The literacy skills test is a computerised test divided into four separate sections. The test will start with the spelling section followed by punctuation, grammar and comprehension.

The literacy skills test requires only basic ICT knowledge. You should be familiar with using the mouse and keyboard and be able to follow on-screen instructions.

Test length: 45 minutes (unless special arrangements have been made).

Spelling

The spelling section is an audio test heard through headphones and must be answered first. The other three on-screen sections may then be attempted in any order. The spelling section is the only part of the test that may not be revisited when you have left it and you should make sure you have completed this section to the best of your ability before leaving it.

You will not be penalised if you adopt American English usage when asked to spell a word which has an -ise or -ize suffix, otherwise you are required to use standard British
English usage.

Tip: you can click on the audio icon to hear a word as often as necessary.

Punctuation

The punctuation passages will be partly punctuated and you will be expected to supply any missing punctuation in a way that is consistent with the existing punctuation. For example, if items in a list are separated by semi-colons, you will be expected to insert any semi-colons that are missing. The test passages contain a number of points where punctuation can be inserted even though punctuation may not be necessary or appropriate at these points.

Tip: there are 15 instances of punctuation that need to be inserted. If you change your mind about an insertion, you can delete the item using the eraser icon.

Grammar

The grammar questions require you to construct a short, continuous prose passage. At four or more points in the text you will select the most appropriate choice for insertion to complete the passage.

Tip: each question is part of a continuous text. If you have difficulty identifying the correct answer, it might help you to read through the whole passage.

Comprehension

The comprehension questions test your understanding of an education-related extract. After reading the extract you must decide whether or not various summaries of the text and statements are correct.

Tip: try to maximise the number of marks you pick up by answering the questions you find easiest first.

We suggest you familiarise yourself with the test format and navigation by practising the downloadable benchmark and practice tests available on the Practice materials page.

To learn more about the subject areas covered in the literacy skills test, visit the Test content page.