How to Pass the PiCAT Verification Test in 2024
Updated November 18, 2023
The PiCAT test is a commonly used assessment tool for those applying to military positions, such as those in the US Navy or the US Army.
This article explores the PiCAT test in more detail. We look at the test format to familiarize individuals with what the Navy PiCAT and Army PiCAT test covers.
Preparation is vital to performing to the best of your ability in the PiCAT test.
The article includes PiCAT practice test questions, answers to help you prepare, and tips to give you the best opportunity to approach the test positively.
What Is the PiCAT Test?
The PiCAT (Pre-screening, Internet-delivered Computer Adaptive Test) test is a cognitive assessment used by the U.S. Armed Forces.
In addition, the test is used to evaluate and identify candidates with the cognitive abilities and skills necessary for success in military roles.
The PiCAT test was developed by the U.S. Department of Defense and the National Center for Research on Evaluation, Standards, and Student Testing (CRESST).
It was designed to provide a more accessible and efficient way to assess the cognitive abilities of potential military recruits.
Used in the very early stages of the military application process, the PiCAT test helps to streamline the recruiting process and make it more convenient for candidates to begin the enlistment process.
The main aim of the PiCAT test is to evaluate a candidate's cognitive abilities, such as numerical reasoning and verbal comprehension.
The results of the test can be used in two ways. Firstly, recruiters can determine whether an individual will likely succeed in the Armed Forces' entry-level jobs and training programs.
Secondly, the test helps the military identify which types of military careers individuals are more suited to.
The test results give recruiters an indication of which candidates are likely to perform well on the more comprehensive Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test, the standard test used for military enlistment.
Candidates may take the PiCAT test online at home, at a recruiting office, or at an authorized testing center.
If they score well on the PiCAT, they may be given the option to take the full PiCAT ASVAB test to confirm their aptitude for specific military roles.
The PiCAT Test Format
The PiCAT test format is a convenient and accessible way to assess a candidate's cognitive abilities for military service.
There are around 145 questions in the PiCAT test. These questions are split across ten different sections, each focusing on a specific aptitude.
Candidates are expected to use their high school level knowledge, technical understanding, or general aptitude to answer questions in the following areas:
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Math Knowledge: This section evaluates candidates' basic numerical understanding of ratios, fractions and percentages. Candidates are also assessed on their understanding of using geometry and algebra.
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Arithmetic Reasoning: Similar to the math knowledge section, questions in this part of the PiCAT test are presented as written problems. Candidates must interpret the information and use their knowledge of basic mathematical concepts such as fractions, ratios and percentages to solve numerical problems.
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Mechanical Comprehension: This section evaluates individuals understanding and practical working knowledge of basic mechanical concepts such as levers, gears, pulley systems, motion and forces. Questions are in relation to mechanical equipment and processes.
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Paragraph Comprehension: In this section, individuals must read, analyze, and interpret the key messages from paragraphs of text. Then, use their understanding to answer questions relating to what they have read.
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Word Knowledge: Candidates must read and understand sentences and then determine the meaning of the words.
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Electronics: This section assesses candidates working knowledge of electrical components, electrical current and circuits.
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Shop Information: This section assesses candidates on basic shop practices. This could relate to equipment or tools, with candidates selecting the correct use from a selection of possible options.
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Auto Information: This section covers questions on automotive systems and processes. Questions are given as diagrams that evaluate individuals' understanding of tools, automotive machinery or parts.
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Object Assembly: This section evaluates candidates on their spatial reasoning and awareness. Candidates are given questions as images, figures, graphs or maps.
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General Science: Assessing candidates' knowledge of topics such as chemistry, physics, biology and geology.
While the PiCAT test isn't a timed test, once candidates have started the test, the test must be completed in one sitting. The test can be taken at home.
Once invited to sit the test, individuals have up to 30 days to complete the test. Candidates must not use any form of resources, materials or supporting information when completing the test.
What About the PiCAT Verification Test?
The PiCAT verification test is taken at a Military Entrance Test Site (METs) or a Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS).
In addition, the PiCAT verification test is at the same level as the primary PiCAT test and often uses the same questions, usually a sample of those correctly answered in the primary PiCAT test.
With 30 questions in this test, the test is a much shorter version of the primary PiCAT test. Taken under supervision, the test lasts up to 30 minutes and comprises multiple-choice questions.
Topic areas are the same as those in the primary PiCAT test covering. Candidates are presented with questions and answer choices and must select the correct answer from the options provided.
Do You Need to Take the PiCAT Verification Test?
The PiCAT test is an additional test different from the PiCAT variation test.
As the PiCAT test can be taken at home and is non-proctored and unsupervised, the PiCAT verification test ensures that the results match those from the original PiCAT test.
All individuals who have taken the PiCAT test must then take the PiCAT verification test. This test must be taken within 30 days of the original PiCAT test.
Those with a good PiCAT test score who have passed the test can progress through the following stages of military enlistment.
Those who fail the PiCAT test and wish to continue pursuing a military career must complete the full ASVAB (Army Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) test.
Example PiCAT Test Questions and Answers
Preparation is essential before taking the Army PiCAT or Navy PiCAT test. One way to prepare for the test is to practice sample questions.
To help with this, examples of PiCAT practice test questions and answers are outlined below.
PiCAT Test Example Word Knowledge Question
To postpone is the same as to:
a) Alter
b) Delay
c) Neglect
d) Prepare
The formation of water vapors from the surface of a body of water is known as:
a) Evaporation
b) Distillation
c) Precipitation
d) Dilution
A clothing store is offering a discount of 25% on all its past season clothes. If a pair of shorts originally cost $40, what will be the discounted price of the shorts after the 25% discount?
a) $10
b) $20
c) $30
d) $45
If a car travels at a constant speed of 60 miles per hour, how far will it travel in 2.5 hours?
In the 19th century, the Industrial Revolution brought huge changes to society. Factories sprung up across cities, and mass production became the norm. This shift from a farming-based economy to an industrial-focused economy affected many people's lives. One of the most significant consequences was the migration of rural populations to urban areas in search of employment opportunities. The increased urbanization led to overcrowded cities and unsanitary living conditions, leading to new social and economic challenges.
Question: What was one of the main results of the Industrial Revolution mentioned in the passage?
Which of the following electronic components is primarily used to store electrical charge?
a) Resistor
b) Capacitor
c) Diode
d) Transistor
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Family Membership gives you access to all the TestPrep-Online resources for the next 12 months. You will also get two separate accounts, which can be very helpful if you have two children preparing for their tests.
Tips to Prepare for the PiCAT Test
Preparation is critical to performing well on the PiCAT and the PiCAT Verification Test.
Below are some tips to help you prepare to perform at your best on test day.
Step 1. Understand the Test Format
Familiarizing yourself with the test format is crucial. Know the topics and question types covered in the PiCAT and the PiCAT Verification Test.
This will help you tailor your preparation and mean you can focus and refresh your memory on the topics you need more confidence on.
Step 2. Take Online Practice Tests
Online practice tests are essential for preparation. The tests enable candidates to simulate a test environment and become familiar with the types of questions and format of the questions they'll encounter on the test.
When taking practice tests, ensure you take the test under the test conditions you will face when taking the PiCAT test. This means not using any internet resources or materials to help in answering the questions.
Step 3. Create and Follow a Study Schedule
Develop a study schedule that covers all the relevant topics. Identify your strengths and weaknesses by taking a practice test initially.
Allocate more time to areas where you need improvement. Avoid cramming, and instead, spread your study sessions over several weeks.
Regular, consistent study sessions are more effective than last-minute cramming. Remember to include breaks in your schedule for rest.
Step 4. Review Basic Concepts
Make sure to review the fundamental concepts that will be assessed on the PiCAT test.
This includes those used in mathematics, such as fractions, algebra, and geometry. Ensure you have familiarised yourself and can use your working knowledge of mechanical reasoning and science concepts.
Reading news articles and journals can also help you improve your comprehension and critical thinking skills.
Step 5. Get a Good Rest Before the Test
The night before the test, ensure you get a good night's sleep. On test day, make sure you have eaten and are well hydrated.
Being well-rested and hydrated has a positive impact on your cognitive performance.
In addition, being in the right frame of mind brings confidence and helps you manage any pre-test nervousness.
The PiCAT test is an online aptitude assessment taken by individuals applying for military positions.
In addition, the test is taken at home and comprises questions that cover ten topic areas. The questions are designed to evaluate individuals on the specific aptitudes and skills needed for success in military roles.
The PiCAT verification test is designed to confirm the results from the PiCAT test. As questions in this test are the same as those in the PiCAT test, candidates must complete all questions.
There are 30 questions on the PiCAT verification test. The test usually takes around 30 minutes to complete and is a shorter version of the primary PiCAT test.
Those wishing to pursue a career in the military and fail the PiCAT verification test must sit the full AVSAB test. This test must be taken within 30 days of the PiCAT verification test.
To pass the PiCAT verification test, practicing tests to familiarize yourself with the format and content is essential. Refresh your memory on concepts or theories you will be assessed on.
When taking the test, ensure you do so in a quiet, distraction-free environment to focus on each question thoroughly.
The PiCAT test comprises 145 questions covering ten subject areas. While the test is an untimed assessment, candidates must complete all questions in the test in one sitting.
Each area of the military has a designated passing score for the PiCAT. Candidates should aim for as high a score as possible. The higher the score, the more military roles a candidate will be considered for. A score of 50 is considered to be a good score. Most military areas accept a score of above 31 so long as the individual has attained their high school diploma.
Final Thoughts
The PiCAT and the PiCAT verification test are essential steps for enlisting in the U.S. Armed Forces.
Moreover, the main difference between the two tests is their purpose.
The PiCAT assesses your potential ability, while the PiCAT verification test ensures the accuracy of the score attained in the PiCAT.
In addition, the verification test must be taken within a specified time frame (typically within 30 days) after the PiCAT.
Taking both assessments seriously is vital. Both tests can influence your eligibility and job placement in the military.
To prepare for the tests, taking practice tests is essential.
These tests simulate the actual test conditions and help you become familiar with the content.
Practice tests also highlight areas you may need to refresh your memory on, meaning you focus your study efforts strategically.
