What is the ADF YOU Session Mathematical Ability Test?
Your ADF YOU session will require you to take a Mathematical Ability Test, along with the General Ability Test. This psychometric assessment tests your ability to deal with higher level mathematical concepts such as trigonometry, algebra and geometry (more advanced than those included in the numerical reasoning test). The questions will reflect maths of up to a Year 11 - 12 school level, with some basic arithmetic also included.
Note that if you are applying for the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA), you will also be required to sit the ADF Mathematical Ability Test. It is most relevant to engineering, mathematics and computer science degrees – which have higher entrance requirements – but all applicants are required to take the ability test.
The Format of the Mathematical Ability Test
The Mathematical Ability Test begins with instructions and some sample questions, to outline what is expected and introduce candidates to the question style. All questions within the test will be multiple choice and you will be required to select your answer from four response options.
The questions will require arithmetic (addition, subtraction, multiplication and division), fractions, percentages, decimals, factorisation, indices, exponential equations, geometry (such as arcs and chords on circles) and trigonometry (testing the ability to apply Pythagoras’ Theorem and make sin, cos and tan calculations).
Use of a calculator is not permitted.
How is the Mathematical Ability Test Scored?
The Mathematical Ability test is scored based upon the number of correct answers given. It is not negatively marked, so no points will be deducted for incorrect answers. This means that, even if you are stuck on a question, you should select your best guess from the answer options.
The scores needed to be accepted into the different career programmes and pathways within the ADF are not made public, so you will not have a specific score to aim for. The higher your score, however, the stronger your mathematical ability – so you will have more technical roles open to you.
Top Tips to Pass the Mathematical Ability Test
1. Practice using sample questions
It is important to familiarise yourself with the format, style and content of the questions that will be in the Mathematical Ability Test. When revising for the test, practice answering questions rather than just reading about key mathematical concepts. You will need to be able to rapidly recall and apply this knowledge on the day of the test, so training yourself on how to approach different question styles is valuable preparation.
2. Get used to working in exam conditions
To achieve a good score in the Mathematical Ability Test, you will need to absorb information quickly, process rapidly and answer accurately. Time pressure and the desire to perform well can cause stress, which can impact your ability to think clearly. Practise answering questions in timed conditions, so you become used to working at pace. The more comfortable you feel about tackling the test, the greater your chances of success.
3. Hone your mathematical skills by bolstering your strengths and improving upon your weaknesses
Unlike the General Ability Test, which requires very little prior knowledge, to score well on the Mathematical Ability test you will need a good grasp of high school mathematics. Review your skills by subject area (ie. trigonometry, geometry, dealing with fractions), highlighting any areas you are less comfortable with and prioritising your revision accordingly. Be sure to practise questions related to your areas of strength too, as topics can be presented in a slightly different way within psychometric tests.
4. Sit the test in a quiet environment and have your equipment prepared
To increase your chances of securing the score you need, take the test in a quiet room where you are comfortable and free from distractions. You will need strong focus in order to sustain the pace needed to complete the test. To avoid any interruptions due to technical difficulties, ensure you have a stable internet connection and update your browser before beginning the test. You may find it useful to have a piece of scrap paper for scribbling down any workings.
Check out our full ADF YOU Session assessment page here that include free tests.
