How to Pass the Wonderlic Test: A 7-Day Plan

The test rewards pace more than knowledge. Take a full test on the clock, fix where time leaks, then do it once more. Here is the plan.

The plan

This is our own plan, built around the 50-question, 12-minute format. Most improvement comes from five habits, in this order:

Take a full 50-question practice test on the 12:00 clock
Read your pace map: which questions ran long, and which were never reached
Set a skip rule (about 25 seconds, then take your best guess and go)
Take a second test and compare the two pace maps
On the day, work through the test day checklist

What to do each day

Day 1: one full timed test. Day 2: review the pace map and the one question explained. Day 3: drill your weakest type (math, verbal, series or logic). Day 4: a second full test. Days 5 and 6: light review only. Day 7: rest, then the real test.

What does not help

Memorizing long vocabulary lists the night before, or taking ten tests in a row. Two to four timed runs spread over a week is enough for most people. Sleep is worth more than a third practice run.

How to improve your score fast

Pace first, content second. Most people can add points by managing the clock before they learn anything new. If three slow questions cost you a dozen unseen ones, the fix is skipping, not studying. Start with the free Wonderlic practice test.

Frequently asked questions

How do you pass the Wonderlic?

There is no universal pass mark: each employer sets its own. To give yourself the best chance, practice the full test on the real 12-minute clock, use a skip rule, and read your pace map.

How long should you prepare for the Wonderlic?

Two to four full timed practice runs over about a week is enough for most people.

Keep reading

Independent practice. Not affiliated with, endorsed by or connected to Wonderlic, Inc. “Wonderlic” is a trademark of its owner.

How to pass the Wonderlic: a 7-day plan