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Interpreting our Cognitive Assessment results

Updated over 3 months ago

The Marty Abstract Reasoning test is designed to provide clear, data-driven insights into an individual’s cognitive strengths—especially in areas like pattern recognition, abstract reasoning, and problem-solving. This article explains how to interpret the results displayed in your report.

What Does "Abstract Reasoning" Measure?

Abstract reasoning is a key indicator of fluid intelligence—the ability to solve new problems without relying on prior knowledge. It reflects how well someone can:

  • Detect visual and logical patterns

  • Work with novel information

  • Solve problems independently of learned material

This skill is strongly associated with roles involving:

  • Analytical thinking

  • Systems analysis

  • Innovation and strategic planning

Interpreting the result

1. Score Percentage

This shows the percentage of correctly answered items in the test. For example, a score of 78% indicates the candidate correctly answered 78% of the items in that section.

  • Higher scores indicate stronger performance in identifying patterns, applying logical rules, and solving novel problems.

  • Lower scores may suggest difficulty in sustaining accuracy or identifying more complex logical relationships.

2. Interpretation Summary

This section offers a concise explanation of what the score means and how it reflects an individual's cognitive capabilities.

"The candidate is highly successful in recognizing patterns and solving problems. They correctly answer most tasks, with potential difficulties in the hardest ones."

The interpretation narrative aims to bridge the gap between a numerical score and real-world cognitive skills.

Depending on the performance, the candidate’s results may highlight:

  • Logical Reasoning: The ability to deduce rules, understand sequences, and apply logic to unfamiliar situations.

  • Pattern Recognition: Effectiveness in identifying visual or structural regularities across abstract shapes or arrangements.

  • Mental Flexibility: Capacity to shift thinking, adapt strategies, and handle complex or novel information.

  • Working Memory & Focus: The cognitive load involved in holding multiple elements in mind while solving problems.

  • Accuracy Under Time Pressure: The ability to maintain precision even when decisions need to be made quickly.

3. Disclaimer on Benchmarking

At this stage, all performance bands are provisional, meaning they are based on early-stage classification methods derived from initial testing data. These classifications do not yet rely on a validated, large-scale normative sample.

The current scoring model groups participants by percentage accuracy and assigns performance bands accordingly. However, without an established statistical benchmark or norming process, these bands reflect relative performance within the specific testing cohort.

This means:

  • Scores should not be interpreted as definitive indicators of ability in the general population.

  • Comparisons across different testing sessions, job roles, or time periods may be misleading.

  • The current classification is useful primarily for within-cohort (group) comparisons.

As more data is collected across diverse populations, Marty will perform comprehensive statistical analyses to:

  • Define validated performance thresholds

  • Ensure fair and accurate score interpretations across demographics

Align results with industry standards for psychometric reliability and validity

From Insight to Action

Cognitive assessments like the Marty Abstract Reasoning test offer valuable insight into how individuals process complex information. While current results are informative within the test group, their true power will emerge as benchmarking evolves. For now, use the data to reflect on strengths, inform decisions, and guide development—always in context.

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