Key Tips

  • The ‘NMG’ series of tests consist of Numerical and Verbal Reasoning. Both are delivered online so you can expect these very early on after applying for a job

You do not need to have a large variety of tests to improve – focussing on a handful of tests repeatedly will encourage deeper learning and understanding, which is better than spreading yourself thinly across say 15 Numerical tests

  • Remember practice will increase your chances of succeeding. You will be given practice questions and you should work quickly but accurately as the test is timed. If you get stuck on a question, move on and come back to it later
  • Our tests are written by ex-SHL and Kenexa Test Psychometricians and developers. You can get a very strong experience of the real thing simply by taking our FREE Numerical, Verbal and Logical Tests – click on the tab on the top-left of the screen now
  • Pass marks are typically around the 30th and 50th percentiles, but you should always aim as high as possible. If you do not know an answer, guessing (although not recommended) may give you extra points as there is no negative marking on these tests

SHL CEB – Numerical Reasoning for Managers and Graduates (NMG)

The NMG is a series of numerical reasoning tests aimed at the managerial and graduate level which belong to a test battery known as MGIB – Manager and Graduate Item Bank. There are 6 numerical reasoning tests labelled NMG1-6, with NMG 6 reflecting the latest version. The NMG tests are often taken online but have been used by many organisations for supervised re-testing (assuming an online version has previously been completed) at an assessment centre stage. This verification process adheres to fixed question booklets although the organisation sometimes use any version they wish. However, the online tests vary in terms of the content to prevent candidates sharing answers to questions. For online assessment, the questionnaire is produced for each candidate using a number of items selected from an item bank; a pool of items. The items are chosen based upon their difficult levels such that each candidate is given a test of comparable difficulty. Candidates are required to answer questions which require numerical reasoning using information provided in tables and charts. You are given 5 options to choose from; only 1 of the options is correct. The level of mathematics required is no more than that obtained at GCSE level.

Simple arithmetic, calculation percentages and ratios, and interpreting graphs will definitely help. It is advised that candidates practise as much as possible.

Did you know our tests are written by ex-SHL test developersTake a FREE Numerical Reasoning Test and receive FREE expert feedback too. Click on the tab at the top-left of this page now.

The results of each test are compared against a relevant ‘norm’ group, which consists of similar individuals who have previously completed the same test; this helps to benchmark the candidate’s response against others to see how well they have done in comparison.

Our FREE feedback reports also give ‘normed’ scores as well as a detailed breakdown of your performance by item type – no other test publisher provides this.

The NMG tests normally consist of 20 questions and you are given 20 minutes in which to complete them. Calculators are allowed and you are advised to work both quickly and accurately. For more information, see ‘Ability Tests’.

START PREPARING TODAY