How to Pass the Neuro-Psychiatric Exam: 2023 Guide

The  Neuro-Psychiatric Examination tests the mental stability, adaptability, and psychological functioning of applicants before they are recruited into service. The purpose of the exam is to filter applicants if they are really suitable for the uniformed services of the government. It is one of the most decisive parts of the recruitment process in the PNP, BFP, BJMP, BuCor, and all the branches of the AFP. In fact,  only 25% of the applicants pass the Neuro-Psychiatric exam, making it the most dreaded part of the application process.

The  Neuro-Psychiatric Exam is comprised of two parts- the written and the personal interview. It includes a 35-item Aptitude (Adaptation) Test, Guilford Zimmerman Temperament Survey, Applicant Risk Profiler, The Industrial Sentence Completion Test, Work Environment Preference Schedule (WEPS), Hand Test, and the “Drawing”. Sounds scary, right? Well, here are some tips and pieces of advice to help you pass this crucial part of your application. Please read on.

6 Important Tips to Pass the Neuro-Psychiatric Exam

To help you succeed in passing the Neuro-Psychiatric Exam, we recommend a book called Neuro-Psychiatric Exam Guide for Police (PNP), Fire (BFP), BJMP, Coast Guard & AFP Applicants. It is available in Shopee and can be paid via the COD option.

Are you still searching for ways how to successfully hurdle this important part of your application? Check these important tips on how to pass the Neuro-Psychiatric Exam like a boss.

1. Follow instructions

In every exam, following the instructions is as important as knowing the right answer to every question. Knowing how to follow instructions is a good indicator that you will be a good policeman, fireman, jail officer, or soldier as these services require utmost compliance with instructions. When you are told to write your name in block capitals, do it exactly as you are told.

Neuro-psychiatric examinations often involve complex tasks and assessments that require careful observation and attention to detail. Whether it’s reading a passage and answering questions or completing a visual puzzle, make sure you take the time to thoroughly understand the instructions and the requirements of each task. Paying attention to details can help you avoid careless mistakes and demonstrate your ability to analyze information accurately.

2. Manage your time during the exam

As I’ve said earlier, the Aptitude, or what we call the IQ test is composed of 35 questions. You have to answer all these questions in just 15 minutes. That means you only have about two minutes to answer each item. The proctors are strict regarding the time limit, so never think that they will give you a time extension. Develop a strategy to allocate your time wisely, ensuring that you devote sufficient time to each section while leaving enough time for reviewing and double-checking your answers. The trick is to answer the easy questions first, then go back to the difficult ones in case you still have time. This way, you can maximize the time and increase your chances of completing the test.

Practicing under timed conditions beforehand can help you become more comfortable with the time constraints and improve your efficiency during the actual exam.

3. Be consistent with your answers

Be mindful of your answers to every question of the exam. Always remember your answer to a particular question because you will be asked similar and related questions in the next following items. You have to be consistent with your answers. Remembering and providing consistent information throughout the examination demonstrates your attentiveness and reliability. In contrast, inconsistent answers may indicate that you are untruthful and just telling lies. By remaining consistent, you will enhance your chances of passing the examination successfully.

4. Learn how to draw

When I say learn how to draw, it does not mean you have to be like Michaelangelo or Da Vinci. If you are told to draw people, do not draw stick figures. Instead, focus on basic human anatomy and proportionality. Draw people with complete parts like ears, eyes, hairs, fingers, etc. Pay attention to details such as body posture, facial expressions, and gestures, as they can provide valuable insights into the individual’s emotional state. Make evident distinctions between males and females e.g., mustache for males and long hair for females. After that, you describe each drawing or make a story out of it in 4-5 sentences.

Remember that the purpose of drawing in this context is not to showcase artistic talent, but rather to communicate information and convey observations accurately. Some of the concepts included here are tricky, and everything being drawn could mean something to the psychologists. Therefore, be careful.

5. Hone your English skills

Sometimes, the exam may include essay exercises. The purpose is to evaluate the incident reporting skills of the applicants. Practice your English writing skills, be precise, and pay attention to the grammar rules. Remember, clear and concise communication is crucial in showcasing your knowledge and competence in the neuro-psychiatric examination.

6. Prepare for the interview

The final part of the exam is the one-on-one interview with a psychologist to assess how you will present yourself under pressure. Answer all the questions with wit, consistency, and fluency. Do not make unnecessary body and hand movements or gestures during the interview. Maintain a calm and composed demeanor throughout the process. Remember to take deep breaths, maintain eye contact, and listen attentively to the interviewer’s questions before formulating your responses. Be honest about your limitations and strengths, as this will demonstrate self-awareness and authenticity. Be snappy and stand firm when talking. Lastly, always be humble.

To wrap it up

The neuro-psychiatric test wants to know if you have the mindset of an average person. Do not pretend that you are an extraordinary one and just be yourself. Be consistent in your answers, bring out the good in yourself, and do not show any violence in your words. Lastly, never leave anything unanswered. Those unanswered questions might determine the result of the neuro-psych whether you are RECOMMENDED or NOT RECOMMENDED. Good luck and may the odds be in your favor.