EDPT Test: Study Guide, Scores and Practice Tests
Last Updated on August 7, 2023
The Electronic Data Processing Test or EDPT is a grueling exam used by only two sectors of the US military services branches. The Air Force and the Marine Corps use the EDPT for their computer programming positions that require a high level of competency.
The test has multiple-choice questions and a total score of 120 points. Each candidate is given 90 minutes to complete this challenging electronic data processing test and prove they have what their desired jobs require.
It’s important to remember: the test is not scored negatively so it’s important to answer every question regardless if you’re completely confident that it’s the correct answer.
Table of Contents
The EDPT Test Comprises Of:
The test assesses someone’s logical capabilities. There are 120 questions on the test, in four different areas:
Change Comparisons and Analogies:
You are shown three geometric shapes. You will then select a fourth shape that corresponds to the third in the same way the second shape speaks to the first. The fourth shape is selected from a list of multiple-choice options This is much like the object assembly portion of the ASVAB test but is supposedly more difficult.
What’s being tested in this section is one’s abstract reasoning using geometric analogies. Each test taker is asked to analyze visual information that can be reconfigured and formulated to have logical references and comparisons.
This section asks candidates to solve complex and unfamiliar problems which depend on prior knowledge and logical reasoning and assumptions.
Numbers Logic:
This portion of the test measures your ability to decode continuous patterns of numbers as well as other mental arithmetic skills. We can assume the EDPT test uses number sequencing patterns and problems because they are a great way to measure a candidate’s aptitude for pragmatism and solving problems accurately as well as quickly.
An example question may be: the following series of numbers: 1, 3, 5, 7, and ask what the next number is based on the previous number. Of course, such an easy example like this won’t be in the EDPT (the answer is 9, naturally).
Algebra/Math Problems:
This section of the tests asks you to solve various algebra equations and word problems that make use of your understanding of algebra and your own logic.
The algebra problems in this section are reported to have very logical and neat solutions. However, there is very little information given on all aspects of the problem.
Some test takers say that they spent a lot of time on this section of the EDPT because it contains complex algebraic problems. Some of them wish that they moved on to the more easy or less time-consuming sections of the test. Again, the actual math of these problems is not the most complex but finding the most logical solution is the challenge and the real purpose of the assessment.
Analogies:
Here’s a sample analogy: “Hoof is to Horse as Paw is to (blank)” You will be given four possible answers (example: dog, octopus, zebra, alligator).
Just like the mathematical analogies, this section is assessing one’s ability to make logical and educated assumptions based on context, experience, and intuition.
How Is the EDPT Scored?
Applicants are given 90 minutes to complete the entire test. However, most people don’t complete all the questions given within the time limit.
To get a qualifying score, you don’t need to complete every question. For the Air Force candidates the minimum score needed is between 60-71 and for the Marine Corps you need a score of at least 50.
However, some companies and positions require an average score (at least a score of 50) while others require you to score above 70 before you are even shortlisted for a position.
The test does not use negative markings, which means you won’t be penalized for incorrect answers. Instead, your score is entirely dependent on your correct answers. Because of this, it’s wise to skip the time-consuming questions in favor of quicker questions. Then you may return to those challenging questions later, if you have the time. This way you can guarantee all the easier points before hedging your bets on the more complicated answers (that may be incorrect, anyway).
Retaking the EDPT after 6 Months
Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) commanders may order an immediate retest if the original test session was done under adverse conditions (i.e., undue distractions present). This does not include illness excuses, since candidates are told not to take the test if they are sick. However, typically you can only retake after 6 months have passed.
EDPT Test Instructions and Process
- You have only 90 minutes to complete the test. This means that you only have 45 seconds to answer each question.
- The test is done entirely on paper, with zero digital or computer options.
- You will be given two sheets of scratch paper and a pencil.
- You will not be allowed to use a calculator during the examination.
- The EDPT is a multiple-choice exam with 5 options for each question.
- If you are sick on the day of your EDPT test, you may reschedule. But if you fail and want to retake the test, you will need to wait 6 months before retesting.
- The required minimum test scores will depend on the position you’re being tested for. But, on average a 55-7o score is good enough.
Preparing and Taking Practice Tests
Unfortunately, there aren’t any practice tests or study guides to take this test. There are, however, many places to practice the skills that this test assesses. Below are some links.
The best things to practice and prepare are your algebra and analytical skills. JobTestPrep offers several practice tests you might find useful.
You should also get a good night’s sleep before the test. Remember, this is the toughest test given at MEPS and will require a lot of brainpower to complete.
Summary
The EDPT is a multiple-choice test that you need to answer in 90 minutes. The Marine Corps requires a minimum score of 50 and the Air Force requires a score of 60-71.
The test is designed to challenge and assess a person looking to work in data processing or computer programming. Because of this, most of the test will evaluate one’s basic ability to problem solve, observe, and predict numerical sequencing and use complicated algebra.
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