FAQ On Police Promotional Exams

By Stacey Burt


Promotional examinations give thousands of police officers an opportunity to advance their career. The challenge is especially in preparing for the written and oral tests. Popular questions on how to pass the police promotional exams are discussed below by officers who have successfully completed theirs.

How do you prepare for the upcoming test for a sergeant, lieutenant, captain and above? The answer is not straight forward since unique promotion procedures are applied in different departments across the country. However, most departments use multiple choice tests. These tests are created from a reading list that is published for the purpose of the first test. An essay component is included in some cases.

The minimum passing score depends on factors such as past practice, contractual language and personnel rules in a town or city, among others. It is mandatory to pass the written examination before you advance to the oral test. Sixty percent of the final score is from the written exam while forty percent is from the oral exam.

The secret to passing the exam is thorough reading of materials indicated in the list. Books and other study materials for each rank are specified in the reading list. Some ranks will examine your grasp of departmental rules and regulations alongside policies and procedures. Candidates who passed cited extensive reading as their secret to good grades.

What sections should you read when preparing for the oral exam? The idea behind the oral test is to evaluate your verbal and non-verbal skills. The best approach in this case is to make numerous presentations during practice and engage the assistance of a coach. The coach could be a former officer who passed his tests well. Friends, colleagues and relatives can help you when preparing for presentations. They will listen to you and comment on areas where improvements are needed. You also can record your presentation and review it.

When preparing for your examinations, focus on the topics and content you will be tested on. Provide as much details as possible in your answers. There will be questions on case scenarios for you to solve. Think widely and creatively but do not go beyond the legal framework provided in law enforcement.

How do you tackle the in-basket case and get a good score? The in-basket case provides systematic, job related and real life situations where your response is tested. The test is carried out as managers, administrators and supervisors watch. They will be judging the appropriateness of your action and reaction.

Some of the issues managers, supervisors and administrators deal with on daily basis are oral and written reports, investigative reports, memorandums as well as telephone calls and written documents. This test will be taken at the same time with other officers. You will be required to assume a role and execute it in the best and most procedural way.

Adequate preparation gives you an upper hand when sitting for your test. The best way to prepare for the exam is to understand the role of the position you wish to be promoted into. With the materials provided in your reading list, you are better placed to successfully handle any question.




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