Cognitive Test Sample Questions: Free Practice With Answers and Explanations

Cognitive test sample questions help you understand the reasoning skills used in employment aptitude tests, cognitive ability tests and psychometric assessments.

Most cognitive tests measure how quickly and accurately you can solve unfamiliar problems. Common question types include numerical reasoning, verbal reasoning, abstract reasoning, logical reasoning, spatial reasoning, critical thinking and problem solving.

This page gives you free cognitive test sample questions with answers and explanations.

Aptitude test practice can supplement these samples with additional free reasoning drills.

These are original practice questions for study purposes. They are not official questions from Criteria, Predictive Index, Wonderlic practice, SHL, Aon, Korn Ferry or any other test provider.

What Are Cognitive Test Sample Questions?

Cognitive test sample questions are practice questions that show the types of reasoning tasks used in cognitive ability tests.

They may test your ability to:

• solve numerical problems;
• understand verbal relationships;
• identify visual patterns;
• apply logic;
• evaluate arguments;
• rotate or manipulate shapes;
• solve practical problems;
• work quickly under time pressure.

Sample questions are useful because they show the format before you take the real test.

Numerical reasoning test practice can help you rehearse the quantitative formats shown in these sample questions.

Common Cognitive Test Question Types

Question Type	What It Tests
Numerical reasoning	Percentages, ratios, averages, word problems, charts and number series
Verbal reasoning	Synonyms, antonyms, analogies, sentence logic and reading comprehension
Abstract reasoning	Shape patterns, matrices, rotations, reflections and visual rules
Logical reasoning	Rules, deductions, syllogisms and conclusions
Spatial reasoning	Mental rotation, folding, mirror images and 2D/3D visualization
Critical thinking	Assumptions, arguments, evidence and supported conclusions
Problem solving	Practical calculations, workplace scenarios and multi-step reasoning
Pattern recognition	Number patterns, shape patterns and sequence rules

A real test may include all of these, or only some of them.

Free Cognitive Test Sample Questions

Answer each question before reading the explanation.

Abstract reasoning practice can help you recognize pattern rules faster in the visual sample questions below.

Question 1: Numerical Reasoning

A product costs $75 after a 25% discount. What was the original price?

• A. $90
• B. $95
• C. $100
• D. $110

Answer and Explanation

Correct answer: C. $100

A 25% discount means the customer paid 75% of the original price.

75 = 0.75 × original price
75 ÷ 0.75 = 100

The original price was $100.

Question 2: Numerical Reasoning

A team completes 96 tasks in 8 hours. At the same rate, how many tasks can the team complete in 5 hours?

• A. 50
• B. 55
• C. 60
• D. 65

Answer and Explanation

Correct answer: C. 60

First find the hourly rate:

96 ÷ 8 = 12 tasks per hour

Then multiply by 5 hours:

12 × 5 = 60

The team can complete 60 tasks in 5 hours.

Question 3: Number Series

Find the next number:

4, 8, 16, 32, ?

• A. 40
• B. 48
• C. 60
• D. 64

Answer and Explanation

Correct answer: D. 64

Each number doubles:

4 × 2 = 8
8 × 2 = 16
16 × 2 = 32
32 × 2 = 64

The next number is 64.

Question 4: Verbal Reasoning

Choose the word most similar in meaning to accurate.

• A. Correct
• B. Fast
• C. Heavy
• D. Recent

Answer and Explanation

Correct answer: A. Correct

“Accurate” means correct or precise.

Question 5: Verbal Analogy

Clock is to time as thermometer is to:

• A. Weight
• B. Temperature
• C. Distance
• D. Speed

Answer and Explanation

Correct answer: B. Temperature

A clock measures time. A thermometer measures temperature.

The relationship is:

instrument → what it measures

Question 6: Antonym

Choose the word most opposite in meaning to expand.

• A. Grow
• B. Increase
• C. Reduce
• D. Extend

Answer and Explanation

Correct answer: C. Reduce

“Expand” means to grow or become larger. The opposite is “reduce.”

Question 7: Logical Reasoning

All analysts are employees. Some employees work remotely.

Which statement must be true?

• A. All analysts work remotely
• B. Some analysts work remotely
• C. All analysts are employees
• D. No analysts work remotely

Answer and Explanation

Correct answer: C. All analysts are employees

The first sentence directly states that all analysts are employees.

The second sentence says some employees work remotely, but it does not say whether those employees are analysts.

Only option C must be true.

Question 8: Deductive Reasoning

Company policy says all expense reports must be approved before payment. Maria’s expense report was paid.

Which conclusion is best supported?

• A. Maria’s report was approved
• B. Maria’s report was rejected
• C. Maria did not submit a report
• D. Maria approved her own report

Answer and Explanation

Correct answer: A. Maria’s report was approved

The rule says expense reports must be approved before payment. If Maria’s report was paid, the best supported conclusion is that it was approved.

Question 9: Abstract Reasoning

Find the next item:

Circle, square, circle, square, circle, ?

• A. Circle
• B. Square
• C. Triangle
• D. Star

Answer and Explanation

Correct answer: B. Square

The sequence alternates:

circle → square → circle → square → circle → square

The next item is square.

Question 10: Abstract Pattern

A black arrow points up, then right, then down, then left. What comes next?

• A. Up
• B. Right
• C. Down
• D. Left

Answer and Explanation

Correct answer: A. Up

The arrow rotates 90 degrees clockwise each step:

up → right → down → left → up

The next direction is up.

Question 11: Spatial Reasoning

A shape is mirrored horizontally. A right-pointing arrow becomes:

• A. Right-pointing arrow
• B. Left-pointing arrow
• C. Up-pointing arrow
• D. Down-pointing arrow

Answer and Explanation

Correct answer: B. Left-pointing arrow

A horizontal mirror image reverses left and right.

A right-pointing arrow becomes a left-pointing arrow.

Question 12: Shape Matrix

Complete the pattern:

Row 1: small circle, medium circle, large circle
Row 2: small square, medium square, large square
Row 3: small triangle, medium triangle, ?

• A. Small triangle
• B. Medium triangle
• C. Large triangle
• D. Large square

Answer and Explanation

Correct answer: C. Large triangle

Across each row, size increases:

small → medium → large

Row 3 uses triangles, so the missing item is a large triangle.

Question 13: Critical Thinking

A company notices that employees who complete safety training have fewer accidents.

Which conclusion is best supported?

• A. Safety training may help reduce accidents
• B. Safety training eliminates all accidents
• C. Employees without safety training never have accidents
• D. Only trained employees can work safely

Answer and Explanation

Correct answer: A. Safety training may help reduce accidents

The statement supports a relationship between training and fewer accidents.

It does not prove that training eliminates all accidents or that untrained employees never work safely.

Question 14: Problem Solving

A machine produces 240 parts in 6 hours. How many parts does it produce per hour?

• A. 30
• B. 35
• C. 40
• D. 45

Answer and Explanation

Correct answer: C. 40

Divide total output by time:

240 ÷ 6 = 40

The machine produces 40 parts per hour.

Question 15: Time Management

A test has 50 questions and a 15-minute time limit. About how much time do you have per question?

• A. 12 seconds
• B. 18 seconds
• C. 25 seconds
• D. 30 seconds

Answer and Explanation

Correct answer: B. 18 seconds

Convert 15 minutes to seconds:

15 × 60 = 900 seconds

Divide by 50 questions:

900 ÷ 50 = 18 seconds

You have about 18 seconds per question.

This is why time management matters on tests like the CCAT.

Cognitive Test Sample Questions Answer Key

Question	Skill Tested	Correct Answer
1	Numerical reasoning	C
2	Numerical reasoning	C
3	Number series	D
4	Verbal reasoning	A
5	Verbal analogy	B
6	Antonym	C
7	Logical reasoning	C
8	Deductive reasoning	A
9	Abstract reasoning	B
10	Abstract pattern	A
11	Spatial reasoning	B
12	Shape matrix	C
13	Critical thinking	A
14	Problem solving	C
15	Time management	B

Cognitive Test Question Formats Explained

Numerical Reasoning Questions

Numerical reasoning questions test your ability to work with numbers.

Common formats include:

• percentages;
• ratios;
• averages;
• rates;
• word problems;
• number series;
• tables;
• charts;
• currency problems;
• basic algebra.

Example:

What is 20% of 150?

Correct answer:

0.20 × 150 = 30

Related guide:

• Numerical Reasoning

Verbal Reasoning Questions

Verbal reasoning questions test your ability to understand words and written information.

Common formats include:

• synonyms;
• antonyms;
• analogies;
• sentence completion;
• word classification;
• reading comprehension;
• true / false / cannot say;
• verbal logic.

Example:

Brief is most similar to:
A. Short
B. Heavy
C. Late
D. Loud

Correct answer:

A. Short

Related guide:

• Verbal Reasoning

Abstract Reasoning Questions

Abstract reasoning questions test your ability to find visual rules.

Common formats include:

• shape sequences;
• matrices;
• rotations;
• reflections;
• odd-one-out;
• analogies;
• A/B sets;
• pattern completion.

Example:

Triangle, square, triangle, square, ?

Correct answer:

Triangle

Related guide:

• Abstract Reasoning

Logical Reasoning Questions

Logical reasoning questions test whether you can apply rules and draw valid conclusions.

Common formats include:

• syllogisms;
• conditional logic;
• must-be-true questions;
• assumptions;
• conclusions;
• rule application.

Example:

All managers are employees. Sam is a manager. What must be true?

Correct answer:

Sam is an employee.

Related guide:

• Logical Reasoning

Spatial Reasoning Questions

Spatial reasoning questions test your ability to mentally manipulate shapes and objects.

Common formats include:

• rotations;
• mirror images;
• cube folding;
• block counting;
• object assembly;
• perspective changes.

Example:

An arrow points up and rotates 90 degrees clockwise. Where does it point?

Correct answer:

Right

Related guide:

• Spatial Reasoning

Critical Thinking Questions

Critical thinking questions test your ability to evaluate information.

Common formats include:

• strongest conclusion;
• assumptions;
• argument strength;
• inference;
• cause and effect;
• evidence evaluation.

Example:

Employees who use checklists make fewer errors. What is best supported?

Correct answer:

Checklists may help reduce errors.

Related guide:

• Critical Thinking Test

Problem-Solving Questions

Problem-solving questions test your ability to find efficient answers to practical or unfamiliar tasks.

Common formats include:

• rate problems;
• scheduling;
• workplace scenarios;
• multi-step word problems;
• prioritization;
• resource allocation.

Example:

A machine makes 100 parts in 4 hours. How many per hour?

Correct answer:

25

Related guide:

• Problem Solving Test

Sample Questions by Test Provider

CCAT Sample Questions

The Criteria CCAT includes verbal reasoning, math and logic, and spatial reasoning.

CCAT sample questions should focus on:

• fast arithmetic;
• word problems;
• vocabulary;
• analogies;
• number series;
• logic;
• spatial patterns;
• rotations;
• shape sequences.

The CCAT is heavily time-pressured, so sample questions should be practiced with a timer.

Related guides:

• CCAT Practice Test
• CCAT Score Explained
• Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test

PI Cognitive Sample Questions

PI Cognitive sample questions usually focus on:

• numerical reasoning;
• verbal reasoning;
• abstract reasoning;
• fast decision-making;
• heavy time pressure.

Predictive Index official sample questions may be included in the administrator’s invitation when the administrator chooses to include them.

Related guides:

• PI Cognitive Assessment
• PI Cognitive Score Explained
• Predictive Index Test

Wonderlic Sample Questions

Wonderlic-style sample questions may include:

• arithmetic;
• word problems;
• vocabulary;
• analogies;
• logic;
• comparisons;
• number series;
• general reasoning.

Wonderlic-style tests are usually speeded, so practice should include mixed timed questions.

Related guides:

• Wonderlic Practice Test
• Wonderlic Score Explained
• Wonderlic Test Questions

SHL Sample Questions

SHL-style cognitive assessments may include:

• numerical reasoning;
• verbal reasoning;
• inductive reasoning;
• deductive reasoning;
• general ability questions.

Use SHL-specific practice if your employer invitation names SHL.

Aon / cut-e Sample Questions

Aon / cut-e assessments may include:

• numerical reasoning;
• verbal reasoning;
• logical reasoning;
• attention-to-detail tests;
• special-format reasoning;
• short timed items.

Use Aon-specific practice if your employer invitation names Aon or cut-e.

Korn Ferry Sample Questions

Korn Ferry assessments may include:

• cognitive reasoning;
• numerical reasoning;
• verbal reasoning;
• logical reasoning;
• behavioral or leadership-related assessment components.

Use Korn Ferry-specific practice if your invitation names Korn Ferry.

How to Practice Cognitive Test Sample Questions

Use this method:

1. Try the question before reading the answer.
2. Identify the question type.
3. Solve without rushing at first.
4. Read the explanation.
5. Redo missed questions.
6. Write down the mistake type.
7. Practice similar questions.
8. Add timing once the method is clear.
9. Complete mixed timed sets.
10. Finish with a full simulation if available.

The goal is not to memorize answers. The goal is to learn the reasoning patterns.

How to Review Sample Questions

When reviewing a question, ask:

• Did I understand what was being asked?
• Did I identify the question type correctly?
• Did I use the right formula or rule?
• Did I make a calculation error?
• Did I miss a pattern?
• Did I choose an answer that could be true instead of must be true?
• Did I spend too long?
• Did I ignore a simpler shortcut?

Use your mistakes to choose what to practice next.

Time Management for Cognitive Test Questions

Many cognitive tests are designed to be difficult to finish.

Use these timing rules:

• answer easy questions quickly;
• skip difficult questions when allowed;
• avoid long calculations;
• use elimination;
• guess strategically if there is no penalty;
• do not spend too long on one question;
• practice mixed timed sets;
• review mistakes after the timed set, not during it.

Related guide:

• Time Management

Best Cognitive Test Sample Question Prep

For employment cognitive tests, pre-employment assessment practice is usually a strong option because it provides practice questions, timed simulations and answer explanations for major test types.

Use JobTestPrep for:

• cognitive ability tests;
• aptitude tests;
• CCAT;
• PI Cognitive;
• Wonderlic;
• SHL-style tests;
• Aon-style tests;
• Korn Ferry-style tests;
• numerical reasoning;
• verbal reasoning;
• abstract reasoning;
• logical reasoning.

Free vs Paid Cognitive Test Sample Questions

Prep Type	Best Use
Free sample questions	Learn question formats
Official provider samples	Confirm the real format
Free answer explanations	Understand reasoning steps
Timed drills	Build speed
Paid JobTestPrep	More practice volume, simulations and explanations
Provider-specific prep	Best for named assessments
Score reports	Identify weak areas

Free sample questions are enough for first exposure. Paid prep is more useful when the test is high-stakes and time-pressured.

7-Day Practice Plan for Cognitive Sample Questions

Day	Study Focus
Day 1	Take mixed sample questions and review explanations
Day 2	Numerical reasoning
Day 3	Verbal reasoning
Day 4	Abstract and spatial reasoning
Day 5	Logical and critical thinking
Day 6	Timed mixed practice
Day 7	Review repeated mistakes and repeat weak sections

Common Mistakes on Cognitive Test Sample Questions

Avoid these mistakes:

• reading the answer before trying the question;
• memorizing answers instead of methods;
• practicing without reviewing explanations;
• ignoring time pressure;
• focusing only on math;
• ignoring verbal or abstract reasoning;
• missing simple pattern rules;
• confusing “could be true” with “must be true”;
• overcomplicating easy questions;
• not practicing the exact test provider format.

Related Cognitive Aptitude Test Guides

Use these related pages to keep practicing:

Guide	Best For
Cognitive Test Answers Explained	Step-by-step explanations
Free Cognitive Test With Answers	Free mixed practice
Cognitive Ability Test	Full cognitive test overview
Cognitive Assessment Test	Assessment overview
Aptitude Test Practice	General practice
Numerical Reasoning	Number questions
Verbal Reasoning	Word questions
Abstract Reasoning	Shape patterns
Logical Reasoning	Logic questions
Spatial Reasoning	Rotation and 3D questions
Critical Thinking Test	Argument evaluation
Problem Solving Test	Practical reasoning
Best Cognitive Test Prep	Prep resources

Sources / Information to Verify Before Publication

Before publication, verify all cognitive test sample question details with current official and provider sources.

Use sources such as:

• JobTestPrep cognitive ability test page;
• JobTestPrep free cognitive test page;
• JobTestPrep free aptitude test page;
• JobTestPrep free psychometric test page;
• JobTestPrep CCAT, PI Cognitive and Wonderlic pages;
• Criteria CCAT official pages;
• Predictive Index Cognitive Assessment resources;
• Predictive Index sample questions page;
• Wonderlic official cognitive assessment resources;
• Korn Ferry candidate assessment guide;
• Aon talent assessment products and tools;
• AssessmentDay SHL and diagrammatic reasoning pages;
• employer assessment invitation.

Verify:

• exact test name;
• exact provider;
• question types;
• current time limit;
• calculator policy;
• proctoring rules;
• whether guessing is penalized;
• score report format;
• whether official sample questions are available;
• current JobTestPrep product contents;
• current JobTestPrep affiliate URL;
• access duration;
• refund or guarantee terms;
• whether full simulations are included;
• whether explanations are included.

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