Criteria Think Reason Solve Express (CTRSE)
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
Get an overview of the CTRS assessment. | |
Get detailed information including the candidate experience and validity information on the CTRS. | |
View the reports available for the CTRSE assessment. | |
A guide for interpreting the CTRSE Score Report. |