Ability test · Speeded attention
Reveal who stays accurate at speed when the rules suddenly change
A fast-paced checking test: candidates check the direction and number of marks on each arrow, adjusting when the rule changes. The report shows score band, questions answered, accuracy and speed. Assessor and Candidate versions are available.
See what candidates see
A fast-paced checking test: 48 questions in 8 minutes. Candidates check two features of each symbol and adjust when the rule changes.
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 Symbol Checking Test measures
The Symbol Checking Test measures sustained attention and attention switching. Candidates check two features of each arrow (its direction and its number of marks) quickly and accurately, and adjust at once when the rule changes.
Accurate checking
Confirming both direction and count on every symbol before responding.
Avoiding assumptions
Not ticking near misses that look right at a glance.
Switching rules
Following the new rule straight away when the target changes.
Sustained attention
Keeping up speed and accuracy for the whole 8 minutes.
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 score and score band (Very Low to Very High), with questions answered, accuracy and speed, so fast but careless work is easy to see. 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 is designed for roles where checking and attention are critical to safety.
Trainee train drivers
Assess the checking and attention that safety-critical driving roles demand.
High-attention roles
Measure sustained attention and switching for roles where errors matter.
Speed versus care
Questions answered, accuracy and speed are reported together, so careless speed is easy to see.
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
- 48 questions in 8 minutes, in four blocks of 12
- Each question shows eight arrows (A–H); candidates tick every arrow that meets the rule, or "None"
- The rule changes every 12 questions
- Speeded: there are more questions than most people can answer in the time
- Eight parallel versions; 5 untimed practice questions with feedback
Related tests
Critical Reasoning TestEvaluate inferences, assumptions, deductions, interpretations and arguments in business contexts.
Legal Comprehension TestCheck legal passages for accuracy, terminology and formatting. 47 items in 25 minutes.
Concentration Test60 questions in 10 minutes. Candidates scan groups of dots and tick every group that has exactly four.
Abstract Reasoning Test20 'what comes next' figure series in 10 minutes. Candidates spot the rules that change each figure and choose the next one.How candidates can do their best
Check both features
Look at direction and count on every arrow; checking only one is the most common mistake.
Watch for the switch
When the rule changes, read the new target before you answer.
Accuracy matters as much as speed
Answer as many as you can, but only tick what you've checked.
Don't worry about finishing
Nobody is expected to reach the end.
See the Symbol Checking 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
For more details, contact us at: +44 (0)7872 019525 or [email protected]
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