Programmer Test

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

  • What is a programmer skills test?

    A programmer writes code for computer programs and mobile applications. Once the program is running, the programmer is responsible for troubleshooting problems and ensuring it operates smoothly.

    A programmer skills test measures cognitive ability, soft skills, such as communication and teamwork, and coding skills. Using this in the recruitment process helps the recruiters identify who they would like to progress to the next round.

    It is efficient to identify which candidates have the skills for the job and can demonstrate them as well as discuss them in an interview.

Jump to a section on this page:

  1. What is a programmer skills test?
  2. What are the benefits of using the programmer skills test for pre-screening?
  3. How our test measures programmer skills
  4. Programmer 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 programmer skills test for pre-screening?

    The benefit of using the programmer skills test for pre-screening is that it measures the relevant skills for the job in a cost-efficient and time-sensitive way. It also removes unconscious biases, such as where the applicant went to university, their age or gender.

    The questions are multiple-choice and often have a time limit. The additional time pressure makes the test more challenging. This can be useful within the hiring process to identify how candidates handle pressure.

    The tests are designed to measure specific skills relevant to a programmer's job. This would include technology-based skills, such as coding and data analysis, in addition to soft skills like communication and teamwork.

    Candidates who score well on the test will be progressed to the next stage of the hiring process. This may consist of more tests or a formal interview with an existing employee.

    The programmer skills test could be used for a range of jobs including:

    The test can also be useful for any job that requires coding or analytical skills.

More Job Skills Tests

How our test measures programmer 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 programmer 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 programmer 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

Programmer Test FAQs

How important are soft skills for a programmer?

Soft skills are crucial for a programmer. Being able to work in a team, communicate efficiently and demonstrate self-awareness of their strengths and weaknesses can really support a programmer in creating the ideal product. Rarely will a programmer work alone, so having these skills is beneficial.

How can I assess a programmer’s technical knowledge?

Depending on your company's needs and requirements, you can use various assessments to test candidates' knowledge of programming languages, such as Python, PHP or C++, and their understanding of frameworks, such as Flutter, Django or Angular.

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.

Are these tests available in my plan?

We have a range of plans available. The difference between the plans is the number of test attempts permitted, not the type of tests. All our plans include our full test suite comprising all tests and all levels.

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

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