Free Criticall Practice Test - 911 Dispatcher Preparation

The Criticall Test

The Criticall test is a computer-based assessment used to ensure applicants possess the necessary skills to perform all the required duties for 911 call handler/dispatcher role. The test itself is divided into several different sections, each assessing a specific skill. Many sections of this test mimic actual tasks you will encounter daily within this profession. To become eligible for a 911 dispatcher role, you will need to pass each section of the test with flying colors.

The Structure of the Criticall Test

The Criticall test varies from county to county (or state to state) and includes many sections, such as data entry, multi-tasking, decision-making, and more. There are various question types; some are interactive, audio-based, and multiple-choice.

The main topics on this test are:

Attention to Detail:

• Data-Entry – This section of the test evaluates your ability to take various pieces of information and place them into the correct data field. This information includes addresses, phone numbers, names, etc. During this assessment, you are also are tested on your decision-making and multi-tasking skills. Additionally, you will be required to listen to information given to you via simulated calls and enter corresponding data into the correct tables. Keep in mind that throughout the course of this assessment, you are given information in various formats (written, audio, etc.).
• Cross-Referencing – This section includes address books where you are required to enter the requested data into the correct table. Additionally, you may be asked to verbally enter data via audio recordings. Regardless of the method used, it is crucial that you enter the correct data.
• Character Comparison – In this section, you are given two tables of similar data, that look nearly identical. You will need to comb through each to figure out where they differ.

Dispatcher Skills:

• Decision-Making – Dispatchers must know which emergency service(s) to send to a scene; therefore, you are tested on whether you can do so in this section of the test. Part of this section is done vocally, so instead of entering the answer into the computer, you will speak into a microphone.
• Memory Recall – Memory is such a vital part of being an emergency dispatcher. Thus, in this section of the test, you will be shown phrases, letters, or numbers and need to recall the information based on your memory. Additionally, you will need to do the same for information given in various audio segments.
• Prioritization – One major task of being a dispatcher is knowing which emergency is most severe. Therefore, you will be given scenarios and rank the urgency of the calls.
• Probability – There will be times when you won’t be able to hear the caller correctly or the caller is not being clear. To address this, there is a probability section which is designed to see how well you can decipher between potential answers.
• Map Reading – Dispatchers need to know how to read maps so they can send emergency units to the correct scene. You will need to select the best route(s), while still obeying basic traffic laws, so emergency services get to the scene safely and legally.

Basic Skills:

• Call Summarization – This section of the test is administered via audio. You will listen to either short stories or call simulations, summarize what happened, and then enter the correct addresses into appropriate the data field(s).
• Vocalization Summary – You will listen to a simulated call and answer questions based on your memory of the call.
• Reading Comprehension – You will encounter various reading material as a dispatcher; whether it's reading training materials, data from incoming calls, or from public safety services. Brushing up on this skill prior to your exams will be of great benefit to you.
• Spelling – It is important for you to send messages with the correct spelling the various emergency services so that there won't be any confusion and so the appropriate units are sent out and informed about the situation. This section of the test can be in both written and audio formats.
• Sentence Clarity – This section is an offshoot of reading comprehension where you will be given different passages that convey the same message and then need to choose the passage that makes the most sense.
• Math – Being savvy with numbers is an important part of being a 911 handler/dispatcher. In this field, you are required to keep track of responding to units, how many units are in each district, the number of people at the emergency, and the total number of emergency responders that are at a scene.

Passing Scores of Criticall Test

Different sections of the Criticall exam have different passing requirements, so it is important to prepare for this exam while keeping the test standards in mind. Below you will find the passing scores for each of the different sections you will encounter on the Criticall Dispatcher test:

Free Criticall-Dispatcher Test Sample Questions

Below you will find various sample questions you are likely to encounter when taking the Criticall Dispatcher test. Try to answer each question prior to looking at the answers and explanations.

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Criticall Dispatcher Test Tips

Below you will find several Criticall test tips aimed at helping you pass:

1. Practice before your testing session. – It is crucial for you to strengthen your skills in each area evaluated during the Criticall exam. Build up your speed and accuracy to be able to achieve a higher score during testing. Using our unique test prep materials will allow you to quickly work through each section of the test without a hitch.
   Note: Using the practice questions before each question on the actual test can further improve your chances of success. Even if you have practiced previously, you may still wish to use these sample questions instead of bypassing the preview altogether.
2. Be sure to follow all the instructions provided during the test. – Each section that you will encounter on the Criticall Dispatcher test will come with its own set of rules to follow. Be sure to read through and understand these instructions prior to starting each new section.
   Note: Learning these Decision Rules prior to your testing day will further increase your answering speed and accuracy.
3. Keep in mind that the Criticall Dispatcher test uses a negative marking scheme during scoring. – Unless you are informed otherwise in the instructions for each section, you will be penalized if you skip any questions during the test. Practicing beforehand will give you a better understanding of what to expect in each section ultimately increasing your ability to quickly and accurately answer each question.
4. Improve your typing speed and accuracy. – Have a friend or family member read out information to you while you try to keep up typing it out. You may also find the use of typing tests useful for improving this skill. We offer a comprehensive Typing Test PrepPack™ to assist you in this area.
5. Keep the “Num Lock” (number lock) key function turned on throughout the duration of the test. – Doing so has been shown to help Criticall test takers the ability to work even faster than without this function enabled.
6. Make sure that you view all the information on the page prior to answering the associated question(s). – You may need to use the scroll bars located on the right side of your screen to view any information that may be hidden. Doing so will increase your chances of answering the question quickly and accurately.
7. Be aware of the different question and answer formats. – These formats include data-entry, speaking, and multiple-choice.
8. Improve your short-term and long-term memory recall abilities. – A major part of becoming a 911 call dispatcher is to recall important notes and descriptions regarding each incident. For example, red car, blue boat, green shirt, etc. You should also be able to recall pieces of information that you hear, such as telephone numbers or license plate numbers (for a short period of time).
9. Work on your map reading skills. – It is said that you will not need formal map-reading training prior to taking this test, however, you should have a good grasp on directions (e.g. “left” and “right”). You can also practice giving instructions from a very simple map. For example, using the terms "left" and "right", as well as "North", "East", "South", and "West". Our prep materials used in conjunction with self-made maps on Google are great places to improve this skill.
10. Improve your reading and writing skills. – Dispatchers must be able to read and write clearly. Work on correctly spelling commonly used words which sound alike so as not to delay badly needed assistance if they are misspelled (e.g., “patience” instead of “patients”, etc.). It may also be helpful for you to practice your reading skills to further enhance your skill level.
11. Practice transcribing information you hear. – Have a friend or a family member read and spell out a person’s first and last name from a telephone book. You should find the address associated with that name on your own. Enter this information into your computer exactly as it appears in the book. Use this exercise consistently until you develop a high degree of proficiency at locating and correctly entering this sort of information.
12. Find videos of the Criticall assessment in use. – Finding resources showing this testing system being used will assist you in navigating the actual test on your assessment day. This can boost your ability to complete your exam as quickly and accurately as possible.

Criticall Dispatcher Test FAQ