What is the Mechanical Aptitude test?
Mechanical Aptitude tests are examinations designed to measure a candidate’s capacity for understanding physical concepts and mechanical models. The test is used in the evaluation process of a variety of industries and jobs, most common among them being manufacturing and energy industries. The test is also used by the U.S. military for evaluating candidates’ mechanical knowledge during the recruitment process.
How does the Mechanical Aptitude test work?
The tests are divided into four sections, namely: verbal, math, science and technical, and spatial. Each section consists of multiple choice questions which assess the candidate’s knowledge in the respective subject, and their inclination towards learning new concepts rather than simply acquiring profession specific skill. Each section is further divided into sub-sections which contain questions on vocabulary, arithmetic and mathematical reasoning, and paragraph comprehension. Most questions include a circuit diagram. The test is offered on both a computer or on paper.
What are the main types Mechanical Aptitude tests?
Even though most mechanical aptitude tests are structured according to the above mentioned format, a single test is not reliable to assess the knowledge of candidates working in different industries. For instance, the kind of mechanical knowledge that a flight pilot or a military officer needs is not the same as what a plumber or an electrician will require. Therefore, industries slightly alter the format of the test to make it more relevant for the job profile that the candidate wishes to apply for.
The two most common types of mechanical aptitude tests are:
Bennett Mechanical Comprehension Test (BMCT)
The BMCT is the most reliable and the most widely used among all mechanical aptitude examinations. The test is mainly used for the evaluation of candidates in machinery and engineering industries.
Wiesen Test of Mechanical Aptitude (WTMA)
The WTMA is a mechanical aptitude examination designed for applicants contesting for repair positions, and tests their capability to understand, operate, conserve and repair machines and everyday appliances. The test consists of illustrated questions about situations and problems regarding such objects.
What industries use Mechanical Aptitude tests for evaluation?
The Mechanical Aptitude tests are used for the evaluation of prospective candidate in a number of industries. Some of the popular companies and organizations which use the test are:
- Delta Airlines
- Amazon
- Nestle
- Coca-Cola
- Valero
- Phillips
- Walmart
- IBEW
- PepsiCo
What kinds of jobs use Mechanical Aptitude test for evaluating applicants?
The Mechanical Aptitude tests are taken by professionals like engineers, maintenance personnel, aircraft and vehicular mechanics, carpenters, electricians, repair persons, on-retail sales personnel, welders, industrial technicians, transportation operators, technical support personnel, installation people and other skilled maintenance workers.
How difficult is the Mechanical Aptitude test?
Even though the test sounds extremely difficult, it is easier than it appears. The test basically measures the candidates’ aptitude to understand mechanical concepts through diagram and models, and their ability to use this understanding professionally. Thus, by concentrating on physical principles and sharpening mechanical skills, a candidate can pass the test without much complication.
How important is the Mechanical Aptitude test for my evaluation?
As mentioned above, the mechanical aptitude test is not difficult to pass. However, that does not mean that the candidate is not required to prepare for the exam. The purpose of the test is to assess the mechanical comprehension of prospective candidates. Therefore, the exam determines their eligibility in their respective industry instead of simply checking if they are fit for a particular job. It is for this reason that the test is the most important part of the evaluation process in the industries where it is used.
What kind abilities or knowledge do I need to have to pass the Mechanical Aptitude test?
The mechanical aptitude test mainly measures two set of abilities:
- The candidate’s awareness of mechanical concepts and principles and their knack for understanding new developments in their industry
- The candidate’s flair to efficiently implement the concepts and principles they know or learn
Why is preparing for the Mechanical Aptitude test important?
Like we stated earlier, mechanical aptitude tests play a significant role in the evaluation of a candidate. Moreover, the tests measure the candidates’ aptitude for a particular industry and not a specific job. Hence, it is important to be well prepared for the test to succeed.
What are the practice tips you would suggest for taking the Mechanical Aptitude test?
Following are the practice tips you can follow to prepare for your Mechanical Aptitude test:
- To succeed in your test, it is important you plan a study schedule and stick to it. Take out at least 30 to 60 minutes every day to study and work harder on you weaker areas. Frequently take practice or mock tests to trace your progress.
- While preparing for the test, work on increasing your speed as the test is lengthy and requires candidates to be fast and accurate. Calculate the time you take to answer each question and try to lessen it. Your target time for answering each question should be 20 to 30 seconds.
- While taking the test, work out a balance between the allotted time and the number of questions you need to answer. Answer the questions you know thoroughly first. According to the test makers, the test is completed by only 5% of the takers. So, do not panic and focus on answering maximum of questions.
- Since the test is lengthy with insufficient time to complete it, don’t dwell on difficult questions that you do not know. Complete the questions you know the answers to and come back to left out questions later if you have time.
- Confirm if your test providers deduct marks for incorrect answers, and guess answers to questions you don’t know accordingly. Don’t guess thoughtlessly without realizing its consequences.
To sum things up
The above article briefly summarizes all important aspects of the Mechanical Aptitude test, like its format, content, and evaluation process. The article will help you attain a clear idea of what the test is about and what to expect on the day of the test. For mechanical aptitude test preparation, take help from practice tests and example tests to ensure that you are ready to take your exam. Follow the practice tips provided in the article for better results. There are several job practice tests and career practice exams to aid you in your preparation of the test and to improve your success rates at the exam.
About the Practice Guide
Our practice guide for Mechanical Aptitude tests is the ideal way to prepare for the examination. The guide consists of numerous practice and mock tests, along with preparation tips and preparatory tackles to ensure better results of the candidate. The sample test papers contain innumerable multiple choice questions which help the candidate gain familiarity about the exam and the kind of questions to expect on the test day. The guide provides the candidate a platform to prepare for the test, track their progress, improve their performance and gain confidence about their results. With our guide, start studying now and work hard for exceptional test scores.