You’re a statistician preparing for a job interview. What logical reasoning tests should you expect?

1 Numerical reasoning

Numerical reasoning tests measure your ability to work with numbers, calculations, graphs, and tables. You’ll have to answer multiple-choice questions based on the data presented, and use basic arithmetic, algebra, and statistics to solve them. For example, you might have to calculate percentages, ratios, averages, or trends from a given dataset. To ace these tests, you’ll need to be familiar with the concepts and formulas of descriptive and inferential statistics, and practice your speed and accuracy with numerical data.

2 Verbal reasoning

Verbal reasoning tests measure your ability to understand and evaluate written information, such as passages, statements, or arguments. You’ll have to answer questions based on the text, and use logic, critical thinking, and comprehension skills to do so. For example, you might have to identify the main idea, the tone, the assumptions, or the implications of a given paragraph. To ace these tests, you’ll need to be proficient in the language of the test, and practice your reading and analysis skills with different types of texts.

3 Abstract reasoning

Abstract reasoning tests measure your ability to identify patterns, rules, and relationships among shapes, symbols, or images. You’ll have to complete sequences, find similarities or differences, or match groups based on the logic behind them. For example, you might have to figure out what comes next in a series of figures, or which figure belongs to a certain category. To ace these tests, you’ll need to be flexible and creative in your thinking, and practice your visual and spatial skills with various kinds of abstract problems.

4 Diagrammatic reasoning

Diagrammatic reasoning tests measure your ability to work with diagrams, flowcharts, or schematics. You’ll have to infer, deduce, or manipulate information based on the rules and symbols shown in the diagrams. For example, you might have to apply a set of operations to an input, or find the output of a system, or identify errors or inconsistencies in a diagram. To ace these tests, you’ll need to be familiar with the common symbols and conventions used in diagrams, and practice your logical and sequential skills with different types of diagrammatic problems.

Logical reasoning tests can be challenging, but they can also be fun and rewarding for statisticians who enjoy working with data and logic. The best way to prepare for them is to practice as much as possible with online resources, books, or apps that offer realistic and varied questions and feedback. You’ll also need to manage your time, avoid distractions, and stay calm and confident during the test. By doing so, you’ll be able to showcase your skills and impress your potential employers.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?