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Titles for which the Office Support Test is used:
(Not all titles are currently open for application)
Office Assistant 1, 2 and 3 (typing positions and non-typing positions)
Secretary 1 and 2
Administrative Secretary
Radio Operator
Telecommunicator
Mail Processing Operator 1
Imaging Operator 1
Word Processor
Lottery Business Support Technician 1 and 2
Tourist Guide
Some jobs require a typing test. See the posting.
Below is a general description of the procedures and topics covered in the Office
Support Jobs (Clerical) examination. We are unable to provide more information
about specific test sections or items. Unless specifically stated below, no test study
guide is available.
The same written multiple-choice examination (050101A) is used for all titles listed.
Not all titles shown are open for application. Please check the current announcements.
Some titles require a keyboard (typing) test.
Applicants requiring special handicap accommodations in the testing process should call
call (304) 558-3950, Ext. 57207.
Summary: Written Exam Passing - 47 of 100 (47%). Weight with Typing test: 70% of total score.
Typing test passing - 35 nwpm (50%). Weight with Written test 30% of total score.
WRITTEN EXAMINATION DESCRIPTION AND OUTLINE (Passing score: 47 of 100)
Total Items: 100 Format: 4 or 5 option multiple-choice (A, B, C, D, E)
Test Time: 2 hours (Most other tests have a 3 hour test period.)
The test sections are described below:
Reading Comprehension (12 items)
These items tests your ability to read, understand and apply written
information. No previous knowledge of the material is required.
Interpersonal Skills (10 items)
Ability to deal with coworkers, customers, and office visitors. The questions
deal with customer service, making objective decisions, following rules,
showing interest and courtesy, and dealing with conflict.
Arithmetic (14 items)
Basic arithmetic calculations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division,
averages, fractions, decimals, percentages, making change, and time calculation).
Record Keeping and Forms Completion (9 items)
These items tests your ability to keep basic records and check form entries.
No previous knowledge of the specific record, procedure, or form is required.
Checking and Comparing (18 items)
To answer these items you compare pairs of information (usually 3-4 lines)
to detect differences in the information (typos, format, transposition,
punctuation, etc.). No previous knowledge of the information is required.
Sorting, Alphabetizing and Filing (18 items)
Ability to sort, alphabetize and file information. Commonly accepted rules
for alphabetizing and filing are used. Examples: names, addresses, titles,
organization names, and abbreviations.
English Grammar, Effective Expression and Editing (19 items)
Knowledge of English grammar, effective expression and editing. Includes: basic
grammar rules, spelling, punctuation, word usage, and sentence structure.
Examination Procedures and Test Taking Tips:
The written test score is used for ranking and referral order.
This is not a speeded test. Applicants are expected to complete all 100 items.
It is important to keep track of your time. Work at a steady pace. Do not spend
too much time on questions you find difficult. Try to eliminate one or two answers
and make a reasonable guess. There is no penalty for guessing.
We cannot recommend specific study materials. Textbooks and general test preparation
guides covering the test topics may be available in libraries and bookstores.
For Office Assistant 1, 2, and 3 there are typing and non-typing position options. Applicants for OA positions which do not require a significant amount of typing are not required to take the typing (keyboard) test.
Typing Speed and Accuracy Test: (5 minute timed test)
Minimum Passing Score: 35 Net Words Per Minute
For positions which require typing, applicants must take and pass a
typing speed and accuracy test. With the exception of the Word
Processor class, this test counts 30% of the final score. For Word
Processor the typing test counts 60% of the final score.
The typing test requires the applicant to type as rapidly and accurately
as possible for 5 minutes. Tests are administered on personal computers.
Applicants type from a printed text. No special word processing,
or document formatting
knowledge is required. Prior to the 5 minute test there is a 2 minute
practice session. Net words is determined as gross words per minute minus
3 times the errors per minute. The minimum typing speed required to pass
is 35 wpm. Persons hired into positions requiring significant typing
may be expected to type 45 wpm or more.
The typing net word score is converted to a percentage score
with 70 nwpm or more considered 100% (maximum). Percent Score = Net Words / 70.
Note: Applicants may benefit
from typing training or practice prior to testing.
Applicants should indicate
any special keyboard and office software experience in the Skills section of the
application.
Applicants who take the typing test in Charleston who have
applied for Data Entry Operator 1 or 2, may
optionally take the 5 minute Data Entry Keyboard test on the same day.
Test Weights and Score Computation:
For jobs that require typing, the final score is the weighted average of the
percent scores on the clerical written and typing tests.
Example: Let's say an applicant passes the written test with 68 of 100 items correct (68%).
He/She passes the typing test with 45 net wpm.
Typing percent score = 45 / 70 = 64% (rounded)
The written test counts 70% and the typing test counts 30% of the final score.
Therefore, the Final Score = 70% of 68 plus 30% of 64 = 67 (rounded)
Veterans Preference points (5,10) are added to the final score as appropriate.