How to Prepare for a Mechanical Reasoning Aptitude Test for Firefighters
Before you can get hired by a fire department, you must first pass a written aptitude test and a physical abilities test. The firefighter written test can include reading comprehension and writing ability, spatial orientation, mathematical reasoning, observation and memory, mechanical reasoning, map reading, observational and situational judgment, and interpersonal and practical skills. Not all firefighter's written exams contain questions from all categories, but studying all the different areas is recommended to prepare for the exam. This test prep guide will prepare you for the mechanical reasoning section that may be found on the firefighter written exam.
Firefighter aptitude tests do not require previous firefighting knowledge or particular college degrees. The test will be at a skill level based on the requirements in the job announcement. For example, if the job requires a high school diploma or equivalent, the test will have questions that a high school student could answer.
Most firefighter aptitude tests are timed, ranging from 1 minute to 3 minutes per question, with 100 questions or more. So, you can count on spending several hours on each written test you take.
What is a Mechanical Reasoning Test?
A mechanical reasoning test is designed to test the mechanical abilities of the firefighter candidate. This section measures your understanding of how various devices work and the principles behind how they operate. Firefighters use various mechanical equipment and tools, and they must understand how these items work and know how to use them correctly, especially in an emergency. The Mechanical Reasoning Section will cover tools and devices such as gears, pulleys, and levers and describe the formula for mechanical advantage.
Why do Fire Departments use Mechanical Reasoning Tests?
Fire departments use mechanical reasoning tests to measure your knowledge of mechanical and physical concepts. Firefighters need to understand mechanical advantage, rope and pulley systems, gears, knots, and how essential firefighting tools operate. The mechanical reasoning section tests the firefighter candidate's skills to visualize how objects work or interact. The concepts covered in the test may include levers and mechanical advantage, gears, belt and pulley systems, fluid dynamics, ropes, interpreting diagrams, and mathematics using specific formulas. Firefighters use mechanical reasoning skills daily during rope rescues, determining the volume of a container, using power tools to breach a structure or vehicle, or determining the mechanical advantage to lift a load.
Where are Mechanical Reasoning Tests Taken?
Each department will have a dedicated location where the tests are administered. Some departments may have onsite testing at their training facility, while others might hire a firefighter testing center to administer the aptitude tests.
Common Questions About Mechanical Reasoning Tests.
Remember, the mechanical reasoning test may be included in the firefighter's written aptitude test. However, it is most likely mechanical reasoning will be included since tools and formulas are used every day in the fire service. Here are some common questions you might have about the firefighter mechanical reasoning test that may be included in the aptitude test:
How quickly do I receive the results of my test?
You can expect to receive your results within one to two weeks, depending on the fire department.
At what stage in the testing process is the firefighter's written aptitude test given?
The firefighter's written aptitude test is the first test you will be invited to when applying for a firefighter position after your application has been submitted. Upon successful completion of the test, you will be asked to participate in the physical abilities test. After passing the physical abilities test, you will be invited to an oral interview.
What is a passing score on the firefighter's written aptitude test?
With most departments, a passing score is 70%. However, the higher score you receive will place you higher on the firefighter candidacy list, so you want to achieve as high a score as possible.
How do I prepare for the mechanical reasoning section on the written test?
The first step is to take the Mock Questions Mechanical Reasoning practice test. In addition to taking that test, there are many firefighter test prep books that are good resources to use to prepare for the firefighter's written aptitude test. Test prep books cover all the different sections that might be on a firefighter's written aptitude test. Some departments will offer a testing packet to firefighter candidates that have sample questions. If a department offers a testing packet, study the packet before taking the written test. It is also recommended timing yourself while taking the practice exams to get an idea of how long it will take you to answer each question.
What do I do if I do not know the answer to a question?
If you do not know the answer to a question, skip over it and move onto the next question. Since the test is timed, you want to answer as many questions as possible. It is not recommended to leave any questions blank, so after you complete the test, go back to the unanswered questions and choose the answer you believe to be most accurate.
If the questions on the test are based on basic knowledge, do I really need to study?
The questions are based on basic knowledge, but it is recommended that you study for the exam if you want to achieve a high score. Those who spend time familiarizing themselves with the content on the test and the imposed time limits tend to feel more confident on the day of the test and have a better chance of achieving the highest possible score.
Helpful Advice for Candidates Preparing for the Mechanical Reasoning Test.
In addition to studying the materials and taking firefighter practice tests, here is some more advice to candidates preparing for the mechanical reasoning section of the firefighter's written exam:
- Review basic math, algebra, and geometry books
- Take practice mechanical reasoning tests
- Review how gears, pulleys, levers, and knots work
- Enroll in a firefighter written aptitude test prep course
- Study mechanical advantage equations
- Set aside a certain amount of time each day to dedicate to studying test prep books
After completing the Mechanical Reasoning practice test, check out the Map Reading Section here. This section measures your ability to correctly interpret diagrams, an essential skill used in the fire service. Firefighters are expected to read and interpret various maps, including street and city maps, highway maps, and topographical maps. Understanding how to read a map and get from point A to point B is vital in an emergency when time is of the essence. The Map Reading Section also measures a candidate's ability to read a compass and a legend included on most maps.
