Criteria Think Reason Solve Express (CTRSE)

Updated by Amy Thomas

At a glance 

Type of assessment

Cognitive aptitude

Measures

Critical thinking

Problem solving

Learning ability

Ability to digest and apply new information

Time

Average 5 minutes. Each question has a 1 minute time limit.

Format

12 multiple-choice questionnaire

Workplace outcomes

Better job performance, reduced turnover, improved training outcomes, increased productivity

Recommended for

CTRS is broadly applicable, but especially useful in roles requiring high-level thinking, training, or fast learning.

CTRS is suitable for roles from early career (interns, apprentices, recent graduates) to mid-to-senior roles (managers, analysts, developers).

Description 

CTRS (Criteria Think Reason Solve) is an adaptive cognitive aptitude test that adjusts in real time to a candidate’s skill level. This allows for a shorter, more precise, and more inclusive assessment experience.

Format 

The CTRSE consists of 12 multiple-choice questions with a 5-minute time limit.

Measures 

While it only provides an overall assessment of cognitive aptitude, it includes items which assess candidates’ critical thinking, abstract reasoning, and mathematical ability.

What score ranges are available? 

The CTRSE includes a series of suggested score ranges that help you understand how each candidate’s results meet the range that has been associated with successful performance in various roles. These ranges are based on large samples of prior scores from individuals applying for or occupying similar roles and are supported by multiple validation studies. 

Score ranges include: 

  • Accounting
  • Analyst  
  • Business Operations Specialist
  • Customer Service Representative  
  • Financial Services
  • Journalism and Communications
  • Project Manager  
  • Sales Manager  
  • Software Development
  • Store Manager

Score Reports 

Each individual is given a raw score and a percentile ranking. The raw score indicates how many questions (out of 12) the individual answered correctly, while the percentile ranking is a relative performance metric that indicates how the individual scored in relation to others who have taken the test. For example, a percentile ranking of 65 means that an individual scored better than 65% of the group on which the test was normed. 

Candidate Experience

The CTRSE consists of 12 multiple-choice questions with a 1-minute time limit per question. On average, candidates take around 5 minutes to complete the test.

The CTRSE is device-agnostic. This means candidates can take the test on any digital device they choose – a mobile phone, tablet, laptop or desktop – in any location and at any time. This provides a high level of flexibility and convenience for the candidate. 

Additional resources

CTRS Overview

Get an overview of the CTRS assessment.

About CTRS

Get detailed information including the candidate experience and validity information on the CTRS.

Sample CTRSE Score Report

Sample CTRSE Score Report (with Score Range)

View the reports available for the CTRSE assessment.

Score Report Guide

A guide for interpreting the CTRSE Score Report.


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