Back to main page

Aptitude Test Info

The General Aptitude Test consists of the four areas listed below.

Common mistakes Applicants make are not reading the Aptitude Test Description or referring to outside sources who may give incorrect information about the test.
The description below provides a complete, thorough list of what is on the test.
There are no additional subjects on the test.
There is no algebra on the test.

1. General Learning Ability

The ability to “catch on” or understand instructions and underlying principals; the ability to reason and make judgments.

Measured by testing three areas:

  • Spatial:  Three-dimensional space
  • Vocabulary:  Ability to understand the meaning of words and how to use them effectively
  • Arithmetic Reasoning:  Solving arithmetic problems expressed verbally

Suggested study guide:  There are numerous books that can be found in the library, book store or online containing the subjects listed above.  There is not one specific book that we recommend for studying this area.

Vocabulary Sample Questions
Vocabulary Sample Questions (with ANSWERS)
Word Problem Sample Questions
Word Problem Sample Questions (with ANSWERS)


2. Numerical Aptitude

The ability to perform arithmetic operations quickly and accurately.  Consists of a number of arithmetic exercises requiring the addition, subtraction, multiplication or division of whole numbers.

Suggested study guide:  There are numerous books that can be found in the library, book store or online containing the subjects listed above.  There is not one specific book that we recommend for studying this area.

Numerical Sample Questions
Numerical Sample Questions (with ANSWERS)


3. Spatial Aptitude

The ability to think visually of geometric forms and to comprehend the two-dimensional representation of three-dimensional objects.  The ability to recognize the relationship resulting from the movement of objects in space.

Suggested study guide:  ARCO Mechanical Aptitude & Spatial Relations Tests – A portion of this book contains Spatial Relations sample tests.  Any edition of this book can be used for study purposes.  May be found in the library, book stores on online.

Spatial Sample Questions
Spatial Sample Questions (with ANSWERS)


4. Motor Coordination

The ability to coordinate eyes or fingers rapidly and accurately in making precise movements with speed.  The ability to make a movement response accurately and swiftly.

Suggested study guide:  There is no proper method of studying or book to use for this area.  It is hand and eye coordination.  Those who play sports or video games usually do well in this area.

Motor Coordination Sample of Peg Board


General Aptitude Test Information & Tips

The General Aptitude Assessment instrument is a standard timed instrument, which will be administered by the way of audio/video that is automatically timed. Prior to each section or part of the aptitude to be measured each person will be given an opportunity to practice. After practice if you have any questions please ask the instructor for clarity. They are there to help you.

Because this is a standard instrument the instructions are given the very same way at each assessment session. It is very important to pay attention to the instructions. Some questions will be asked that have been already addressed by the video.  The instructor cannot and will not change the wording. It has to be done in the same way and in the same words every time. Be disciplined; do not go ahead; make sure you are following instructions and know where you are on the booklets or answer sheets.

The General Aptitude Assessment instrument is a timed instrument and is structured so that no one will be able to answer all the questions in the allowed time period.

Assessments are a part of life, and many times the idea of taking an assessment is stressful. Assessments don’t have to be so nerve-wracking. Knowing how to take a test is important and can make the whole test taking process a little easier. Set aside a little time every day to study so that you are prepared on assessment day. It’s a good idea to have a set study area that you visit at a set time each day.


Improve your scores by using these important assessment-taking skills:

  1. Review your number facts: Add, subtract, multiply and divide
  2. Review conversion tables and practice solving arithmetic word problems Examples of conversion tables: 60 minutes = 1 hour, 52 weeks = 1 year
  3. Have a good finger dexterity, practice finger exercises and eye finger coordination Example: playing video games, playing basketball, etc.
  4. Review spatial exercises. The ability to form and comprehend in two or three dimensions and to recognize relationships resulting from movement of objects in space
  5. Review vocabulary words paying attention to words that have the same or opposite meanings

There is an optional test prep course offered by an independent vendor: Lewis Latimer Test Prep Flyer 2022

Disclaimer of Endorsement:
Any reference in this website to any person, or organization, or activities, products, or services, related to such person or organization, or any linkages from this web site to the web site of another party, do not constitute or imply the endorsement, recommendation, or favoring of the JATC of Greater Boston, or any of its employees or contractors acting on its behalf.


To prepare for the Aptitude Test you should:

  1. Read the Aptitude Test Description above carefully.
  2. Follow the suggested methods for studying listed under each subject.


Test scores are determined as follows:

Test Result Score
89% or higher in all four sections High
77% – 88% in one or more sections Medium
76% or below in one or more sections Low