Linux Test

Linux tests are designed to assess a candidate's knowledge and proficiency with the Linux operating system.

  • What is a Linux test?

    A Linux test is designed to evaluate a candidate's level of knowledge and skill at using Linux, one of the most popular operating systems.

    Consisting of a series of multiple-choice questions, the Linux skills test measures candidates against several key areas, such as their understanding of core Linux commands, coding and debugging, and bash scripting.

    The test is best used in the early stages of the recruitment process, to help screen out candidates who are unsuitable for the position. A candidate who performs well on the Linux test has demonstrated they may have the level of skills and proficiency required to match your job requirements.

Jump to a section on this page:

  1. What is a Linux test?
  2. Why should you use a Linux test for recruiting?
  3. How our test assesses Linux skills
  4. Linux Test FAQs

About the Linux Test

Linux is one of the most widely used open-source operating systems, with the majority of the webpages on the internet being powered by servers running Linux. Configuring Linux and maintaining the system can be challenging, and requires a specific set of skills and knowledge.

The Linux test identifies candidates who possess the necessary knowledge and skill set for positions that require Linux expertise, such as a Linux developer or Linux administrator. This ensures that you only shortlist the most capable candidates for your position.

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  • Why should you use a Linux test for recruiting?

    When hiring for a role that requires Linux expertise, determining a candidate's level of knowledge and proficiency in Linux can be challenging. This can make distinguishing between candidates hard, particularly if you receive a high volume of applicants with a similar level of experience and qualifications.

    Picked's Linux test helps solve this problem by validating a candidate's level of knowledge and competency using Linux. The test is simple to administer to a large number of candidates during the pre-screening stages of the recruitment process, providing you with a set of easy-to-read results that allow you to compare candidates based on their strengths and weaknesses.

    This allows hiring decisions to be made based on test performance data, increasing the efficiency and speed of the recruitment process, as well as the likelihood that you select the right candidates.

    The Linux test could be useful for the following jobs:

    • Linux System Administrator
    • Linux Developer
    • Linux Engineer
    • Platform Engineer

More Programming Tests

Sample Linux Test question

mv file1.txt file2.txt

What will happen if the following command is run:

  • The file `file1.txt` will be moved to a directory named `file2.txt`.

  • The file `file1.txt` will be renamed to `file2.txt`.

  • A new file named `file2.txt` will be created, but `file1.txt` will remain unchanged.

  • The contents of `file1.txt` will be copied to `file2.txt`, and the original file will be deleted.

Picked Sample Report

View a sample report

Results for the Linux Test along with other assessments the candidate takes will be compiled to produce a candidate report. The report is automatically generated and available both online and as a downloadable pdf so they can be shared with other team members and employees alike.

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How our test assesses Linux skills

In Picked's Linux test, candidates will need to answer a range of questions targeting an intermediate level of proficiency, from knowledge of fundamental Linux concepts to troubleshooting and debugging.

The test is designed to indicate how well a candidate understands Linux based on a final test score, which can then be compared to the scores of other applicants.

The multiple-choice questions consist of one correct answer and two to four distractors. The distractors are mostly generic mistakes or misconceptions, which makes the test challenging and helps measure a candidate's proficiency more accurately.

During the development process, the test was rigorously analysed to maximise reliability and validity in line with industry best practices. It was created and tested by programmers and psychometric experts, and field-tested with a representative sample of job applicants who have a range of Linux experience, just like you might find in a talent pool.

Each test is reviewed by a panel of individuals representing diverse backgrounds to check for any sensitivity, fairness, face validity and accessibility issues. This ensures each programmer has a fair chance of demonstrating their true level of Linux proficiency and feels the test is of high quality.

Our programming tests are monitored to ensure they are up-to-date and optimised for performance.

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Validated

Predictor of job success

Picked provides evidence-based recommendations for tests to use for over 750 jobs. Our recommendation engine leverages data from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) developed by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

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    Fully accredited

    All our Linux tests are written by accredited psychologists and fully validated.

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    For all levels

    We offer Linux tests for all levels so you can assess all roles within your organisation.

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Energize selection process

Streamline hiring with our out-of-the-box tools.

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    Smart automations

    Automated actions such as alerts and reminders ensure a smooth candidate experience.

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    Instant results

    Receive candidate results in real-time so you can make decisions in hours, not days.

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Make better hires

Improve hiring with bias-free, data-driven decisions.

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    Analytics dashboard

    Our full array of candidate performance metrics will provide actionable data on each of your candidates.

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    Candidate comparison

    Simple, easy-to-use candidate comparison reports mean you don’t need to be a psychologist to interpret them.

“We used Picked as part of our Finance Graduate Scheme recruitment and it was just what we needed – really simple to send candidates the link to complete and clear to see how they all compared. And great value for money!”
Christina, HR Director, Cancer Research, UK
Christina, HR Director, Cancer Research, UK
Linux Test expert

Written by a Linux Test expert

Our team of assessment experts is made up of I/O psychologists, psychometricians, and subject matter experts who work closely together to ensure each test is accurate and reliable. Our subject matter experts are rigorously vetted and typically have several years of experience working in their industries and hold advanced credentials.

“Personality profiling allowed us to perform lookalike modelling of our most successful employees and use this as a blueprint for new hires.”
Nick, HR Operations, Airbus, Spain
Nick, HR Operations, Airbus, Spain

Linux Test FAQs

Is the Linux test hard?

Picked's Linux test is designed to challenge candidates to the full by asking them to apply essential skills and knowledge under time pressure. That said, if a candidate is experienced and competent using Linux, they should find the test well within their capabilities.

What other skills are needed for a Linux professional?

As well as specific skills with the Linux operating system, other skills are also essential for a Linux professional, such as:

  • Communication skills
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Critical thinking
  • Attention to detail

Combine several of our tests to ensure you assess all the must-have skills you require.

Can I try the test for free?

Yes, simply sign up (no credit card is required) and we'll give you unlimited access for 7 days. Create as many jobs and test as many candidates as you want; you won't be charged a penny.

What is the fee for Picked's Linux test?

Picked offers monthly or annual subscriptions for businesses of all sizes, so choose the one that best fits your needs. You can also contact us to discuss the possibility of a custom plan suited to your specific requirements. You can check out our subscription plans here.

“Focusing on data reduced the subjective decision making from our hiring process and allowed us to reduce bias and make better hiring decisions.”
Izzie, Head of HR, iZettle, Sweden
Izzie, Head of HR, iZettle, Sweden

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