SHL Tests: Free Samples Tests & Complete Prep Guide 2020
Practice 4 Free Sample SHL Tests: Numerical, Verbal, Logical-Inductive and Deductive & Learn Expert Solving Tips
Content Table:
- What Are SHL Tests?
- Free Tests
- SHL Expert Prep Guides
- Sample Questions & Tips
- SHL Personality Tests
- SHL SJT Sample
- Understand SHL Test Score
- Useful Resources
What Are SHL Tests?
SHL (CEB) is one of the largest test providers worldwide. For example, in the UK, approximately 25% of our users reported that their test provider is SHL.
The tests conducted by SHL are one of the first screening stages between you and your new job. They assess your abilities compared to your competition and leave only the most suitable applicants.
In general, SHL tests disqualify about 80% of candidates. Therefore it's imperative that you prepare yourself for them.
Although SHL offers a vast selection of tests on multiple categories, you will likely go through both cognitive ability tests and behavioral tests.
Some of the leading employers using SHL are PwC, McKinsey, EIB, Amazon, HSBC and Morgan Stanley, but that's just the tip of the iceberg (our PrepPacks™ cover all known companies that use SHL.)
SHL Ability Tests: Measuring your Talent in Specific Problem-Solving Skills
SHL psychometric tests, commonly known as "Verify Tests," are online talent measurement tests designed to measure specific problem-solving abilities in 8 areas that are considered necessary for various jobs.
They include numerical, verbal, inductive, deductive, calculation, mechanical, checking, and general ability.
According to SHL's official website, verify tests are designed to 'identify the candidates with the right abilities and potential to succeed in the role.'
Free SHL Practice Tests
Complete your test to get a predicted score, then review your answers.
SHL Numerical |
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| Test Time | 12 min |
| Questions | 9 |
| Pass Score | 8 |
SHL Verbal |
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| Test Time | 10 min |
| Questions | 14 |
| Pass Score | 8 |
SHL Deductive |
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|---|---|
| Test Time | 14 min |
| Questions | 9 |
| Pass Score | 8 |
SHL Inductive |
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|---|---|
| Test Time | 9 min |
| Questions | 8 |
| Pass Score | 8 |
Practise 1,000s of SHL Test Questions |
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Access 1,000s more questions that simulate your actual test. Just a few days of practice can get you to your assessment knowing just what to expect. |
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Dominate your Coming Assessment:
4 Prep Guides for Your SHL Tests
After researching these tests in-depth, we are confident that you have much to gain by taking advantage of our resources.
Each of these test prep guides will equip you with a free test, and walk you through sample questions and solving tips to help you start improving your test performance.
Moreover, if you're already serious about really preparing for your test (especially if you're short on time) consider prepping with our full SHL practice offering - it's designed to get you up to speed within just a few days.
SHL Sample Questions & Expert Solving Tips
In the next series of paragraphs, you will sample numerical, verbal, inductive, and SJT tests.
We have broken down each subject to give you a better feel of each one, allowing you to comprehend what is needed to pass your exam more easily.
SHL Numerical Reasoning Sample: Tables and Graphs
The SHL numerical test generally presents math equations in the form of tables and graphs similar to the one you previously solved.
Frequently, questions will relate to 'time change.' Your task is to calculate, examine, and interpret the changes presented in the question.
A few things to note:
- Depending on the specific assessment, calculators may or may not be allowed. Thus, be prepared for either eventuality.
- The number of questions and solving time for SHL numerical tests vary depending on your position.
- SHL also administers tests geared specifically towards calculation abilities.
Try it:
Example 1: Numerical
Share Sales and Dividend
In the first half of the year, what was the total cost of buying 450 HPQ shares at their highest price and a fifth of this amount of DELL shares at their lowest price?
✔️ The correct answer is (D) £12,330
According to the table, the highest price of HPQ shares in the first half of the year
(i.e. between Jan-June) was £25.
Thus, the cost of 450 HPQ shares was: 25 x 450 = £11,250.
According to the table, the lowest price of DELL shares in the first half of the year
(i.e. between Jan-June) was £12.
The question specifies that the number of DELL shares bought was 1/5 of the number of HPQ shares (=450).
Hence, the number of DELL shares bought was: 450 x 1/5 = 90 shares.
Thus, the cost of DELL shares was: 12 x 90 = £1,080.
Therefore, the total cost of the transaction was: 11,250 + 1,080 = £12,330
Visit our SHL numerical test page for more in-depth examples and preparation tips.
SHL Verbal Reasoning Sample: True, False & Cannot Say
The SHL verbal test will be presented you with a paragraph. You will then be asked to determine the validity of statements based upon it.
These tests are commonly known as TFC (true/false/cannot say) tests.
- A true statement follows logically from the information or opinions contained in the passage.
- A false statement is logically fabricated from the information or opinions contained in the passage.
- Cannot say is used if you cannot determine whether the statement is true or false based on the information given in the text.
Example 2: Verbal
Read the passage and answer the following question:
Companies wishing to increase their growth rate occasionally employed the method of franchising, which provides a new owner with a permit to use their business identity, and in return, they purchase products exclusively from the company. However, today, most companies aim to minimise the use of this method and often prefer expansion of the companies' own branches. Companies that have used franchising have learnt the necessity of monitoring the business operation of the franchised branch. Inadequate attention to the monitoring of franchises on the part of the companies was typically the cause of sundry problems. Difficulties arose from franchisees and companies disagreeing on business policies such as customer care, service delivery efficiency, and quality of human interaction.
Thus, overseeing the company's franchises is required to minimise various difficulties.
✔️ The correct answer is true.
The passage states, 'Companies that have used franchising have learnt the necessity of monitoring the business operation of the franchised branch.
Inadequate attention to the monitoring of franchises on the part of the companies was typically the cause of sundry problems'.
It can be concluded, to prevent various problems (sundry means various), a company must oversee its franchisees' business operations.
Therefore, the argument is true.
Visit our SHL verbal reasoning page for a comprehensive study guide, tips, tricks and more question examples.
SHL Inductive Reasoning Sample: Identify the Pattern/Find the Next in the Series
In the SHL inductive test presents the test taker with a row of abstract figures.
You need to identify the underlying pattern of the sequence and choose the figure that comes next in the series from the possible answers. This type of question is commonly known as a next in series.
Example 3: Inductive/Logical
✔️ The correct answer is A
Each frame contains four lines that change their direction and position alternately.
In each step, the four lines either rotate 90° or move closer together to the centre of the frame.
Thus, just as the first, third and fifth frames create an X, the second, fourth and sixth frames create a diamond.
SHL Deductive Reasoning Sample: Use Logic on Given Data
Unlike verbal tests, where the required piece of data is typically hidden in a larger textual context; deductive reasoning has its data up-front.
The challenge is to follow the logic and quickly draw the correct conclusion.
SHL deductive tests contain two types of questions:
Syllogisms: The word 'syllogism' ('conclusion' in Greek) can be found in the works of Greek philosophers, mainly Aristotle. Syllogism questions present you with a number of premises (taken as true). You are requested to decide which conclusions follow.
Seating Arrangements: Named after the mother-in-law’s favorite part of the wedding; this type of question presents you with a set of rules that must be followed in order to arrange a number of objects, people, etc. It is your job to decide the correct order following the listed rules.
Example 4: Deductive
- Tim lives in a big apartment
- Abby lives in a small apartment
- There are no big apartments in Tinyville
- Small apartments have one bedroom
Which statement must be true?
✔️ The correct answer is (C) (Abby's apartment has one bedroom).
According to the data, Abby lives in a small apartment, and small apartments have one bedroom. Therefore, Abby's apartment has one bedroom.
Answer (A) – Since Tim lives in a big apartment and there are no big apartments in Tinyville, the conclusion that Tim lives there is illogical.
Answer (B) – According to the data, Tinyville has no big apartments. No information is provided that contradicts the suggestion that Abby lives there. However, not enough information is available to corroborate it, either.
Answer (D) – The fourth fact says that small apartments have one bedroom. However, there is no way of telling whether that also holds true for big apartments.
SHL Behavioral Tests: a Different Category Altogether
Behavioral tests focus on the personality traits and behaviors relevant for the job.
These examinations differ from cognitive ability tests as they try to evaluate your behavior, work-related skills and personality traits together. Thus, we made it its own guide.
SHL SJT Sample: Real Situations on the Job
SJTs, or situational judgement tests, measure your behavioral and compare it to the role you are applying for.
Thus, the test presents you with real situations you may encounter on the job and presents you with viable multiple choice options to handle each situation.
Your task is to choose what you would likely do if the opportunity presented itself.
A typical SJT has 12 to 25 scenarios with no time limit or offers enough time to read, contemplate and answer all questions comfortably.
Commonly used SJT question types:
- Choose two viable responses in the given situation.
- Pick what you consider is the best response.
- Rank all responses from most likely to least likely typically on a numerical scale.
Try it:
Example 5: SJT
You run a staff of 20 people. You have made a conscious effort to establish good relationships between team members and have managed to build a cooperative team. The atmosphere is positive, and your team members seem to enjoy each other’s company, forming friendly connections. However, in the last couple of weeks, you have begun to feel that the atmosphere is 'too fun', as people take long breaks and procrastinate. You are happy that your employees enjoy coming to work, but you also want to make sure that work is actually being done. You want to establish some regulations regarding breaks in the workplace, including the number of authorized breaks per workday, the number of employees who can take a coffee break at the same time, and the need to request a break before taking it.
How should you implement these changes?
A) Gradually and sensitively make a comment to individual employees when they take breaks so that the new rules become habits.
B) Gather the team for a serious discussion on the current situation and introduce the new rules, explaining that things got out of hand and we need more discipline.
C) Send a memo that simply states the new regulations. There’s no need to turn this into something dramatic.
D) Assemble a meeting, explain that there has been some procrastination lately, introduce the regulations, and say that you wish to keep the good atmosphere while also maintaining productivity.
✔️ The best response is (D)
Primary Competency: Effective communication
Secondary Competency: Maintaining authority
In this question, you aim to set boundaries (by introducing changes) while also maintaining a good atmosphere and team motivation.
Response A aims to avoid conflict surrounding the changes you wish to implement, as well as to avoid offending anyone. However, it’s unlikely that so many changes will go 'unnoticed'.
Additionally, this response includes indirect, and ineffective, communication. Making individual comments to every employee could make each comment seem personal.
A serious discussion (response B) is a more direct method of communication. However, a dramatic discussion might seem reprimanding and discourage the team.
Sending a memo (response C) is, again, an indirect means of communication. The team is left without any explanation about the changes and without the opportunity to respond to them.
Response D includes an actual discussion, which comprises an explanation for the changes and an option for the team to respond.
In addition, you let the team know that you do appreciate the friendly atmosphere and hope that it remains.
Of the given options, this response best combines discipline and motivation.
SHL and ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems)
ATS is a software application which manages and tracks the company's application process. ATS is estimated to be used by 50–80% of companies.
Larger companies tend to use ATS more often than smaller ones.
ATS is mostly used early on in the application process, and performs the initial sift of candidates. Most candidates will not pass this stage.
Some of the leading companies SHL works with are Taleo, Greenhouse, iCims and Workday.
What is Unique about SHL Tests?
SHL tests differ from other exams because of their specific format. This includes which tests they use and how they request you to answer the questions.
Below are the main features of SHL assessments:
- Every applicant gets a different series of questions. These questions are randomly drawn from an existing question bank.
- To further prevent cheating, some SHL tests are administered twice.
- Although many topics are covered, each question has a specific format.
How does the SHL Selection Process Work?
Normally, the selection process is comprised in 4 stages:
1. Online Cognitive Ability Tests: The purpose of online testing is to filter candidates, allowing the top 20% to move to the next stage.
This allows only the most relevant and talented people to enter the company. Typically, the online tests consist of only one or two tests and are medium in length.
2. In-house Verification Test: After passing stage 1, you will be invited to participate in additional tests at the company's facility. The stage is put in place to reassess and confirm your ability.
This test will be shorter than the one you took at home and will not be graded. It will simply verify and compare your results from the test taken from home. Learn more about the SHL Verify method.
3. Interview: Next, you will be asked to sit an interview with the employer.
4. Behavioral Test/Assessment Center: Congratulations, you have reached the last stage of the process! Behavioral tests (or personality tests) will assess your personality traits and fit for the job.
In an assessment Center, you will go through different activities and exercises that simulate your future work environment.
There, your interpersonal, communication and problem-solving skills will be assessed.
Important Notice: A candidate who is disqualified in one of the stages is 'marked' as such in the SHL candidate pool.
Therefore, this can also affect future job possibilities with other employers.
How are SHL Tests Scored?
It is safe to assume that candidates who score below an SHL grade C will be disqualified.
In short, SHL tests compare the candidate’s cognitive potential to the average level of a reference group (people with similar age, education or vocation).
- If you don't know the answer guess. As a general principle, the score is calculated based on your correct answers. Therefore, if you don't know the correct answer, guess.
- You have to do better than your norm group. Your raw score (the number of correct answers) means very little. The interpretation of the score is done by comparing it to the average in your norm group to reveal your percentile.
The percentile is where you rank compared to the group. If you rank on the 80th percentile, you have done better than 80% of your norm group. - How is the pass score determined? Your relevant norm group and cut-score (the passing score of your test) are determined by the employer in collaboration with past job candidates from SHL. That data is based on both industry and job level.
- Results example. Take a sneak peek at this sample report from 2011. Although it's dated, it will help you visualize more terms.
You can classify your SHL scores on an A-E scale and compare it to your norm group:
| Grade | Meaning |
Percentile (Approximate) |
| A | Well above average |
90-100 |
| B |
Above average |
70-89 |
| C |
Average |
30-69 |
| D |
Below average |
10-29 |
| E |
Well below average |
0-9 |
Remember, it is safe to assume that candidates below SHL grade C will be disqualified. Take a peek at the below graph to better comprehend:
Quick Recap
- We learned that SHL is one of the top test providers used around the globe. It heavily focuses on cognitive and behavioral tests which include numerical reasoning, verbal, inductive and deductive reasoning.
- The tests are used during the hiring process to measure specific problem-solving areas that pertain to the job. Also, the tests are typically given in a multiple-choice format.
- You were also introduced to various sample questions with tips to further help you along. The SHL selection process was also revealed to give you a better idea of what to expect.
- Furthermore, we broke down how SHL is scored. Here we learned that guessing on the test is fine since only your correct answers will be counted.
- Your raw score will then be compared to a norm group that is similar to your entry-level and profession.
- We also presented a table to share SHL's grading system that is on a scale A-E. Remember you must score above 80% if you expect to make it to the next stage of the hiring process.
