Free Attention To Detail Test

  1. Free Attention To Detail Tests
  2. Free Attention To Detail Test
  3. Free Attention To Detail Test Templates
  4. Free Printable Attention To Detail Test
  5. Free Pre-employment Attention To Detail Test

Overview of Error Checking Tests

What is an error checking test?

The Attention to Detail test assesses candidates’ ability to focus their cognitive resources to achieve thoroughness and accuracy in detail-oriented work. It’s an ideal test for pre-employment screening of candidates applying for a variety of office-based roles that require successful execution of fine details. Q1 Solution: In this example the correct text is shown on the right and the candidate has been given a list containing alterations as well as the original number. The task is to state if there are any errors and to identify where and what they. For this example the amended numbers have been highlighted in red and are the typical 'transposed' errors, in which items from within the original text.

An error checking test is an aptitude test that evaluates your ability to spot errors in sets of data or text. The typical questions that arise during these assessments require an effective comparison of correct information alongside an adapted version of the original text.

The original and copied versions will appear to be very similar. However, in the altered text, some items have been transposed or swapped with other parts of the transcript. The aim is to identify the statements that have been written correctly, those that have been altered and the nature of the alteration itself. The texts provided will normally contain alphabetical and numerical characters in order to allow for an assessment of both fields and have a time limit for completion of questions.

Why do I have to take an error checking test?

Error checking tests are designed to assess the current performance level of an individual, whether applying for a position or currently employed, in order to aid in the selection of candidates, workplace appraisals and other required areas. These types of aptitude tests are of particular use in secretarial, clerical and administrative roles as the test evaluates ability to check information and the employees of these respective occupations would likely be required to produce a large amount of written text or numerical analysis, which would make effective error detection skills a necessity. Research has suggested that error checking tests are a reliable predictor of future job performance in regards to these areas, which in part has facilitated their rise in popularity among potential and current employers as a means of assessment.

Although they are useful for employers, error checking tests can also offer useful information to those taking them. For example, the assessment feedback gives the candidate an insight into their own existing abilities, as well as possible areas for improvement, which in turn could inspire self-directed development if they wish to progress their skills. By using the assessment in order to improve performance, the candidate may find themselves more desirable to prospective employers. In regards to personal use, an individual might wish to use the assessment to find out which occupational roles they may be more suited to in order to select a career appropriate to their abilities.

Free example Error Checking tests

Try one of our free tests to see how they help you improve.

Free Error Checking Test

This free numerical reasoning test contains just 5 questions and is rated as easy. This is just a taster to get you warmed up.

The best way to familiarise yourself with error checking tests and the types of questions you might be asked, is to try some example questions yourself. In real tests there will be a strict time limit, typically you will be given 14 minutes to answer 28 questions.

So let's go through a few examples, with the difficulty increasing with each question:

Q1: Identify if there are any errors in the column of numbers, and state what they are.

Q1 Solution: In this example the correct text is shown on the right and the candidate has been given a list containing alterations as well as the original number. The task is to state if there are any errors and to identify where and what they. For this example the amended numbers have been highlighted in red and are the typical 'transposed' errors, in which items from within the original text have been swapped around, while the rest remains in the initial format.

Okay, that first example was pretty simple, but we're just warming up... Now you know how these questions work, let's try something a little harder

Free attention to detail test download

Q2: Are the items on the left transposed correctly, if not where are the errors?

Q2 Solution: This example is slightly different as there is only one alteration for each original item and it contains both alphabetical and numerical items, it also might seem more difficult at first because the two full columns make it appear more daunting. Once again the errors have been highlighted in red and are of the typical format.

Now let's try one more example question... This time there will be a lot more information for you to check through...

Free Attention To Detail Tests

Q3: Are the items on the left transposed correctly, if not where are the errors?

Q3 Solution: This final example is a little more complicated as it introduces the idea of multiple 'types', represented here as Company Name, Account Number and status, this type of question requires extra attention as there could be more than one error for each row. The task requires an accurate comparison of the two tables in order to detect the errors and state where they are. Questions that involve multiple possibilities for errors to occur may be the most useful as the error finding process closely resembles that which would be needed in day to day tasks.

When taking an error checking test, it could be helpful to follow these guidelines:

  • Be prepared - Prior to the assessment it is important to get a good night's sleep so that you are well rested and alert. Any special requirements such as large text should have been made clear to those providing the test.
  • Remain calm - It is important not to panic, as you are more likely to miss details when anxious especially during timed tasks. Try to relax using deep breathing exercises.
  • Read the instructions - To avoid ticking the wrong boxes, ensure that you are familiar with what the task requires and that you respond in the desired manner. If you are not sure of something, ask.
  • Double check your answers - It is easy to make simple mistakes when under assessment, so be sure to read through your responses.
  • Be efficient - While ensuring that you have not made mistakes, remember not to linger on one question for too long or you may not complete the test. Using a practise version of an error checking test could familiarise you with what to expect, as well as improve time allocation.
  • Ask for feedback - The more you know about your performance, the better. This way you will have more guidance for areas of improvement during self-development and it shows willingness to build-upon current abilities.

And finally: good luck! If you need any advice or information about taking an error checking test please feel free to get in touch.


Attention to detail assesses your ability to quickly spot subtle differences in short text strings.
There are different types of attention to detail tests. We will describe two types below.
Attention to Detail type 1
You will be shown two or more short strings of text and be required to quickly determine if they are 100% identical or not. The strings of text can be names of persons or companies, short addresses, numbers or any other short text string.
You will be working under a very strict time limit and are required to work quickly but precisely.

Try to compare the four text strings below, are they 100% identical?

256 Hickory Heights Drive, Hanover, 21076256 Hickory Heights Drive, Hanover, 21876256 Hickory Heights Drive, Hanover, 21076256 Hickory Heights Drive, Hanover, 21076

Click here for the answer.

No, one of the four addresses reads '21876' instead of '21076'. Finding this difference may have been easy for you, but remember that you will be required to answer many of these within a short time.


Attention to Detail type 2
You will be shown four lines of words. Each line contains the same words, displayed in a different order. Only one line has all words written correctly. You are to quickly determine which line of words is correct.
Free attention to detail test questions

Free Attention To Detail Test

Compare the four lines of words below, which is correct?

A) flashcart, flame, flamingo, false, farm
B) flaminge, flame, farm, false, flashcard

Free Attention To Detail Test Templates

C) farm, flame, flashcard, false, flamingo
D) flame, flashcard, fasle, flamingo, farm

Click here for the answer.

The correct answer is C. The mistyped words of the other lines are marked in bold here below:
A) flashcart, flame, flamingo, false, farm
B) flaminge, flame, farm, false, flashcard
D) flame, flashcard, fasle, flamingo, farm

Free Printable Attention To Detail Test


Data checking and attention to detail are similar to some extent, but there are significant differences in the two tests. Attention to detail will be focusing on smaller text strings and will have a very demanding time limit. In data checking you will be comparing more data but with a less strict time limit.
Attention to detail is part of the Clerical Ability Test Prep package.

Free Pre-employment Attention To Detail Test