Multiple choice or hands-on? The types of office skills tests
Employers don't all test office skills the same way. The format affects how you should prepare, so it's worth finding out which kind you're facing. Test providers change their formats over time, so use this as a guide and go by what your invitation says.
The three main formats
| Format | What you do | How to prepare |
|---|---|---|
| Multiple choice | Pick the right answer from a list | Learn what each feature does and why, and practice answering quickly |
| Simulated software | Complete tasks in a copy of the program, often with some features limited | Practice finding commands in the menus, and doing tasks without hints |
| Real or live spreadsheet | Build formulas and fix data in a working file | Practice writing formulas from scratch, without looking them up |
How to find out which one you have
- Read the invitation email for the test provider's name, the time limit and the programs covered
- Search for the provider's own candidate instructions or sample questions
- Ask the recruiter. How long is the test, which programs does it cover, and is it hands-on? These are normal questions
- Check which version of the software the test uses, if it's mentioned
Third-party guides describe the Indeed Excel assessment as multiple choice. Some providers, such as eSkill, describe browser-based simulations of Excel. Others use live spreadsheets where you type real formulas.
If you can't find out
Prepare hands-on. If you can do the task yourself, you can usually answer a question about it. Going the other way is harder, because knowing the right answer on a list doesn't mean you can find the command under time pressure.
Then practice against a clock. Knowing the material isn't the same as being fast enough, and timed practice shows you how fast you really are.
More guides
DeskReady is an independent practice tool, not affiliated with any software vendor or employer. Tests vary, so use this as a general guide.