So you think you’re an analyst

Do you like puzzles, word games or murder mysteries? I have set out three tests that I think you will find of interest.

Our own survey helps you test your business skills and identifies for us analysts who will fit in well at Staffing Industry Analysts. To take the test click here.

Test two gives you a choice of numerical, verbal or inductive reasoning tests from AssessmentDay. Scroll down the page and take the free test. When you have finished don’t forget to download the solution booklet.

Test three is visual literacy exercise developed by Lee A. Makela, Emeritus Associate Professor Of East Asian History At Cleveland State University. To review the test download it here.

Visual Literacy Exercise - You do not have permission to view this object.

If you want to read more about how analysts think I strongly recommend Richards J. Heuer's Psychology of Intelligence Analysis.  As Jack David says in his introduction Heuer's message to analysts can be encapsulated by quoting two sentences from Chapter 4 of this book:

Analysts should be self-conscious about their reasoning processes. They should think about how they make judgments and reach conclusions, not just about the judgments and conclusions themselves.

Lisa Krizan also lays out an interesting portrait of an analyst in her work Intelligence Essentials for Everyone, which you can download here.

Portrait of an Analyst - You do not have permission to view this object.

For other works see the excellent Bibliography maintained by J Ransom Clark of Muskingum College.