Types of Cognitive Tests: What They Are & How to Use Them in Hiring

You’ve got two job candidates. One has years of experience. The other doesn’t—but they think fast, solve problems creatively, and adapt like a pro. Who would you hire?

If you’re like many modern employers, you want someone who can think on their feet—and that’s exactly what cognitive tests help you measure.

In this blog, we’ll explore the different types of cognitive tests, when to use them, and how to choose the right ones for your hiring process. We’ll also answer a common question: what are the 5 cognitive tests?

Want a refresher first? Start here:
👉 What is Cognitive Ability? Why is It Important to Test Cognitive Ability Skills for Employment

What Are Cognitive Tests?

Cognitive tests are assessments that measure a candidate’s mental capabilities—how they process information, solve problems, make decisions, and learn.

These tests aren’t about what someone knows. They’re about how someone thinks.

They’re commonly used to:

• Predict job performance
  
• Identify high-potential candidates
  
• Reduce hiring bias
  
• Support fair, data-driven decisions
  

Learn more about the skills they measure here:
👉 Cognitive Ability Skills

What Are the 5 Cognitive Tests?

If you’re wondering “what are the 5 cognitive tests most commonly used in employment screening,” here’s the list:

Test Type	Core Focus
1. Verbal Reasoning	Understanding and interpreting written info
2. Numerical Reasoning	Working with numbers, data, and logic
3. Logical/Deductive Reasoning	Applying rules and drawing conclusions
4. Abstract/Inductive Reasoning	Identifying patterns and trends
5. Memory & Attention Tests	Focus, short-term memory, and accuracy

Now let’s look at each one in more detail.

1. Verbal Reasoning Tests

These tests assess how well someone can understand written text, follow arguments, and draw conclusions.

Common Question Format:

Read a short passage and choose whether the conclusion is true, false, or cannot be determined.

Skills Measured:

• Reading comprehension
  
• Verbal logic
  
• Decision-making based on text
  

Example Workplace Use:
Customer service, HR, content creation, or any role involving written communication.

2. Numerical Reasoning Tests

These focus on working with numbers, graphs, tables, percentages, and equations. It’s not about advanced math—it’s about everyday number sense.

Common Question Format:

If sales increased by 25% from $80,000 last quarter, what’s the new revenue?

Skills Measured:

• Basic math and arithmetic
  
• Interpretation of charts and data
  
• Problem-solving under time pressure
  

Example Workplace Use:
Finance, data analysis, operations, project management.

Want more examples?
👉 Cognitive Ability Test Questions and Answers (PDF Included)

3. Logical/Deductive Reasoning Tests

These tests assess a candidate’s ability to apply rules or logic to reach valid conclusions. Perfect for roles where structured thinking is key.

Common Question Format:

If A implies B, and B implies C, can we conclude A implies C?

Skills Measured:

• Deductive logic
  
• Sequential reasoning
  
• Rule-based problem-solving
  

Example Workplace Use:
Engineering, programming, quality assurance, strategic planning.

Want to learn how to test deductive reasoning specifically?
👉 How to Test Cognitive Skills for Employment

4. Abstract or Inductive Reasoning Tests

These test pattern recognition and the ability to work with unfamiliar information. Think puzzles, visual sequences, or odd-one-out tasks.

Common Question Format:

Which shape completes the sequence?

Skills Measured:

• Pattern recognition
  
• Non-verbal logic
  
• Adaptability and learning speed
  

Example Workplace Use:
Design, IT, innovation-driven roles, problem-solving environments.

5. Memory & Attention Tests

Often overlooked, these tests check how well someone can retain and apply information. They’re great for roles requiring detail and multitasking.

Common Question Format:

You’re shown a list of numbers or words, then asked to recall them later.

Skills Measured:

• Short-term memory
  
• Focus under pressure
  
• Accuracy and speed
  

Example Workplace Use:
Administrative work, scheduling, logistics, customer support.

Bonus: Blended or General Cognitive Tests

Many employers now use blended assessments that combine verbal, numerical, logical, and memory-based questions into one test. These give a fuller picture of cognitive ability in 15–30 minutes.

They’re ideal for:

• Pre-screening large candidate pools
  
• Entry-level hiring
  
• Roles requiring all-around cognitive performance
  

Comparison Table: Types of Cognitive Tests

Test Type	Measures	Best For Roles Like…
Verbal Reasoning	Language, reading, verbal logic	Customer service, HR, communications
Numerical Reasoning	Numbers, graphs, percentages	Finance, data, project management
Logical Reasoning	Rule-based thinking, structured logic	Engineering, IT, strategic roles
Abstract Reasoning	Pattern recognition, flexibility	Design, innovation, tech, analysis
Memory & Attention	Recall, accuracy, focus	Admin, logistics, support roles

How to Choose the Right Cognitive Test

Here’s a quick framework to help you decide what tests to use based on your role needs:

If the role requires…	Use…
Reading, writing, communication	Verbal Reasoning
Data analysis or numerical work	Numerical Reasoning
Logical planning and decision-making	Deductive or Logical Reasoning
Fast learning or adaptation	Abstract Reasoning
Accuracy and recall under pressure	Memory & Attention

How to Use These Tests in Hiring

Here’s how to seamlessly integrate cognitive testing into your hiring process:

1. Identify the core skills the role needs
   
2. Select appropriate test types (or use a blended one)
   
3. Administer the test early in the funnel (after resume, before interview)
   
4. Score objectively using a clear scale
   
5. Compare test data with interview insights
   

For scoring help, check out:
👉 Cognitive Assessment Scale

Final Thoughts

Different roles require different ways of thinking—and that’s why understanding the types of cognitive tests is so valuable.

Whether you need someone who thinks logically, solves problems quickly, or just learns fast—cognitive tests help you measure the how behind the who.

Explore more to build a smarter hiring system:

• Cognitive Ability Skills
  
• Cognitive Ability Skills in the Workplace
  
• How to Test Cognitive Skills for Employment
  
• Cognitive Ability Test Questions and Answers (PDF Included)
  

Choose the right test, hire the right thinker, and build the right team. 🧠✅