Each writing exercise will differ, as they usually relate to the industry to which you are applying, as well as the company and the role. Some companies request that applicants complete an online written exercise or comprehension test when sending in their initial application form. Others will incoporate a written exercise into their assessment centres. Many applicants find the idea of completing a written exercise daunting – however, with proper preparation, there’s nothing to fear. This article will cover what you can expect in a written exercise, what’s being assessed, and will give you some model answers and tips.
What Skills Are Being Assessed in a Written Exercise?
Written exercises can test far more than your writing ability and attention to detail. They also test your comprehension skills. Employers will be paying close attention to the way in which you respond to a brief – whether you understand what is required of you, and how you choose to tackle the assignment itself. To succeed in a written exercise, you must ensure that you read the brief several times and tailor your response to meet its needs. Misreading or misunderstanding demonstrates poor comprehension skills, and a lack of attention to detail that could go against you. Written exercises can also demonstrate your professionalism, your ability to work towards a goal, to communicate with others, and to argue a point or opinion.
It is likely you will be shown to a meeting room to work quietly on the task. If you are taking part in a written exercise at an assessment centre, you may well be in the room with other potential candidates applying for the same or different jobs. The format of the test depends on which kind of writing skill is being tested – for example, you may be asked to draft several emails or resolve an issue via letter. Most of the time, the interviewee will be given a short brief (maybe a paragraph in length) and will be given a set amount of time to respond. Usually, a written exercise will be written by hand and not on a computer, so be prepared for this and ensure your handwriting is clear and legible.
Written Exercise Sample Questions
Here are some written exercise examples you may come across during the interview process: As you can tell, the scope of questions and themes will vary greatly from job to job – but they will all aim to test your comprehension and writing skills. Though they can vary in form, they will assess a candidate’s writing ability, comprehension skills and attention to detail – all good qualities in a potential employee.
