What are mechanical reasoning tests?
Mechanical reasoning tests are designed to put your mechanical and electrical knowledge to the test. Questions will be related to a series of different pictures or diagrams, and you’ll have around 40 seconds per question to work out the answer.
The topics covered are varied, but brushing up on your knowledge of electrical circuits, voltage, transformation, pressure and energy is a good idea.
This test is quite specialised, so it’s usually only set for roles in which the skills being tested will form part of your day-to-day work.
It’s not common in the legal sector, but certainly possible, so if you’ve been asked to take a mechanical reasoning test this is the best place to find out more.
Why do employers use mechanical reasoning tests?
Employers will set this test if they need to take a closer look at your electrical and mechanical knowledge. The test will also give them a good idea as to whether you cope well under time pressure, as you’ll normally only have around 40 seconds to read each question and select the correct multiple-choice answer.
The test is helpful for employers as it offers an alternative way to differentiate between prospective candidates.
What is the mechanical reasoning test format?
You’ll have a range of different questions to answer, and around 40 seconds to respond to each one.
The subject matter will always be focused on mechanics and electrics, so questions could cover things such as voltage, energy, pulleys and maps.
Getting used to the test format is one of the best ways you can equip yourself to do well - and we have lots of practice mechanical reasoning tests on our website.
What skills does mechanical reasoning test?
The key skills you’re being tested on are mechanical and electrical, as well as your ability to do well under test conditions.
The topics covered in the test could be varied, but we recommend brushing up on things such as circuits, energy, force and voltage. The more you practice and prepare the better you’ll do on the day - we really can’t stress this enough!
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Sample Mechanical Reasoning Test question Test your knowledge!
What happens to the resistance in a circuit if the length of the wire is doubled and the diameter remains the same?
- The resistance is halved.
- The resistance is doubled.
- The resistance remains the same.
- The resistance quadruples.
Which of the following options is true when a lever is used to lift a heavy object?
- The effort needed to lift the object is directly proportional to the length of the lever.
- The force required to lift the object decreases as the length of the lever increases.
- The weight of the object decreases as the length of the lever increases.
- The lever's material has no impact on the effort needed to lift the object.
If a gear system consists of gears with 10, 20, and 30 teeth respectively, what is the gear ratio of the system?
- 10:20:30
- 1:2:3
- 30:20:10
- 3:2:1
A coil spring is compressed to half of its original length. How is the potential energy in the spring affected?
- The potential energy is halved.
- The potential energy remains the same.
- The potential energy is quadrupled.
- The potential energy is doubled.
In a hydraulic system, if the diameter of the master cylinder is twice that of the slave cylinder, how does this affect the force applied at the slave cylinder?
- The force is quadrupled.
- The force is halved.
- The force remains the same.
- There is not enough information to determine the force.
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Mechanical Reasoning Test Tips
- Gear Up with the Basics
Before you dive into practice tests, ensure you have a solid grasp of basic mechanical principles. Refresh your knowledge on concepts such as force, energy, and electricity. Understanding these core ideas will give you a strong foundation to build upon as you tackle the more complex questions on your Mechanical Reasoning test.
- Understand the Question
It's easy to rush through questions, especially under time constraints, but take a moment to fully understand what's being asked. Read each question carefully and try to visualize the problem in your head. This will help you apply the correct mechanical principle and avoid common pitfalls.
- Stay Calm Under Pressure
The timed aspect of these tests can be nerve-wracking, so practice staying calm while you work. Pace yourself during practice exams by keeping an eye on the timer without letting it overwhelm you. As you become more comfortable with the timing, you'll find it easier to maintain your composure during the real test.
- Practice with Purpose
Grab every opportunity to practice with Law Tests' exam suite tailored to mimic the actual test conditions. Repetition is key to familiarity, so the more you practice, the better you'll understand the types of questions to expect. Also, review the explanations for both your right and wrong answers to improve your understanding.
- Create a Realistic Test Environment
To truly prepare, simulate the test environment during your practice sessions. Find a quiet space, set a timer, and resist the urge to look up answers. The goal is to mimic the conditions you'll face on test day to reduce anxiety and increase your problem-solving efficiency when it matters most.
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Mechanical Reasoning Test FAQs
- How are mechanical reasoning tests scored?
When you’ve completed your test it will be marked and then compared to a normative group - this gives the employer a chance to see your score against the scores of your peers, to give a clearer idea of how well you did.
- What are mechanical reasoning tests used for?
Mechanical reasoning tests are typically used in industries where it’s important to have strong electrical and mechanical knowledge. There are more common aptitude tests you’ll be asked to take if you’re applying for a job in the legal sector, however if you've been asked to take the test it means mechanics will be an important part of your role.
- What do mechanical reasoning tests involve?
The test involves answering questions on mechanical and electrical problems. You’ll normally have less than a minute to answer each question, so finding the balance between speed and accuracy is key.
- What do mechanical reasoning tests measure?
The test is designed to tease out your electrical and mechanical knowledge. Ensuring you’re comfortable and confident with the test is one of the best ways to succeed on the day, which is why we always suggest you practice mechanical reasoning tests beforehand to familiarise yourself with the questions.
- Where can I practice mechanical reasoning tests?
Understanding the subject matter and question formatting really is crucial to achieving the highest possible score, so preparation is vital. Use our website to try out lots of different mechanical reasoning tests.
- Which employers use mechanical reasoning tests?
The test is most commonly set by employers in the tech industry or armed forces. However there are certain legal firms who require their employees to have this specialised knowledge.