Wonderlic Practice Test

Few hours of practice make all the difference.

Start Free practice

iPREP - Ace That Test!

The Wonderlic Personnel Test is a cognitive ability test used by employers to screen job candidates as part of the hiring process. Commonly referred to as the Wonderlic, the test measures your cognitive ability and lets prospective employers know if you are likely to succeed at the job. There are 50 multiple choice questions on the test, and you’ll have 12 minutes to answer as many as you can correctly.

Did you know?

There are four categories of questions on the Wonderlic test: (1) Verbal ability, (2) numerical ability, (3) perceptual ability, and (4) general knowledge. By understanding what the test is asking of you, you can move quickly through the questions and earn a high score.

The average score on the Wonderlic is 20, although a good score depends on the role you are applying for. Chemists, for example, average a 31 on the test while cashiers’ average score is 21. The test provides employers with the data they are looking for when making a final hiring decision, but with the right training, you can perform well on the test.

Wonderlic Question Types

The Wonderlic test questions are multiple choice in the following categories:

  1. Verbal Ability – this section tests your language and vocabulary skills
  2. Numerical Ability – you will need to demonstrate different math skills
  3. Perceptual Ability – you will be tested on your ability to recognize patterns and lists
  4. General Knowledge – this section tests your basic understanding of the world we live in
Wonderlic Question Types
Wonderlic Test Question Types. Source: iPREP

The table below presents a more detailed look at the different question categories:

Verbal AbilityNumerical AbilityPerceptual AbilityGeneral Knowledge
Word Meaning ComparisonNumber SeriesComparing ListsMonths of the Year
Synonyms and AntonymsValue OrderingPattern FormationDate Sorting
Word AnalogiesMath Word Problems (including decimals, percentages, average, ratios, algebra)Figural Series CompletionCommon Knowledge
Sentence OrderingCube FoldingFamiliarity with Proverbs
Deductive ReasoningGraph Recognition

1. Verbal Ability

Word Meaning Comparison

In these questions, you will be given a pair of words and asked to compare their definitions. Some pairs may be similar, others opposite, while others will not be related at all. 

Winning tip for Word Meaning Comparison questions 

Refresh your knowledge on the meaning of common prefixes. In many cases, the same root word will appear with different prefixes. Additionally, familiarize yourself with false antonyms (such as  flammable and inflammable) and  false synonyms.

Try a Word Meaning Comparison Sample Question

DATED, OUTDATED

These words have:

  1. similar meanings
  2. contradictory meanings
  3. neither similar nor contradictory meanings

The correct answer is A.

Source: iPREP

DATED and OUTDATED have similar meanings.

They both refer to different aspects of something that is not up-to-date.

Dated usually means old-fashioned, while outdated usually refers to something obsolete.

Vocabulary – Synonyms and Antonyms

These types of questions present you with words in different formats and ask you questions about them. For example, you might get a sentence with a word that has multiple definitions and be asked for the definition in this context or asked for a word that is opposite of the highlighted word. You may be given a list of words and asked which word doesn’t have the same meaning as the other words on the list. You may even be given a word list and asked to place a checkmark next to the three words on the list that are synonyms. 

Winning tip for Vocabulary questions 

Homophones are words that are pronounced the same despite having different spelling. When you read a word and in the context of the question the spelling seems a bit odd to you, check whether you are dealing with a homophone. This is a common trick in Wonderlic vocabulary-based questions.

Try a Vocabulary Sample Question

Which word is most different in meaning than the other words?

  1. order
  2. commend
  3. instruct
  4. charge
  5. enjoin

The correct answer is commend, meaning to recommend as worthy of confidence or notice. 

All the other words mean to direct authoritatively, or to exercise a dominating influence over. To command is to give orders.

Source: iPREP

Word Analogies

Analogy questions ask you to fill in the missing word that best matches the comparison being made in the sentence. 

Winning tip for Word Analogy questions 

While solving analogies, 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 be incorrect.

Try a Word Analogy Sample Question

CLOSET is to STORE as…

  • BRUSH is to TOILET
  •  SOAP is to SHOP
  •  AIR CONDITIONER is to COOL
  •  CLOTHES is to GROCERIES
  •  WATER is to HOSE

The correct answer is AIR CONDITIONER is to COOL.

Source: iPREP

Explanation: The analogy underlying this question is the main purpose of A is to B.

The example – the main purpose of a closet is to store things.

The correct option – the main purpose of an air conditioner is to cool the air.

You may notice that CLOTHES is to GROCERIES provides some kind of analogy to the example. A CLOSET contains CLOTHES and a STORE contains GROCERIES. However, this option bases the analogy on the incorrect structure. You must decipher the analogy by examining only the example. Any analogy that bases itself on the analogy between any of the words in the example to any of the words in the answer will lead you to mark the wrong answer.

Sentence Ordering

You’ll be presented with several words that are mixed up, but when rearranged form a sentence. Some sentences may form a question, and you’ll be challenged to answer that question. In other sentences, the question will ask you to identify the order of words in the sentence, by asking for something like the first letter in the last word or asking for the word which appears before or after a different word. 

Winning tip for Sentence Ordering questions 

The key to solving these quickly is to pair words together. For example, auxiliary verbs (am, have, are, etc.) are always close to personal pronouns ( I, you, it, they, etc.); adverbs almost always precede verbs. Once you have created two or three pairs of words, it is much easier to construct the sentence.

Try a Sentence Ordering Sample Question

PROFESSIONAL RAN MILES ATHLETES THREE TWO

If the above words were arranged into a sentence, what would the second letter of the second word be?

The letter is _ .

The correct order of the sentence is THREE PROFESSIONAL ATHLETES RAN TWO MILES.

R is the second letter of PROFESSIONAL.

Notice that TWO and THREE are interchangeable; nonetheless, it does not affect the solution.

Source: iPREP

Deductive Reasoning

In these questions, you may be presented with several statements and asked a question based on those statements. Alternatively, you may be given statements as fact and a conclusion, and you’ll be asked whether their conclusion is true or not. 

Winning tip for Deductive Reasoning questions 

Many times, the statements describe some sort of interaction between two people. Consider the difference between the following statements:

  1. Jon shook hands with Jane.
  2. Jon greeted Jane.

Statement 1 presents a reciprocal interaction, since Jane necessarily shook hands with Jon. Statement 2, however, does not necessitate reciprocity. Jon definitely greeted Jane but Jane did not necessarily greet Job. By identifying the interaction in the story, you can determine whether the third statement offers a  definite conclusion (follow/does not follow) or an indefinite one (uncertain conclusion). 

Try a Deductive Reasoning Sample Question

Assume the first two statements are true. Is the final statement: 1) True, 2) False, or 3) Uncertain based on the information provided?

Jango walks faster than Ruben
Diego outruns Ruben
Jango is faster than Ruben and Diego

  •  True
  •  False
  •  Uncertain

The correct answer is Uncertain

Source: iPREP

Explanation: In order for a “comparison” question to be a true logic question, each of the statements and the conclusion must refer to the exact same attribute. In this case, the first statement refers to speed of walking, the second statement refers to the speed of running. The conclusion refers to speed in general. One should not assume that every speed-related attribute is exactly the same and shouldn’t also assume that this just might be an “inaccuracy of the test writer.” For these reasons, it is neither possible to get to the suggested conclusion, nor it is possible to disqualify it. The correct answer is thus “uncertain.”

2. Numerical Ability

Number Series

You will be presented with a series of numbers and asked for the missing number. Some questions will place the missing number in the middle of the series, while other questions ask for the next number. 

Winning tip for Number Series questions 

These questions almost always rely on repeating basic operations (+-*/) between the elements. The operations either represent the differences between the elements or the differences between the series of differences. Work quickly to identify the pattern between the elements, and apply it to the missing number.

Try a Number Series Sample Question

What is the next number in the following series of numbers?

41         29          17         5

  • 3
  •  0
  •  1
  •  -7

The correct answer is -7.

Source: iPREP

Explanation:

Look at the differences between the numbers:

41         29          17         5

     -12         -12         -12   

This means that every number in the series is equal to the previous number -12.

It can be formally written as follows: an+1 = an – 12

The next number of the series is equal to 5 – 12 = (-7)

For learning purposes, the next numbers of the series would be:

-7 – 12 = -19
-19 – 12 = -31
-31 – 12 = -43

Value Ordering 

You will be presented with a list of numbers, and be asked which of the numbers is the largest or smallest

Winning tip for Value Ordering questions 

The most important attribute you should look for is the position of the decimal digit. More numbers left of the decimal digit mean greater value. The number of decimal digits is almost always a misleading factor. For the decimal digits, start looking for the greatest value of the digit closest to the decimal point.

Try a Value Ordering Sample Question

Which of the following is the largest value?

  • 10.81
  •  11.3
  •  1.9865
  •  2.113
  •  9.108

The correct answer is 11.3.

Source: iPREP

Explanation: The first thing you should do when you encounter questions of this type is to check the value of the integer. The number with the highest value of the integer always points at the number with the highest value overall. If some choices have the same value for the integer, then the number with the highest value will be determined by the value of the leftmost decimal digits, which are closer to the decimal point. If the leftmost decimal digit is also identical, the highest value is determined by the next decimal digit, etc.

In this case, 11.3 has the highest integer part value (11); therefore, it is the correct answer.

Tips for a quick solution:

  • The overall number of digits is of less importance:
    • The more digits a number has in its integer part, the higher its value is.
    • The number of digits to the right of the decimal is of no interest to you. The highest value is always determined by the leftmost decimal digits, those which are closer to the decimal point.

Math Word Problems

You will be given a scenario and asked to calculate the answer. Questions may require multiple steps of addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and working with percentages to determine the correct answer. 

Winning tip for Math Word problems

Elimination is a key element in solving these questions. Many times, it will be faster to eliminate all the answers but one than to calculate the correct solution. If you eliminate all the answers but one, the last option must be the correct answer.

Try a Few Math Word Problem Sample Questions

Research by a leading anti-virus company showed that only 6 out of 200 online businesses were not attacked by any sort of malware during a 5-year span. This means over a 5-year span, there is a ____?____ chance for a business to be attacked by malware.

  1. 94%
  2. 95%
  3. 96%
  4. 97%
  5. 98%

The correct answer is 97%.

Source: iPREP

Were not attacked by malware:

6 out of 200 → equivalent to 3 out of 100, or 3%

Were attacked:

100% – 3% = 97%

3. Perceptual Ability

Comparing Lists

These types of questions present with two similar lists, and ask you questions about them. How many items among the pairs listed are duplicates, or how many number sets are mirror images of each other. 

Winning tip for Comparing Lists questions 

Have a pen and scratch paper with you. As you read through the pairs, draw a line for each pair that matches the criteria. It’s a lot easier to count the lines on your paper than to track the number of identical pairs in your head. 

Try a Comparing Lists Sample Question

How many of the five items in the left-hand column are exactly the same as the corresponding entry in the right-hand column?

8017 Old Pierce St.8077 Old Pierce St.
986 Jade Dr.986 Jade Dr.
408 Bay View St.408 Bay View Dr.
51 Greenrose Ave.51 Greenrose Ave.
9326 Berry Ave.9326 Berry Ave.
  • 1
  •  2
  •  3
  •  4
  •  5

The correct answer is 3.

Source: iPREP
8017 Old Pierce St.8077 Old Pierce St.8017 vs. 8077
986 Jade Dr.986 Jade Dr.
408 Bay View St.408 Bay View Dr.St. vs. Dr.
51 Greenrose Ave.51 Greenrose Ave.
9326 Berry Ave.9326 Berry Ave.

Pattern Formation

In these questions, you will see a final shape made up of different colors, and several other shapes that can combine together to form the color pattern within the original shape. You will be asked to identify the boxes that can join together to create the original shape. Some questions will ask you to build the original pattern using two pieces, while others ask you to build it using three pieces. 

Winning tip for Pattern Formation questions 

In cases that you need to choose three pieces that make the model, try to eliminate options that include colored squares in a position that contradicts the model.

In cases that you need to choose two pieces that make the model, try to find the option that includes a colored square that doesn’t appear in any of the other options. It must be one of the answers. Then find a square that completes it.

Try a Pattern Formation Sample Question

Which THREE options are needed to create the figure on the left?
Only pieces of the same color may overlap.

The correct answer is A, C & D.

Source: iPREP

There are two main ways to find the correct combination:

A. eliminating answers that display a tile that is colored incorrectly.

B. marking answers that must be part of the combination as they cover a certain tile that is not covered by the other answers.

First, you can eliminate option E as the middle-right tile should be green rather than gray.

Then, options C and D must be part of the combination as they display the top red tiles that do not appear in answers A and B.

Last, answer A must be part of the combination as it is the only option that covers the correct middle-right green tile.

Figural Series Completion

You will be presented with a series of figures and asked to complete the series with the correct figure. 

Winning tip for Figural Series questions 

These questions are often about moving features within the element. Try to count steps of a single feature along the given series. Then you can determine the position of that feature in the correct answer. Any answer option that includes that feature in the incorrect place  can be removed.

Try a Figural Series Sample Question

Which of the following boxes should replace the question mark (?) to complete the pattern?

The correct answer is C.

Source: iPREP

All the elements in the series include two arrows located in a circle with six spaces. This series combines two processes – alternation and rotation:

Rotation – in each step, the arrows “move” to the adjacent space clockwise. This is equivalent to a 60-degree rotation. Only answers B, C, and D are in line with this observation.

Alternation – in odd elements, the arrows are dark gray; in even elements, one arrow is dark gray and the other is white. The missing element is an odd element; therefore, it must contain two dark gray arrows.

Combined with the first process, only option C is in line with this observation. This means that option C must be the correct answer.

Tips & Tricks:

  • There isn’t an apparent justification for which arrow turns white in even elements. However, after examining the answers, there is no point in delving into it since only one answer combines both processes (rotation and alternation). Any time that you don’t spend on something is time earned to spend on additional questions.

Cube Folding

In these questions, you will be presented with a flattened cube. Many of the corners of the cube are labeled, and you will be asked to identify which sides would be next to one another once the cube was closed. 

Winning tip for Cube Folding questions 

Remember that you are not required to construct a complete cube, but only to find the letter near the marked corner. Therefore, start folding with the marked position to identify the corner it is next to.

Try a Cube Folding Sample Question

After folding these squares into a closed cube, which red corner would touch the black corner?

The correct answer is A.

Source: iPREP

Remember that you are not required to construct a complete cube, but only to find the letter near the marked corner.

Therefore, if you begin by mentally folding the black corner, you should soon understand that the correct answer must be either A or E. Then, by mentally folding these two sides, you should see that A is the correct answer.

Graph Recognition

These questions measure your skill in reading graphs. You may be given data, either as a statement or in a table, and asked to identify the graph that displays the data correctly. 

Winning tip for Graph Recognition questions 

In the vast majority of cases, your goal is to locate the graph that displays the correct trend of data. It is less likely that two answers will be identical except for the precise value of a single point. Therefore, instead  of looking for specific data points like 21, 16, 33, 27, 20, look for the pattern in the graph, like  “starting point-down-up-down-down.” You are likely to find only one correct solution.

Try a Graph Recognition Sample Question

A call center recorded 23 incoming calls during the first hour, and then 33, 15, and 18, in the following three hours. Which graph accurately represents the number of incoming calls?

The correct answer is D.

Source: iPREP

Describe to yourself the trend of the numbers:

23 → 33: up

33 → 15: down

15 → 18: up

Only answer D fits this trend.

4. General Knowledge

Months of the Year

You will have to answer questions about the calendar. 

Winning tip for Month of the Year questions 

There is hardly any sophistication here. Make sure that you know the order of the months of the year by heart, and read the question carefully so you don’t get tricked.

Try a Month of the Year Sample Question

The tenth month of the year is ____________.

  1. October
  2. December
  3. August
  4. September
  5. November

The correct answer is A.

Source: iPREP

October is the tenth month of the year.

The order of the months of the year is:

1) January; 2) February; 3) March; 4) April; 5) May; 6) June; 7) July; 8) August; 9) September; 10) October; 11) November; 12) December.

Date Sorting

You will be asked to identify which date from a list is either the earliest or latest date. 

Winning tip for Date Sorting questions 

Gradually eliminate the answers. Start by eliminating options based on the year they display, then by month, then by day. In some cases, you will already have your answer after two steps.

Try a Date Sorting Sample Question

Which of the following is the latest date?

  1. Jul. 28, 1434
  2. Jun. 31, 1443
  3. Jul. 21, 1443
  4. Jul. 3, 1434
  5. Jun. 28, 1443

The correct answer is C.

Source: iPREP

First, eliminate answers by year. 1443 is a later year than 1434.
Answers A and D are eliminated.

Then, eliminate by month. July is a later month than June.
Answers B and E are eliminated, and C remains the only possible answer.

Common Knowledge

These questions come from a number of different disciplines. 

Winning tip for Common Knowledge questions 

There are some basic knowledge areas that the Wonderlic expects you to know. The most significant ones are the months of the year, days of the week, conversion between a 12-hour and 24-hour clock, and the organization of the solar system.

Try a Common Knowledge Sample Question

It is 7 a.m. and in exactly 10 hours the finals begin. When will the finals begin?

  • 17:00
  •  19:00
  •  07:00
  •  05:00
  •  15:00

The correct answer is 17:00.

Source: iPREP

This problem requires you to know how to convert from a 12-hour clock to a 24-hour clock.

7 a.m. is morning time or 7:00 in a 24-hour clock.

10 hours later is 7 + 10 = 17:00 or 5 p.m.

24-hour clock12-hour clock24-hour clock12-hour clock
00:0012.00a.m. – midnight12:0012:00 p.m. – noon
01:0001:00 a.m.13:001:00 p.m.
02:0002:00 a.m.14:002:00 p.m.
03:0003:00 a.m.15:003:00 p.m.
04:0004:00 a.m.16:004:00 p.m.
05:0005:00 a.m.17:005:00 p.m.
06:0006:00 a.m.18:006:00 p.m.
07:0007:00 a.m.19:007:00 p.m.
08:0008:00 a.m.20:008:00 p.m.
09:0009:00 a.m.21:009:00 p.m.
10:0010:00 a.m.22:0010:00 p.m.
11:0011:00 a.m.23:0011:00 p.m.

Familiarity with Proverbs

You will be asked to complete well-known sayings, as well as identify proverbs that have a similar meaning. 

Winning tip for Proverb questions 

If this is not your strong suit, take an hour and dive into some websites that review common proverbs in the language in which you are about to take the test. This is a refresher you won’t regret.

Try a Proverb Sample Question

Two of the following proverbs have similar meanings. Which ones are they?

  1. Never look a gift horse in the mouth.
  2. One man’s trash is another man’s treasure.
  3. You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make him drink.
  4. There’s no such thing as a free lunch.
  5. Beggars can’t be choosers.

The correct answers are A & E.

Both proverbs refer to similar situations in which someone gets something for free from a different person. In such cases, the proverbs try to teach us not to question the nature of the received gift/item since it was free.

Wonderlic Preparation Strategies

1. Beat the clock

Wonderlic questions are not very difficult. However, you have less than 15 seconds to read the instructions and the question, understand what is being asked of you, and provide the right answer. Here are some tips to help you manage the time – and stress – that you’ll be faced with on the Wonderlic.

  • When practicing, time individual questions to find room for improvement within the question types
  • Rather than spending time doing calculations, see if there is a way to eliminate all wrong answers
  • Work on developing time-saving techniques while you practice
  • Skip questions that you think are difficult, you’re not sure how to solve, or you will need to take too much time to solve them. The Wonderlic allows you to review skipped questions when you reach the end of the test. 
2. Get Easy Points

Here are the facts. The average Wonderlic score is 21. Most companies want employees who score 28 or more. If you get 32-35 points, you’ll be a top candidate for nearly any position. Score 38, and recruiters will think you have superpowers. 

Getting a high score is more important than getting everything right. You want to make sure to see all the questions, so you can pick up any points you can in areas that match your strengths, even if they are toward the end of the test. 

3. Know Your Strengths

There are three main categories of questions – verbal, math, and spatial reasoning. Practice your weakest areas to build up your speed, but on test day, if you don’t feel confident in one area, skip it so you can score well in the areas where you were born to succeed. 

Wonderlic Preparation Strategies
Wonderlic Test Preparation Strategies. Source: iPREP
4. Be Strategic in Preparation Times

Our brains are wired to improve, but if you press too hard for too long your brain will need a break. While prepping for the test, take breaks, rest your mind, and refresh yourself. You’ll find that your brain will be ready to go after it has taken a break. 

Be careful about over-preparing on test day. Try a few questions to get your brain into test mode, but don’t overdo it. You’ll want to be refreshed and ready when the clock starts. 

5. Balance Content and Speed

Try taking an untimed practice test and follow it up a few days later with a timed version of the test. Your untimed test will show if there are areas you need to study, while the timed test will show how well you perform when facing extreme time limits. 

6. Prepare for Question Types

With less than 15 seconds a question, you don’t have time to try and figure out the instructions and answer the question. Take time during your preparation to really focus on the types of questions you’ll be asked, so you can spend your time during the test figuring out the right answer. 

iPREP: Concise. Focused. What you need.

1
Sign up

Immediate access

2
Practice

Online self-paced

3
Pass

Ace that Test!

7. Mimic Testing Conditions

Practice full-length tests, and strictly adhere to the time limit. No breaks, no calculators, no talking. When it comes time to take the test, you’ll be used to the conditions. Find an online practice test, such as the one offered by iPrep, to test your skills. 

8. Find Your Stress Spot

Many people find that some stress helps them improve performance, while other need to be calm to succeed. Know the mental state that is best for you, and work to calibrate your emotional stress levels with your optimal performance levels. 

9. Put Yourself in Position to Succeed

The Wonderlic is an important step you will need to climb on the way toward your career goals. Give yourself the best chance possible by arriving at the test well rested and well fed.

Download Your Copy of the Wonderlic Test PDF

IBEW The Application Process
Free PDF

Click here to download

Wonderlic Test Features

Wonderlic Personnel Test Fast Facts (tl;dr)

  • 50 questions
  • The test takes 12 minutes to complete
  • There are four categories of questions
    • Verbal Ability 
    • Numerical Ability 
    • Perceptual Ability 
    • General Knowledge
  • You may not use a calculator
  • Different jobs have different score requirements
    • Average score: 21
    • Typical score required for a job: 28
    • Scores that make people notice you: 32+
  • Typically taken at an employer site under supervision
Wonderlic Test Fast Facts
Wonderlic Test Fast Facts (tl;dr). Source: iPREP

Common Names of the Wonderlic Test

There are several versions of the Wonderlic test, which sometimes leads to confusion. The standard Wonderlic employee assessment test goes by the following names:

  • Wonderlic Cognitive Ability Test
  • The Wonderlic
  • Wonderlic Personnel Test-Revised 
  • WPT-R
Wonderlic Test Common and Past Names
Common and Past Names of the Wonderlic Test. Source: iPREP

Wonderlic offers a shorter version of the test. Taken online, the WPT-Q, or Wonderlic Quicktest contains 30 questions and needs to be completed within 8 minutes. 

Two Wonderlic Versions – Full-Length and QuickTest

Both the full version and short version of the Wonderlic are used to assess job candidates, as each test demonstrates your ability to follow instructions, learn, solve problems, and adapt. Each test is scored automatically, and results are available to employers immediately. 

The Wonderlic QuickTest is administered offsite and taken online. In contrast to the full version of the test, you will have 8 minutes to answer 30 questions. The Wonderlic QuickTest (WPT-Q) is unproctored and often given to all candidates, while the full version of the Wonderlic Personnel Test (WPT-R) is proctored and administered only to final candidates for the position. 

Two Wonderlic Versions
Two Wonderlic Test Versions. Source: iPREP

While the tests appear similar, the 12-minute 50-questions version of the test is considered more difficult due to the added pressure by the proctored environment, the need to maintain concentration for a longer time, and above all – the harsher time constraints – 14.4 seconds per question in comparison to 16 seconds per question in the 8-minute 30-question shorter version.

Wonderlic QuickTestWonderlic Personnel Test
Short NameWPT-QWPT-R
No. of Questions3050
Time Limit8 minutes12 minutes
Time Per Question16 seconds14.4 seconds
AdministrationOffsite, unproctoredOnsite, proctored
Hiring StagePrescreeningAdvanced screening

Scoring Based on Correct Answers and Difficulty Level

Your raw score is based on the number of questions you answered correctly. However, Wonderlic’s scoring algorithm accounts for the level of difficulty in each question. The weighted scoring is driven by the role being tested for. For example, an engineering role would put more weight on cognitive ability questions, while a customer support role would put more weight on questions relating to people skills. 

Wonderlic Test Overview Quote
Source: iPREP

Wonderlic Personnel Test Vs. Wonderlic Scholastic Level Exam (SLE)

The Wonderlic Personnel Test and the Wonderlic Scholastic Level Exam are similar tests. Both have 50 questions and a 12-minute time limit. There is even an SLE-Q test, where test takers have 8 minutes to complete 30 questions, the equivalent to the Wonderlic QuickTest (WPT-Q)

However, the SLE and SLE-Q are used by educational admissions offices, while the standard Wonderlic is used by employers to screen job candidates. 

From the perspective of the test-taker, both tests are practically the same. The only difference is the layout but the tests themselves assess your cognitive ability in the exact same format. Therefore, preparation services for the Wonderlic cognitive ability test, like the one offered by iPrep, will be ideal for preparing and successfully passing both the Wonderlic Personnel Test and the Wonderlic SLE.

Wonderlic Scholastic Level Exam QuickTestWonderlic Scholastic Level Exam
Short NameSLE-QSLE
No. of Questions3050
Time Limit812
Time Per Question1614.4

Wonderlic WonScore

In addition to the Wonderlic Cognitive Ability Test, the company offers a motivation assessment test and a personality test. When used together, hiring companies receive a single score they call a WonScore, which combines data from each test to present employers with a full picture candidate assessment.

If you are asked to take the personality and motivation tests, approach them as if you already have the job, and answer questions from that perspective.  

wonscore report
Wonscore cognitive report from the employer’s perspective; Source: Wonderlic.com

Technical Facts

Companies Using the Wonderlic

The Wonderlic is one of the most popular tests. It is used by Fortune 500 companies, fast food restaurants, and public school systems as a way to identify candidates who are most likely to succeed. 

The Wonderlic and the NFL

The National Football League famously uses the Wonderlic to evaluate players before the NFL draft. Pat McInally is the only player known to have earned a perfect score, getting a 50 before being drafted in 1975.

Results Scale and Interpretations

There are different elements to a Wonderlic score. First, there is the raw score, which is the number of correct answers you had on the test. The average score is 20. 

However, your score will mean something different depending on the role you are applying for. Receptionists, firefighters, and cashiers average a 21, while librarians and copywriters average 27. System analysts average 32. 

Because different jobs require different skill sets, there is an ideal score for each job, and your score report will be based on the role for which you applied. 

In the chart below, you can see median scores based on roles. 

ProfessionScoreProfessionScore
Systems analyst32Drafter23
Chemist31Electrician23
Electrical engineer30Nurse23
Engineer29Bank teller22
Programmer29US Average21
Accountant28Cashier21
Executive28Firefighter21
Reporter28Clerical worker21
Teacher28Machinist21
Copywriter27Receptionist21
Investment analyst27Train conductor21
Librarian27Craftsman18
Electronics technician26Security guard17
Salesperson25Welder17
Secretary24Warehouseman15
Dispatcher23Janitor14

Score Report

Results are provided to the company that administered the test, and it is unlikely that they will give you the report. 

wonderlic personnel test report
Wonderlic Personnel Test report; Source: Wonderlic.com

The report is divided into three sections. The top contains basic information and includes your name and the role that you are trying to get. The center section contains your raw score, percentile, and IQ equivalent. There is a bell curve based on the role which shows the average scores an individual who is a good fit for the position should get. 

The last section of the report advises the hiring manager whether you are a good fit, and describes your training potential.

Wonderlic FAQs

What is a Wonderlic Test?

The Wonderlic tests your cognitive abilities. It is used by hiring managers and HR teams to assess your ability to succeed in a role.

Wonderlic Personnel Test WPT in a Glance

What to Expect on the Wonderlic Cognitive Ability Test?

The Wonderlic contains 50 questions that you need to complete in just 12 minutes. The questions are not that difficult, but the time constraint forces you to work quickly to get through as many questions as you can.

Which types of questions comprise the Wonderlic test?

There are four categories of questions in the Wonderlic, measuring verbal ability, numerical ability, perceptual ability, and general knowledge.

Where can I find Wonderlic practice tests?

There are a number of sites that offer Wonderlic practice tests, including iPrep. Be sure to use a practice test like iPrep’s, which simulates testing conditions to prepare you for the test.

How to beat the Wonderlic test?

To beat the Wonderlic you need to prepare before, be ready for the type of questions you will face and the speed in which you need to respond. Remember, you don’t need to get everything right, so answer questions you know and don’t spend a lot of time on questions that you don’t know immediately.

How hard is the Wonderlic Personnel Test?

The Wonderlic questions are not that hard, but the time limitations make the test challenging.

How can I practice for a Wonderlic test?

Find an online test practice site (like the one offered by iPrep) to see how well you perform. The test will show areas where you need to improve on and will help guide your study.

Can I use a calculator on the Wonderlic test?

Calculators are not allowed on the Wonderlic.

What is a good score on the Wonderlic test?

Good scores depend on the role you are trying to get. The average score is 21, and for most jobs, you’ll want to score a 28 or higher to give yourself the best chance of being hired.

How long does it take to receive Wonderlic results?

The Wonderlic test results are available immediately after completing the test. However, they are sent to the company that administered the test. Most companies do not share results with job candidates.

What does the Wonderlic Personnel Test measure?

The Wonderlic measures the likelihood of you succeeding in a job.

For which types of positions does the Wonderlic predict success?

The Wonderlic can be used to assess candidates for all types of jobs. Scores are weighted based on the role. Jobs that require more math would look for candidates who performed well on the numerical ability questions, while jobs that require problem-solving would look for candidates who did well on the perceptual ability questions.

What do WPT-R and WPT-Q stand for?

WPT-R stands for Wonderlic Personnel Test-Revised. This is the standard 50-question version of the test. WPT-W stands for Wonderlic Personnel Test-Quicktest and refers to the 30-question version.

What does Wonderlic SLE stand for?

Wonderlic SLE stands for the Wonderlic Scholastic Level Exam, which is given by some academic institutions to screen applicants.

Is Wonderlic an IQ test?

The Wonderlic is not an IQ test, but its results do correspond with IQ test results.

Does the Wonderlic actually provide valuable information to potential employers?

The Wonderlic is built on decades of industrial-organizations psychology, and based on extensive research. The test guides employers by identifying candidates that are likely to succeed in a job.

Are the Wonderlic Scholastic Level Exam and Wonderlic Personnel Test the same?

The tests both contain 50 questions and must be completed within 12 minutes. However, one is used to help businesses screen job candidates and the other is used to screen admission applicants at an educational institution.

Wonderlic Test Tips

  1. Familiarize Yourself with Instructions
    While preparing, pay close attention to the instructions in the questions. You will only have about 15 seconds per answer, so you’ll only have a moment to fully understand what the question is actually asking of you. 
  2. Focus on time management
    The clock is ticking the moment the test starts. If there are questions you know you can’t answer, guess quickly. If there are questions that you can answer but might take time, skip it and come back to the question at the end. 
  3. Know Your Strong Suits
    If you are great at English and struggle with spatial relationships, consider guessing quickly on questions with patterns. That will give you some vital extra seconds for the challenging English questions. 
  4. Don’t Get Caught Up on Wrong Answers
    Remember, you aren’t being tasked with scoring 100% correct. You are being challenged to answer as many right as possible, so don’t worry if you have to guess or skip questions. Just focus on getting everything right that you can. 
  5. Dodge the Traps
    Many people perform poorly on the Wonderlic because they get caught up trying to answer one question. Other people aren’t ready for the tricky way questions are phrased. The more you practice beforehand, the better prepared you will be on test day. 
  6. Take a Study Course
    Points matter on this test. There are only two points separating a receptionist from a nurse, and only four points between a cashier and train conductor and a career in sales. Study courses can help get you the points you need to land your dream job.
Wonderlic Test Tips
Wonderlic Test Tips. Source:iPREP

Administration

  • Test Location: The Wonderlic QuickTest is non-proctored and taken online at home. The Wonderlic Personnel Test is administered at a company’s office and is proctored.
  • Test Schedule: The Wonderlic QuickTest invite may arrive immediately after submitting the job application. The 50-question Wonderlic Personnel Test is scheduled after passing the first steps of the application, usually before the final interview. 
  • Test Format: Multiple choice on computer.
  • Test Materials: Test taken on computer. Calculators are prohibited, but pen and paper are permitted.
  • Cost: Covered by the recruiter.
  • Retake Policy: Determined by each employer.
Wonderlic Administration
Wonderlic Test Administration. Source: iPREP

Test Provider

The Wonderlic company was founded by E.F. Wonderlic in the 1930s, and they have created employment assessment tests for almost 90 years. The company is still owned by the Wonderlic family. 

Information Sources

Disclaimer – All the information and prep materials on iPrep are genuine and were created for tutoring purposes. iPrep is not affiliated with Wonderlic, which is the owner of the trademarks Wonderlic Personnel Test, Wonderlic QuickTest, WonScore, or any of the companies mentioned above.

Free Wonderlic practice test: Get to know what the Wonderlic Personnel Test will be like by practicing with these sample questions:

Question 1 of 6

Which THREE options are needed to create the figure on the left?
Only pieces of the same color may overlap.

The correct answer is B, C & E.

Source: iPREP

There are two main ways to find the correct combination:

A. eliminating answers that display a tile that is colored incorrectly.

B. marking answers that must be part of the combination as they cover a certain tile that is not covered by the other answers.

First, you can eliminate option D as the top-left tile should be green rather than gray.

Then, options C and E must be part of the combination as they display red tiles that do not appear in answers A and B.

Last, answer B must be part of the combination as it is the only option that covers the middle-left gray tile.

Question 2 of 6

The meanings of TEMPORARY and CONTEMPORARY are

  • The same
  • The opposite
  • Neither the same nor the opposite

The meanings of these words are neither the same nor the opposite.

Source: iPREP

They both refer to the concept of time but from different aspects.

Temporary means lasting for only a limited period of time; not permanent.

Contemporary means living or occurring at the same time or in the present.

This type of question assesses your vocabulary level and specifically deals with the concept of homonyms and words with different prefixes and suffixes. The vocabulary lesson in this course provides much knowledge of the subject.

Question 3 of 6

FLEETING is to TRANSIENT as…

  • APATHETIC is to COMPASSIONATE
  • FIERCE is to CAPTIVATING
  • PALATABLE is to AGREEABLE
  • GOVERNING is to DOMINEERING
  • ADEPT is to UNACCOMPLISHED

The correct answer is PALATABLE is to AGREEABLE.

Source: IPREP

Explanation:

The analogy underlying this question is A and B are synonyms.

Fleeting and transient are synonyms like palatable and agreeable.

Governing and domineering are not exactly synonyms. A related word which is an accurate synonym of governing is dominant.

Adept and unaccomplished are antonyms and so are apathetic and compassionate.

Question 4 of 6

What is the next number in the following series of numbers?

0.5       2       8       32

  • 128
  • 96
  • 64
  • 116

The correct answer is 128.

Source: iPREP

Explanation:

Look at the differences between the numbers:

0.5       2       8       32
    *4       *4       *4   

This means that every number in the series is equal to the previous number times 4.

It can be formally written as follows: an+1 = an * 4

The next number of the series is equal to 32*4 = 128

For learning purposes, the next numbers of the series would be:

128*4 = 512
512*4 = 2048

Tips for a quick solution:

  • The multiple-choice format allows you to eliminate all the answers but the correct one. Once you realize that the difference between terms is *4, you can make an estimation of the value of the next number. As the last term is 32, the correct answer must be greater than 120 (30*4). Even 116 is too low, which means you can eliminate all options but 128.
  • If you only consider the last digit, then 2 * 4 = 8. This means that the last digit of the correct answer must be 8. 128 is the only option that fits this observation.
Question 5 of 6

A student types 35 words per minute. How many words can he type in 2 hours?

  • 3,500
  • 3,800
  • 4,200
  • 4,900
  • 5,600

The correct answer is 4,200 words.

Source: iPREP

Explanation: The complete calculation for this question might be longer or shorter, depending on the way you approach it.

The answer is the product of multiplying three numbers:

2 hours * 60 minutes per hour * 35 words per minute = 4200 words.

Or simply 2 * 60 * 35 = 4200

But in which order will it be a simpler calculation?

The lengthier way will be:

  • 2 hours = 120 minutes
  • 120 minutes * 35 words per minute

The second step is not an intuitive calculation. Even though the first step is very intuitive, it creates a second step that for many people requires further breaking down of the calculation.

A simpler way would be to use the associative property of multiplication and to switch the order:

  • 2 * 35 = 70
  • 70 * 60 = 4200

In this way, both steps of the calculation are intuitive and could be instantly answered and probably with greater confidence in the correctness of the answer. Why? Because the first step is multiplication by 2 which is generally considered simpler, and the second step is similar to multiplying 6 by 7, which is part of the multiplication table.

The “simpler” way is less intuitive because it changes the order in which the numbers are introduced in the information, but by changing the order of the calculation, you can do it quickly and increase your confidence and speed.

Question 6 of 6

YOU WHICH IS DAY DO IT KNOW

If the above words were arranged into a sentence, what would the second letter of the fourth word be?

  • The letter is  __.

The correct order of the sentence is one of two options:

  • As a question: DO YOU KNOW WHICH DAY IS IT?
  • As a statement: YOU DO KNOW WHICH DAY IT IS

Either way, the fourth word is the same – WHICH, and its second letter is H.

Source: iPREP

Remember: your goal is to answer the question correctly and in the shortest amount of time, so once you realize that the correct answer doesn’t rely on whether it is phrased as a question or as a statement, write the answer and move on.

Also, note that you must reorder the words as a single sentence; therefore, ordering them as two short sentences is not acceptable. For example, the following is not acceptable: WHICH DAY IS IT? DO YOU KNOW?

Well done!

You have completed the Sample Questions section.

The complete iPREP course includes full test simulations with detailed explanations and study guides.

‘…TESTS THAT ACTUALLY HELP’

In the first 30 minutes of use I have learned so much more than skipping along the internet looking for free content. Don’t waste you time, pay and get tests that actually help.

Richard Rodgers

January 28, 2020 at 7:49 PM