Computer Proficiency Test for Measuring Candidates’ Computer Literacy and Skills
A computer proficiency test is an evaluation of basic computer skills. The test evaluates a candidate's competence in computers and other related technologies. It helps assess a person's competence in internet browsers, essential desktop applications, etc.
Availability
Ready to Use
Test Type
Domain
Experience Level
0-1 year
Difficulty Level
Moderate
Test Duration
35 Minutes
Total Questions
35 Questions
Relevant Job Roles
Receptionist and Front office executives, Data entry operators and MIS executives
Scores Reported
English
Inside This Computer Proficiency Test
The computer proficiency test assesses the candidate's ability to work using a computer. It helps assess whether an individual knows the functions of a computer, including basic hardware, network, security, and system software. In addition, this computer skills test includes questions with varying difficulty levels, enabling hiring managers to identify candidates who understand computer fundamentals.
The candidates who are proficient in using a computer should be able to:
- Establish official communication using the internet and email
- Use the essential applications to create and edit files
- Troubleshoot in case of hardware, software, or network issue
- Handle a computer comfortably for business purposes
The computer skills proficiency test also helps to screen candidates who possess the following skills:
- Ability to understand computer basics and the set of programs that make the computer function
- Ability to understand the OS and manage computer hardware and software resources
- Ability to prevent and monitor unauthorized access, modification, misuse, or denial of a computer network and network-accessible resources
- Ability to use electronic mail and the internet for exchanging messages with people and for other purposes
- Ability to use software applications like MS Excel, MS Word, and MS PowerPoint and troubleshooting methods to achieve the project objective
Key profiles this computer ability test is used for:
- Receptionist and Front office executives
- Data entry operators and MIS (Management Information Systems) executives
Overview
Computer proficiency relates to the level of competence in different computer-related fields. Proficiency levels can extend from the fundamental level of operating computers to the advanced level of software development. Nearly every employee nowadays is expected to gain computer proficiency to perform efficiently in their roles. The ubiquitous presence of computers has made workplaces more productive and streamlined, and employees interact with these machines and related technology in one way or another. Hence, it's perfectly understandable if much of daily workplace communication occurs online with the help of computing devices.
When recruiting, hiring managers should specify that candidates' computer literacy skills are necessary for any given position. Then, with the help of computer proficiency tests, they can match the right talent for the proper role. The computer skills test must be an integral part of the talent assessment process because computer literacy (such as the ability to use a computer system and the ability to perform typing, surfing, and utilizing Windows and macOS-based tools) is desired by today's employers.
Computer proficiency tests should be an indispensable part of the hiring process, irrespective of the role recruiters need to fill and the levels of competencies they need. This is the right way to streamline the process and uncover any ambiguity in the skill levels of a candidate, making it easier for employers to make the right hiring decision. Hence, they can rest assured that their new hire has adequate skills and experience.
The implication of onboarding someone who is digitally illiterate is that they won't necessarily be as efficient and productive as their counterparts. This may not bode well for that individual as they may feel less confident among their peers, resulting in faltering team dynamics that may not contribute to an effective, productive working environment. That is why a basic computer knowledge test is always handy in determining the candidate's basic computer proficiency.
The computer proficiency test enables hiring managers to shortlist candidates with professional working proficiency to use computers for numerous workplace tasks. The test mandates that candidates select the correct answers to the questions within the stipulated time limit. They are not only assessed on basic concepts but are also evaluated on standard features and usage best practices.
Qualified candidates can comprehend and interpret basic functionalities of computing systems efficiently and accurately, compile emails quickly, access the web effortlessly, manage disk space, and utilize various applications for different workplace tasks. Hence, it's safe to assume that the computer skills proficiency test is essential in assessing candidates' basic technical skills and the required expertise to run the computer system and related technology.
SKILL LIBRARY
This Computer Proficiency Test is a part of following Skills Libraries
Use Mercer | Mettl's computer skills assessment to assess candidates' ability to work using a computer, including their ability to use basic computer applications, use the internet and run a diagnose in case of hardware, software or network issue.
Computer Proficiency Test Competency Framework
Get a detailed look inside the test
Basic Computer Skills Test Competencies Under Scanner
Competencies:
Introduction
The test helps to assess a candidate’s ability to understand computer basics such as software, hardware, number system, etc., to use the computer and perform daily tasks.
Operating Systems
Use this computer proficiency test to assess a candidate’s ability to understand the operating system and manage computer hardware, software resources, etc., to operate the computer and manage its memory and processes.
Network and Security
The test evaluates an individual’s ability to use a computer to manage network components, network devices, malware, firewall, etc. to prevent and monitor unauthorized access, misuse and modification of a computer network and network-accessible resources.
Email and Internet
Use this computer skills proficiency test to assess a candidate’s ability to use a computer to manage emails, perform video conferencing, manage internet domains, etc., and exchange messages with people.
Computer Practicals
The test helps to assess an applicant’s ability to use computer software applications such as Windows XP and MS Office to perform daily tasks and to achieve the project objectives.
Customize This Computer Proficiency Test
Flexible customization options to suit your needs
Set difficulty level of test
Choose easy, medium or hard questions from our skill libraries to assess candidates of different experience levels.
Combine multiple skills into one test
Add multiple skills in a single test to create an effective assessment. Assess multiple skills together.
Add your own questions to the test
Add, edit or bulk upload your own coding questions, MCQ, whiteboarding questions & more.
Request a tailor-made test
Get a tailored assessment created with the help of our subject matter experts to ensure effective screening.
The Mercer | Mettl Computer Skill Test Advantage
Our Customers Vouch for Our Quality and Service
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is a basic computer skills test?
A computer skills test is an assessment exam to evaluate the basic computer skills of candidates. This basic computer literacy test allows individuals to demonstrate their technical skills, enabling employers to identify the right talent with basic computer knowledge.
2. What are the basic computer questions asked in an interview?
The computer skills questions listed below are the most likely ones that candidates will answer in a personal interview. By poring over these questions and practicing their responses, aspirants will be able to respond with confidence even under pressure:
- Do you like keeping up with trends in the latest computer software programs and systems?
- How much ease do you feel while using the elements of Microsoft Office?
- Which operating software systems do you know?
- How proficient are you with spreadsheet tools?
- If you were to build social media presence for your organization, which social media sites would you prefer?
- What computer certifications do you hold?
- How would you rate your HTML skills on a scale of 1 -10?
3. How do I test my computer skills for an interview?
Microsoft Office is the most frequently used software for office work, which includes such features as word processing, presentation, spreadsheet, etc. Therefore, candidates need to improve their skills with these indispensable tools. In addition, some organizations may rely on the Apple ecosystem for computing solutions. However, candidates who are requested to perform basic tasks will primarily work with the MS Office suite.
Although most aspirants will be proficient in these programs, it would be evident that many employers will expect these skills as the bare minimum requirements for candidates. But, most importantly, candidates should have mastered those programs if the business belongs to any specific industry that relies extensively on specialized software. Besides, suppose the job description mandates that the applicant must be proficient in particular programs. In that case, candidates should mention their experience or skills in using this software to make the desired impact.
Lastly, candidates should always answer interview questions with utmost honesty. They should refrain from praising themselves extravagantly by providing misinformation during the interview. The reason is that the employer will eventually see through the lies if the candidates fail to meet expectations.
4. Can we benchmark candidates based on our internal sample set for the computer proficiency test?
The Mercer | Mettl computer skill test is tailored for recruitment. However, we can do benchmarking for custom sample sets as well. Please write to us about your request; we will gladly assist you.
5. Can we customize the computer proficiency test report to include a specific analysis?
We have previously customized computer proficiency test reports based on the client’s requirements. So please write to us with your request, and we will be glad to provide you with a solution.