Tips to Pass a Number Sequence Test

Although numerical ability tests apply to many administrative as well as executive jobs, they are also an essential component in screening applicants for key positions in an organization. The pace at which one can answer the problems is the main factor to succeed in the test, as almost all candidates will attain a very good result if provided with the privilege of having unlimited time to answer. Depending on the test publisher, a candidate may expect to solve 30-35 problems in 25-30 minutes. However, the count and time may vary in specific kind of tests, i.e. tests that may require the candidate to solve cascaded number series problems which might consume more time per problem and also depends on who the test publisher is. A variety of psychometric tests is designed to assess the mathematical aptitude of a person, including numerical reasoning tests, logical reasoning tests, number series tests, etc.

Number Sequence Tests - What Are They?

Number sequence assessment offers mathematical sequences that adhere to a logical rule based on simple arithmetic. A preliminary series is presented from which the rule is inferred. The participant then has to predict the subsequent number that follows the ruling. The complexity level of the questions may raise in certain ways. 

Firstly, the rule behind the sequence becomes less insignificant; thereby demanding concentration and intuition. Secondly, the missing part is located at an early step; thus preventing the examinee from interpreting the concealed logic by observing only the previous number in the series.

These problems require the candidate to look for the missing figure in a series of numbers. This missing number may be at the start or middle but is usually at the end of the sequence. Number sequences can sometimes be quite simple. However, you come across complex questions that are based upon intermission amongst the numbers with key significance to the series.

Number sequences presented typically consist of several (four to five) visible numbers along with one missing number because the examiner has to generate a series in which only one numeral will fit in. In case the number sequence has a complex pattern, there will be a need for more numbers to be presented.

To answer number sequence problems efficiently, you should initially check the correlation between the numbers presented, using some basic arithmetic relationship. Having done that, you should look at the intermission between the numbers and check for a correlation over there. If the answer is negative and on the whole, more than 4 figures are offered, there may exist two intermixed sequences. You may sometimes come across division, multiplication or exponential operators in these questions. However, test designers avoid these arithmetic operations as these operators lead to larger numerals which are hefty to evaluate without using a calculator.

Different Types of Number Sequence Tests

Some of the common number series test types are:

1. Integer Number Sequence: Every question requires to be solved in a specific way and the series consists of the real numbers, fractions, and decimals.
2. Rational Number Sequence: These numbers are usually written as a quotient or fraction where both denominator and numerator are made of integers.
3. Arithmetic Sequence: It consists of a sequence wherein the following term originates through the addition of a constant to its precursor. It can be solved through a formula provided by the formula Xn = x1 + (n – 1) d
4. Geometric Sequence: It consists of multiplying to group wherein the subsequent term begins the precursor through a constant. Its formula is Xn = x1 r n-1
5. Fibonacci Series: It consists a sequence wherein the following term is originated through adding the preceding two. Its formulas are: a) F0 = 0, F1 = 1 b) Fn = Fn -1 + Fn -2

Strategy and Techniques

Solving sequence or series questions is the art of identifying patterns within the given flow of numbers. The task may become easier for the candidate if he is familiar with the types of sequences generally given in these tests. The sequences may consist of simple addition or subtraction, simple multiplication, prime numbers, binomial arithmetic operations on the previous two numbers, exponents, interleaved sequences, fractions, etc.

Approaching a number sequence question involves two basic steps. Initially, have a look at the sequence and try to figure out the pattern out of the few elementary types of questions mentioned above. Elsewhere, initiate a quick analyzing process. But a quick look may not help figure out the pattern in the series. There may not be any addition, subtraction, fraction or exponent in the series pattern. So, now move to the second step - start analyzing the sequence by taking two numbers at a time. Subtract the first two numerals and then the second two, and search for an interleaved sequence analyzing alternate numbers in a sequence.

The result in the elementary speed checkouts is immensely subjective to one's ability to do elementary mathematics briskly and with pinpoint accuracy. Even though one may need to perform a smaller number of arithmetic calculations in the sequence tests, it is irrelevant to work out how one arrives at the solution if a simple calculation mistake is done. Although it is permissible to make use of a calculator sometimes, you should develop a tendency to estimate the correct answer as a way of counter-checking them.

Finally, questions in numerical sequence tests evaluate the candidate's ability to exploit figures in a rational and analytical manner. These questions demand a fundamental aptitude of education so that he can successfully compete with others in similar trades. Therefore, gauging one’s numerical ability is preferred for key positions in an organization rather than evaluating their educational accomplishments. The questions in these tests determine the applicant's understanding of number sequences, numerical conversion, the intermission between figures and their instinct to carry out analytical-numerical calculations. You can practice several different number sequence tests online.

How can Assessment-Training.com help you ace your Number Sequence Test?

Assessment-Training.com is your number 1 online practise aptitude test and assessment provider. We aim to help you ace your assessment by providing you with practise aptitude tests that mimic the tests used by employers and recruiters. Our test developers have years of experience in the field of occupational psychology and developed the most realistic and accurate practice tests available online. Our practise platform uses leading-edge technology and provides you feedback on your scores in form of test history, progress and performance to your norm group.

We offer a tailor-made Number Sequence Pack to fully prepare you for your assessment.

The Assessment-Training.com data science team found that candidates increased their scoring accuracy through practice and went into their assessments more confident. Remember, you need to practice to make sure you familiarize yourself with the test formats, work on your accuracy and experience performing under time pressure.