Data Scientist Test

When looking to fill a data scientist position, it's important to make sure that the candidate has the skills necessary to do the job. A data scientist skills test can help ensure that the candidate is a good fit for the position.

  • What is a data scientist skills test?

    The data scientist skills test is a specifically crafted pre-employment assessment that is designed to hone in on the aptitudes and competencies that a data scientist needs to be successful.

    The test itself is simple to administer and can be delivered to a large number of candidates at the same time. For the candidates, the test consists of multiple-choice questions and is completed online and in their own time, so it is relatively straightforward.

    The recruitment team can use the data scientist skills test early in the recruitment process to narrow down a large candidate pool in an efficient way, focusing on choosing the candidates who can demonstrate that they have the skills that are needed for success in the role. Adding this test to the recruitment process reduces both the time spent and the financial cost of filling a role, and it also reduces the chances of a bad hire.

Jump to a section on this page:

  1. What is a data scientist skills test?
  2. What are the benefits of using the data scientist skills test for pre-screening?
  3. How our test measures data scientist skills
  4. Data Scientist Test FAQs

Identify the best candidates and hire faster

Our pre-employment tests let you drill down to the best candidates at the click of a button.

  • Find those candidates who will excel in the role.

    Select the assessments that match the skills or behaviours for the position. You can test for software or coding competency, soft skills like teamwork, or personality traits, to be sure those who pass have high potential.

  • Reduce costs and time.

    No more laborious sifting of resumes or cover letters. Pick your ideal assessment mix, invite your applicants to take them, see the results in your dashboard. Get to the interview stage fast.

  • Eliminate bias.

    All your candidates take the assessments on a level playing field. Only their results determine whether they get shortlisted.

  • What are the benefits of using the data scientist skills test for pre-screening?

    Most businesses require their data scientists to be highly qualified. Even entry-level roles require a degree in something like statistics, IT, or computer science, while other companies might be looking for a candidate with a postgraduate qualification in data science, data analytics, or big data.

    These qualifications are easy to spot in a paper sift, as they will be featured on a resume or an application form. Used as basic criteria for applicants to meet, the paper sift can reduce the number of applicants to a certain level - but differentiating between several candidates with similar qualifications and experience is not easy.

    The data scientist skills test can then be applied to the recruitment process to focus on the specific skills and aptitudes that a data scientist needs to be successful. These competencies allow them to be able to complete their usual duties.

    Data scientists essentially take large amounts of structured and unstructured data and use it to generate databases. They then analyze this data, generating statistical information using programming languages to create algorithms that can translate the data. Data scientists will also present their analysis to stakeholders in simple language to give recommendations and conclusions.

    In the data scientist skills test, the questions that every candidate must face are related to the specific aptitudes and competencies that they need. These include spatial visualization, programming proficiency, an eye for detail, and numerical prowess, as well as great teamwork and communication skills.

    As every candidate takes the same test, the results of the assessment can be used to compare candidates based on their performance. This can be used as quantitative, unbiased data to select the best-performing applicants to take them further into the recruitment process, saving time and money.

    Although all of these roles are different, the data scientist skills test could also be used when hiring for:

How our test measures data scientist skills

Test questions are designed to assess industry-specific technical skills, soft skills, aptitude and suitable personality dimensions. Our data-driven approach provides results that enable you to determine how suited is a candidate for the role.

Depending on the type of question, the format of the test may vary. Multiple-choice questions are used to measure aptitude, technical skills and soft skills, while agreement on a Likert scale assesses suitable personality dimensions. Skills tests ensure that candidates are being evaluated in a precise and impartial manner, their results demonstrating the true knowledge and potential of each test taker.

The characteristics required to become a data scientist were determined by looking at the skills and abilities listed in the US Department of Labor’s O*NET database, which collects data from professionals in various fields.

O*NET is the largest database of its kind, providing detailed information about occupations and the requirements for each role.

Our team of I/O psychologists and psychometrics worked closely with subject-matter experts to create an extensive question bank that can be used to test multiple candidates. We also conducted rigorous field testing with a representative sample of candidates to ensure that the questions were reliable and valid.

Test scores are averaged together to give an overall score. The average score is compared to other candidates' scores to ensure there is no bias toward certain candidates.

Our data scientist test is constantly updated and optimized to ensure the best experience and results.

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Validated

Predictor of job success

Picked provides evidence-based recommendations for tests to use for over 750 jobs. Our recommendation engine leverages data from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) developed by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

  • Assessments

    A full suite of assessments

    Our platform comes with 12 tests across both foundation and advanced levels so they’re suitable for everyone. Including aptitude, behavioural and personality tests, you’ll have a full range of tests to help you find the candidates you’re seeking.

  • Analytics

    An array of candidate metrics

    For each of your candidates, you’ll be given a comprehensive report. Included will be all the metrics you need to build a detailed picture of each candidate and ensure you’re making the right hiring decisions.

“The platform is so simple to use. I had used competitor providers for over six years and will never go back. Fast, efficient and friendly!”
Greg Chambers, HR Business Partner, Littlefish Ltd
Greg Chambers, HR Business Partner, Littlefish Ltd

Data Scientist Test FAQs

What skills are required to be a data scientist?

A data scientist needs to know coding languages like Python, Java, and C#. They also need to have great attention to detail, mathematical skills, and excellent organization. They also need to be able to communicate both verbally and in writing as well as work effectively as part of a team.

What qualifications should a data scientist have?

A data scientist needs at least a degree in something like statistics or computer science, but most companies will require a master's or a doctorate in data science, data analytics, or business analytics.

Can I use aptitude tests to assess candidates' soft skills?

Aptitude tests are a good way to assess soft skills, but there are specific soft skills tests that would be appropriate for an administrative assistant, such as communication, teamwork, and organization.

Can I see what the test is like?

Yes, of course. You can try the test for free by signing up for a free trial.

“An unbeatable service, impressive platform and fantastic value for money.”
Laurence Fishman, Partner, NLPCA
Laurence Fishman, Partner, NLPCA

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