The Wonderlic test: what it is, how it works and how to prepare

What is the Wonderlic test?

The Wonderlic test is a short cognitive ability test that employers use to compare candidates on how quickly they learn and solve problems. Wonderlic describes the cognitive section as 50 questions with a 12-minute limit, which works out to about 14 seconds a question.

It is not a knowledge exam. You cannot study a syllabus for it. It rewards speed, a calm head and knowing when to move on, which is why practicing on the real clock matters more than reading about it.

What kinds of questions are on it?

Questions are short and mixed together. Expect a blend of:

• Vocabulary: synonyms, antonyms and analogies
• Arithmetic and short word problems
• Number and letter series
• Logic: ordering, syllogisms and calendar reasoning
• Following written instructions
• Pattern and shape questions

How is the Wonderlic scored?

The classic version of the test is scored out of 50, and Wonderlic cites an average of around 20. Wonderlic says its current Select test uses a more complex method: it weights each question by difficulty and accounts for guessing, and its FAQ says Select does not give candidates a single numerical cognitive score.

Our own practice test scores the number you get right out of 50, and shows an estimated percentile from a stated model. See the Wonderlic score chart and what counts as a good score.

How should you prepare?

Take a full test on the clock, look at where your time went, then fix your pace before you worry about content. Most of the gain comes from knowing when to skip. Our free Wonderlic practice test shows a pace map of all 50 questions, and how to pass the Wonderlic turns it into a plan.

Frequently asked questions