The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is the most widely used multiple aptitude test battery in the world. It was developed and maintained by the Department of Defense to gauge your academic ability and predict your success in a variety of occupations.
1. Understand what the ASVAB test is and know what to expect.
The ASVAB consists of eight individual tests:
1. Word Knowledge – A 35-item test measuring ability to understand the meaning of words through synonyms
2. Paragraph Comprehension – A 15-item test measuring ability to obtain information from written material
3. Mathematics Knowledge – A 25-item test measuring knowledge of mathematical concepts and applications
4. Arithmetic Reasoning – A 30-item test measuring ability to solve basic arithmetic word problems
5. General Science – A 25-item test measuring knowledge of life science, earth and space science, and physical science
6. Mechanical Comprehension – A 25-item test measuring knowledge of the principles of mechanical devices, structural support, and properties of materials
7. Electronics Information – A 20-item test measuring knowledge of electrical current, circuits, devices, and electronic systems
8. Auto and Shop Information – A 25-item test measuring knowledge of automotive maintenance and repair, and wood and metal shop practices
2. Practice and Prepare.
Understand and get comfortable with the type of questions that will be asked.
Take the sample questions, utilize the practice exams, and access the study guides available online. If you are weak in any area, look for extra examples in that area.
3. Ask your recruiter for assistance.
Recruiters can share their experience with the ASVAB test and assist in finding practice exams. Remember to Practice and Prepare.
4. Pace yourself and be sure to finish.
Be aware of the time limit for each section or subsection and make sure to answer every question. Each question counts the same, and you cannot afford to miss any that you might readily know. Do not linger on questions you find difficult. Finish the others and then come back to the more difficult question(s).
5. Answer every question.
Since each question is worth the same and you are not penalized for incorrect answers, it is vital to answer every question. Each question is multiple choice and if you do not know the answer to a question, try eliminating one or more answers and then select from the remaining choices.
6. Keep a neat answer sheet. –
Mark your answer in the correct location and be careful regarding any extra markings that could be read as an incorrect answer.
7. Get a good night’s sleep before taking the test.
The test is 3 hours long and you need to be alert from start to finish.
8. Prepare all supplies needed (identification, pencil, test forms, calculator, etc.) before you go to sleep.
9. Eat a light, high-protein meal for breakfast with minimal fluids. As with the SAT or ACT, you must complete the test without a washroom break.
10. Arrive early; take some deep breathes; focus on the job to do.
Prepare correctly and do your best!
