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Problem Solving Test

The problem solving test evaluates a candidate's ability to understand instructions, analyze data and respond to complex problems or situations. The questions are designed to get insights into their problem solving, learning agility and coachability.

Covered skills:

  • Abstract Reasoning
  • Critical Thinking
  • Deductive Reasoning
  • Inductive Reasoning
  • Pattern Matching
  • Spatial Reasoning
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About the Problem Solving Assessment Test


The Problem Solving Test helps recruiters identify candidates with a knack for critical thinking and problem resolution from a large talent pool. Using this test, hiring managers can make data-driven decisions, reduce the time spent on interviewing unsuitable candidates, and streamline the hiring process.

This test is designed to assess a candidate's abilities in several core areas. These include abstract reasoning, which gauges the ability to identify patterns and relationships in abstract concepts; critical thinking, evaluating information objectively and forming reasoned judgments; deductive reasoning, drawing logical conclusions from available information; inductive reasoning, forming generalizations based on specific observations; pattern matching, quickly recognizing similarities between different pieces of information; and spatial reasoning, visualizing and manipulating objects in space.

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Non-googleable questions


We have a very high focus on the quality of questions that test for on-the-job skills. Every question is non-googleable and we have a very high bar for the level of subject matter experts we onboard to create these questions. We have crawlers to check if any of the questions are leaked online. If/ when a question gets leaked, we get an alert. We change the question for you & let you know.

How we design questions

These are just a small sample from our library of 15,000+ questions. The actual questions on this Problem Solving Test will be non-googleable.

🧐 Question

Medium

Tennis Players
Logic
Problem Solving
Solve
A tennis coach was trying to put together a team of 4 players for a tennis championship out of 7 players. R, S, T are the male players, and W, X, Y, Z are the female players. Note that all players have equal ability, and the team needs to have atleast 2 male players. While selecting the team we need to keep in mind that all 4 players should be able to play with each other. 
 image
We also need to keep the following restrictions in mind:
- R cannot play with Y
- S cannot play with W
- T cannot play with Z
Which of the following are true:

A: S and Z cannot be in the team together.
B: T and Y cannot be in the team together.
C: T and X cannot be in the team together.

Hard

CID Agent
Logical Deduction
Pattern Recognition
Problem Solving
Solve
A code ("EIG AUC REO RAI COG") was sent to the criminal office by a CID agent named Batra.  However, four of the five words are fake, with only one containing the information. They also included a clue in the form of a sentence: "If I tell you any character of the code word, you will be able to tell how many vowels there are in the code word." Are you able to figure out what the code word is?
A: RAI 
B: EIG
C: AUC
D: REO
E: COG
F: None

Medium

Positive correlation
Correlation vs. Causation
Understanding Correlation
Evaluating Explanations
Solve
Myra is working on her thesis for which she created a scatter plot of the number of teachers and the number of college graduates for cities in Australia. She noticed a positive correlation. Which of these do you think is the probable explanation for this correlation?
A: Teachers encourage people to go to college, so an increase in the number of teachers leads to an increase in the number of college graduates. 

B: Some college graduates choose teaching as a profession after graduating, so an increase in the number of college graduates also leads to an increase in the number of teachers.

C: There are more college graduates and teachers in higher income cities, so income is a confounding variable here, make it difficult to prove causation between number of teachers and number of college graduates. 

D: Cities with a higher population have more teachers and more college graduates, so the correlation is due to a third variable (population of city).

E: The provided data is insufficient, so it is extremely difficult to establish the reason for the correlation.

F: Most college students choose non-teaching professions after graduating, which explains the correlation. 

G: In Australia, college students are encouraged by their teachers to choose teaching as a profession after graduating.

Medium

Dividends
Financial Analysis
Percentage and Average Calculations
Solve
Consider the following line chart which shows the money invested by a company in production each year and the sales made by the company each year. If the pie chart shows the shareholding pattern of the company and the company gives 10% of the profit as dividends to its share holders then what is the average dividend received by retail investors from 2000 to 2004?
 image
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Medium

Laptop Brands
Proportions and Percentages
Financial Reasoning
Cost Price Ratio Calculation
Percentage Profit Calculation
Solve
Given below is the list of laptop brands and their details in which some data is missing. If the cost price of Dell is 3/5 of the cost price of Lenovo, then what will be the %profit of Dell?
 image

Hard

Median
Trend Analysis
Statistical Reasoning
Median Calculation
Percentage Change Calculation
Solve
 Consider the following line chart which shows the sales of five different companies from 2000 to 2009. Which of the following companies has the maximum percentage increase in the median from 2000 to 2004 and 2005 to 2009.
 image

Easy

Assemble Triangle
Visual assembly
Geometric Reasoning
Shape Assembly
Solve
Which of the following set of shapes can be assembled to create the shape displayed:
 image

Easy

Odd One Out
Pattern recognition
Identify Differences
Visual Pattern Analysis
Solve
Shown below is a group of 4 objects, which might be rotated in different directions. One of the 4 objects is different from the other 3 in some way. Can you figure out which one?
 image

Medium

Four Blocks
Direction sense
Logical movement
Solve
The city has been divided into 4 blocks. Block 1 in the north and Block 4 in the east of the city.
 image
A postman, who delivers the letter in the city is standing at the intersection of the two lines. The postman travels the city in the following order:

1. North-West 20 steps
2. South-West 30 steps
3. South-East 40 steps
4. North-East 50 steps
5. North-West 15 steps 
Now, find the location where the postman is standing?
A: Block 3
B: Block 2
C: Block 4
D: Block 1
E: On the line intersecting Block 1 and Block 4
F: On the line intersecting Block 3 and Block 4

Medium

Missing element
Pattern Completion
Pattern Identification
Solve
Which of the following figures do you think would complete the pattern shown below?
 image
 image

Easy

Missing element
Pattern Recognition
Analogies
Solve
Which of the following figures do you think would complete the pattern shown below?
 image

Medium

Claims for a new drug Xylanex
Critical Thinking
Evaluating Arguments
Identifying Assumptions
Solve
A pharmaceutical company claims that their new drug, Xylanex, is highly effective in treating a specific medical condition. They provide statistical data from a clinical trial to support their claim. However, a group of scientists has raised concerns about the validity of the study design and potential bias in the data collection process. They argue that the results may be inflated and not truly representative of the drug's effectiveness.

Which of the following assumptions is necessary to support the pharmaceutical company's claim?
A: The clinical trial participants were randomly selected and representative of the target population.
B: The scientists raising concerns have a conflict of interest and are biased against the pharmaceutical company.
C: The statistical analysis of the clinical trial data was conducted by independent experts.
D: The medical condition being treated by Xylanex is widespread and affects a large number of individuals.
E: The pharmaceutical company has a proven track record of developing effective drugs for similar medical conditions.

Medium

Emma's cafe business
Solve
Emma's cafe has been operating successfully for the last 6 years. Profits have been growing every year, with this year (2020) being their best year so far. As a thank you, Emma treated her staff to a meal at a Michelin star restaurant. 
 image
Below are 3 statements about Emma, her staff and her cafe. Can you help us decide whether the 3 statements are "True", "Probably True", "Insufficient Data to Say True or False", "Probably False", or "False".

1. Emma's staff members are happy.
2. Emma's cafe did well in 2016.
3. Emma is rich.

A: True
B: False
C: Probably True
D: Probably False
E: Insufficient Data

Medium

Ivory's new startup
Deductive Reasoning
Solve
Statement: Ivory started a new startup. We know for a fact that almost all startups fail within the first 2 years. 
Conclusion: Ivory's startup will fail.
Does the conclusion follow from the statement?
🧐 Question 🔧 Skill

Medium

Tennis Players
Logic
Problem Solving

3 mins

Logical Reasoning
Solve

Hard

CID Agent
Logical Deduction
Pattern Recognition
Problem Solving

3 mins

Logical Reasoning
Solve

Medium

Positive correlation
Correlation vs. Causation
Understanding Correlation
Evaluating Explanations

2 mins

Logical Reasoning
Solve

Medium

Dividends
Financial Analysis
Percentage and Average Calculations

3 mins

Data Interpretation
Solve

Medium

Laptop Brands
Proportions and Percentages
Financial Reasoning
Cost Price Ratio Calculation
Percentage Profit Calculation

2 mins

Data Interpretation
Solve

Hard

Median
Trend Analysis
Statistical Reasoning
Median Calculation
Percentage Change Calculation

3 mins

Data Interpretation
Solve

Easy

Assemble Triangle
Visual assembly
Geometric Reasoning
Shape Assembly

2 mins

Spatial Reasoning
Solve

Easy

Odd One Out
Pattern recognition
Identify Differences
Visual Pattern Analysis

2 mins

Spatial Reasoning
Solve

Medium

Four Blocks
Direction sense
Logical movement

2 mins

Spatial Reasoning
Solve

Medium

Missing element
Pattern Completion
Pattern Identification

2 mins

Abstract Reasoning
Solve

Easy

Missing element
Pattern Recognition
Analogies

2 mins

Abstract Reasoning
Solve

Medium

Claims for a new drug Xylanex
Critical Thinking
Evaluating Arguments
Identifying Assumptions

2 mins

Critical Thinking
Solve

Medium

Emma's cafe business

2 mins

Critical Thinking
Solve

Medium

Ivory's new startup
Deductive Reasoning

2 mins

Critical Thinking
Solve
🧐 Question 🔧 Skill 💪 Difficulty ⌛ Time
Tennis Players
Logic
Problem Solving
Logical Reasoning
Medium 3 mins
Solve
CID Agent
Logical Deduction
Pattern Recognition
Problem Solving
Logical Reasoning
Hard 3 mins
Solve
Positive correlation
Correlation vs. Causation
Understanding Correlation
Evaluating Explanations
Logical Reasoning
Medium 2 mins
Solve
Dividends
Financial Analysis
Percentage and Average Calculations
Data Interpretation
Medium 3 mins
Solve
Laptop Brands
Proportions and Percentages
Financial Reasoning
Cost Price Ratio Calculation
Percentage Profit Calculation
Data Interpretation
Medium 2 mins
Solve
Median
Trend Analysis
Statistical Reasoning
Median Calculation
Percentage Change Calculation
Data Interpretation
Hard 3 mins
Solve
Assemble Triangle
Visual assembly
Geometric Reasoning
Shape Assembly
Spatial Reasoning
Easy 2 mins
Solve
Odd One Out
Pattern recognition
Identify Differences
Visual Pattern Analysis
Spatial Reasoning
Easy 2 mins
Solve
Four Blocks
Direction sense
Logical movement
Spatial Reasoning
Medium 2 mins
Solve
Missing element
Pattern Completion
Pattern Identification
Abstract Reasoning
Medium 2 mins
Solve
Missing element
Pattern Recognition
Analogies
Abstract Reasoning
Easy 2 mins
Solve
Claims for a new drug Xylanex
Critical Thinking
Evaluating Arguments
Identifying Assumptions
Critical Thinking
Medium 2 mins
Solve
Emma's cafe business
Critical Thinking
Medium 2 mins
Solve
Ivory's new startup
Deductive Reasoning
Critical Thinking
Medium 2 mins
Solve
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Why you should use Pre-employment Problem Solving Test?

The Problem Solving Test provides a structured and objective method to assess a candidate's ability to tackle complex challenges. It moves beyond resume keywords and provides insight into how an individual applies reasoning and analytical skills under pressure. This makes it a valuable tool for identifying candidates who can think critically and contribute meaningfully to your team.

This test is designed to evaluate skills applicable to various roles. Questions evaluate logical reasoning, assessing a candidate's capability to draw sound inferences and conclusions. Data interpretation questions gauge the ability to extract insights from provided information. Spatial reasoning problems assess the capacity to visualize and manipulate objects mentally. Abstract reasoning problems measure the aptitude to identify patterns and rules. Finally, critical thinking questions evaluate the ability to analyze and evaluate arguments.

After the test, you'll receive a scorecard for each candidate, providing a breakdown of their performance across different skills. This report helps you quickly identify top performers and make data-driven hiring decisions.

What topics are covered in the Problem Solving Test?

This Problem Solving Test gauges a candidate's capacity to tackle complex challenges using a variety of cognitive skills.

The assessment begins with Abstract Reasoning, which goes beyond concrete facts, to reveal a candidate's ability to identify patterns and relationships in new and unfamiliar concepts. Identifying candidates strong in abstract reasoning can help identify people who can learn new skills and concepts quickly.

Next, the test measures Critical Thinking, a skill imperative for objective evaluation and sound judgment. Individuals with strong critical thinking skills can make decisions using reasoned thought and judgement.

Deductive Reasoning is also assessed, highlighting the ability to draw specific conclusions from general principles. Strong deductive reasoners can use rulesets or instructions and apply them to different situations.

Furthermore, the test evaluates Inductive Reasoning, where candidates infer general principles from specific observations. This skill is invaluable for spotting trends and forming hypotheses.

Pattern Matching skill uncovers an individual's aptitude for quickly recognizing similarities and discrepancies, a great asset in many roles from data analysis to software development.

Finally, Spatial Reasoning is measured, indicating the ability to mentally manipulate 2D and 3D objects. Spatial reasoning skills are valuable in various domains, like engineering, design, and even surgery. Evaluating this aptitude ensures candidates can visualize and solve problems with a spatial component, potentially improving job outcomes.

Full list of covered topics

The actual topics of the questions in the final test will depend on your job description and requirements. However, here's a list of topics you can expect the questions for Problem Solving Test to be based on.

Logic puzzles
Analogies
Number series
Data analysis
Charts and graphs
Pattern recognition
Visual puzzles
Spatial visualization
Abstract patterns
Problem-solving techniques
Analytical reasoning
Decision-making
Evaluating arguments
Logical deduction
Logical induction
Pattern matching
Pattern completion
Geometric shapes
Visual perception
Critical reasoning
Irrational reasoning
Logical inference
Logical connectors
Logical consistency
Identifying assumptions
Spatial orientation
Sequencing
Inductive reasoning
Data interpretation
Data analysis techniques
Charts and graphs
Statistical reasoning
Hypothesis testing
Trends and patterns
Spatial relationships
Visual reasoning
Abstract reasoning
Abstract patterns
Non-verbal reasoning
Analyzing information
Evaluating solutions
Problem-solving strategies
Finding alternatives
Generalization
Evaluation of evidence
Identifying flaws
Cognitive flexibility
Reasoning under uncertainty
Identifying relationships
Pattern completion
Spatial visualization
Logical thinking
Attention to detail
Visual perception
Abstract reasoning
Critical thinking
Spatial reasoning

What roles can I use the Problem Solving Test for?

  • Freshers
  • Graduates
  • Analysts
  • Developers
  • Entry level roles
  • Programmers

How is the Problem Solving Test customized for senior candidates?

For experienced candidates, the Problem Solving Test adapts to evaluate a higher level of cognitive skill. Questions will emphasize the ability to deal with ambiguity, consider multiple perspectives, and formulate innovative solutions. They'll require candidates to synthesize information from various sources, identify underlying assumptions, and evaluate the potential consequences of different courses of action.

For senior candidates, the assessment focuses on synthesizing information, strategic thinking, and solution development. This evaluation provides insight into how an experienced professional approaches complex scenarios and contributes to high-level decision-making.

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AI Cheating Detection with Honestly

ChatGPT Protection

Non-googleable Questions

Web Proctoring

IP Proctoring

Webcam Proctoring

MCQ Questions

Coding Questions

Typing Questions

Personality Questions

Custom Questions

Ready-to-use Tests

Custom Tests

Custom Branding

Bulk Invites

Public Links

ATS Integrations

Multiple Question Sets

Custom API integrations

Role-based Access

Priority Support

GDPR Compliance

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The Adaface test library features 500+ tests to enable you to test candidates on all popular skills- everything from programming languages, software frameworks, devops, logical reasoning, abstract reasoning, critical thinking, fluid intelligence, content marketing, talent acquisition, customer service, accounting, product management, sales and more.

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Have questions about the Problem Solving Hiring Test?

What is the Problem Solving Test?

The Problem Solving Test evaluates a candidate's ability to solve problems using various reasoning skills. Employers use it to assess potential hires' capabilities in logical reasoning, data interpretation, spatial reasoning, abstract reasoning, and critical thinking.

Can I combine the Problem Solving Test with abstract reasoning questions?

Yes, you can combine multiple skills in a single custom test. For more on assessing abstract reasoning skills, check out our Abstract Reasoning Test.

What kind of questions are included in the Problem Solving Test?

The test comprises 20 multiple-choice questions covering logical reasoning, data interpretation, spatial reasoning, abstract reasoning, and critical thinking skills. It is designed to evaluate senior roles in recognizing patterns, interpreting data, and applying logical thinking.

How to use the Problem Solving Test in my hiring process?

Use the test as a pre-screening tool early in your recruitment process. Add a link to the assessment in your job post or email it directly to candidates.

What are the main cognitive ability tests?
Can I combine multiple skills into one custom assessment?

Yes, absolutely. Custom assessments are set up based on your job description, and will include questions on all must-have skills you specify. Here's a quick guide on how you can request a custom test.

Do you have any anti-cheating or proctoring features in place?

We have the following anti-cheating features in place:

  • Hidden AI Tools Detection with Honestly
  • Non-googleable questions
  • IP proctoring
  • Screen proctoring
  • Web proctoring
  • Webcam proctoring
  • Plagiarism detection
  • Secure browser
  • Copy paste protection

Read more about the proctoring features.

How do I interpret test scores?

The primary thing to keep in mind is that an assessment is an elimination tool, not a selection tool. A skills assessment is optimized to help you eliminate candidates who are not technically qualified for the role, it is not optimized to help you find the best candidate for the role. So the ideal way to use an assessment is to decide a threshold score (typically 55%, we help you benchmark) and invite all candidates who score above the threshold for the next rounds of interview.

What experience level can I use this test for?

Each Adaface assessment is customized to your job description/ ideal candidate persona (our subject matter experts will pick the right questions for your assessment from our library of 10000+ questions). This assessment can be customized for any experience level.

Does every candidate get the same questions?

Yes, it makes it much easier for you to compare candidates. Options for MCQ questions and the order of questions are randomized. We have anti-cheating/ proctoring features in place. In our enterprise plan, we also have the option to create multiple versions of the same assessment with questions of similar difficulty levels.

I'm a candidate. Can I try a practice test?

No. Unfortunately, we do not support practice tests at the moment. However, you can use our sample questions for practice.

What is the cost of using this test?

You can check out our pricing plans.

Can I get a free trial?

Yes, you can sign up for free and preview this test.

I just moved to a paid plan. How can I request a custom assessment?

Here is a quick guide on how to request a custom assessment on Adaface.

View sample scorecard


Along with scorecards that report the performance of the candidate in detail, you also receive a comparative analysis against the company average and industry standards.

View sample scorecard
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