Mechanical reasoning test: gears, levers, pulleys and how to prepare
A mechanical reasoning test checks whether you understand basic physical principles: gears, levers, pulleys, springs, forces, simple circuits and fluids. Questions show a diagram and ask which way something turns, how much force is needed or what happens next. The physics is secondary-school level, and about eight principles answer most questions. These tests are used for engineering, technical and apprenticeship roles. Aon (its 15-minute scales mtu test), SHL and Pearson (the Bennett test) all publish versions. For related skills, see spatial reasoning.
- Covers gears, levers, pulleys, springs, forces, circuits, fluids.
- Gears: direction alternates; speed × teeth stays constant.
- Levers: load × distance = effort × distance.
- A single movable pulley halves the effort (and doubles the rope pulled).
- Common for engineering, technical and apprenticeship roles.
Free sample question
Gears and levers question
Gear directions, gear speeds and lever balances.
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Quick summary
- Mechanical reasoning tests use basic physics, shown in diagrams.
- Gears alternate direction; smaller gears spin faster.
- Levers balance when load × distance equals effort × distance.
- Pulleys trade force for distance.
- Learn about eight principles, then practise on diagrams against a timer.
The eight principles behind most questions
- Gear direction: meshing gears turn opposite ways. With an odd number of gears in a chain, the first and last turn the same way.
- Gear speed: teeth × speed is the same for meshing gears. Half the teeth means twice the speed.
- Levers: moments balance. A longer effort arm means less force.
- Pulleys: each rope section supporting a movable pulley shares the load. Two supporting sections halve the effort.
- Springs: extension is proportional to force (until the limit). Springs in series stretch more; in parallel, less.
- Inclined planes: a longer, shallower slope needs less force over a greater distance.
- Circuits: in series, one break stops everything; in parallel, other branches still work.
- Fluids and pressure: pressure increases with depth; liquid finds its own level in connected tanks.
Speed: 20 × 60 = 40 × speed, so B turns at 30 rpm. Direction: meshing gears are opposite, so B turns anticlockwise.
Two sections share the load: 200 ÷ 2 = 100 N. But you pull twice as much rope as the load rises.
How to prepare
- Learn the eight principles above until you can explain each in one sentence.
- Work diagrams, not just formulas: most errors come from misreading connections.
- Time yourself: mechanical tests typically give under a minute per question.
Practise mechanical reasoning on forge
Aon-style mechanical reasoning tests with gears, pulleys, levers and forces, plus worked explanations.
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Source notes
The principles are standard secondary-school physics. Aon's Mechanical Reasoning test (scales mtu, 15 minutes) is listed on its assessment preparation page (checked 2 October 2026). Other publishers include SHL and Pearson (Bennett Mechanical Comprehension Test). All examples and game items are written or generated by forge. forge is independent and not affiliated with any test publisher.
Frequently asked questions
What is a mechanical reasoning test?
A test of how well you understand basic physical and mechanical principles: gears, pulleys, levers, springs, forces, simple circuits and fluids. Questions usually show a diagram and ask what happens, which way something turns, or how much force is needed.
Which jobs use mechanical reasoning tests?
Engineering apprenticeships and graduate schemes, technical and maintenance roles, manufacturing, the armed forces and emergency services. Well-known versions include the Bennett Mechanical Comprehension Test and mechanical tests from Aon and SHL.
Do I need a physics degree for a mechanical reasoning test?
No. The questions use secondary-school physics: moments, gear ratios, mechanical advantage, simple circuits. Knowing about ten principles covers most questions.
How do gears work in mechanical reasoning questions?
Meshing gears turn in opposite directions, so the direction alternates along a chain. The speed changes with the tooth ratio: a gear with half the teeth turns twice as fast.
How do I prepare for a mechanical reasoning test?
Learn the core principles (levers, gears, pulleys, springs, circuits, pressure), work through diagram questions until each principle is automatic, then practise against a timer.
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