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Aptitude Tests

What are the tests for?
The Aptitude Tests you will take as part of the RAuxAF selection process are known as the Airmen Selection Tests (AST). The purpose of the AST is to find out which RAF trades might suit you best. The AST consists of six multiple-choice tests, each of which is timed and each of which assesses your aptitude in a different area:

• Reasoning Part 1 - is an aptitude for using words or numbers to find other words or numbers.
• Reasoning Part 2 - is an aptitude for working with shapes and objects.
• Numerical Reasoning - is an aptitude for working with fractions, decimals and percentages.
• Verbal Understanding - is an aptitude for understanding the meaning of words.
• Craft Knowledge - is an aptitude for testing knowledge of tools and mechanical systems.
• Electrical Comprehension - is an aptitude for testing knowledge of electricity and electrical systems.

Help prepare by:

• Reading articles in newspapers and magazines, and then test your understanding of what you have read.
• Practise simple arithmetic. Do not use a calculator - you are not allowed one in the real test.
• Try to imagine what shapes/objects would look like from another angle.
• Your local library may have books containing information about basic electrical and mechanical systems.
• Log-on to www.bbc.co.uk/learning/adults/ and go to the section labelled skill wise. Follow their tutorials etc.
• Obtain a basic maths skills/basic English skills book from W H Smiths/ Waterstones or similar bookshop.
• Log-on to www.shldirect.com they provide practice tests.