Assessment Tips

What is a logical reasoning test?

A logical reasoning test, often referred to as a cognitive ability test, measures how well a candidate can think logically, recognize patterns, and draw correct conclusions from given information. This type of test focuses on analytical skills such as problem solving, deductive reasoning, and evaluating arguments in a structured way.

Cognitive ability tests are widely used in recruitment and selection because they provide a strong and objective indication of a candidate’s thinking level and learning potential. Organizations use logical reasoning and cognitive ability tests to better predict job performance, especially in roles that require analytical thinking, data interpretation, and sound decision making. As a result, the logical reasoning test has become a core component of modern assessment processes.

Testing the logical reasoning ability

Candidates' ability to reason logically can be tested with The Bridge Abstract. This is an analytical test built on a solid scientific basis and was specially developed for use in a business context.

Testing Logical Reasoning

This cognitive ability test is increasingly used in selection procedures for roles where drawing correct conclusions and forming well founded judgments is essential. The logical reasoning test plays a key role in assessing how candidates analyze information, weigh arguments, and make decisions under pressure.

As a short cognitive ability test, it is particularly suitable for high level management positions, but also for roles such as policy officer, lawyer, and journalist. In these functions, strong logical reasoning skills are critical for interpreting complex information, identifying risks and opportunities, and making sound professional judgments.

Logical reasoning assessment

The Bridge Ability suite ability test is one of the most comprehensive online assessments. It consists of three parts: The Bridge Verbal, The Bridge Numerical, and The Bridge Abstract. In addition to testing the candidate's skills in both numerical and verbal reasoning, it also examines ability to draw logical conclusions

Logical reasoning as a measure of intelligence

By using The Bridge Abstract, it is possible to predict what a candidate's maximum performance level will be. In addition, the test can provide an indication of the candidate's intelligence (IQ).

The online assessment is available at different levels and can be used as an IQ test for adults. This logical reasoning assessment measures cognitive ability and analytical thinking, making it suitable for a wide range of roles and organizations.

Because the test is offered at multiple levels, it is an effective tool for recruitment and selection of candidates for positions at vocational education and training (VET), higher professional education (HBO), and university education (WO) levels. This ensures that logical reasoning skills are measured in a way that matches the complexity and requirements of each role.

Test candidates for logical reasoning

The results of the analytical test provide a good indication of a person's performance in a particular position. This is important to be able to select the best candidate for a certain position or to predict whether your employee would be able to complete a certain training.

What exactly is 'logical reasoning'?

Logical reasoning, contrary to what you might think, is not an innate quality. Logical thinking is a skill that can be learned and continuously improved.

Logical thinking and reasoning play an important role within a sales assessment, as they show how well someone can structure their thoughts and work step by step toward a clear outcome. In practice, this means staying focused on a specific sales task and following the entire reasoning process in a logical and consistent way.

Although this may sound abstract, logical reasoning in a sales assessment comes down to analyzing a situation, recognizing patterns in customer behavior or data, and ultimately arriving at a well reasoned and commercially sound conclusion.

Testing Problem Solving Ability

Testing the ability to think logically thus provides insight into the extent to which a test candidate can solve a problem in an efficient way. Complex visual information is used for this. In fact, we could say that logical thinking is the basis of all assessments. It is necessary for verbal logical reasoning, numerical reasoning, but also abstract reasoning. It is important to note that the abstract reasoning ability, also called inductive reasoning, is part of the global term 'logical reasoning' and is therefore not the same as logical reasoning.

Verbal and numerical logical thinking

Using an IQ test such as a verbal reasoning test, the candidate is presented with verbal information in the form of a text, sometimes combined with graphs or other visual data. This part of the IQ test assesses how well the candidate understands, interprets, and processes written information.

Within a set time limit, the candidate is required to draw logical conclusions based on the provided text and information. Using an IQ test in this way helps organizations evaluate verbal reasoning skills, analytical thinking, and the ability to make accurate judgments under time pressure.

Abstract reasoning

This type of test is also known as inductive reasoning. In this test, the candidate is presented with information in the form of a series of abstract symbols and diagrams. This information is necessary to solve the question and thus be able to provide the correct answer. It's all about discovering a pattern and logic in a sequence.

Does practicing logical reasoning help?

Good logical reasoning is not an innate talent. It can be learned, and, with effort, we can also get better at it over time. A candidate who scores poorly on a logical reasoning test can therefore achieve a higher score in subsequent assessments by practicing logical reasoning. The candidate, therefore, benefits from ensuring proper preparation.

Prepare for the real tests

A candidate can prepare for the real assessment by working with abstract data where it is necessary to think logically. Extensive explanations can be found on the internet about preparing for tests in which logical reasoning is central.

Logical reasoning can be learned

In preparation for the real tests, for example, one can solve logic puzzles. Problems can also be solved that require analytical, logical reasoning, or spatial insight. Think, for example, of the systems in which a clear pattern can be found, such as within IT, biology, or chemistry. It is preferable to practice under a time constraint. Good preparation ensures that the candidate knows what to expect.

Testing logical reasoning is important

Being able to pass an analytical test that focuses on abstract, numerical, and verbal reasoning is an important predictor of a candidate's ability to understand the relationships between cause and effect. A candidate who excels in the test will also be able to apply those skills in the workplace in the form of problem-solving, negotiation, and estimation of cause and effect.

Assessments provide clarity

Cognitive assessments are now more important than ever. Finding staff is difficult for many companies and organizations. Analytical tests provide clarity.

Make better HR decisions

HR managers and recruiters who use logical reasoning tests can make better hiring decisions because they can better estimate candidates’ performance in advance.

Recruit talent, but also retain it

Top talents can be selected or retained and move on to positions within your organization where they can deliver the best performance. This ensures productivity but also helps to prevent high turnover.