An aptitude test is an exam or survey used to determine an individuals skill or propensity to succeed in a given activity. Aptitude tests are designed to assess what a person is capable of doing or to predict what a person is able to learn or do given the right environment. They assume that individuals have inherent strengths and weaknesses and have a natural inclination toward success or failure in specific areas based on their innate characteristics. Aptitude tests are generally used for job placement, college program entry, and to help people get an idea of where their interests and aptitudes can take them regarding careers.

Aptitude tests measure ones competence in logical reasoning, numerical skills, or verbal ability. Competency can be evaluated through problem-solving tasks and testing ones critical thinking across various contexts. The questions that one will be asked in an aptitude test will vary based on the type of role they are applying for. They may ask one to identify a missing number, shape or image at the end of a series, or they might give a written scenario that one will answer questions from.

Aptitude tests are scientifically designed around principles of psychology and offer an objective and reliable way of assessing an individual’s core strengths. They are a great way for a hiring manager to gauge a candidate’s suitability to a role. Aptitude tests are usually done via an online platform, however, businesses may invite one into the office to take these tests too. The primary purpose of an aptitude test is to determine ones capability. Instead of looking at what one knows, it looks at ones learning capacity, and ones ability to work with new information in an effective manner. This gives a strong indication of how well one is likely to perform in a particular setting, be it educational or professional.