SQL Developer Test

Use a SQL test to hire developers by testing their knowledge and understanding of SQL.

  • What is an SQL test?

    SQL is a programming language used by developers to target, extract and access data from database management systems. Having a working knowledge of SQL is essential for many programmers and developers who use databases such as Oracle, Ingress, or Microsoft SQL servers.

    An SQL test assesses an individual's understanding and working knowledge of using SQL. The test is designed to measure if candidates can use SQL to connect, retrieve and manage information held on a relational database management system.

    Specifically, candidates' understanding of SQL is evaluated by assessing whether they can write queries in SQL that enable, for example, the extraction, manipulation, or modification of data stored on the relational database.

Jump to a section on this page:

  1. What is an SQL test?
  2. Why is an SQL test so important when hiring?
  3. How to assess SQL coding skills using our test
  4. SQL Developer Test FAQs

Identify the best candidates and hire faster

Our pre-employment tests let you drill down to the best candidates at the click of a button.

  • Find those candidates who will excel in the role.

    Select the assessments that match the skills or behaviours for the position. You can test for software or coding competency, soft skills like teamwork, or personality traits, to be sure those who pass have high potential.

  • Reduce costs and time.

    No more laborious sifting of resumes or cover letters. Pick your ideal assessment mix, invite your applicants to take them, see the results in your dashboard. Get to the interview stage fast.

  • Eliminate bias.

    All your candidates take the assessments on a level playing field. Only their results determine whether they get shortlisted.

  • Why is an SQL test so important when hiring?

    SQL is one of the most well-used database languages meaning that those working as programmers or back-end developers need to be proficient in SQL. When faced with a large applicant pool, it is often difficult to ascertain a candidate's skill level using SQL. Individuals may state that they can use SQL, but determining their proficiency from an application screen or interview can be problematic.

    The SQL test helps recruiters overcome this barrier by giving you a means of practically and objectively confirming an individual's capability in using SQL as compared to the role requirements. Those who score highly on the test are likely to perform well in a role that requires the use of SQL and can be progressed to the next stage of the recruitment process.

    In addition to assessing an individual's skill level using SQL, the test provides additional benefits to recruiters. It enables them to evaluate a candidate's skills in time management, their ability to work under pressure and solve issues with the code, as well as think critically about the requirements of the task at hand.

    While a working knowledge of SQL is required for many programming roles, other jobs also require candidates to be proficient in using SQL.

    Examples of roles where including an SQL test would be a beneficial addition to the recruitment process include:

    • Software engineer
    • Database administrator
    • Business analyst
    • Data engineers
    • Solution architects
    • Quality assurance analysts

More Coding Tests

Sample SQL Developer Test question

Which of these SQL statements is used to sort the results of a query in ascending order?

  • ORDER BY column_name DESC

  • ORDER BY column_name

  • SORT BY column_name

  • GROUP BY column_name

How to assess SQL coding skills using our test

Our SQL test asks a variety of questions that vary in difficulty level. Candidates who are proficient in SQL should be able to answer the questions correctly.

The SQL test provides valuable data-driven insight into what a candidate knows and understands. The test is structured using multiple-choice questions - a familiar format for most test-takers, that allows for instant and objective scoring.

As well as the correct answer, there are typically 2-4 distractors, representing common misconceptions and mistakes. This helps make the test more challenging, so a candidate's ability can be measured more accurately.

Test scores are provided to the user and can be compared to other test-takers in your talent pool to see how they perform relative to each other.

Each test has been thoroughly reviewed to ensure accuracy and validity in line with industry standards. It has been written, examined and edited by SQL experts and psychometric professionals. It has also been reviewed by a diverse sample of job seekers to check for any issues including sensitivity, face validity, fairness and accessibility.

This test is continually monitored so our team can optimize performance and regularly assess fairness issues.

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Predictor of job success

Picked provides evidence-based recommendations for tests to use for over 750 jobs. Our recommendation engine leverages data from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) developed by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

  • Assessments

    A full suite of assessments

    Our platform comes with 12 tests across both foundation and advanced levels so they’re suitable for everyone. Including aptitude, behavioural and personality tests, you’ll have a full range of tests to help you find the candidates you’re seeking.

  • Analytics

    An array of candidate metrics

    For each of your candidates, you’ll be given a comprehensive report. Included will be all the metrics you need to build a detailed picture of each candidate and ensure you’re making the right hiring decisions.

“The platform is so simple to use. I had used competitor providers for over six years and will never go back. Fast, efficient and friendly!”
Greg Chambers, HR Business Partner, Littlefish Ltd
Greg Chambers, HR Business Partner, Littlefish Ltd
SQL Developer Test expert

Devised by an expert

Developed by our team of I/O psychologists, psychometricians and subject matter experts, our assessments provide reliable, valid and impartial results. They strictly follow industry best practices and stay on the leading edge of innovations to have job seekers’ unique profiles, abilities and knowledge accurately evaluated while minimising bias. They draw on years of research and cutting-edge predictive analytics to create assessments that provide valuable insights into performance, retention, culture fit and more.

SQL Developer Test FAQs

How popular is SQL?

SQL is a well-used programming language practiced by many developers across several sectors and industries. Those familiar with using SQL can write queries that enable the easy extraction and manipulation of data held on relational databases, resulting in efficient access to large amounts of data.

Why are SQL skills important?

Widely regarded as the standard language used to communicate with relational databases, individuals with SQL skills can access, manipulate and extract data by writing simple command queries. Having proficiency in using SQL is a skill requirement for many programmer, developer, and analyst roles.

What other skills are required for SQL?

To use and understand SQL, individuals need to draw on a wide range of skills. These include attention to detail and the ability to think logically and critically when solving a problem. Candidates also need strong written communication skills and a high level of numeracy.

When in the application process is it best to use a SQL test?

An SQL test can be used at any stage of the recruitment process but is most cost-effective when used in the early stages. Including an SQL test in the initial screening stages enables recruiters to identify candidates who have the necessary skill in using SQL as required for the role. These candidates can then be progressed to the next stage of the recruitment process; those that do not can be eliminated.

“An unbeatable service, impressive platform and fantastic value for money.”
Laurence Fishman, Partner, NLPCA
Laurence Fishman, Partner, NLPCA

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