The Role of Analysis Exercises

An analysis test (sometimes known as an 'In-Tray Exercise' or 'In-Basket Exercise') is designed to test how a candidate analyses and responds to a specific collection of information. This information may be in the form of notes, memos, letters, e-mails or a general background briefing. The candidate is then asked to carry out a number of tasks relating to this information within a certain amount of time. There is rarely a 'right' or 'wrong' answer to the task; instead the applicant is judged on how clearly they delivered their responses and how much they managed to complete within the time constraints. The candidate's planning, organisational, communication and analysing skills are assessed during this exercise, along with other skills relevant to the job, such as technical or procedural knowledge.

Once the candidate is given the material (which may or may not be related to the job position on offer), they are given a scenario and a range of tasks to complete. For example, they may be told that they are a consultant called in to advise the company, or that they are a manager who has been asked to cover for an absent colleague. The tasks must be completed within a particular timescale (usually between 45 minutes and 3 hours) and may include some of the following tasks:

• take decisions
• prioritise the workload
• draft replies
• delegate tasks
• recommend specific action
• produce a presentation or report on the findings

Designed to test how a candidate handles complex information within a limited time, the exercise allows applicants to demonstrate their organisational and planning skills.

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