What is a Mental Aptitude Test?

A mental aptitude test is a test that measures a person's ability to think, learn, and interpret information in a practical manner. The test is not an IQ test, but could be scored like one. In some cases, employers or potential employers may use the test to determine which candidates are best able to perform certain job duties, but the test is also different from career aptitude tests. While it is difficult to completely prepare for a mental aptitude test, there are things that can be done to improve a score.

Depending on how the test is set up and its purpose, a mental aptitude test could have several parts. These parts may test mental acuity through questions or problems that demonstrate a person's ability to think, solve problems, and adapt to changing situations. Employers often expect candidates to be able to deal with these situations on a daily basis, especially those involved in careers such as sales and management. Therefore, testing in these areas may be especially valuable for the employer.

Although the mental acuity may be a large portion of the test, but other portions may also be just as important. Some mental aptitude tests may also measure a person's knowledge in basic subjects, such as language, grammar and mathematics. These skills are important in the workplace, where calculations and communications form the foundation for many different types of jobs. Questions in these sections may get progressively harder.

In some circumstances, a mental aptitude test could contain other sections, such as verifying an individual's business or engineering knowledge, along with current events. Generally, these tests are used to cover basic ideas, not technical information. Current events testing provides insight into how engaged and curious individuals may be with the world around them.

Generally, it is important to be accurate on a mental aptitude test, but speed is often a consideration also. If the test is computer based, it could be scored partially on the time it takes to answer some questions, or to finish the test as a whole. For paper-based tests, the person's total time to complete the test could also be a factor in scoring. If there is a question about whether time matters, the test taker should ask prior to sitting down with the test.

Scoring well on mental aptitude tests requires having a mind prepared for the test. As with any examination, it is important to stay relaxed and be rested before the test begins. Foods with generous amounts of lecithin, such as walnuts and spinach may also help. Lecithin is supposed to aid neurotransmitters in the brain.