The Wonderlic test, a highly regarded psychological test, is specifically used to assess candidates' cognitive abilities and problem-solving potential. Since its creation in 1939 by Eldon F. Wonderlic, the test has become an indispensable tool in the recruitment process for companies across all industries. The challenge of answering 50 multiple-choice questions in a compact 12 minutes makes the Wonderlic test not only test the candidates' intelligence, but also their time management ability.
Wonderlic created this test to quickly and effectively measure a candidate's cognitive abilities, making it a form of rapid intelligence testing.
The Wonderlic test is derived from the Otis self-administered mental ability test, but its design emphasizes performance in a short period of time. For many people, this is not only a test, but also a test of psychological pressure. Just imagine, how can you submit the best answer in just 12 minutes?
The Wonderlic test dates back to the 1930s. E. F. Wonderlic wanted to use a short, quick test to measure general intelligence and logical reasoning ability, which was first used by companies such as AT&T to select employees. Over time, the test became widely used in the military (such as the U.S. Navy during World War II) and sports, particularly the National Football League (NFL). In the 1970s, Dallas Mavericks coach Tom Landry first used the test to predict player performance as part of the NFL selection process.
Modern Wonderlic testing includes different forms, the most well-known is the Wonderlic personnel test. The diversity of this test enables it to provide corresponding standards for different industries and positions. Some test formats such as the Wonderlic Scholastic Level Test (SLE) are suitable for applicants in medical and nursing professions.
Candidates may face challenges similar to the following:
The Wonderlic test is well suited to the fields of industrial and organizational psychology. In this context, tests are used to assess the job potential and educational background of candidates. However, psychologists have different views on the results of different forms of testing, which has led to discussions about the validity and reliability of the tests.
The Wonderlic test has been peer-reviewed and deemed suitable for practical application in personnel selection.
Although the Wonderlic test is widely used, its effectiveness is controversial. Studies have shown that although the Wonderlic test has a high correlation with general intelligence measures, it has not been successful in measuring fluid intelligence and crystallized intelligence. This raises questions about the use of the test, especially its validity among high-IQ groups.
The Wonderlic test has also caused various legal disputes. For example, in 1997, Robert Jordan filed a lawsuit after being rejected from becoming a police officer because his Wonderlic test score was too high, which became a news topic called "Too Smart to Be a Police Officer."
The Wonderlic test has also appeared in popular culture, appearing in a simplified form in some video games, making it more widely known.
The Wonderlic test continues to be improved and updated every year, and test takers' scores undoubtedly reflect their cognitive potential. In the process of job hunting and selection, are you ready to challenge yourself and complete these 50 questions in 12 minutes?