Aptitude Tests > Speed and Power Tests

In a speed test the scope of the questions is limited and the methods you need to use to answer them is clear. Taken individually, the questions appear relatively straightforward. Speed test are concerned with how many questions you can answer correctly in the allotted time.

For example:

A power test on the other hand will present a smaller number of more complex questions. The methods you need to use to answer these questions are not obvious, and working out how to answer the question is the difficult part. Once you have determined this, arriving at the correct answer is usually relatively straightforward.

For example:
 

Below are the sales figures for 3 different types of network server over 3 months.
 

In summary, speed tests contain more items than power tests although they have the same approximate time limit. Speed tests tend to be used in selection at the administrative and clerical level. Power tests tend to be used more at the graduate, professional or managerial level. Although, this is not always the case, as speed tests do give an accurate indication of performance in power tests. In other words, if you do well in speed tests then you will do well in power tests as well.

These speed and power definitions apply only to maximum performance tests like aptitude and ability tests and not to personality tests.

Verbal Ability Tests >
 

Everything you need to pass psychometric tests