What is SHL General Ability Test?
The SHL General Ability Test (Verify G+) or SHL aptitude test is a widely utilized cognitive assessment aimed at gauging an individual’s reasoning and problem-solving abilities.
Employers and organizations leverage this test to assess a candidate’s proficiency in analysing patterns, interpreting numerical data, and making logical conclusions effectively.
Versions of SHL Test
The SHL General Ability Test comes in two versions:
Interactive Version: This format requires test-takers to manipulate elements directly on the screen to solve problems.
Standard Version: A traditional multiple-choice format where candidates select the correct answer from given options.
Regardless of the version, the test is structured into three key cognitive segments:
Inductive Ability – Measures pattern recognition and logical reasoning.
Numerical Ability – Tests mathematical reasoning and data interpretation.
Deductive Ability – Assesses logical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Format of the Standard SHL Assessment
The standard SHL General Ability Test consists of 30 multiple-choice questions to be answered in 36 minutes. Each cognitive segment is assigned 8 to 10 questions, making it essential for candidates to manage time effectively.
| Section | Number of Questions |
| Inductive Ability | 8 to 10 Questions |
| Numerical Ability | 8 to 10 Questions |
| Deductive Ability | 8 to 10 Questions |
| Total | 30 Questions |
Regarding difficulty level, SHL test questions can be moderate to highly difficult.
SHL General Ability Topics and Sample Questions
Inductive Ability
This section evaluates a candidate’s pattern recognition skills by assessing how well they can identify sequences and relationships in shapes and figures.
Inductive Ability Sample Question
Use the image at the top of the page to determine the correct response option from those listed below. Select the response choice that replaces the question mark. If no question mark exists, you are to select the response choice that comes next to the sequence.
Answer:
The Correct Answer is Option C
The arrow rotates clockwise, the dot moves around the square anticlockwise, and the triangle moves around the square clockwise.
Numerical Ability
This section tests a candidate’s ability to work with numbers, interpret data, and solve mathematical problems. Common Question Types:
Data Interpretation: Understanding graphs, charts, and tables.
Word Problems: Applying arithmetic, percentages, and ratios in real-world scenarios.
Numerical Ability Sample Question
The table below displays the Expenditures of a Company (in m$ per Annum Over the given Years.
In which year was the ratio of “Taxes” to “Interest on Loans” the highest?
A) 1998 B) 1999 C) 2000 D) 2001 E) 2002
Answer:
To find the answer, we need to calculate the ratio of “Taxes” to “Interest on Loans” for each year and determine which year has the highest ratio.
From the table, here are the values for “Taxes” and “Interest on Loans” for each year:
- 1998: Taxes = 83, Interest on Loans = 23.4
- 1999: Taxes = 108, Interest on Loans = 32.5
- 2000: Taxes = 74, Interest on Loans = 41.6
- 2001: Taxes = 88, Interest on Loans = 36.4
- 2002: Taxes = 98, Interest on Loans = 49.4
Now, let’s calculate the ratio of “Taxes” to “Interest on Loans” for each year:
1998 Ratio=83/23.4≈3.55
1999 Ratio=108/32.5≈3.32
2000 Ratio=74/41.6≈1.78
2001 Ratio=88/36.4≈2.42
2002 Ratio=98/49.4≈1.98
Comparing these ratios, the highest ratio is in 1998, with a value of approximately 3.55.
Answer:
A) 1998
Deductive Ability
This section measures a candidate’s ability to draw logical conclusions from given statements or rules.
Deductive Ability Sample Question
Statement: “All engineers are problem-solvers. Some problem-solvers are mathematicians.”
Which of the following must be true?
a) All mathematicians are engineers.
b) Some engineers are mathematicians.
c) Some problem-solvers are engineers.
d) None of the above.
Answer:
Given these conditions, the option that must be true is:
- c) Some problem-solvers are engineers.
This is true because all engineers are problem-solvers, as stated.
SHL General Ability Test Scores
The SHL General Ability Test provides a percentile-based score, comparing a candidate’s performance to that of other test-takers. Employers receive insights into a candidate’s cognitive strengths and weaknesses based on their score in each segment.
To pass the assessment, you generally need to score at least in the 80th percentile, meaning your score must be higher than at least 80% of the comparison group.
Viewing Your Score: Whether you can view your score after the test depends on the situation.
In some cases, you will receive a detailed score report showing your exact percentile score in each section.
Other times, you will only see your performance grade relative to your comparison group.
Tips to Ace SHL General Ability Tests
To excel in the SHL General Ability Test, candidates should:
- Understand the Test Format: Familiarize yourself with question types.
- Practice Regularly: Use SHL practice tests to improve.
- Time Management: Answer questions within time limits.
- Improve Weak Areas: Focus on strengthening skills.
SHL General Ability Test Prep
- 6 Full Length SHL General Ability Practice Tests
- Understand the types of questions frequently asked on SHL assessments.
- Detailed Explanations, Tips, and Tricks for In-depth preparation
- Learn detailed strategies for tackling each section with confidence.