While passing the first stage of interviews is considered difficult, it is often harder to complete a data entry test simply because of the increased need to work under pressure. Data entry tests often cause the most experienced workers to make unnecessary errors that aren’t really representative of how they work daily. However, with some simple preparation, you can complete your pre-employment tests with confidence. Here is how to prepare for your upcoming data entry test.
1. Ask about the format of the test
Some candidates believe that they can’t ask questions about the content of data entry tests. That couldn’t be more wrong! Make sure you ask about the content and duration of the data entry test you will take. Do some research online to discover whether anyone has shared their experience with the company you are interviewing with, or ask someone you know who has worked at the company. The more you know, the less you’ll be caught off guard by surprises, which could negatively impact your score.
2. Take plenty of practice tests
Practice tests aren’t just ways to hone your skills in preparation for a data entry test. They’re also a great way to uncover your weaknesses. While you might be great at data entry at work, consider how much time you spend entering numerical or alphabetic data. Some candidates get tripped up by the numerical data side of the data entry test, especially if the keyboard is not the same as the one they use regularly.
We offer a free data entry test for you to try and get a feel for how data entry tests work.
3. Practice in test conditions
The data entry test will most likely be under timed conditions, so it makes sense to complete your practices in timed conditions as well. Online data entry tests can help you create the sense of a true test, which will help you adjust to the stress of taking a data entry test. The more you practice under these conditions, the more comfortable you will feel on the day of your test, which should help you perform better overall.
4. Establish a habit of regular practice
When it comes to performing well in a data entry test, regular practice beats one long cramming session, which will only leave you stressed, overwhelmed, and exhausted. Create a schedule that allows you to practice on a regular basis. Regular practice will help you improve your speed while maintaining accuracy, which will ensure you are an attractive new hire in a data entry driven role.
5. Aim for accuracy over speed
While speed is important, what matters the most is that your entries are accurate. A slower worker who completes work with 100% accuracy is much better than a faster worker who completes work full of errors. At the same time, a fast worker who completes work with 100% accuracy is better than someone slow, but a slow worker can transform into a fast worker with practice. Practice makes perfect, so don’t be too hard on yourself if you aren’t as good as you expected, but do try your best to improve.
6. Be aware of common mistakes
The most common errors are transposition errors, transcription errors, and location errors. Be mindful of your work while you are working. Be sure to check the expectations of the task. Make sure you double-check that numbers are not entered in reverse order and that you haven’t accidentally omitted characters or made any typos in your work. Make sure that your data is entered into the correct space, line, or cell. Remember, if you’re dealing with customer information or financial details, then these mistakes can be critical. Be sure to take your time. Although you need to work at speed, you need to make sure the data is accurate in order for you to be trusted enough to represent the company you wish to work for.
7. The numpad
Typing numerical data, such as financial numbers, phone numbers, social security numbers, is much faster on the numpad. If you are not comfortable with the numpad, you should start practicing on it now. Typing numbers on a numpad can be several times faster than on the keyboard number line.
8. Try it out on a different keyboard
Depending on the amount of time you have to prepare, it’s worth it to practice on as many different types of keyboards as possible. If you’re used to typing on a lightweight laptop or portable keyboard, then the keys will be slightly closer together on the keypad. This will change the way you type, so you will have to adjust how you type if yu discover a different keyboard in your test. Unless your data entry test is completed on your own laptop, you should strongly consider getting a full-sized keyboard with a numpad to practice on!
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