences – numerical.

Abstract reasoning

Abstract reasoning/figure sequences

This measures how good you are at completing logical reasoning. The exercises consist of four figures that logically follow each other. On this basis, you must determine what the fifth figure will be. You will see several figures at the same time, each with their own logical connections. If you solve the elements separately, you can always exclude incorrect answers until you choose one correct answer.

Spacial reasoning / cubes

Spacial reasoning, sometimes also known as cubes, are part of abstract reasoning. There are two forms of cubes: folding and turning.

With folding cubes, you must indicate how a cube can be unfolded. For this, you need to be able to convert a three-dimensional image into a two-dimensional image. You will see a cube and a number of unfolded cubes. For the unfolded cubes, you must indicate which an extension of the example can be.

When rotating cubes you get to see a cube and you have to indicate how it can be rotated. You will see a number of answer options. Of these answer options, one is a possible rotation of the example. You must indicate which rotation is possible. It is indicated in advance how often the cube can be rotated and tilted.

Spatial reasoning rotating cubes
Mental arithmetic aptitude test

Numerical reasoning

Numerical ability

Relatively simple calculations must be solved during the assessment. In general, this is an equation with three parts, one of which is unknown. These can be simple additions, multiplications or variations of fractions. Do not start this part unprepared. Make sure you have refreshed the calculation rules. For example, how to divide by a fraction, or multiply by decimal places.

Numerical sequences

For numerical sequences, you determine which calculations underly the given sequence. Based on the perceived calculations you have to determine the next number in the sequence. This can be tricky, because at first glance, it might seem there are several options. By following the right strategies you can easily solve numerical sequences and avoid common pitfalls.

Verbal reasoning

Verbal analogies

An analogy is a method for establishing relationships between words. Your ability to solve these analogies quickly and properly depends on the degree to which you are able to recognize the relationships between words. Analogies can be divided into a limited number of categories. As soon as you learn to recognize and apply these categories quickly, you will be able to get a good score.

Single analogy

Preparing for Pearson aptitude tests

Prepare for the test

The Pearson test can be quite difficult if you are unfamiliar with the possible questions. For the numerical topics, you will need to brush up on your maths skills. From basic addition, subtraction, multiplying and dividing to percentages and fractions. You also need to get familiar with the different types of numerical sequences, verbal analogies and space relations.

Strategy for the test

If you have to take the new DAT, called DAT Next Generation, you will only have to answer 15 questions. It is an adaptive test which means questions will get harder when answer correctly. Questions will get easier if you answer incorrectly. There is also no time limit on the test. This means you should aim to answer as many questions correctly as possible.

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Who are we

Our aim is to help you get your dream job. Aptitude tests are used by most employers nowadays and are a major hurdle to candidates. As many as 50% of the candidates do not pass their aptitude test. We find this unfair.

By preparing for your aptitude test you can easily pass the test. You are not cheating, you are getting prepared. If you have never solved number sequences or never even seen a figure sequence you will not get a high score on your test. You may even fail. By practicing, you will be familiar with such types of questions. Now, you can actually take the test.

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