Thanks to coronavirus,  the UK is united in spending the majority of the year so far staring at nothing more exciting than our four walls. This enforced quiet time can be hard, but if you’re starting to think about your future we would highly recommend utilising the time indoors to improve your interview skills. Taking some spatial reasoning tests could make a massive difference when it comes to finding your dream job.

 

What is a spatial reasoning test?

Spatial reasoning tests look at your dimensional thinking. They evaluate your imagination and reasoning using two and three dimensional images while assessing your ability to draw conclusions from limited information. Spatial reasoning tests are also known as non-verbal aptitude or spatial awareness tests. Spatial awareness is actually a skill used by us all day everyday as we interpret objects and shapes in different ways, but applying this knowledge in timed test questions can be tricky – which is why practising is crucial.

 

What is the format of a spatial reasoning test?

The format of spatial reasoning tests normally focuses on images of two or three dimensional objects with a series of multiple choice questions based on these. Popular questions include; spatial reasoning cubes, mirror images, perspectives or organising two-dimensional shapes. These can then include mentally assembling or disassembling images to work out the correct answer. We would recommend practising spatial reasoning tests to familiarise yourself with these types of questions and become comfortable with the different formats.

 

Why do employers use spatial reasoning tests?

Spatial reasoning tests judge your ability to identify patterns or relationships using the object provided, as well as help evaluate your technical and design abilities. The tests are often used by technical, engineering, military or architecture employers to assess candidates’ multi-dimensional thinking. But they can also be used in science or design led industries as well. In any role where spatial awareness is key, it is vital that you can demonstrate these skills effectively as they are likely to factor considerably in your future job role.

 

How can I prepare?

These tests can be difficult, especially as it is often thought that spatial awareness can’t be taught, however studies have shown that practice does improve your skills for spatial reasoning tests. It is useful to ask your recruiter or employer what format the test will be taken in (e.g. online or on paper) so you can practice in the same way. Make sure you understand the different types of questions and prepare for the whole range. Pay attention to the timing on the test, normal aptitude tests suggest one question per minute, so if you are stuck, move on to the next question! You might want to have some rough paper, pencil and pens to work out longer problems. Once you have completed some mock tests, you can then use these to identify weak areas and ensure you focus on these in your revision.

So although it may be tempting to use lockdown to binge watch another tv series, we would highly recommend putting down the remote and picking up your laptop. Improve your interview confidence and skills by trying a spatial reasoning test.