Structure of the digital TestAS

Figural Sequences

In these tasks, you will see a series of images (matrices). The figures in the matrices can change their position, colour and/or alignment from one matrix to the next in a rule-governed manner. You should continue the series according to the logical pattern.

Mathematical Equations

In this type of task, you are asked to solve systems of equations meeting all constraints. A system of equations always consists of several equations. You are to find out which numbers must be used for the unknowns (letters) in the equations to make the equations fit. There is only one solution for each letter, in which all the constraints are met. Each letter can take a value between 1 and 20.

Latin Squares

In this type of task, you see squares (grids) with 5 rows and 5 columns. Some of the squares in the grid contain letters. The following rules apply to a grid:

• Each letter may only appear once in each row and each column.
• Only the letters A, B, C, D and E may appear in the grid.

Your task is to decide which letter belongs in the place of the question mark. Sometimes you have to fill other cells in your head first.

Subject Modules

A task in the Subject Module (a so-called testlet) uses texts, graphics and tables to describe a topic from a specific subject area. By answering the questions asked about this topic, you demonstrate that you have understood the concept and can apply it to problems.

To be able to work on the tasks in the specialised modules, you should be able to familiarise yourself with the way of thinking and working in the respective subject areas.

In medicine, for example, this includes keeping an overview in texts with many technical terms (however, knowledge of the technical terms is not required to answer questions). In the humanities, cultural studies and social sciences, texts can appear in very different styles and from very different schools of thought. In mathematics, natural science and economics tasks, the ability to interpret diagrams is essential. 
In chemistry, dealing with the different forms of chemical compounds is one of the required skills. In computer science tasks, pseudocode can be used. In engineering, more complex technical illustrations and circuit diagrams sometimes have to be understood and physical relationships have to be understood.

For all Subject Modules, comprehension/reproduction of typical forms of presentation (text, table, figure, formula), application and transfer play a vital role. The following tables provide an overview of the topics and contents in the six elective Subject Modules.