EPSO Numerical Reasoning: What to Expect and How to Prepare

The numerical reasoning section presents tables, charts, and graphs with statistical data. You answer questions by interpreting and calculating from this data.

What You Need to Know

This is not advanced maths. The calculations are basic: percentages, ratios, averages. The challenge is:

• Extracting the right data from complex tables quickly
• Performing calculations accurately under time pressure
• Not falling for deliberately misleading answer options

Common Question Types

Percentage Change

"By what percentage did X increase from year A to year B?" Formula: ((New - Old) / Old) × 100.

Ratios and Proportions

"What is the ratio of X to Y?" Requires careful reading of which numbers to use.

Data Comparison

"Which category had the highest value?" Data is often presented to make quick visual comparison unreliable.

Preparation Strategy

1. Master the basics. Be fast with percentages, fractions, and ratios without a calculator.
2. Practice reading data tables. Speed in locating the right cell is half the battle.
3. Estimate first. Before calculating, estimate the answer to catch errors and eliminate wrong options.
4. Watch the units. Tables may mix millions, thousands, and percentages.