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Aptitude and psychometric tests: the guide

Timed numerical, verbal and logical reasoning tests, often with a personality or situational judgement section. Outside McKinsey and BCG, this is the most common first screen, and the provider varies by firm and office.

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What strong candidates can do

  • Recognize the main question types and the common providers
  • Know what firms officially say and what is only reported
  • Use a technique that works on any provider, and practice with original questions

Common questions

What are aptitude and psychometric tests?

Timed numerical, verbal and logical reasoning tests, often with a personality or situational judgement section. Outside McKinsey and BCG, this is the most common first screen, and the provider varies by firm and office.

How do you prepare?

Practice timed numerical, verbal and logical questions until each question type feels familiar, and check which test provider your invitation names. Answer any personality section honestly.

What is the most common mistake?

Practicing the wrong format for the provider you will face, or spending too long on single questions.

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