The free method for the AD5 reasoning tests.

22 pages on how EPSO builds verbal, numerical and abstract questions, the traps they rely on, and a fixed method for each. Nine hard worked examples and a one-page cheat sheet. In English, Español, Italiano, Deutsch or Français.

Part 1 testing runs from November 2026. Invitations arrive about three weeks before each session.

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Other languages: English Español Italiano Deutsch Français

What the guide covers

Each test gets the same treatment: how the questions are built, the method, then three worked examples that are harder than the real test, with every wrong option explained.

Verbal reasoning

The only Part 1 test that ranks you

The closed-text rule, 18 traps with examples, the logic of “only if” and contrapositives, and a five-step method for 105 seconds per question.

Numerical reasoning

Pass mark only, combined with abstract

Percentages and chained changes, reading tables and charts, mental shortcuts, and a two-minute method. Examples include a missing cell to back-solve and a currency trap.

Abstract reasoning

Pass mark only, combined with numerical

Twelve pattern types, a fixed checking order that eliminates options rule by rule, and series with up to three rules running at once.

Also inside: what actually counts for the ranking, how to handle nerves, sleep and the remote set-up on test day, and a cheat sheet with everything on one page.

A look inside

Pages from the English edition. The other four languages have the same layout and page numbers.

One-page cheat sheet summarising scoring, methods and time limits for all three tests — The one-page cheat sheet

Page with verbal reasoning traps and a table of valid and invalid inferences — Verbal traps and the logic toolkit

Abstract reasoning example with grid figures and a full solution — An abstract example with its solution

Questions

Is this official?

No. It is an independent guide written by a candidate in this competition. It is not affiliated with or endorsed by EPSO. Competition facts are checked against the Notice of Competition EPSO/AD/427/26.

Does it contain practice tests?

It has nine worked examples, three per test, built to be harder than the real questions. It is a method, not a question bank.

Why do you ask for my email?

To send you the guide and, later, the Part 2 guide on EU knowledge, digital skills and the essay. No other use, no sharing. Every email has an unsubscribe link.

Why is it free?

Part 1 is free so candidates can judge the quality before Part 2, which is planned for 2027.

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