Guidance For Completing Written Tests
Plan ahead; aim to complete the test 2 or 3 days before it is due back to the hiring organisation, to leave you enough time for checking and consideration.
Follow all instructions carefully, for example increasing space between lines (use ‘Paragraph > line spacing’ to do this), using presentation or word programmes, adhering to word count limits.
Check all spelling, punctuation and grammar several times and ask a friend with good scientific knowledge to check it for you also.
- If you have any questions about anything in the test, contact the recruitment agency who will either be able to answer them or will contact the company to find out. Do not assume but be proactive in finding answers to your questions.
- Ensure that tracked changes are not visible.
- Ensure that the spelling is set to the correct language (English UK/ US)
- Ensure that you name the documents appropriately
If you have to send the test back to the company directly - ensure that you do it on a ‘clean’ email, with no previous correspondence beneath. The email should have a brief cover note stating:
- your name
- The date the test was due back
- The name of the recruitment agency you have used
- The title of the job you are applying for
- Thank the recipient for the time they will spend reviewing the test, and end positively and enthusiastically (e.g., "I am very interested in this opportunity and look forward to hearing from you soon.").
- Copy the recruiting agency you’re using into your email.
- Before sending double check that the attachment is attached!
- Check the spelling, grammar and punctuation of the email.
- Ensure you are sending it to the correct email address.
- Request a delivery receipt.






