How to pass an office skills test: a 7-day plan
A skills test can feel high stakes, especially when a job you want is on the other side of it. The good news is that these tests cover a predictable set of skills, and a week of focused practice can make a real difference. Here's a plan you can adjust to the time you have.
Before you start: find out what you can
Check the invitation email and the job description for the programs and skill level involved. If it isn't clear, it's fine to ask the recruiter how long the test is and which programs it covers. Then spend your time accordingly, since a data entry role and an executive assistant role will test different things.
Your 7-day plan
| Day | Focus |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Try a few tasks in each program you'll be tested on, and note what slows you down |
| Day 2 | Basics in your main program, such as formatting and simple formulas |
| Day 3 | The next level up, such as lookups, styles or calendar invitations |
| Day 4 | Your second program, or the weak spots from day 1 |
| Day 5 | Shortcuts: learn the common ones, then drill them |
| Day 6 | A full timed practice test, then review every mistake |
| Day 7 | Light review of your mistakes, and another timed test if you feel ready |
Short on time? Do days 1, 5 and 6. Finding your gaps, getting faster, and practicing under a clock give you the most value.
On test day
- Use a computer with a mouse and keyboard if you can, not a phone or tablet
- Close other apps and silence notifications
- Check your internet connection if the test is online
- Read the rules first: can you go back, and do you lose points for wrong answers?
- Read each question fully before you start, then check the details once you've finished
Managing your time
Divide the time by the number of questions so you know your pace. If a question is taking more than about twice that, and the test lets you skip, move on and come back. Answer every question if there's no penalty for guessing.
Stay calm if you hit something you don't know. Tests are often designed so that few people get everything right, and one hard question rarely decides the result.
After the test
Note what you found hard while it's fresh. If the employer allows a retake, or another application asks for the same test, you'll know exactly what to work on. Those skills will help in the job too.
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DeskReady is an independent practice tool, not affiliated with any software vendor or employer. Tests vary, so use this as a general guide.