For most police departments, the first step in the hiring process is the written test. Although test content may vary from one department to the next, the following subjects are commonly found in most written exams:

1. Spelling.

2. Grammar.

3. Vocabulary.

4. Reading Comprehension.

5. Video Test.

6. Written Communication.

7. Math.

SPELLING: This portion of the test is generally given in two ways. A list of words is provided and the applicant is required to chose which of the words is spelled incorrect.

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Another version of this is done by providing the applicant with a sentence with an underlined word. The applicant would read the sentence and determine if the word was misspelled.

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GRAMMAR: In this portion, the applicant is provided with a series of sentences and is required to determine which passage has the improper word order or usage, punctuation and verb tense.

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VOCABULARY: Normally, this portion is conducted by providing the applicant with a sentence that ends with the last word missing. The applicant is then provided with a list of words and he/she is required to choose which word would best complete the sentence.

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READING COMPREHENSION: This component requires the applicant to read a provided passage then answer a series of question relating to what he/she just read.

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VIDEO TEST: This portion of the test requires the applicant to watch a series of video scenarios then answer a questions pertaining to what they had just seen. The applicant does not need law enforcement related knowledge in order to score well since the questions usually focus on the applicant’s observational skills and/or ability to make common sense decisions.

WRITTEN COMMUNICATION: This portion focuses on the applicant’s ability to write in a clear, concise and easily understandable method in regards to a situation they had just witnessed. This is conducted in one of two separate ways. One method is to have the applicant watch a short video scenario. The applicant is then required to write a short report of what they had just seen. Another method that is commonly used is to have the applicant read a passage that provides details to a crime or other circumstance. Using the information provided, the applicant then writes a report documenting the scene. Again, no special law enforcement related knowledge is required to score well in this test.

MATH: This component rates the applicant’s ability to properly complete basic mathematical equations. Normally, the math portion of the tests contains only adding, subtracting, division, fractions, decimal equations and percentage questions. Very rarely are any algebraic questions given.

Remember, written tests vary from department to department so not all tests will include all of the subjects provided here or may have different subjects. This article is provided as a guideline to the most commonly used subjects on a written test. If unsure of what type of test the department you’re interested in uses, contact the recruiting officer and ask for information regarding their specific test.