How to prepare for a test

It does not matter what type of test you are going to take: don't give up on preparation and take as much time for it as possible. Here are the tips that will help you to coach yourself to win.

1. Determine the type of test you will take
Many companies specify this in their job ads or on their website, in the career section. Once you find out the type of test, see who the author is: most test developers share the preparation and solving tips.

2. Take as many practice tests as possible
After you've found out the test type, don't waste your time, take as many trial tests as possible. Use the special resources to train for this round. You will have to pay for some of them: 200 to 800 roubles for a selection of tests. Practice will increase your chances to succeed and will let you understand the overall task logic.

3. Map out a training plan and follow it
Try to devote time to practice every day. First, this way you will avoid sleepless nights before the test, and second, your mindset with adapt to comprehending the assignment logic better.

4. Practice in real-life conditions
Experts recommend taking three tests of each type without a time limit, checking against the correct answers, if needed, and taking one test against the clock, without looking up the correct answers. This method will help you to prepare for the testing and to learn how to make good decisions under limitations.

5. Practice on more complex tests
Many of the tests mentioned above resemble the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test), a standardized test in English that assesses the candidate's analytical abilities. It is taken when enrolling in MBA, MA, PhD, and EMBA programs. If you want some hardcore preparation, go for the GMAT. The candidates selected by the Big3 and the Big4 choose the GMAT as the best training.

6. Practice mental math
Calculators are not allowed at some tests. So, start developing your mental math skills. You can begin by memorizing the table of squares up to 20 and percent calculations. Bonus: mental arithmetic will save the time spent on testing and enhance your mental abilities: attention, memory, alertness, switching between multiple thought flows, and the meditation skill.

7. Develop analytical thinking
Logical thinking comes from the skill of collecting data, drawing schemes, making initial conclusions, and planning further steps. This algorithm underlies the majority of tests. No time for participating in discussions or learning to play chess? Even novel plots can hone your logical thinking. Just ask yourself these simple questions. Why did the character act like this in the circumstances? What else could have been done?