What is the EDPT Test
The Electronic Data Processing Test (EDPT) is used in the recruitment and selection process for roles in the Marine Corps and Air Force.
The test is used to determine a candidate's logical thinking ability for working in Marine or Air Force roles that involve electronic data processing equipment or computer programming.
The EDPT is sat at a Military Entrance Processing Station and is a paper and pencil test (there is no computerized version of the EDPT).
Candidates are not permitted to use calculators during the test but are given paper and a pencil to do rough workings out before answering the questions.
The pass mark for the EDPT test depends on the type of role applied for. High scores attained in the EDPT indicate that a candidate has the required ability to learn and succeed in military roles that involve information technology or computer programming.
What is on the EDPT Test?
There are 120 questions in the EDPT test, with a total time limit of 90 minutes.
The test is split into four sections, with each section assessing a different logical skill:
- Analogies: solving word related problems
- Algebra Word Problems: solving word related problems using algebraic equations
- Sequencing and Patterns: identifying the relationship between a series of numbers
- Geometric Analogies: solving problems using functions
Questions in the test are given with five multiple-choice answers; candidates need to use their logical abilities to determine which answers are correct.
Analogies
The analogies section of the test focuses on a candidate's ability to understand written language and use this and their grasp of vocabulary when solving part finished analogies.
This test requires candidates to use their reading comprehension skills, their ability to work well under pressure, and attention to detail when reading information.
Questions are presented in the form of unfinished sentences that compare one thing to another, representing an analogy. Candidates need to use their logical and critical thinking ability to select the multiple-choice answers to finish the analogy. The questions could be letter or word-based, so you need to read the question before answering carefully.
Questions in the analogies section also draw on a candidate's deductive reasoning in completing the analogy, an essential skill required for roles when working within electronic processing equipment or computer programming.
Algebra Word Problems
Questions asked in this section of the EDPT test require candidates to use algebra to solve word or related numerical problems.
Questions are given in a variety of different formats, including word-based, numerical, graphs, or tables. Solving the questions requires candidates to use their practical knowledge of algebra and algebraic equations to identify the links or connections between the information given and select which of the answers they believe to be correct.
This test assesses a candidate's logical thinking abilities through their capacity to think critically when presented with limited information and their ability to analyze and make inferences from information to solve problems.
Sequencing and Patterns
The sequencing and patterns questions in the EDPT test take the form of a series of numbers. Candidates need to use their logical and critical thinking skills to determine the relationship between the numbers given and select which of the multiple-choice answers comes next in the sequence according to the rule they have identified.
This test draws on a candidate's ability to make logical deductions from the information they are presented with. It requires candidates to think critically, focusing only on the information given.
It is worth noting that there may be more than one sequence or pattern contained within the information given in the question. As the test is timed, candidates are also assessed on their ability to keep calm under pressure.
Geometric Analogies
The geometric analogies questions follow a similar principle to the analogies section but using shapes.
The questions are formatted as a series of shapes. In the first part of the question, candidates are given a shape; in the next part of the question, a related shape will be shown but is altered.
The third part of the question presents an entirely different shape to that shown in the first two parts of the question. Candidates need to use their logical reasoning skills to decipher the relationship between the first two shapes. Then use this rule to decide which of the five multiple-choice answers represents the correct shape in relation to the third shape.
Thistestassesses a candidate's ability to think strategically yet logically when using abstract information. Candidates need to demonstrate critical thinking in solving the geometric analogies presented in the time limit given.
How to Pass the EDPT Test
The EDPT test is designed to be challenging. The time limit and the format of questions mean that many candidates find the test tricky to complete within the 90 minutes allotted time. Here are some tips to help you perform well on the test and attain a high score:
1. Practice
The best thing that you can do when preparing for the EDPT is to practice the tests. Sharpen your logical thinking skills through practicing puzzles. Refresh your memory on algebraic principles such as geometry, prime numbers, square numbers, and equations. Practice reading and solving analogies to get your mind into thinking laterally.
2. Mark your best guess and then move on to the next question.
There is no negative marking in the EDPT test. Ensuring you attempt as many questions as possible in the test gives you the best opportunity to attain a high score. The more questions answered correctly, the higher your overall score will be. If you aren't sure of an answer in any section of the test, it is advised to mark your best guess then move on to the next question.
3. Manage your time
The EDPT test has a time limit of 90 minutes. It is important to continually manage your time in the test to ensure you complete as many questions as possible.
4. Keep calm
The timed nature of the test adds an extra element of pressure. If you feel one section of the test hasn't gone as well as you had hoped, keep calm and don't let it affect your performance in the subsequent sections of the test. If you have time at the end of the test, you can always revisit the questions in the test that you found challenging.
5. Pay attention
When sitting the test, it is tempting to skim read the questions. Make sure you take your time and read the question carefully before answering. Doing so means you don't go down the wrong path and find that the multiple-choice answers don't answer the question.
FAQs
Is the EDPT test hard?
The EDPT test is a challenging assessment of whether candidates demonstrate the required logical thinking skills for computer and IT-related roles in the Marine Corps and Air Force. Through four specific tests, the EDPT assesses a candidate's logical thinking skills through their deductive reasoning, strategic thinking, and analytical abilities. To perform at your best in the test, it is essential to understand each part of the test, have practiced the test and refreshed your memory on all aspects of algebra such as equations and geometry.
What is a good EDPT score?
The pass mark for the EDPT test depends on the type of role you have applied for. There is no negative marking in the test; the more questions you get right, the higher your overall score.
What military jobs require the EDPT?
The EDPT test is used in the recruitment process for IT or computer-related roles in the Marine Corps or Air Force, such as those requiring computer programming or the use of electrical processing equipment.
Can I retake the EDPT test?
Candidates are permitted to re-take the EDPT test should they not attain the required pass mark. All candidates must wait six months before re-taking the test. There are certain exceptions to this rule should the commanding officer present in the test room deem that external factors compromised the test environment.
