LinkedIn assessments are online tests that allow you to demonstrate your professional skills and subject matter expertise to potential employers and business contacts on the LinkedIn platform. The assessments cover a wide range of topics, from software development to marketing to administrative skills. One common question people have about LinkedIn assessments is how many questions are included on each test.
Number of Questions Varies by Assessment
The number of questions on LinkedIn assessments can vary greatly depending on the specific test. Here are some examples of the range you may find:
- Microsoft Word 2016 Assessment: 35 questions
- General Programming Principles Assessment: 15 questions
- Principles of Customer Service Assessment: 25 questions
- Principles of Marketing Assessment: 50 questions
- AutoCAD Assessment: 40 questions
As you can see, assessments focused on software skills like Word or AutoCAD tend to have more questions, while those focused on soft skills like customer service and marketing may have fewer. The programming assessment is on the shorter end with just 15 questions.
Question Types Vary Too
In addition to varying in length, the types of questions on LinkedIn assessments can vary:
- Multiple choice – choose one or more answers from a set of options
- True/False – assess whether a statement is accurate or not
- Matching – pair items from different columns like terms and definitions
- Ranking – put items in a specific priority order
- Short written response – type a few sentences or a paragraph
Some assessments may utilize just one or two question types, while others combine several different types to test a breadth of knowledge and skills.
Time Limits Set by Assessment
LinkedIn assessments are timed, with the amount of time provided based on the expected completion time for that test. Here are some typical time limits:
Assessment | Time Limit |
---|---|
Principles of Marketing | 90 minutes |
AutoCAD 2016 | 120 minutes |
General Programming Principles | 60 minutes |
The time limit aims to provide sufficient time for an average test taker to consider and answer all the questions. The timed element adds a layer of challenge and pressures test takers to demonstrate they have the knowledge readily accessible, not just that they could find it with unlimited time.
Scoring Methodology Varies
There is no universal scoring methodology for LinkedIn assessments. Each test creator can set up the scoring criteria and passing rate. Some common examples include:
- Percentage-based scoring – 75% correct answers required to pass
- Points-based scoring – 90 points out of 120 required to pass
- Deducting points for incorrect answers
- Not deducting points for incorrect answers
- Requiring a minimum score per section
Sometimes the exact scoring details are not shared publicly, as LinkedIn and the company providing the assessment want to protect the integrity of the test. The complexity of the scoring also varies based on the test format – multiple choice tests are generally easier to score than written responses.
Retake Policy Varies As Well
LinkedIn also gives test creators flexibility on their retake policy. Some assessments allow unlimited retakes, allowing you to learn from your mistakes and try again. Others only allow 1 or 2 retakes before requiring a waiting period before the next attempt. For example:
- Principles of Marketing – Unlimited retakes
- AutoCAD 2016 – Only 2 retakes permitted
- Adobe Photoshop – 1 retake allowed per week
Understanding the retake policy can help you strategize when to take an assessment. Tests with unlimited retakes offer more flexibility, while those with limited retakes encourage you to wait until you are fully prepared.
In Summary:
The number of questions, time limit, question types, scoring methodology, and retake policy can vary extensively across the many diverse LinkedIn skills assessments. The specifics depend on the test creator’s preferences and desired difficulty level. When considering taking an assessment, research the details to understand what to expect and how to best prepare.
Tips for Taking LinkedIn Assessments
Here are some tips for succeeding on LinkedIn skills assessments, given the variety of formats and policies:
- Check the details first – Confirm the number of questions, time limit, question types, and scoring details so you know what to expect.
- Brush up on skills and knowledge – Review training materials, manuals, and resources to ensure you have the required expertise before taking the test.
- Practice simulated tests – Take practice tests online to warm up and get used to timed conditions.
- Watch the clock – Keep an eye on remaining time as you take the test so you don’t fall short.
- Learn from retakes – If allowed, use retakes to understand your weak areas and improve.
With smart preparation tailored to the specific assessment, you can showcase your abilities confidently on LinkedIn.
Benefits of LinkedIn Assessments
While there is variety in the details, LinkedIn assessments share common benefits:
- Validate skills – Demonstrate proficiency in high demand software, tools, and business concepts.
- Stand out – Highlight knowledge to differentiate yourself from other candidates.
- Expand reach – Assessments are public by default, letting your network see them.
- Build credibility – Skills verified by standardized tests convey credibility.
With over 15 million people taking assessments each year on LinkedIn, they have become a popular way to showcase abilities to recruiters and hiring managers worldwide. While preparation is key, with the right approach, LinkedIn assessments can set you apart and take your career to the next level.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you fail a LinkedIn assessment?
Yes, it is possible to fail a LinkedIn assessment. The passing score is set by the creator of the assessment, not LinkedIn. Each test will have different criteria for a passing score. If you do not meet the minimum score threshold, you will fail that attempt and have to retake the assessment if permitted.
What happens if you fail a LinkedIn assessment?
If you fail a LinkedIn assessment, you do not earn a badge for that test. Any failed attempts will show up on your assessment history. Depending on the retake policy, you may be allowed to try again. For tests with unlimited retakes, you can keep taking it until you pass. For those with limited retakes, you will have to wait a specified time before your next attempt.
Can you have someone else take your LinkedIn assessment?
No, having someone else take a LinkedIn assessment in your name is forbidden. It violates LinkedIn’s terms of service and assessment policies. All assessments require the test taker to acknowledge they are the one completing it. Getting caught taking tests for others or having others take tests on your behalf can get you banned from the platform.
How long are LinkedIn assessment results valid for?
LinkedIn does not specify an expiration date for assessment results or badges. Once earned, the badge remains on your profile indefinitely. However, prospective employers may consider badges more relevant and valuable if they were earned recently, like within the last 1-2 years. Maintaining current badges showcases ongoing, up-to-date skills.
Do LinkedIn skills assessments prove you are an expert?
Passing a LinkedIn skills assessment proves a certain level of familiarity and capability, enough to meet the passing score criteria. However, independent experts may have deeper knowledge and abilities than what is assessed in a standardized test. Viewpassing assessments more as validating competency, not necessarily expertise. Supplement with real-world work samples, client reviews, and recommendations wherever possible.
Conclusion
LinkedIn assessments provide a scalable way to validate key skills and knowledge areas relevant to many industries and jobs. While the number and types of questions vary considerably based on the test, the common thread is a chance to prove proficiency and get recognized for your abilities. With thoughtful preparation and strategic use of retakes if offered, LinkedIn assessments can strengthen your professional profile and career opportunities.