The 8 calculations of the EPSO numerical test
Every EPSO numerical question comes down to a handful of calculations. For each one: how to recognise it, the method, a worked example and the traps that cost candidates the most points.
Percentage change
(new − old) ÷ old × 100
68% correct · 90 s median
See the method 02Compound growth
final = start × (1 + rate)ⁿ
69% correct · 86 s median
See the method 03Weighted averages
(v₁ × w₁ + v₂ × w₂ + …) ÷ (w₁ + w₂ + …)
71% correct · 98 s median
See the method 04Reverse percentages
original = known value ÷ factor
64% correct · 102 s median
See the method 05Ratios and proportions
A : B = A ÷ B
64% correct · 93 s median
See the method 06Per capita rates
rate per 1,000 = quantity ÷ population × 1,000
71% correct · 89 s median
See the method 07Currency and tax
euros = amount ÷ (units per euro) · net = gross ÷ (1 + VAT)
72% correct · 85 s median
See the method 08Multi-step calculations
target = part ÷ whole, each built from the right cells
71% correct · 100 s median
See the methodHow to use these pages
- Start with the calculation where you lose the most points: the results of each numerical test show your score for every calculation type.
- Read the method, try the example, then go through the traps.
- Finish with a targeted drill on the same calculation.
Built on real answers
The success rates and times on these pages come from 57,552 answers to numerical questions on EPSO Genius over the last 60 days (snapshot of 22 October 2026).
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