How to Pass an Excel Test

If you’re applying for a job that requires knowledge of Microsoft Excel, there's a good chance you will need to take an Excel skills test.

Taking an Excel assessment is part of the pre-employment process to ensure that qualified candidates get hired.

Scoring high on the skills test can be the deciding factor on whether a company offers you a job or not

There are typically three different Excel skills tests available to employers, depending on the level of knowledge required by the job.

Testing at the correct level ensures a company is getting an employee skilled enough to thrive within their business.

The three skills test levels include:

Basic / Beginner Excel assessment test: Used more with administrative or clerical jobs, the basic test evaluates your ability to perform basic Excel functions, such as formatting cells and inserting tables.

Intermediate Excel assessment test: This Excel test requires more in-depth knowledge and understanding of Excel and can include questions from both the basic and advanced tests.

Advanced Excel assessment test: Some jobs will require high-level Excel skills, including functions like VLOOKUP and SUMIFS.

You may also be tested on the use of pivot tables, filtering and creating Macros.

When taking the test, you may find companies that have created a custom test built in-house or one using various online platforms available.

How to Pass an Excel Skills Test

1. UNDERSTAND THE JOB REQUIREMENTS

It's important to understand what sort of excel skills are required by your potential employer. Are they expecting advanced analytical capabilities or very basic excel abilities? This information can help remove some anxiety around the assessment, and you'll know exactly what to practice. Read the job description closely and don't hesitate to ask the hiring manager for a detailed job description if it's not available.

2. PRACTICE

One of the best ways to prepare for an Excel test is by utilizing a service like JobTestPrep. They’ve been helping people prepare for and pass various skills tests since 1992.

If you’re already familiar with Microsoft Excel, the practice tests and tips provided by JobTestPrep serve as a helpful refresher course. If your Excel skills leave a lot to be desired, you’ll need more help preparing. JobTestPrep allows you to not just take practice tests, but also learn as you go through their preparation packs. They offer detailed explanations that will help grow your knowledge of Excel. JobTestPrep has preparation packs available for Excel 2010, Excel, 2013, and Excel 2016. Each includes general test practice in case you don’t know what format you’ll be tested on ahead of time. Excel preparation packs offer comprehensive features to help ensure you’ll be fully prepared come test time. This includes features such as: Excel training software Full-length Excel assessment tests Additional Excel practice questions Detailed explanations for each question Score reports so you can see where you stand and track improvement Excel project practice

3. BE CONFIDENT

As you prepare for your Excel test, it’s important to prepare not just to pass the test, but to perform well and with confidence. This will help you stand out from other job applicants.

Keep these tips in mind to perform confidently and showcase your skills:

• Don’t rely on Excel features, such as autocorrect and shortcuts. If the company is using software that simulates Excel, you may not have access to features such as these.
• Test questions are often randomized, meaning you may not be asked the same questions twice or the same questions as other applicants. Familiarize yourself with all aspects of Microsoft Excel.
• Take time to refresh your skills before taking the test. You can do this by creating a project in Excel or by taking practice tests. You want to go into your test with confidence. If it’s been a while since you’ve used Excel, don’t trust that your memory is going to pull you through.