Employers worldwide use Predictive Index (PI) assessments to evaluate job candidates and employees. The two most common are the PI Behavioral Assessment and the PI Cognitive Assessment. Each measures different qualities: one focuses on personality and workplace behavior, while the other measures cognitive ability and problem-solving speed.
This guide explains both assessments, shows what to expect, and offers preparation tips to help you perform your best.
What is the PI Behavioral Assessment?
The PI Behavioral Assessment is a personality-based test designed to measure workplace behavior. It helps employers understand how candidates are likely to act, communicate, and perform in specific roles.
Format:
- The test is untimed, but usually takes 6–10 minutes.
- Candidates are presented with two lists of adjectives.
- First list: adjectives describing how you think others expect you to behave.
- Second list: adjectives describing how you see yourself.
What It Measures:
The assessment measures four primary workplace behavioral drives:
- Dominance – The drive to influence people or events.
- Extraversion – The drive for social interaction.
- Patience – The drive for stability and consistency.
- Formality – The drive to conform to rules and structure.
Sample Question (PI Behavioral):
Select the words that best describe you:
- Assertive
- Collaborative
- Precise
- Reserved
- Flexible
Answer: There are no right or wrong answers—the goal is to reflect your natural personality.
What is the PI Cognitive Assessment?
The PI Cognitive Assessment (previously known as the PLI Test – Professional Learning Indicator) measures a candidate’s general cognitive ability—how quickly and effectively you learn, reason, and adapt to new information.
Format:
- 12 minutes to answer 50 multiple-choice questions.
- Questions cover numerical reasoning, verbal reasoning, and abstract reasoning.
What It Measures:
- Problem-solving ability
- Critical thinking
- Learning speed
- Adaptability in new situations
Sample Questions (PI Cognitive):
Numerical Reasoning:
If a car travels 120 miles in 2 hours, what is the average speed?
A. 50 mph
B. 55 mph
C. 60 mph
D. 65 mph
Answer: C (60 mph).
Verbal Reasoning:
Which word is the opposite of “expand”?
A. Enlarge
B. Contract
C. Stretch
D. Extend
Answer: B (Contract).
Abstract Reasoning:
Which shape completes the sequence? [Imagine a series of shapes increasing sides: triangle → square → pentagon → ?]
Answer: Hexagon.
Key Differences Between the Two Tests
| Feature | PI Behavioral Assessment | PI Cognitive Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Measures personality & workplace behavior | Measures problem-solving and learning ability |
| Format | Two lists of adjectives, self-report style | 50 multiple-choice questions in 12 minutes |
| Time Limit | Untimed (6–10 minutes on average) | Strict 12-minute time limit |
| Scoring | Compares your traits to job profile | Correct answers scored, no penalty for wrong answers |
| Preparation Needed | Self-awareness and honesty | Practice timed reasoning tests |
How to Prepare
PI Behavioral Assessment:
- Be honest and consistent in your answers.
- Align responses with the job description, but avoid faking—employers look for authenticity.
- Review the company’s values to understand the kind of traits they seek.
PI Cognitive Assessment:
- Practice numerical, verbal, and abstract reasoning under timed conditions.
- Focus on accuracy but balance speed—remember you only have 12 minutes.
- Skip hard questions and return if time permits.
With practice and preparation, you can improve your performance and confidently demonstrate that you’re the right fit for the role.
FAQ: PI Behavioral & PI Cognitive Assessments
Q: Are the PI Behavioral and Cognitive Assessments taken together?
A: Not always. Some employers use both, while others only require one depending on the role.
Q: Can I fail the PI Behavioral Assessment?
A: No—it’s not a pass/fail test. It simply shows your personality traits and fit for the job.
Q: How difficult is the PI Cognitive Assessment?
A: It’s challenging because of the strict time limit, not the question difficulty. Most candidates cannot answer all 50 questions.
Q: Can I prepare for the PI Behavioral test?
A: Yes, by reflecting on your strengths and reviewing the role requirements, but you should always answer honestly.
Q: What is a good score on the PI Cognitive Assessment?
A: Scores are compared to job benchmarks. Generally, answering 20–25+ questions correctly out of 50 is considered a strong score.
