Mastering the Civil Service Exams

If you wish to serve the public interest and job security is among your top priorities, you’re well-suited for a civil service job. These jobs cover a variety of fields and positions—from the opportunity to become a foreign service officer to working in law enforcement— that offer incredible benefits, solid pay, and long-term career stability.

Securing a government job, however, isn’t quite as simple as securing a job in the private sector. You’ll have to go through a number of hurdles, the first of which is taking a civil service exam.

This isn’t a one-exam-fits-all-positions situation; civil service exams differ based on the position you’re applying for, although the exam procedures are pretty similar.

What Does The Civil Service Exam Cover?

Apart from varying according to the job in question, the civil service exams cover basic skills that are expected from an individual working in the public sector.

The exam tests the candidates in the following areas:

• Read and writing proficiency
• Problem-solving skills
• Decision-making skills
• Emotional intelligence
• Work ethic
• Clerical abilities such as alphabetizing and organizing
• The ability to follow directions
• Proficiency with software like Microsoft Word and Excel (especially for a clerical position)

Unless you’re applying for a math-heavy job, the math section of the assessment shouldn’t be advanced—no more than general algebra taught in undergraduate programs.

The exam also comprises of carefully worded scenarios to determine the applicants’ response for each question.

Moreover, many civil service positions require applicants to hold certain certifications and degrees, so make sure you go through the eligibility requirements carefully.

How to Prepare For the Exam

It pays to study up if you wish to pass the civil service exam, especially if you’re rusty in certain subject areas. As with any test, it’s not just about mastering the study material, but knowing essential test-taking strategies.

Practice Tests

Practice tests give you an insight on the type of questions that’ll be included in the exam along with the length of the exam. This will help you create a strategic preparation schedule and focus on every section of the exam, individually.

What’s more, study techniques like flash card, note-taking and practice tests help you retain information and give you an opportunity to practice recalling facts and figures.

Time Management Is Crucial

Remember, you’re also being tested on your time management skills, so make sure to strategically manage your time when giving the exam. Again, practice tests can help you a great deal in this regard.

Go through the study guides and in-depth course material offered by Civil Service Success. Our expert instructors offer extensive preparation classes for all NYC civil service exams.

Register today to become a New York State civil service worker!