Python Test

Python tests are designed to assess a candidate's aptitude in the programming skills necessary to use the Python coding language.

  • What is a Python test?

    A Python test assesses a candidate's practical ability to use Python, to ensure they have the appropriate level of experience in implementing the language.

    A Python test is likely to involve knowing how to use objects, implementing data structures, debugging and working with arrays.

    The questions may be short and straightforward, or more complex, which enables the test to distinguish between different levels of competency. It usually has a 10-minute time limit.

    Python tests are increasingly popular additions to pre-employment testing, as Python can be used effectively for a wide variety of operational functions, from web development to data analysis.

Jump to a section on this page:

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

About the Python Test

Python is an open-source, general-purpose programming language, ideal for integrating systems more effectively. Python is fast, powerful and allows developers to execute programs with fewer lines of code. A clear benefit is its readability, as the syntax is logical and easy to interpret.

It has an extensive resource library, which includes web frameworks (Such as Flask, Django, and Tornado), data analysis tools (such as Pandas, NumPy, and Matplotlib), and testing instruments (such as Robot, PyTest, and Unittest).

Assessing Python proficiency within the recruitment process helps to ensure candidates with a solid grasp of Python proceed to the next stage.

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  • Why should you use a Python test for recruiting?

    When recruiting for a role that involves executing Python scripts, you'll want to have confidence that your potential hires have the necessary ability to excel in the role, delivering fast, high-quality results.

    Although a candidate may list Python as a key skill on their resume, the only way to evidence this talent is through a programming skills test. A test enables you to assess candidate strength across different programming areas.

    As a high-level, general-purpose language, Python is used widely – from within web development to machine learning. It has also been found to increase productivity and lower maintenance costs.

    Foundational knowledge is invaluable for junior programmers, while mid-level and experienced developers should be able to display a high level of competency (particularly in using arrays to deal with many variables).

    Integrating a Python test into the hiring process helps to verify ability level, ensuring that your shortlisted candidates all possess the required skills for the role.

    Job roles for which a Python test may be a useful prerequisite include:

    A Python test can be administered in combination with other coding tests, such as those that assess knowledge of frameworks (i.e. Django or Flask), or the ability to use other key languages (i.e. SQL or HTML). This helps to give a more complete picture of a candidate's technical skills, so accurate, objective hiring decisions can be made.

More Programming Tests

Sample Python Test question

value = [1, 2, 3, 4] data = 0 
try:     
data = value[4] 
except IndexError:     
print('PGL', end = '') 
except:     
print('PickedGroupLtd ', end = '')

What is the output of the following program?

  • PickedGroupLtd

  • PGL

  • PGL PickedGroupLtd

  • Compilation error

Picked Sample Report

View a sample report

Results for the Python 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 Python skills

In Picked's Python test, candidates will need to answer a range of questions targeting an intermediate level of proficiency in the programming language. This includes building tools in Python, testing and debugging Python code, as well as more challenging questions around maintaining scalable Python code.

The test is designed to indicate how well a candidate understands Python 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 reviewed by programmers and psychometric experts, and field-tested with a representative sample of job applicants who have varying Python 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 Python proficiency and feels the test is 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 Python tests are written by accredited psychologists and fully validated.

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    For all levels

    We offer Python 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.

Hire

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
Python Test expert

Written by a Python Test expert

Arth Tyagi is the co-founder and CEO of ConnectDome, a startup that solves networking for developers. He is also the founder and open-source maintainer of a free coding platform called DomeCode. He is currently pursuing a CS Major with a Business Minor from the University of Alberta.

“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

Python Test FAQs

What is Python used for?

Python has three main uses:

Web development. Python web frameworks such as Django and Flask enable the simple creation of back-end code.

Data science. For data analysis and numeric computing, data visualisation, and machine learning (through frameworks like scikit-learn and TensorFlow).

Scripting. To write programs to automate simple tasks.

How popular is Python?

As Python is easy to pick up, it is popular with both entry-level developers and programmers experienced in other languages. Large tech companies, like Google, Lyft, Reddit, Instagram, Spotify and Netflix all use Python extensively.

What is the cost for Picked's Python test?

Picked operates on a monthly or annual subscription basis. We have several plans to suit your hiring needs, which you can check out here. Alternatively, you can get in touch with us to discuss a custom plan.

Can I get a free trial?

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

“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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