What is the RAF spatial reasoning test?
Spatial reasoning tests are designed to assess an individual's ability to manipulate shapes in both their two and three dimensional forms and draw conclusions based on a limited amount of information.
This skillset tends to be sought after in those applying for technical and engineering roles, so plays a big part in the requirements of many jobs within the RAF.
Even if you've encountered a spatial reasoning aptitude test before, it's important to brush up on your skills to give yourself the best possible chance of success on the day.
The format of the RAF spatial reasoning test
In order to examine your ability to work with shapes and objects, the RAF spatial awareness test is split into two parts.
In the first part, you'll need to show how well you can fit different shapes together. The sides of the different shapes will be labelled with letters, and you'll need to take these letters into account when you select the correct 'finished' shape.
You'll have four minutes to answer 10 questions, so time is of the essence.
Part two focuses on rotation. The questions require you to select the correct image to show what a three dimensional shape will look like after it's been rotated in accordance with the instructions.
You'll only have three minutes to answer 10 of these questions.
How is the RAF spatial reasoning test scored?
After the test has finished, your test will be scored and you'll be assigned an RAF recruiter who will take you through your results, and what that means for you going forward.
Although there isn't a set pass mark, it's important to remember that the better you do in each section, the more opportunities you'll have and the more likely it is that you'll be able to take on something you're truly passionate about within the RAF.
How to pass the RAF spatial reasoning test
Practice — it sounds obvious, but it's the single best way you can improve your results. Especially in the spatial reasoning test, where the time is tight and the problems are challenging. Practising in exam-style conditions will help you to get used to the process. That means no distractions, keep to the time limit set and don't check any answers.
Get creative — visualising and rotating shapes can be challenging, which is why getting creative can help. Why not make models to help you with the rotations or use a mirror when looking at different shapes to get you used to an opposite perspective. This can really help in preparing for the RAF spatial reasoning test.
Keep calm — if you're struggling with a question it can really help to take a deep breath. Then, try eliminating any options you know to be incorrect, or reading the answers before the question to see if the change of view helps. If you really can't solve it, you can then make an educated guess and come back to it at the end if there's time.
Don't forget the time — timing is especially tight on this section of the test, so you must stick to a set amount of time for each question to ensure you make your way through them all.
Check out our full RAF DAA (formerly AST) and CBAT aptitude tests page here that include free tests.
