What are mechanical reasoning tests?
Primarily for the hiring process of tech and engineering firms, but increasingly used by employers in the public sector, mechanical reasoning tests are designed to examine your mechanical and electrical knowledge.
The tests are usually multiple-choice, and you’ll have around 40 seconds to answer questions on topics as diverse as levers, pulleys, electricity and power. Practising mechanical reasoning tests before the big day is the best way to get to grips with the questions and set yourself up for success.
Why do employers use mechanical reasoning tests?
Mechanical reasoning tests examine specialised mechanical and electrical knowledge. Although the test is most commonly set by employers in the tech or engineering industries, there are a few public sector roles for which the mechanical reasoning test is relevant.
As more and more people each year apply for the same roles, aptitude tests such as these offer employers an additional way to differentiate between candidates and ultimately, choose the right person for the job.
What is the mechanical reasoning test format?
Tests can vary, but most of the time you’ll answer questions on a range of electrical and mechanical topics - including circuits, voltage, power and pulleys. And occasionally, the test will even include questions specific to the role you’re applying for.
With just 40 seconds to answer each question, you’ll have to work quickly to read the information in front of you, and select the correct multiple choice answer.
What skills does mechanical reasoning test?
Mechanical reasoning tests examine your mechanical and electrical knowledge. Because the test is taken under timed conditions, an employer will also be looking to gauge how well you cope under pressure, and how we’ll you’ve prepared for the test you’re sitting. All of these skills will be necessary in the public sector role you’ve applied for.
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Sample Mechanical Reasoning Tests question Test your knowledge!
Which lever class has the fulcrum located between the effort and load?
- First-class lever.
- Second-class lever.
- Third-class lever.
- There are no distinct classes for levers.
What happens to the pressure within a closed container if the temperature is increased while the volume remains constant?
- Pressure decreases.
- Pressure remains unchanged.
- Pressure increases.
- The relationship between pressure and temperature cannot be determined.
A block on a frictionless plane is connected to a spring. If you compress the spring by pushing the block and then release it, what type of energy transition occurs?
- Kinetic to potential energy.
- Chemical to kinetic energy.
- Potential to kinetic energy.
- Electrical to potential energy.
If two gears are meshed and the first gear has twice as many teeth as the second gear, how does the second gear's rotational speed compare to the first?
- The second gear rotates at half the speed of the first gear.
- The second gear rotates at the same speed as the first gear.
- The second gear rotates twice as fast as the first gear.
- The rotational speed cannot be determined without additional information.
When a current-carrying wire is bent into a loop, it creates a magnetic field. What is the direction of the magnetic field inside the loop?
- The direction of the magnetic field is parallel to the wire.
- The direction of the magnetic field is perpendicular to the wire.
- The direction of the magnetic field follows the right-hand rule.
- The magnetic field has no specific direction and is randomized.
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Mechanical Reasoning Tests Tips
- Know Your Stuff
Start with a solid foundation by brushing up on basic mechanical and electrical concepts. Understand the principles behind the questions, and the answers will follow.
- Time is of the Essence
Sharpen your reflexes and practice working against the clock. Familiarize yourself with answering questions accurately within the 40-second limit, so you won't be flustered by the time pressure.
- Practice, Practice, Practice!
Use Psychometric Tests' practice exams to get a feel for the question formats and difficulty levels. The more you practice, the more confident and competent you'll become.
- Analyze Your Answers
After each practice test, take a moment to review your answers. Understand where you excelled and where you slipped up. This reflection is key to continuous improvement.
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Mechanical Reasoning Tests FAQs
- How are mechanical reasoning tests scored?
After you’ve completed the test, your paper will be marked and that score will then normally be compared to the scores of other people who have sat the same, or a similar test. This gives employers a clearer idea of how well you did in comparison to your peers.
- What are mechanical reasoning tests used for?
Employers want to see you can take your electronic and mechanical knowledge and apply it effectively. Although it’s not the most common aptitude test you'll be asked to take in the financial sector, many employers will use it if the skills are relevant to the specific role you’re applying for.
- What do mechanical reasoning tests involve?
The tests measure your electrical and mechanical knowledge. Normally if you’re interviewing for a role where this test is set, you’ll have at least basic knowledge in the question area, however we always recommend you practice mechanical reasoning tests to ensure you reach your full potential.
- What do mechanical reasoning tests measure?
The test measures an individual’s electrical and mechanical knowledge, and as a result is used by employers looking for a person with such skills.
- Where can I practice mechanical reasoning tests?
Preparation really is so important when it comes to aptitude tests. You can practice mechanical reasoning tests here. You’ll also pick up tips and tricks that’ll help you get the best possible result.
- Which employers use mechanical reasoning tests?
The test is most commonly used by employers in the armed forces or tech companies, however there are a few public sector roles that require the skills and knowledge examined on the mechanical reasoning test.