Information about computer based tests

The computer based test has to be taken individually at a test centre. The test material is not available in a written form.

The verbal, the numerical and the abstract reasoning tests comprise multiple-choice questions. Usually, there is one question and there are five answers, of which only one is always correct. But, for the test on verbal reasoning there are only four answers. The test on situational judgements differs a bit. Each question describes a work-related scenario linked to a block of four possible actions (MCQ format). Out of these, you are asked to choose the most effective action AND the least effective action to take. Candidates for AST-posts have also to sit the test on accuracy & precision and the test on prioritising & organising.

There are always two ways to find the correct answer. Either you find the correct answer or you identify the wrong answers. For example: You take a verbal reasoning test and at one task you have identified three wrong answers, logically, the remaining answer must be the right one.

Aid

The tests are computer based. There is also a calculator available at the the desk and online. Also, some plastic boards (DIN A4) and non-permanent markers are available and you can use them for your notes.

Online calculator

Calculator on the desk: Sharp EL 250-S

Computer based testing

The computer programme in use is quite user friendly. Answers can be revised, before submitting all of them.

EPSO computer demo version in German

EPSO computer demo version in English

EPSO computer demo version in French

Survival tips for multiple-choice tests

  • Never leave an answer blank since a wrong answer does not incur a negative mark. With four possible answers, guessing gives you at least a 25% chance of getting the right answer.
  • You can make notes on a seperate blank board (DIN A4).
  • If you are confident that the answer you have given to a particular question is right, have the courage to move on to the next question so that you do not waste valuable time pondering over it.
  • Do not spend too much time on a question (no more than one or two minutes). Either come back to it later or try your luck with a guess.
  • If the answer to a positive question is not entirely clear and you would rather move on to the next question, make a note on your question sheet of those answers to the first question that are obviously wrong. This will help you save time when you return to the unanswered question and only have to read the remaining plausible answers.
  • Similarly, if the answer to a negative question is not entirely clear and you would rather move on to the next question, make a note on your question sheet of those answers to the first question that you can rule out. This will help you save time when you return to the unanswered question and only have to read the remaining plausible answers.
  • Manage your time. You will be informed by the computer programme when there are only 5 minutes remaining. You should return to any unanswered questions no later than two minutes before the end of the test.
  • Become familiar with the EPSO computer programme!
  • Check the Computer demo programme to become familiar with it.
  • You cannot make notes on the screen. Usually the testing company will provide you with two plastic sheets and non-permanent markers. Prepare a matrix for the following case: If the answer to a positive question is not entirely clear and you would rather move on to the next question, make a note on your plastic sheet of those answers to the first question that are obviously wrong. This will help you save time when you return to the unanswered question and only have to read the remaining plausible answers.
  • A simple calculator is available. Become aquainted with it before the test.
  • Use the different functions of the programme like the 'Mark' function. The programme is quite user-friendly.