Software Developer Test

When looking to fill a software developer position, it's important to make sure that the candidate has the skills necessary to do the job. A software developer skills test can help ensure that the candidate is a good fit for the position.

  • What is a software developer skills test?

    The software developer skills test is a pre-employment assessment that is designed to be used early in the recruitment process when hiring a new software developer.

    The test asks questions that are specific to the role of a software developer, so that the candidate can demonstrate that they have a grasp of the knowledge and skills that are needed to be successful, and can apply the theory that they have learned to job-related scenarios and problems.

    Using a software developer job skills test is a simple way to establish which candidates have the right level of skills and experience to match the requirements of the posted job; it can be administered to many candidates at once and the results can be used to narrow down a large pool of applicants in an objective and unbiased way.

Jump to a section on this page:

  1. What is a software developer skills test?
  2. What are the benefits of using the software developer skills test for pre-screening?
  3. How our test measures software developer skills
  4. Software 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.

  • What are the benefits of using the software developer skills test for pre-screening?

    When recruiters are looking for a software developer, there will be certain criteria that will need to be met by the applicants. Some of these criteria can be ascertained through a traditional paper sift, such as whether they have a degree in software development or information technology or whether they have completed further postgraduate training.

    However, some of the other skills and aptitudes that are needed for success in the role are not easy to identify through a paper sift or even in an interview, and this is where the software developer test can make a real difference to the time and cost of the recruitment process.

    The questions asked in the test are developed specifically to show whether the candidate can apply their learning and experience of software development in the workplace. The results of the assessment will show just how much knowledge the candidate already has related to the role that they have applied for, and how well they can use that knowledge.

    Because the software developer is likely to be working on projects for clients and businesses, needing to communicate ideas for the development of new software and ways to improve what already exists, they need to have extensive project management ability.

    The software developer also needs to write code, understanding different programming languages depending on whether they are working on frontend, backend, or full-stack software development.

    Other necessary aptitudes and skills that are not easy to assess through paper sifts and interviews include problem solving, attention to detail and adaptability. With the software developer job skills test, the candidate has to make decisions and solve problems creatively, adapting to new ideas to demonstrate that they have the right level of skill.

    The programmer skills test could be used for a range of jobs including:

More Job Skills Tests

How our test measures software developer skills

Test questions are designed to assess industry-specific technical skills, soft skills, aptitude and suitable personality dimensions. Our data-driven approach provides results that enable you to determine how suited is a candidate for the role.

Depending on the type of question, the format of the test may vary. Multiple-choice questions are used to measure aptitude, technical skills and soft skills, while agreement on a Likert scale assesses suitable personality dimensions. Skills tests ensure that candidates are being evaluated in a precise and impartial manner, their results demonstrating the true knowledge and potential of each test taker.

The characteristics required to be a software developer were determined by looking at the skills and abilities listed in the US Department of Labor’s O*NET database, which collects data from professionals in various fields.

O*NET is the largest database of its kind, providing detailed information about occupations and the requirements for each role.

Our team of I/O psychologists and psychometrics worked closely with subject-matter experts to create an extensive question bank that can be used to test multiple candidates. We also conducted rigorous field testing with a representative sample of candidates to ensure that the questions were reliable and valid.

Test scores are averaged together to give an overall score. The average score is compared to other candidates' scores to ensure there is no bias toward certain candidates.

Our software developer test is constantly updated and optimized to ensure the best experience and results.

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Validated

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

Software Developer Test FAQs

What skills are necessary for a software developer?

Software developers need skills in project management and problem solving, as well as communication and attention to detail. They also need to have a good working knowledge of programming languages, servers, and databases.

Software developers can work on the client-facing side of the project (frontend), the server and behind-the-scenes (backend) or on both sides (full-stack) - and specific coding, debugging, and development skills related to these.

What other tests can be used to assess software development skills?

Software developer skills are not all about programming knowledge and the structure of code to build software - some other skills tests that could be useful in finding capable software developers include error checking, project management, communication, and teamwork.

For aptitude tests, numerical and abstract reasoning would be useful, as would spatial reasoning to assess the different ways that data can be used by a candidate to make decisions.

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.

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.

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

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