In this module, you will need to answer questions based on the information provided. This information is presented in the form of tables or graphs. Sometimes you can find the answer directly in the data, while other times you will need to perform one or more calculations before you can provide your answer. All questions have one correct answer. Make sure you have a pen, paper, and a calculator on hand so you can answer the questions accurately.
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Practice Numerical Insight for free
Numerical Insight - 1
12 questions · 7 min
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What is numerical reasoning?
In numerical reasoning you answer questions about tables, charts or short texts with figures. The maths is not hard (percentages, ratios, averages), but you need to find the right data quickly. It is part of most tests for graduate and professional roles, for example from SHL and Cubiks.
People who run out of time usually lose it searching the table, not calculating. So read the question first and only then the data.
Also called numerical insight, data interpretation or numerical critical reasoning.
How to approach numerical reasoning
- Read the question first and note which data you need.
- Check the units: thousands, percentages, per month or per year.
- Estimate first. If two options are far apart, you often do not need an exact calculation.
- Know the standard formulas: percentage change = (new − old) ÷ old × 100.
Worked examples
Revenue rises from €240,000 to €276,000. What is the percentage increase?
Show answer
15%
(276,000 − 240,000) ÷ 240,000 = 36,000 ÷ 240,000 = 0.15.
After a 20% discount a product costs €80. What was the original price?
Show answer
€100
€80 is 80% of the original price: 80 ÷ 0.8 = 100.
Department A has 45 employees, 60% of them women. Department B has 30 employees, 40% women. What percentage of the total are women?
Show answer
52%
27 + 12 = 39 women out of 75 employees: 39 ÷ 75 = 0.52.
Practise more with the practice pack
8 practice sets with 99 questions in total, each with an explanation. From €4.99 for 1 day, paid once.
Frequently asked questions
Can you use a calculator in numerical reasoning tests?
In many online tests you can, but not in all of them. Practise estimating and mental arithmetic too, so you are ready either way.
How is it different from a maths test?
A maths test checks standalone sums. Numerical reasoning checks whether you can pull data from tables and charts and interpret it.
Can I practise numerical reasoning for free?
Yes, on this page you practise numerical questions for free with an explanation for every answer. You don't need an account. The practice pack adds more questions and a full mock test.