Microsoft Windows Test

A Microsoft Windows test enables recruiters to practically ascertain a candidate’s proficiency in using Microsoft Windows.

  • What is a Microsoft Windows test?

    The Microsoft Windows test is an assessment of how well a candidate can practically use the Microsoft Windows package. The test is designed to objectively measure whether applicants have the required proficiency in using both the basic and advanced features of the Microsoft Windows package.

    Microsoft Windows has many basic and advanced features. The basic features of the package that may be assessed in the test include using the core applications of the programme such as email, calendars, and photo applications.

    More advanced skills of the package include being familiar with and able to use applications such as Cortana, using virtual desktops, and setting up features such as auto log-on.

Jump to a section on this page:

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

About the Microsoft Windows Test

Microsoft Windows is one of the most well-known computer operating systems for PCs and tablets. The operating system can be found in most business and personal home computers and allows users to use a computer to complete everyday tasks such as sending an email, editing a document in Word or Excel, or browsing the internet.

The majority of candidates will have used Microsoft Windows at some point in their academic or working career, but their level of proficiency in the use of all of its features can vary. As a recruiter, given how integral Microsoft Windows is in day-to-day business life, it is important to determine a candidate’s proficiency level to ensure you shortlist only the best candidates.

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  • Why should you use a Microsoft Windows test for recruiting?

    When faced with a large pool of applicants, it can be challenging to determine the level of ability a candidate has in using Microsoft Windows. Candidates may state that they are proficient in using Microsoft Windows and its features, but how experienced are they in practice?

    The Picked Microsoft Windows test enables recruiters to distinguish candidates according to their level of proficiency in using Microsoft Windows. Dependent on the role, candidates can be compared according to whether they demonstrate basic ability or if they can perform simple tasks using Microsoft Windows.

    When used in the early stages of the recruitment process, the Microsoft Windows test is a cost-effective way of shortlisting candidates based on their abilities. The test allows you to objectively and fairly assess skill level in an easy-to-administer way.

    The results can help you shortlist candidates who meet the required skill level in using Microsoft Office or performing designated tasks. The candidates that don’t meet the required skill level can be eliminated from the process, meaning you can focus your efforts on the candidates that demonstrate the required proficiency.

    Job roles where basic or advanced proficiency in Microsoft Windows would be required are:

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Picked Sample Report

View a sample report

Results for the Microsoft Windows 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 Microsoft Windows skills

In Picked's Microsoft Windows test, candidates will need to answer a range of questions targeting an intermediate level of proficiency, from demonstrating knowledge across various Microsoft Windows features and functions to troubleshooting questions. The test is designed to indicate how well a candidate understands Microsoft Windows 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 experienced Microsoft Windows users and psychometric experts, and field-tested with a representative sample of job applicants who have varying levels of Microsoft Windows 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 candidate has a fair chance of demonstrating their true level of Microsoft Windows proficiency.

Our software 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 Microsoft Windows tests are written by accredited psychologists and fully validated.

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    For all levels

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

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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
“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

Microsoft Windows Test FAQs

What is considered proficiency in Microsoft Windows?

Proficiency in Microsoft Windows usually means using the basic features of the Microsoft system and understanding how the operating system works in practice. This could mean using apps that are part of Microsoft Windows and effectively using tools such as widgets or navigation.

Is the Microsoft Windows test hard?

The Microsoft Windows test is designed to be challenging yet fair. The test helps recruiters determine whether candidates demonstrate the required skill level using Microsoft Windows. Candidates who perform well on the test can practically use all the apps and tools that form part of the Microsoft Windows system.

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 cost for Picked's Microsoft Windows test?

We believe in simple, transparent pricing. We operate monthly and annual subscriptions so you can pick the perfect plan for you. Don't worry if you're not sure: you can always upgrade or downgrade later, or speak to us to discuss the option of a custom made plan to fit your needs. This is all you ever pay – no set-up or hidden fees.

“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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