Spatial Reasoning Tests

Spatial reasoning aptitude tests are a widely used tool in the field of intelligence assessment. These tests measure an individual's ability to think spatially and solve problems in three-dimensional space.

  • What are spatial reasoning aptitude tests?

    Spatial reasoning aptitude tests are used as pre-employment screening assessments for roles where visualisation and manipulation of objects and space are necessary for success.

    The spatial reasoning aptitude test questions are based on drawings of shapes and nets, with multiple-choice answer options. The question types are based on:

    • Shape matching
    • Group rotation
    • Mirror images
    • Combining 2D shapes
    • Cube views
    • Map navigation
    • Block counting

    Used in the early stages of the recruitment process, the spatial reasoning test can be administered to a large number of candidates at the same time, and the results of the assessment provide quantifiable, objective data that demonstrates which candidates have the required level of aptitude and skill in spatial reasoning.

    This makes narrowing down a large candidate pool for a role much more simple. Only the most qualified of candidates will pass the test with the aptitudes required, taking the top applicants through to interview. Using tests like spatial reasoning reduces the costs in time and money that can become a problem in hiring the right person for the role.

Jump to a section on this page:

  1. What are spatial reasoning aptitude tests?
  2. What do spatial reasoning tests measure?
  3. What employers use spatial reasoning tests and why?
  4. What are the benefits of using a spatial reasoning test in your hiring process?
  5. Spatial Reasoning Tests FAQs

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  • What do spatial reasoning tests measure?

    Using a spatial reasoning test allows recruiters to assess candidates for technological or engineering roles, especially where imagination and the ability to visualise shapes in space are necessary.

    The spatial reasoning assessment measures a candidate on their ability to spot patterns between shapes, visualise the way a shape can change, and manipulate both 2D and 3D objects.

    Candidates with an aptitude for spatial reasoning are more comfortable dealing with conceptual problems, and because they are able to visualise shapes, movement, rotation and patterns, they can make faster decisions.

    The spatial reasoning tests are assessments that demonstrate how a candidate can interpret objects and shapes in their daily lives. Candidates with spatial reasoning aptitude will excel in roles where they need to be able to use that 2D and 3D visualisation in their day-to-day roles.

More Aptitude Tests

Sample Spatial Reasoning Tests question

Which of the boxes comes next in the sequence?

  • A

  • B

  • C

  • D

  • E

What employers use spatial reasoning tests and why?

Spatial reasoning tests tend to be used in roles for the technological or engineering industries, especially ones with hands-on duties such as:

  • Architecture
  • Engineering
  • Plumbing
  • Electrical maintenance
  • 3D design
  • Game construction

With clear results from the spatial reasoning tests that demonstrate the theoretical abilities of a candidate, it is much easier to find future employees that have the right level of skill needed in the role. Employers in the technological industries use spatial reasoning tests to be sure that applicants have the knowledge, skill, and aptitude to be successful.

shapes spatial reasoning

What are the benefits of using a spatial reasoning test in your hiring process?

If you are recruiting for a role in the technology or engineering industries, using a spatial reasoning test in the hiring process can have a number of benefits.

Firstly, the test is designed to assess candidates on their aptitude, which makes the test a reliable way to ensure that the people that have applied for the role have the required level of skill to be successful.

The test is simple to administer, even to a large number of candidates. It is delivered to applicants via an email link, and each person completes it at home and in their own time, and the results are available immediately.

For the recruitment team, making a decision based on the results of the assessment means having reliable, quantifiable data that shows exactly which candidates are likely to be successful based on their level of ability.

Using aptitude tests like the spatial reasoning assessment in your recruitment process saves time and money, and also reduces the risks of making a bad hire.

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Greg Chambers, HR Business Partner, Littlefish Ltd
Greg Chambers, HR Business Partner, Littlefish Ltd
Spatial Reasoning Tests expert

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Spatial Reasoning Tests FAQs

What is spatial reasoning used for?

Spatial reasoning is something that we use in our daily lives. We interpret objects and shapes to understand the world around us. In the workplace, especially in technological and engineering industries, spatial reasoning ability is needed for success.

How hard are spatial reasoning tests?

Spatial reasoning assessments are designed to be somewhat challenging so that they can accurately portray the aptitude level of a candidate - but for those with good spatial visualisation they should not be too challenging. The difficulty in these tests comes from unfamiliarity with the layout and structure of the assessment.

Are these tests available in my plan?

We have a range of plans available. The difference between the plans is the number of test attempts permitted, not the type of tests. All our plans include our full test suite comprising all tests and all levels.

Can I see what the test is like?

Yes, of course. You can try the test for free by signing up for a free trial.

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Laurence Fishman, Partner, NLPCA

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