Beyond the primary reasoning abilities of Verbal, Numerical, and Abstract Reasoning, many jobs (particularly those associated with manufacturing and production) also require a more specific ability: Mechanical Comprehension – an understanding of basic mechanical and physical principles. Mechanical Comprehension is a prerequisite for many roles that involve operating equipment or machinery and solving problems related to their operation and maintenance. The assessment of mechanical comprehension and aptitude began in the 1930’s. While the underlying principles have not changed, many of the mechanical comprehension tests now in use were originally developed in the 1940’s and 1950’s and appear quite dated to today’s test-takers and users. To address the need for a modern test that effectively measures applicants’ understanding of mechanical concepts, AAI developed the Mechanical Reasoning Test.
