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At Pinnacle West/APS, you may be asked to take a test as part of the job selection process. Tests are used to help assess your knowledge, skills and abilities for a job. For many, the most lasting memory of test taking relates to those taken at school. You might recall feelings ranging from discomfort to anxiousness prior to a test, even when you felt well prepared. If you haven't had much experience taking tests in the recent past, you may feel that your test-taking skills could be improved. Using simple test preparation and test-taking strategies can help minimize any discomfort. The following tips are offered to help you do your very best. Before Your Test Date
Some disabilities, conditions and medications can impact test performance. If you have a condition that you feel may impair your ability to take a test, it is important that you discuss this with Testing Services as soon as possible. All information of this nature is treated as strictly confidential within Testing Services. At the time your test is scheduled, make sure you understand the date, time and place for your test. Also, make sure you understand any other instructions you are given for taking the test. The Test Administrator will tell you the type of test you will be taking such as a written, computer/data-entry, or skills test. You may also be given some general information about the areas to be tested such as math, reading, writing, verbal skills, etc. Practicing test-taking may help. You can purchase sample test workbooks, such as those for the Armed Services “ASVAB” tests. These can be found in many public libraries, bookstores or through on-line vendors. However, the greatest use these tools provide is not in studying subject areas, but in helping you to feel more comfortable taking tests. Do not feel, however, that you need to “study” to take a test for a job. Most test results, especially for tests of ability, will not be significantly improved by last minute “brushing up”. Help yourself to feel your best by eating right and getting plenty of rest. Even light exercise such as walking, deep breathing or stretching can help you to feel more alert and positive. You should avoid alcoholic beverages or too much caffeine for at least twenty-four hours prior to taking a test. Avoid scheduling other appointments for yourself following the test so that you will not feel rushed. The Day of the Test
If, due to medical or other circumstances, you need to cancel your testing appointment, you must contact your test administrator or your recruiter as soon as possible. At that time, you will need to ask if any alternative arrangements can be made. Failure to make timely notification of your cancellation can impact your ability to be rescheduled to take a test. Testing Services will evaluate each cancellation on a case-by-case basis to determine rescheduling. Generally, only one re-schedule opportunity will be provided. Remember to bring picture identification of yourself, such as a driver’s license or passport. You will not be permitted to take a test without presenting some form of current proper identification. Try to avoid diuretic beverages such as coffee and tea as these cause more rapid loss of body fluid. You should also not exceed one serving of caffeinated beverages (such as colas, coffee and tea) within two hours of your test. Dress comfortably. Restrictive clothing may be uncomfortable for you, especially during a lengthy test process. It’s also a good idea to bring a light jacket or sweater in case the room temperature is cooler than ideal for you. Remember to bring any prescription eyewear you may need. Leave plenty of time to travel to the testing site in case there are unexpected delays such as traffic. Try to arrive with time to spare so you will have a few moments to relax and become accustomed to your surroundings. Make sure to use the restroom and drink some water before the test is scheduled to begin. During a Test
Listen to and follow the Test Administrator’s instructions carefully. If you do not understand an instruction, you have the responsibility to ask questions until you are sure you know exactly what to do. If you are given a time limit, use it wisely. Work quickly, but as accurately as possible. Try not to spend too much time on a single question. Read all test instructions and questions completely and carefully. Make sure you note any words or phrases that may provide clues to the best answer. Use process-of-elimination as one technique to help you determine the best answer. Give only the answer you believe is best. Don’t use second-guessing. There are no “trick” questions. Enter your answers exactly as directed by the Test Administrator or as given by instructions within the test itself. Unless you are told that there is a penalty for guessing, try to answer all questions in the test. Do only your own work. Anyone caught attempting to cheat, helping someone else to cheat, or otherwise breaching test confidentiality will be disqualified from further consideration for the job, and may be subject to other discipline and action. Pinnacle West Capital Corporation/APS will protect everyone’s right to receive a fair employment opportunity. Additional Guidance for Taking Written Tests
Take a moment to look through the test, answer the easiest questions first, and then return to answer all remaining questions. (Note: if your test includes a number of sections, work only in those sections you are authorized to work in by the Test Administrator.) After completing the test, take time to check your answers carefully. On multiple choice questions, especially when using a separate answer sheet, make doubly sure that you’ve correctly recorded the choice that you think is best. Do not feel rushed to turn in your test. PNW/APS Testing Services uses only trained, qualified personnel for the administration of its corporate employment tests. If you have any questions, you are encouraged to contact Testing Services at 81-2641 (602-250-2641).
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