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Exam Information
Official specifications published by Academic Testing
Exam Format
165 min
107 total (34 Applied Math, 38 Graphic Literacy, 35 Workplace Documents)
Level 3 minimum on all three core assessments
Foundational Skills
Registration
Varies by testing center and location
ACT WorkKeys Authorized Testing Sites, Community Colleges, Workforce Development Centers, Career Centers
English, Spanish
Validity
No expiration
NCRC certificate does not expire; Individuals may retake assessments to improve certificate level; Higher scores replace lower scores on record
WORKKEYS Exam Topics and Domains
WORKKEYS is organized into 3 weighted domains.
1
Applied Math
33.33%
Level 3 - Basic Mathematical Operations
Basic ArithmeticFractions and DecimalsTime and Money Calculations
- Perform basic arithmetic operations in workplace scenarios
- Convert between fractions and decimals accurately
- Calculate time, money, and prices in job-related situations
Level 4 - Intermediate Problem Solving
Multi-Step OperationsAverages and MeansInformation FilteringChart Interpretation
- Solve multi-step mathematical problems in workplace contexts
- Calculate and interpret averages from workplace data
- Filter relevant information from complex scenarios for calculations
- Extract and use data from simple charts and tables
Level 5 - Advanced Calculations
Unit ConversionsMixed Unit OperationsPercentage Calculations
- Convert between different units of measurement accurately
- Perform calculations involving mixed units
- Calculate percentages, discounts, and markups in workplace contexts
Level 6 - Complex Mathematical Applications
Geometry CalculationsOptimization and ComparisonError Detection and CorrectionComplex Conversions
- Apply geometric formulas to solve workplace problems
- Identify optimal choices through mathematical comparison
- Detect and correct calculation errors
- Perform complex unit conversions accurately
Level 7 - Expert Mathematical Analysis
Ratios, Rates, and ProportionsVolume CalculationsStatistical ConceptsEconomic AnalysisAdvanced Formula Application
- Apply ratios, rates, and proportions to complex workplace scenarios
- Calculate volumes of various three-dimensional shapes
- Use statistical concepts for data analysis and decision making
- Perform economic analysis and value comparisons
- Manipulate and apply complex formulas to solve problems
2
Graphic Literacy
33.33%
Level 3 - Basic Graphic Interpretation
Simple Graph ReadingBasic Chart TypesData Identification
- Locate and identify information in simple workplace graphics
- Read basic charts, graphs, and tables accurately
- Understand fundamental graphic components and organization
Level 4 - Intermediate Graphic Analysis
Multi-Level DataGraph SelectionData-Based Inference
- Work with graphics containing multiple levels of data
- Select appropriate graphic types for different data scenarios
- Make inferences and identify trends from workplace graphics
Level 5 - Advanced Graphic Comprehension
Multi-Axis GraphicsDense Data InterpretationTrend ComparisonGraph Effectiveness Analysis
- Interpret complex multi-axis graphics accurately
- Extract information from dense data presentations
- Compare and analyze multiple trends in workplace graphics
- Evaluate the effectiveness of different graphic presentations
Level 6 - Complex Graphic Applications
Uncommon GraphicsNested Data AnalysisMultiple Variable Interpretation
- Interpret uncommon and specialized workplace graphics
- Analyze nested and hierarchical data presentations
- Work with graphics containing multiple interacting variables
Level 7 - Expert Graphic Synthesis
Dense Data Presentation MasteryMultiple Graphic CombinationPattern Relationship AnalysisDecision Justification
- Master interpretation of extremely dense and complex graphics
- Synthesize information across multiple related graphics
- Identify and analyze complex patterns and relationships
- Use graphics to justify and support workplace decisions
3
Workplace Documents
33.33%
Level 3 - Basic Document Comprehension
Simple Written CommunicationsBasic Policy DocumentsMain Idea IdentificationDirect Application
- Read and understand simple workplace communications
- Comprehend basic policies and procedures
- Identify main ideas in workplace documents
- Apply information from straightforward written materials
Level 4 - Intermediate Document Application
Legal and Contractual DocumentsDetailed Policy DocumentsSituational ApplicationComplex Document Structure
- Interpret legal contracts and agreements in workplace contexts
- Understand and follow detailed policies and procedures
- Apply written information to new workplace situations
- Navigate complex document structures effectively
Level 5 - Advanced Document Analysis
Complex Workplace DocumentsTerm InferenceMulti-Document SynthesisIndirect Application
- Comprehend complex and lengthy workplace documents
- Infer meaning of uncommon terms from context
- Synthesize information from multiple related documents
- Apply both explicit and implicit information from written materials
Level 6 - Complex Document Synthesis
Information Analysis and SynthesisTechnical TerminologyDocument Relationship UnderstandingSpecialized Content Interpretation
- Analyze and synthesize complex workplace information
- Master technical and specialized vocabulary in documents
- Understand relationships between multiple workplace documents
- Interpret specialized and industry-specific content accurately
Level 7 - Expert Document Evaluation
Long Detailed DocumentsAdvanced Vocabulary and JargonComplex Sentence StructuresCritical Thinking and JudgmentStrategic Document Application
- Comprehend long, detailed workplace documents with many sections
- Master advanced vocabulary and professional jargon
- Understand complex sentence structures and sophisticated writing
- Apply critical thinking and judgment to workplace documents
- Use documents strategically for high-level decision making
How do I earn this certification?
Passing WORKKEYS earns the National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC) certification. It sits in the Workforce Readiness track.
Practice with Precision
The PlanetCert Simulator mirrors the real exam environment with authentic questions and timed pressure.
How to study for this exam?
Use the official PlanetCert Practice Test alongside the study plan below to prepare efficiently for WORKKEYS.
What's changed on this exam?
Current Status
- ACTIVE
- Last content update: 2024-2025 version
Updates
- Web-Based Testing Platform Current (2024-2025) Improved user experience and accessibility for test-takers • Release date: 2024-09-01
- Digital Badging System Current Makes NCRC credentials more shareable and verifiable online • Release date: Ongoing
- ACT WorkKeys Curriculum (KeyTrain) Current (2024-2025) Aligned preparation materials improve test performance • Release date: Continuously updated
Who should take this exam?
- Basic reading and math skills at high school level
- Familiarity with workplace scenarios and documents
- Understanding of common workplace graphics (charts, graphs)