Ability test · Written British English
Test the written accuracy your clients will notice, before you hire
Three parts, spelling, grammar and usage, and proofreading a workplace text, measure accuracy in written British English. The report gives an overall score band, a breakdown by part, and speed and accuracy. Assessor and Candidate versions are available.
See what candidates see
30 questions in 15 minutes across three parts: spelling, grammar and usage, and proofreading a workplace text.
Every candidate gets clear instructions and examples before the test starts. To try the full test yourself, ask us for a free trial.
What the Spelling, Grammar and Proofreading Test measures
The Spelling, Grammar and Proofreading Test measures accuracy in written British English: spelling common workplace words correctly, using standard grammar and punctuation, and spotting errors when checking a short workplace text.
Spelling
Choosing the correct spelling of common workplace words, including doubled consonants, ie/ei and -ance/-ence.
Grammar and usage
Agreement, apostrophes, their/there/they're, fewer/less, who/whom and other everyday rules.
Punctuation
Choosing the correctly punctuated sentence.
Proofreading
Finding every error in a line of a workplace letter, email or notice.
Why organisations choose Viewpoint ability tests
Fair and objective
Every candidate takes the same test, scored the same way, so decisions rest on evidence rather than impressions.
Candidates know what to expect
Clear instructions and example questions come before the test starts, so nobody is caught out by the format.
Reports you can act on
Clear results and score bands from Very Low to Very High, ready for shortlisting or a feedback conversation.
Fits your process
Use it to screen applicants early, to shortlist, or to add objective evidence at the final stage.
Reports that do the work for you
The report shows the candidate's overall score and score band (Very Low to Very High), a breakdown for each of the three parts, and speed and accuracy. It comes in two versions: an Assessor Report with interview questions, and a Candidate Report with no scores and practical development advice.
View sample
Assessor Report
For recruiters and hiring managers
- Score band from Very Low to Very High
- Speed and accuracy
- Interview questions to explore the result
View sample
Candidate Report
For the person who took it
- Constructive feedback in plain English
- No scores shown
- Practical suggestions for development
Who it’s for
The test suits any role where written accuracy matters. It pairs well with our Legal Copy Typing Test. Typical roles.
Administrative roles
Check spelling, grammar and punctuation before candidates write on your behalf.
Legal support roles
Pair with the Legal Copy Typing Test for legal secretaries and paralegals.
Customer communications
Assess written accuracy for contact centre and customer-facing staff.
How it works
- 1
Invite
Send candidates their link from the Viewpoint platform. They can take the test wherever suits them.
- 2
Practise, then take the test
Candidates read the instructions and try example questions before the test starts.
- 3
Get the results
Results are ready as soon as the candidate finishes. Download the report and use it straight away.
At a glance
- 30 questions, completed in 15 minutes
- Three parts, in order: Spelling (10), Grammar and usage (10), Proofreading (10)
- Multiple choice with four options; in Proofreading, candidates count the errors in a line (0–3)
- Eight parallel versions
- 5 untimed practice questions with feedback covering all three parts
Related tests
Diagrammatic Reasoning Test24 flowchart questions in 20 minutes. Candidates follow rule-based steps, handle Yes/No switches and work out missing steps.
Data Interpretation TestSix workplace charts, tables and dashboards with four questions each: 24 questions in 25 minutes.
Legal Critical Thinking Test30 legal-practice questions in 30 minutes across five sections: inferences, assumptions, deductions, interpretation and evaluating arguments.
Dual Monitoring Test80 questions in 8 minutes. Candidates check two sources of information against two rules on every screen.How candidates can do their best
Read every word
In proofreading, check each word on its own; it's easy to read what you expect to see.
Count all the errors
A line can have more than one error, so don't stop at the first.
Say it in your head
Reading a sentence slowly in your head helps you hear grammar mistakes.
Practise with real documents
Proofread letters and emails at work, and look up any spelling you're not sure of.
See the Spelling, Grammar and Proofreading Test for yourself
Try it and see the reports your team would receive. Contact us for a free trial or a demonstration of the platform.
More Free Tests
Try additional psychometric tests for free:
Take a Free SJT Take a Free Personality Test Take a Free Critical Reasoning Test Take a Free Barista SJT