BPS Assessment's Guide to Mastering the PSA: Essential Tips and Techniques

Posted by Amrito Kumar on April 18th, 2023

The Public Service Assessment (PSA) is a test that measures your aptitude and suitability for working in the public sector. It is used by many government departments and agencies in the UK to select candidates for various roles. The PSA consists of three sections: numerical reasoning, verbal reasoning, and situational judgment. Each section has a different format and time limit, and you need to score well on all of them to pass the test.

If you are preparing for the PSA, you might be feeling nervous or overwhelmed by the challenge. You might be wondering how to study effectively, what to expect on the test day, and how to improve your chances of success. That's why we have created this comprehensive guide to help you master the PSA and ace your public sector application.

In this guide, you will find:

- An overview of the PSA structure, format, and scoring

- Tips and techniques for each section of the PSA

- Sample questions and answers for each section of the PSA

- A list of resources and tools to help you practice and prepare for the PSA

- A FAQ section with answers to common questions about the PSA

By following this guide, you will be able to:

- Understand the purpose and content of the PSA

- Develop your skills and confidence in numerical reasoning, verbal reasoning and situational judgment

- Learn how to approach each type of question and avoid common pitfalls

- Practice with realistic and updated questions that reflect the actual PSA

- Boost your performance and score on the PSA

Ready to get started? Let's dive in!

PSA Structure, Format and Scoring

 The PSA is a computer-based test that takes about 90 minutes to complete. It is divided into three sections: numerical reasoning, verbal reasoning, and situational judgment. Each section has a different number of questions, time limit and difficulty level. You will have to answer all the questions in each section before moving on to the next one. You cannot go back to a previous section or change your answers once you have submitted them.

Here is a summary of the PSA structure, format and scoring:

| Section | Number of Questions | Time Limit | Difficulty Level | Scoring |

| Numerical Reasoning | 20 | 20 minutes | Medium-High | 1 point for each correct answer; 0 points for each incorrect or skipped answer |

| Verbal Reasoning | 24 | 18 minutes | Medium-High | 1 point for each correct answer; 0 points for each incorrect or skipped answer |

| Situational Judgement | 25 | 30 minutes | Low-Medium | 4 points for each most effective answer; 3 points for each somewhat effective answer; 2 points for each somewhat ineffective answer; 1 point for each least effective answer |

The total score for the PSA is calculated by adding up the scores from each section. The maximum score possible is 100 points. The minimum score required to pass the PSA varies depending on the role and department you are applying for. Generally, you need to score at least 50% on each section and at least 60% overall to pass the PSA.

Tips and Techniques for Each Section of the PSA

Numerical Reasoning

The numerical reasoning section of the PSA tests your ability to work with numbers, data and graphs. You will have to perform calculations, interpret charts and tables, and analyze numerical information. You will need a basic knowledge of arithmetic, percentages, fractions, decimals, ratios, averages and simple algebra. You will also need a calculator, a pen and some paper.

Here are some tips and techniques for the numerical reasoning section:

- Read the question carefully and identify what information you need to find or calculate.

- Use your calculator wisely and check your calculations for errors.

- Estimate your answer before doing the calculation to see if it makes sense.

- Eliminate any obviously wrong answers from the options.

- Pay attention to the units of measurement and convert them if necessary.

- Look for patterns, trends and relationships in the data and graphs.

- Don't spend too much time on one question; move on if you get stuck.

Verbal Reasoning

The verbal reasoning section of the PSA tests your ability to understand and evaluate written information. You will have to read passages of text and answer questions based on them. The questions will assess your comprehension, inference, deduction, evaluation and application skills. You will need a good command of the English language, grammar, and vocabulary.

Here are some tips and techniques for the verbal reasoning section:

- Read the passage carefully and try to grasp its main idea and purpose.

- Read the question carefully and identify what type of question it is (e.g., factual, inferential, evaluative or applicative).

- Look for relevant information and keywords in the passage that can help you answer the question.

Pay attention to the details, such as dates, names, locations and numbers.

Use the process of elimination to eliminate any obviously wrong answers from the options.

Be aware of the language used in the passage, such as idioms, figurative language and negative expressions.

Be mindful of the time limit and pace yourself accordingly.

Situational Judgement

The situational judgment section of the PSA tests your ability to make effective and ethical decisions in work-related situations. You will have to read scenarios and choose the most appropriate and effective course of action from a set of options. The scenarios will test your judgment, problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills. You will not need any specific knowledge or expertise to answer the questions.

Here are some tips and techniques for the situational judgment section:

Read the scenario carefully and put yourself in the shoes of the person described.

Identify the key stakeholders, issues and objectives involved in the scenario.

Consider the consequences and risks of each option and choose the one that has the most positive outcome and the least negative impact.

Apply your knowledge of ethical principles, organizational values, and professional standards to the situation.

Avoid choosing options that are extreme, unethical, or unrealistic.

Be consistent in your responses and avoid contradicting yourself.

Sample Questions and Answers for Each Section of the PSA

Numerical Reasoning:

Question: What is 20% of 250?

Answer: 50

Explanation: To find out what is 20% of 250, you can use the formula: percentage x value / 100. In this case, 20 x 250 / 100 = 50.

Verbal Reasoning:

Passage: The government has announced new regulations on carbon emissions from vehicles. The aim is to reduce the number of greenhouse gases that are released into the atmosphere and contribute to climate change. The regulations will require car manufacturers to meet strict standards for fuel efficiency and emissions, or face penalties.

Question: What is the purpose of the new regulations on carbon emissions from vehicles?

Answer: The purpose is to reduce the number of greenhouse gases that are released into the atmosphere and contribute to climate change.

Explanation: The passage states that the aim of the new regulations is to reduce the number of greenhouse gases that are released into the atmosphere and contribute to climate change.

Situational Judgement:

Scenario: You are a manager of a team of customer service representatives in a call center. One of your team members has been consistently underperforming and making mistakes that affect customer satisfaction. You have tried to coach and train them, but they have not shown any improvement. What would you do?