You could be very close to landing your ideal job, yet, standing between you and the new job position is a Predictive Index Test. You may have some vague recollection of the term ‘Predictive Index Test’ but are not entirely sure what it is, or how to prepare for such a thing. If this is the case you have come to the right article. Here we will explain the Predictive Index Test and help you overcome this testing hurdle by providing you with tips to help you prepare for the day of your test.
What is the Predictive Index Test?
Predictive Index is a company that makes various tests. The two central tests developed and administered by Predictive Index are the Predictive Index Cognitive Assessment or PICA and the Predictive Index Behavioral Assessment or PIBA.
The PICA assessment is a cognitive ability test, while the PIBA is a personality test. Many corporations use these tests as part of their recruitment process.
Let’s take a closer look at each of these tests and see how you can best prepare for a Predictive Index Test.
What is the Predictive Index Cognitive Assessment?
Employers use this cognitive ability test to identify how quickly you will learn in the future and how you are likely to perform in a specific job role. Employers favor these tests as they can help recruiters avoid unconscious bias in the hiring process.
The PI Cognitive Assessment consists of three cognitive abilities categories, namely verbal, numerical and abstract reasoning, and nine subcategories. The test made up of 50 multiple-choice questions. In essence, this test assesses your rapid knowledge acquisition or, in other words, the pace at which you can learn.
What is the Predictive Index Behavioral Assessment?
Employers use this personality test to discover the driving forces behind your behavior in the workplace. The test asks questions to establish the following potential driving forces:
- Dominance – The motivation to influence and make an impact on other individuals, events, or projects.
- Extraversion – The motivation to interact with other individuals socially
- Patience – The motivation to retain consistency and predictability within the work environment
- Formality – The motivation to work in keeping with a company’s rules, demands, and structure
The behavior of all individuals is affected by each of these factors to different degrees. While some individuals are more motivated by achieving results and having an impact, others are driven to keep in line with the company’s structure and policies.
Potential employers use the results of the PI Behavioral Assessment to gain better insight into the behavior of prospective employees.
How to Prepare for the Predictive Index Test
When preparing for any Predictive Index Test it is important to get a proper night’s sleep the night before the test, eat a good meal before you begin, and keep an eye on the time so you can pace yourself. Also, if you are taking the test at home, make sure you will not be interrupted or distracted by others.
Let’s take a look at some specific PI Cognitive Assessment and PI Behavioral Assessment preparation tips.
Predictive Index Cognitive Assessment Preparation
As the PICA assesses your ability to decipher various problems, it is possible and important to prepare in advance to gain your maximum potential score. Remember, that this Predictive Index Test is not just a way for employers to screen candidates, but it is also a means used by candidates to find job roles that suit their skill set.
Here are two key points you should consider when preparing for the PICA.
- Familiarize yourself with the types of questions that will appear on the PICA test. There are nine question types:
- Numerical: Series; Lowest value; and Number problems
- Verbal: Antonyms; Analogies; and Analysis
- Abstract: Series; Analogies; and Odd one out
- Complete several Predictive Index practice tests
Knowing what to expect on test day is a key component of test preparation. The PICA has 50 questions that need to be answered in 12 minutes, so when practicing you should aim to answer the 50 questions within this time frame. While you won’t have to complete all 50 questions, your aim should be to answer as many questions as possible.
When taking practice tests and the real test, it can be helpful to skim over all the questions before you start answering, to determine which questions you have the best chance of solving. Begin with the easier questions and then move on to the more difficult ones. For instance, if you are better at numerical reasoning than verbal skills, answer the numerical questions first.
Predictive Index Behavioral Assessment Preparation
While the PIBA may appear straightforward, it is trickier than it looks. Employers have specific qualities in mind when looking for an employee and it is up to you to show them, through your PIBA, that you have the traits they are after.
Here are two general steps to consider when preparing for the PIBA.
- Take sample test
Viewing sample tests and test questions will give you an indication of what to expect from the real test. It will also help you learn how to tailor your answers in order to present your best and most suitable behavioral traits for the job role you are applying for.
- Think about what the test is measuring
It is important to keep in mind that this Predictive Index test measures your personality traits. The four categories in which these traits will be measured are:
- Dominance
- Extraversion
- Patience
- Formality
Attaining a high or low score in a given area does not mean excellent or poor performance. Rather, employers are looking for specific qualities in an employee and at the end of the day, they will decide if you are a good fit for them. Nevertheless, you can show them you are the right candidate for the job by learning how to emphasize the traits that will demonstrate your suitability for the job position. You can discover how to do this by taking a PI Behavioral Assessment test prep course.
Summary
The Key to doing well on all Predictive Index tests is to prepare. Practice in advance by taking preparatory Predictive Index Test courses and tests. This can help you overcome the PI test hurdle, stand out from the competition, and land the job position you desire.
