CCAT Practice Test

The Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test (CCAT) measures your critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and the ability to learn and apply new information to given situations. The test is an accurate predictor of overall job performance. With a set of 50 questions and a 15-minute time limit, you will be evaluated on logic, math, and verbal and spatial reasoning. The cognitive assessment provided by the CCAT Test is proven to be accurate and scientifically valid.

The test is taken online, and it reports your performance with respect to other candidates who took this test. The CCAT Test delivers insightful reports to employers, enabling them to make the best possible decisions. The scores achieved on this test consist of raw scores, percentile ranking, and sub-scores – all of which determine the test taker’s individual as well as relative cognitive abilities.

CCAT Question Types Explained

The Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test assesses three aspects of your cognitive functions:

1. Verbal reasoning – This is not an assessment of your reading and writing proficiency but a test of your vocabulary level, which reflects your general scholastic level and of your ability to find your way with words.
2. Math and logic – This is not an assessment of your basic math skills but a test of your ability to quickly work with numerical and logical information presented to you in order to find a solution for a problem. However, the test does rely on your good command of basic math and pre-algebra.
3. Spatial reasoning – These questions assess your ability to reason using fluid information (abstract shapes and figures) and arrive at conclusions based on just a few examples (inductive reasoning). You will need to assess the shape and structure of the figures, perhaps perform a mental rotation of shapes, and find the missing element based on your appraisal.

1. Verbal Reasoning

The following sections introduce the format of the various verbal CCAT questions, along with free sample questions and solving tips for each type of question.

Word Analogy

In these questions, you are presented with a pair of words (WORD A : WORD B). Your goal is to establish a specific relationship between the words and then, looking at your answer options, find the pair that contains the same relationship as the original pair.

Winning Tip for Word Analogy Questions

While solving analogies, the most important feature is to maintain the order of the analogy. If the analogy between word A and word B is “A works at B,” then an answer that presents a perfect analogy but in the reverse order (“B works at A”) will not be the correct answer.

Sentence Completion

This is the most common form of verbal questions. You are presented with a sentence that includes one or two missing words. Your goal is to complete the sentence with the correct word/s. These questions usually assess your vocabulary level and your ability to create meaningful sentences and are less focused on grammar and syntax skills. 

Winning Tip for Sentence Completion Questions

One of the best ways to complete a sentence is to use the simplest word you can think of and then look for a synonym or a different word that conveys the same meaning.

Antonyms

In these questions, look for the word that is most nearly the opposite of a given word.

Winning Tip for Antonym Questions

You should always have in mind that some words are homophones, which are words that are pronounced the same but have different meanings. The answers often rely on that and offer you words that are the opposite of a word that sounds the same to trick you. Take 2-3 seconds and make sure that the given word is spelled as you expect it to be spelled.

Attention to Detail

In these questions, you are presented with several pairs of names, addresses, companies, etc. Your goal is to count how many pairs are identical and how many are different.

Winning Tip for Attention to Detail Questions

Make sure to have a pen or pencil and scratch paper before beginning the test. For each identical pair, draw a line. It is much easier to count lines than to keep the number in your head.

2. Math & Logic

The following sections introduce the format of the various numerical CCAT questions, along with free sample questions and solving tips for each type of question.

Direct Calculations

These are straightforward basic math questions. You may be required to perform percent-based calculations, to find the arithmetic mean (the average) of a group of numbers, or to decide which value of a series of values is the highest/lowest value.

Winning Tip for Direct Calculations Questions

Working with percentages may be confusing for anyone who does not use them on a day-to-day basis. If you are not 100% sure about your percent-based calculation skills, open any of the many math sites available online, and refresh your skills. When you delve into iPrep’s practice tests, you will get many mental math tips to help you execute these problems quickly

Math Word Problems

This is the most prevalent type of question on the CCAT. These math questions involve different types of math calculations, anywhere from basic operations to statistics and probability. Your task is to read the question, translate it into a mathematical problem, and solve the problem. Like all the rest of the questions, you only have about 20 seconds to solve these, which creates rigorous time pressure, especially for math word problems.

Winning Tip for Math Word Problems Questions

In most cases, the best course of action is not to complete the calculations but to systematically eliminate answers until you are left with a single answer. Since there must be a correct answer, you can mark it and move onwards. The detailed solutions of iPrep include many elimination techniques.

Table/Chart Problems

In these questions, you need to examine information in the form of a table or a chart (e.g. columns chart, pie chart) and solve a mathematical problem. You are usually not required to do complex calculations or advanced reasoning but to use the relevant information. 

Winning Tip for Table/Chart Problems Questions

Do not spend time understanding the chart first. Read the question and only then look for the specific detail you need.

Number/Letter Series

In these questions, you are presented with a sequence of numbers or a sequence of batches of letters. Your goal is to determine which of the options is the next number/letter/batch of letters in the series.

Winning Tip for Number/Letter Series Questions

Letter series relies on the Latin alphabet. The differences between the letters are usually based on constant differences between the letters (e.g. a…d…g…j… are three letters away from one another in the sequence.) Therefore, you must know the alphabet by heart.

Critical Thinking

These questions assess your ability to critically assess syllogisms and decide whether they are true, false, or if their validity cannot be determined. Usually, you will get two premises that you should consider as true. 

Winning Tip for Critical Thinking Questions

If a conclusion is definitely not true, this doesn’t mean that it is definitely false. A conclusion must directly contradict the premises in order to be considered “false.” If it is definitely not true but it does not directly contradict the premises, the correct answer is “cannot be determined.”

3. Spatial Reasoning

The following sections introduce the format of the various abstract/figural CCAT questions, known as spatial reasoning. The introduction is accompanied by free sample questions and solving tips for each type of question.

Shape Sequence

In these questions, you are presented with a series of 3-5 elements, which represent a meaningful sequence. Your task is to identify the next element in the series.

Winning Tip for Shape Sequence Questions

If the element includes multiple shapes or features, start by focusing on just one of them. Check whether you find some underlying logic to its progression along the sequence. If you do, try locating that feature within the given answers. From here on, you can continue examining only the answers that include that feature in the correct position. You can eliminate the rest of the answers. Repeating this process 2-3 times is usually sufficient to eliminate all the answers but one, which must be the correct answer.

Finding the Odd One Out

You are presented with five elements; each element may either be a single shape or several shapes assembled together. Your goal is to identify the element that has one feature that can distinguish it from the rest of the elements and mark it.

Winning Tip for Odd One Out Questions

The features of the shapes are usually very obvious: type of shape, number of shapes, and shape orientation. Focus on one feature. If you see that it is uniform across some elements, mark it in your mind and check whether it is uniform in all the elements but one.

Matrix Completion

You are presented with a 3-by-3 matrix of figural elements. One of the elements is missing and you need to find the missing element within the answers. In most cases, there is some underlying logic in the organization of the elements according to their position by row and by column.

Winning Tip for Matrix Completion Questions

Look at the matrix as three parallel figural sequences, either a horizontal sequence (by row) or a vertical sequence (by column). Two series will be complete and one will be missing one element. Choose one direction, either by row or by column, and try to recognize a similarity in the features of the two complete series. Once you identify it, project it to the third one and find the element among the answers that will complete the third series so it shares the similarity.

CCAT Test Preparation Strategies

1. Have one goal in mind while you are preparing – beat the clock

None of the CCAT questions is extremely difficult, but answering 50 questions in 15 minutes can be extremely difficult and stressful. Here are some tips:

1. While practicing, you should re-examine the questions and ask yourself how you could answer the questions a little bit faster. 
2. You do not always have to complete the calculations in order to pick the correct answer; in most cases, you can eliminate all the answers but one faster than verifying that the remaining answer is correct. 
3. Pick up time-efficient solving tips that the explanations offer you, learn how to avoid time traps, and create your own personal time-saving methods.

2. Focus on your strengths and learn how to earn easy points

The average score for a CCAT test taker is 24 points. The pass mark for most companies and positions is 28 points. You need 32-35 points to be considered a top candidate for almost any position. And to a recruiter, a score of 38 points implies that you practically have superpowers. This should help you understand that getting a high score is more important than getting all the questions right. While practicing, you should pick up techniques that help you get more answers correctly even at the expense of forfeiting a few questions on the way. While answering questions on the actual test, you can focus on questions that you find easier to answer both quickly and correctly and let go of questions that require your greater and longer attention. 

• Remember that there are three main categories of questions: verbal, math & logic, and spatial reasoning. You need basic skills in each of these. If you experience great difficulty with any of the categories, prepare in advance so you can boost your success rate in them. But if there is only one type of question within a category that is difficult for you, skip it and focus on your stronger areas.

3. Try to find at least two preparation time slots, and take a break between them and before approaching your real test

Our brain has its ways of learning. During a preparation session, you can improve and improve but there comes a time when you reach your peak, and improving becomes much more difficult. Surprisingly, if you take a significant break between preparation sessions, in which you rest and refresh yourself, you can get back and continue to improve in the next preparation session. The same goes for the actual test. It is not recommended to complete a rigorous preparation session and then immediately take the real test. Take some time, let everything sink in, take a revitalizing break, and only then approach the test—most people will find it easier to implement all the helpful solving techniques they have attained during their preparation sessions with a break in which to process them. 

• That being said, it is recommended to “start your (brain) engine” and answer a few questions before attempting the real test, which should increase your focus.

4. Learn exactly what is required of you in each type of question

The instructions you get in the CCAT may sometimes be a bit confusing or unclear. One of your key goals during preparation should be to understand exactly what is required of you in each type of question. This serves two purposes: first, less confusion and greater confidence, and second, less time spent on reading the instructions, which means more time to answer the questions.

5. Prepare in a way that incorporates the real test’s conditions

Practice full-length tests—50 questions in 15 minutes. Strictly maintain the time limit. Apply all the test limitations (not even a short break after the clock has started, no mobiles, no calculators, no skipping between questions, etc.) This will make many stress-inducing elements of the test much less intimidating.

6. Try to keep calm

You know yourself better than everybody else. Everyone has the optimal level of stress in which he or she performs best. It is usually somewhere between the area in which you are laid back and too complacent, and the area in which the stress is starting to impair your learning and performance. Take all the means to put yourself in that optimal stress area in both the practice sessions and while taking the actual test.

7. Prepare yourself for top performance conditions—eat well, sleep well, reduce disturbances

We mentioned solving tips and the importance of finding your stress comfort zone. Add to that nutritious meals and some good night’s sleep to promote concentration and focus. Also, make sure that you are learning and taking the test in surroundings that reduce disturbances. Take into account noise reduction or concentration-inducing sounds, like music, and appropriate lighting. If you are taking the test outside of your home, practice taking the test under similar conditions—bringing earplugs or a pillow for your back and a water bottle to stay hydrated while you test yourself under those conditions.

Test Features

The CCAT is a cognitive ability assessment test that measures your ability to think critically and solve problems. Successful test takers demonstrate their ability to digest and apply new information, as well as learn new skills. 

The test is used to predict the performance of middle and upper-level positions, including management roles, sales executives, executive assistants, software developers, and analysts. 

There are 3 categories of CCAT questions:

1. Verbal Reasoning
2. Logic & Math
3. Spatial Reasoning

CCAT verbal reasoning questions test you on letter sequences, antonyms, and syllogisms. A syllogism is a question where the question makes two statements and asks the test taker if there are any conclusions they can make based on the given statements. 

The CCAT logic and math questions challenge you with number sequences and word problems. These questions test your ability in fractions, decimals, basic algebra, multiplication, and division. Calculators are not allowed, but you can use a pencil and paper when working out the answers.

The CCAT spatial reasoning questions focus on your ability to recognize patterns. The questions challenge you to identify the odd-one-out, look at matrices, and inductive reasoning, with the goal of assessing your ability to solve problems using visual information. 

CCAT scores are instantly tabulated, and you’ll receive a detailed report within moments of completing the test.

Technical Facts

• There are 50 multiple-choice questions. Test takers have 15 minutes to answer the questions. Only 1% of test-takers complete all 50 questions.
• The average CCAT test taker gets 24 answers correct.
• Question types: verbal, math and logic, and spatial reasoning.
• Calculators are not permitted during the test. However, our course provides you with the tips and tricks you’ll need to correctly answer math questions.
• Top employers from around the world administer the CCAT to potential employees. The test has been given over 500,000 times, as a method for screening workers before they are hired.

Companies Using CCAT

The CCAT is administered in all 50 states and in 18 countries internationally. It is used in over a dozen industries, including government positions, health care, financial services, and retail. The test is used to evaluate candidates at all levels of the organization, from entry-level roles to senior management positions, including individuals with advanced degrees such as attorneys, engineers, and programmers. 

Two such companies that use CCAT are Vista Equity Partners and CrossOver.

Vista Equity Partners – CEO Robert Smith believes that testing helps his company find talented people who have been overlooked by other companies due to a weak resume. At Vista, the test is used to recruit talent as well as to help company employees rise to senior management employees in the company.
The company has a number of subsidiaries (including Tibco, Marketo, Solera, Infoblox, Cvent, Mindbody, and Apptio) and considers the test to be a crucial piece in the hiring process. Candidates who want to work for the company or one of their subsidiaries have the opportunity to display their potential through the tests, making it vitally important that one be prepared for the timed test before going in for an interview. 

CrossOver – The company connects individuals from low-income companies with high-paying jobs in the United States. It requires its candidates to take the CCAT as part of their application process. Test takers need to be prepared, as they may only take the test once within a 6-month time period.

Also Used as Admissions Test

Contemporary continuous education constantly changes, and nowadays, it is possible to get hi-tech and technological education, and even professional certifications, via online platforms. Some of these institutes have adopted the Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test as an integral part of their application process. For example, Lambda school, which remotely trains web developers and data scientists, screens applicants by administrating the CCAT twice.

Common and past names of the test

• Cognitive assessment test
• CCAT assessment test
• Cognitive ability test
• Cognitive test online

Results Scale and Interpretations

The results of the CCAT Practice Test are comprehensive and give powerful and detailed insight into your cognitive abilities in relation to a job’s specifications. You get your report immediately after you complete the test. The results and interpretations of the test can be explained using four categories:

1. Raw Score

Once you take the CCAT Test, you will be provided with a raw score. A raw score indicates the number of questions answered correctly. For instance, if your raw score is 30, it means that you have correctly answered 30 out of 50 questions.

The average raw score is 24.

2. Percentile Ranking

The raw score is converted into a relative performance metric called ‘percentile ranking.’ This indicates your score in comparison to others who have taken the test. For instance, if your percentile ranking is 44, it means that you scored better than 44% of test takers.

3. Sub-Scores

You also receive separate scores for each of the three sections: (1) logic and math, (2) verbal ability, and (3) spatial reasoning. The scores you receive in these categories are percentiles, meaning that if you scored a 25 in logic and math, 50 in verbal ability, and 75 in spatial reasoning:

• 25 = you scored better than 25% of other test takers in logic and math
• 50 = you scored better than 50% of other test takers in verbal ability
• 75 = you scored better than 75% of other test takers in spatial reasoning

4. Score Range

While every company has its own internal way of interpreting scores and assessing its candidates’ ability to perform in different roles, Criteria Corp. has suggested score ranges for positions, based on national norms that they have compiled. 

For example, someone looking for an accounting/finance position should score between 24-39, while store managers should score between 20-37. Successful customer service representatives score between 18-32, while lawyers and company vice presidents score between 29-42.

5. Score Report

The final section on the first page shows your raw score, and how you rank compared to other people who have worked in a similar position.

The second page lists different positions, and the recommended score you would need to achieve success in those jobs, as shown in the Suggested CCAT Score Ranges by Position figure. 

CCAT FAQs

CCAT Test Tips

1. Know the Instructions

During preparation, take the time and read the instructions carefully and then plan your test strategy to score high. In any event, you should avoid wasting time on instructions during the real test—that’s what practicing is for.

2. Manage Your Time

Don’t forget that time will be ticking down on your screen! You don’t have to answer all the questions to impress your future employer. Don’t spend more than 20-30 seconds on any one question. Also, while the CCAT does not allow you to go back to review questions, you also don’t lose points for incorrect answers. So if you are in doubt with a question, it’s better to make an educated guess and move to the next one.

3. Know Your Strengths

Through practice, you will be able to identify question types that you answer more intuitively and faster. Try to answer all of them. More importantly, you will probably identify question types that you find to be more difficult. Some of us are slow readers, some are confused by percentages, some have a weaker command of grammar. If you encounter a question for which you know you will need to more time, mark one of the answers and move forward. It is not worth it to lose 20 seconds on a question and only then to decide to move on.

4. Answer Enough Questions Correctly

“Enough” does not mean answering all the questions correctly. Only a small fraction of test-takers finish taking the test and even fewer people answer all the questions correctly. It is that difficult!
On average, people answer only 24 out of 50 test questions correctly. For the vast majority of the jobs, if you manage to get 28 correct answers out of 50, you will surely move on to the next step of the recruitment process. The requested score, however, changes according to the job level you apply for.

5. Plan your CCAT Strategy

– Your goal is to answer enough questions correctly not to answer all the questions of the test correctly.
– Take your best guess.
– Do not spend too much time on any one particular question.

Administration

• Test Location: The first attempt is often non-proctored and taken online at home. Candidates who passed the CCAT test may be required to retake the test in a proctored environment by the hiring company, typically in their office.
• Test Schedule: The CCAT test generally takes place following at least an initial interview. 
• Test Format: Multiple choice on computer.
• Test Materials: Test taken on a computer. Calculators are prohibited, but pen and paper are permitted.
• Cost: None.
• Retake Policy: Determined by each employer.

Test Provider

Established in 2006, Criteria Corp. provides a variety of online pre-employment assessment services helping organizations select the best candidates for various positions. The service is available in 18 countries around the globe. The Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test (CCAT) is the aptitude assessment service of Criteria’s top product – HireSelect, software consisting of a number of assessment services, including personality and skill tests.

Information Sources

• Criteria Corp.

Disclaimer – All the information and prep materials on iPrep are genuine and were created for tutoring purposes. iPrep is not affiliated with Criteria Corp, which is the owner of the Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test, or with any of the companies mentioned above.