If you’re applying for a job either as a train conductor or in administration, you might be asked to take a concentration test. Concentration tests are simple pre-employment assessments given during the recruitment process to interested graduates and job-seekers.
Because these jobs are very repetitive, it’s easy for attention to wane. However, when large sums of money and even lives are at stake, it’s crucial that these employees stay alert. Concentration assessments are designed to evaluate how well prospective employees can focus on routine tasks when under pressure.
Below, you’ll find more information about common online concentration tests and how to best prepare for them. When you’re done reading through this page, make sure to click over to our free questions tab to start preparing immediately.
What Is a Concentration Test?
A concentration exam is a psychometric screening test given to anyone who wants to apply for a very repetitive, yet dangerous job. The test usually lasts between 10-20 minutes, and it contains a series of similar figures. You’ll need to identify a specific shape over and over again.
How to Prepare for a Concentration Test?
Concentration tests don’t require a lot of skill and certainly don’t require any specific information. However, practice will help you learn to move quickly and precisely through the test.
Focus Tests:
The most common concentration exams are the Group Bourdon Test and the Safe Concentration and Attention Test (SCAAT). Read more about both of them below.
Group Bourdon Test
Designed primarily for train conductors, the Group Bourdon Test lasts 10 minutes in total and contains five pages, each of which must be completed in no more than two minutes. Each page contains 25 groupings of dots across and 21 rows, and you’ll need to identify the groups of four dots across the page. You’ll be graded for both speed and accuracy, and the page will switch after two minutes regardless of whether you’re finished or not.
Safe Concentration and Attention Test (SCAAT)
On the SCAAT, you’ll be given three sets of three sheets of exercises in which you’ll be asked to identify certain patterns out of a large array of figures with only slight differences. Unlike the Group Bourdon Test, the drawing you’ll have to identify will change from row to row and from set to set, so you won’t be able to rely on routine alone.
Concentration Test Tips:
Before you head out to the assessment centre, make sure to read our top tips for concentration assessments.
1. Give it a Name: It’s easier to remember the exact form of an abstract shape or set of dots if you give the figure a name or associate it with another familiar object. This is especially helpful if you’re going to need to keep multiple figures in mind at the same time.
2. Look Up From Time to Time: The test does have a fairly harsh time limit, but don’t let that deter you from glancing up from time to time. By looking up into the distance even if it’s only for only a few moments, you’ll return feeling more refreshed.
3. Take a Walk: Research shows that a simple 10-20-minute walk can help improve concentration during difficult tasks by up to 25%. So, make sure to get some form of aerobic activity in before you sit down to take the aptitude assessment.
Final Thoughts on Concentration Tests:
If you’re still a bit nervous, then go ahead and click over to our questions tab to take a look at free online concentration test.
