Thinking Skills Mock Test 14: 2026 NSW Selective Format

Master the new Janison-style Thinking Skills exam with our comprehensive 40-question mock test. Designed specifically for students targeting top-tier NSW Selective High Schools.

Duration

40 Minutes

Format

2026 NSW Format

Questions

40 multiple-choice

Level

Official Selective Test Level

Skills Covered in this Test

This mock test mirrors the official weightings of the NSW Department of Education exam.

The breakdown

  • Detecting Reasoning Errors: Identifying flaws, assumptions, and gaps in arguments.
  • Relevant Selections: Choosing the option that best supports or completes an argument.
  • Identifying Similarity: Pattern and structure comparison across cases.
  • Syllogisms: Applying categorical logic and valid inference forms.
  • Logical Deduction: Drawing necessary conclusions from given rules and conditions.
  • Evaluating Hypotheses: Assessing whether evidence supports or undermines a hypothesis.

Sample Questions from Test 14

The first two questions of this mock test (same order and wording as the timed exam).

Thinking Skills

Owen, Paz and Quinn each have 22 beads. They take turns: even means give that many to each of the other two; …

Question 1 · Multiple choice

Question

Owen, Paz and Quinn each have 22 beads. They take turns: even means give that many to each of the other two; odd means receive that many from each. Owen spins 4. Paz spins 1. If they end with 15, 30 and 21, what did Quinn spin?

Options

  • A. 1
  • B. 2
  • C. 3
  • D. 4

Correct answer

B. 2

Explanation

After Owen 4 (even, gives 4): Owen 14, Paz 26, Quinn 26. After Paz 1 (odd, receives 1): Owen 13, Paz 28, Quinn 25. We need (15, 30, 21). Quinn must go from 25 to 21 (lose 4). Losing 4 means he gave 2 to each, so he spun a 2.

Thinking Skills

A councillor argued that planting trees on the street would reduce noise because they absorb sound. Which one…

Question 2 · Multiple choice

Question

A councillor argued that planting trees on the street would reduce noise because they absorb sound. Which one of these, if true, most strengthens the argument?

Options

  • A. Trees need maintenance.
  • B. Streets with tree planting elsewhere saw noise levels drop.
  • C. Some residents prefer open views.
  • D. Trees take time to grow.

Correct answer

B. Streets with tree planting elsewhere saw noise levels drop.

Explanation

Evidence that the measure worked elsewhere strengthens the argument.

Core Competencies

Additional EvidenceData SufficiencyDetecting Reasoning ErrorsDrawing a ConclusionEvaluating HypothesesFinding ProceduresIdentifying SimilarityLogical DeductionMatching ArgumentsRelevant SelectionsSeating ArrangementsSpatial ReasoningSyllogismsTruth/Liar Puzzles

Prepare with Precision

  • Boost speed and accuracy in high-pressure tests.
  • Get comfortable with the Janison-style interface.
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This public page is designed so students and parents get rich, accurate information about the test structure and skills assessed. The full timed mock—including the rest of the 40 questions, scoring, and detailed review—is available to enrolled members after sign-in, matching how premium preparation platforms balance discoverability with protected content.