What is the ASVAB mechanical comprehension test?
Your knowledge of mechanical and physical principles is put to the test in the ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) mechanical comprehension test. Essential for so many different roles within the armed forces, the test covers anything and everything mechanical, from structural support to properties of different materials.
This test sits within the science and technical section of the overall ASVAB test and brushing up on your mechanical knowledge is essential if you want to give yourself the best possible chance of success.
The format of the ASVAB mechanical comprehension test
Just like the other ASVAB tests, timings are tight when it comes to the mechanical comprehension test. You'll have just 20 minutes to answer 15 different multiple choice questions on mechanical theories and principles.
It's important to prepare as best you can before the real test, as your results will determine which roles and responsibilities you'll be eligible for in the military.
How is the ASVAB mechanical comprehension test scored?
Once you've completed each section of the test, you'll be given three scores.
Firstly, you'll get your standard score. This is ranked on a scale of 1-100 and is based on how well you've done in comparison with your peers. The median score is 50, so a score above that shows you've done better than average.
You'll also get an Armed Forces Qualification Test score, which shows you which branch or branches of the military (such as the army or navy) you'd be eligible to join based on your results.
Then finally, you'll receive your composite score, which will help you to see which roles within the armed forces you might be best suited to, based on the strengths you've displayed in the test.
Top tips to pass the ASVAB mechanical comprehension test
1. Put the preparation in — it's the simplest and best way you can succeed at the ASVAB. Each time you work through a test, make sure you review your score and look at the areas you need to work harder on. You'll be amazed how quickly you start to improve.
2. Practise in exam conditions — making sure you take each test in a quiet room, without any aids such as a calculator, and ensuring you time yourself is the best possible way to get comfortable in an exam setting and will really help you on the day it counts.
3. Read the questions carefully — it can be tempting to skim read the questions when the clock is ticking, but it's essential to read each instruction carefully so you know what's being asked of you.
4. Don't panic — everyone taking the test will find an area of the test challenging. If you're struggling to answer a question, don't be tempted to spend ages on it at the expense of other questions. Take a deep breath, try and look at the question again and if you really don't know, make an educated guess and move on.
5. Remember why you're doing it — when revising and on the day itself. The better you do in the test, the more options you'll have when it comes to deciding what you want from your future, so it's really worth putting the time in.
Check out our full ASVAB assessment page here that include free tests.
