Numerical Reasoning

Three sections, getting harder

The DAA's numerical reasoning section, run as three sections back to back that step up in difficulty. Section 1 is quick mental arithmetic; Section 2 moves to fractions and simple equations; Section 3 is data interpretation — reading charts and tables and calculating from them. No calculator throughout — it rewards accuracy at speed.

Duration

~15 min

Length

3 sections

Difficulty

Hard

New to the DAA? Read the complete guide

Every section explained, how it's scored, and a study plan — all on one page.

What to expect

Section 1 (easy) — times tables and decimal sums, answered fast.
Section 2 (medium) — fractions and 'solve for x' equations.
Section 3 (hard) — charts, tables and records to read and compute from.

What it measures

Mental arithmetic without a calculator
Fractions, decimals and simple algebra under time pressure
Reading and interpreting tables, graphs and charts
Choosing the right figures before you calculate

Instructions

1No calculator — work it on paper or in your head.
2The three sections run straight through; pace yourself so the harder end doesn't rush you.
3In the data section, read the axis labels and units before you touch the numbers.

Tips

Convert awkward fractions to decimals (or vice-versa) — whichever is faster for the question.
Estimate first to rule out obviously wrong options, then compute the exact answer.
In data questions, note the units — a misread 'thousands' vs 'millions' costs the mark.

Format: Numerical reasoning · 3 sections (easy → medium → hard) · no calculator · timed