Prepare for the EPSO Abstract Reasoning Test

In this test you are presented with a sequence of five images that have a pattern running through the series. You have to identify this pattern and use it to deduce the next image in the pattern. This test is closely related to the classic inductive reasoning tests whose origins trace themselves back to the famous Ravens matrices.

• Number of questions: 10
• Time limit: 10 minutes.
• Pass mark: 50% (but in reality around 80%)
• Skills needed: The ability to identify thought patterns and use them to come up with correct solutions.

Look at the following example question. What do you think the answer is?

Let’s take a closer look at the question above. From left to right we can see that the images increase after each set of two matrices. Moreover we can see that for each set the actual shapes stay the same. Finally, we can see that the second image of the set is a mirror image of the first one. For example:

As we can see, the image on the right is a mirror image of the one on the left. The following is true for the next two images as well:

We can therefore use the same rules to determine the last set of two. This gives us:

In this EPSO test example question we have seen that there are two basic rules that have to be worked out in order to answer the question. The trick is to be able to spot these rules quickly and act upon them. This skill isn’t something that some people can do and others cannot, it can be learnt. By gaining an understanding of the basic principles that govern these tests, you will go from seeing these patterns as a disjointed set of pictures to a clear sequence of events where you see the relationship between one image and the next.

Abstract reasoning tests are popularly called IQ tests leading to a common misconception; namely that it is impossible to prepare for this test. However, research has proven that with practice your scores improve. There are a number of reasons why it is important to prepare. Firstly, in order to succeed in these tests you have to have an understanding of the principles behind the questions. Without this, it is difficult to produce your best possible result. Moreover, you are under time pressure in this test with only about one minute to answer each question. This adds to the difficulty of the test as you have to not only think about the answer to the question but also have to do so quickly. With practice you increase your confidence and skill level in answering the questions. A thorough understanding and practising of an EPSO sample style tests gives you:

• An improvement in response times.
• Knowing where you are going wrong so you can understand where to improve.
• A reduction in anxiety levels.
• Increased confidence.

At JobTestPrep we have carved a ID for ourselves as the provider of the highest quality psychometric and aptitude tests preparing countless applicants for their job applications. Our tests follow real EPSO test content and can be taken in both timed and practice modes. As well as this, each question on our system comes with relevant explanations that give you the understanding and knowledge that you need to succeed when taking this test.