Graphic literacy is a key workplace skill. It includes understanding and using information presented in graphs and diagrams. Because of this, graphic literacy is important for understanding information and making decisions in the workplace. In the following post, we will guide you through the key aspects of the ACT® WorkKeys Graphic Literacy test. Overall, you’ll learn about the test format, types of questions, effective study strategies, and tips for success. We’ll also discuss the importance of practice tests. By the end, you’ll understand how to excel in the Graphic Literacy WorkKeys Test.

What is Graphic Literacy?

Graphic literacy is understanding, interpreting, and using information in various graphical forms. Specifically, these include charts, graphs, diagrams, and tables. This skill is vital in both academic and workplace settings. Being graphically literate means being able to comprehend complex information quickly and accurately.

Graphic literacy helps with making good decisions, solving problems, and doing tasks well. By understanding visual data, people can make better choices and find solutions more easily.

Examples of Graphic Literacy in Real-world Contexts

• Reading Bus Schedules: Understanding timetables and routes to plan travel.
• Interpreting Financial Reports: Analyzing graphs and charts in financial documents to assess company performance.
• Understanding Infographics: Extracting key points and data from visual representations of information.

In brief, mastering graphic literacy can enhance your ability to navigate and succeed in various aspects of life. This makes it an invaluable skill to develop.

Understanding the WorkKeys Graphic Literacy Test

Now that we understand graphic literacy, let’s explore the ACT® WorkKeys Graphic Literacy Test. This test is designed to measure foundational workplace skills through graphical data interpretation.

What is the ACT® WorkKeys Graphic Literacy Test?

The ACT® WorkKeys test assesses essential skills needed for success in various careers. It especially helps employers identify candidates who can analyze and use workplace graphics.

The test includes 38 multiple-choice questions. Furthermore, each question will focus on interpreting one or more charts, diagrams, or tables. You will have 55 minutes to complete the exam. You will find specific information, recognize trends, and make decisions based on data.

Role in the National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC)

The WorkKeys Graphic Literacy test is one of three tests required to earn the National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC). The other two tests are:

1. Applied Math: This test measures how well you can use math skills, think critically, and solve problems related to work.
2. Workplace Documents: This test checks your ability to read and understand workplace documents like emails, memos, and policies.

To earn the NCRC, you must achieve at least a Level 3 score on each of these three tests. The NCRC certifies that you have the skills required for workplace success. It is also recognized by thousands of employers nationwide.

So, holding an NCRC demonstrates to employers that you have the skills needed for different jobs. This certification can also help your resume. It makes you a more competitive job candidate and even qualifies you for higher-paying positions. It shows you can handle real-world tasks, perform basic math, and use workplace documents and graphs.

Question Types on the ACT® WorkKeys Graphic Literacy Test

The WorkKeys Graphic Literacy Test assesses your ability to interpret and use information using four different skills. So, let’s break down the four main question types you’ll encounter.

“Find” Questions on the Graphic Literacy WorkKeys

This question type requires you to locate specific information within a graphic. You must accurately pinpoint details such as numbers, labels, or data points within tables, charts, or graphs.

Sample Question:

• A table shows the sales data for a company over four quarters.
  • Question: “What were the total sales in Quarter 2?”
  • Answer: To find the answer, identify the row labeled “Quarter 2” and read the corresponding sales figure from the appropriate column.

“Trend” Questions on the Graphic Literacy WorkKeys

These questions ask you to identify, interpret, and compare trends. To succeed in answering these questions, you’ll need to understand how data changes. Then, you’ll need to select the correct answers that describe these changes.

Sample Question:

• A line graph displays the average monthly temperatures for a year.
  • Question: “In which month did the temperature peak?”
  • Answer: To answer this, look for the highest point on the line graph and note the corresponding month, indicating when the temperature was at its highest.

“Decision” Questions on the Graphic Literacy WorkKeys

For these questions, you need to make and justify decisions using one or two graphics. This often involves interpreting data from multiple graphs in the context given.

Sample Question:

• A flow chart shows a process for reporting manufacturing errors to a team lead.
  • Question: “The team member notices the error affects more than one piece. Who should they report the error too?”
  • Answer: Be familiar with flow charts. Identify the question “Does the error affect more than one piece?” then select the option that the “yes” arrow points to.

“Represent” Questions on the Graphic Literacy WorkKeys

Description: These questions involve identifying and justifying the best graphical representation of information. You must accurately determine which graphic best matches the provided data or description.

Sample Question:

• Two sets of graphs show the demographics of customers in a store.
  • Question: “The sales lead shows the first graphic to the team. What BEST explains their choice?”
  • Answer: This is asking you to justify the decision. Identify what the first graphic does specifically that the second graphic cannot do.

Types of Graphic Complexity on the ACT® WorkKeys Graphic Literacy Test

Scoring Levels

The ACT® WorkKeys Graphic Literacy test uses a scoring system with levels ranging from 3 to 7. Each level represents a combination of the skill required and the complexity of the graphics. Higher levels indicate more complex graphics and more sophisticated analytical skills.

How Skill and Graphic Complexity Inform Question Levels

The level of a question on the ACT® WorkKeys Graphic Literacy Test depends on two main factors: the complexity of the graphic and the specific skill required to interpret it. As you progress through the levels, you will encounter more intricate graphics and must show advanced skills.

Combinations of Skill and Graphic Complexity

Level 3: Simple and Low Moderate Graphics

Graphics: Simple and familiar, such as basic charts, graphs, and tables.

Skills Required: Locate specific information, identify basic trends, and understand straightforward data.​ 

Level 4: Low and High Moderate Graphics

Graphics: Slightly more complex with multiple data points and variables. For example, this may involve comparing information across two graphics.

Skills Required: Compare information, identify patterns, make inferences, and use data from one graphic to locate information in another.

Level 5: Low Moderate, High Moderate, and Difficult Graphics

Graphics: More complex with multiple variables and denser data presentations. As a result, you may see less familiar graphics.

Skills Required: Interpret trends, justify inferences, compare multiple patterns, and identify the most effective graphic for a given set of data.

Levels 6 and 7: High Moderate and Difficult Graphics

Graphics: Highly complex with intricate details and numerous variables. Data is densely packed, comparatively, and may be presented in unusual formats.

Skills Required: Analyze information from many complex graphics, including justifying detailed inferences and decisions. This also includes identifying trends and patterns across datasets. You may need to justify the effectiveness of a graphic.

As you can see, to perform well on this test, you must understand the different levels of graphic complexity and the required skills. Practice with many types of graphs often. Be prepared to interpret, compare, and make decisions based on complex graphs for higher-level questions.

Preparing for the Graphic Literacy WorkKeys Test

Preparing effectively for the Graphic Literacy WorkKeys Test involves structured study strategies and using the right resources. Here are some tips to help you succeed:

Effective Study Strategies

1. Break Study Sessions into Manageable Chunks
   • Divide your study time into shorter, focused sessions. This helps in retaining information better and prevents burnout.
   • For example, study for 25-30 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. Repeat this cycle and take a longer break after a few cycles.
2. Focus on One Type of Graphic Representation or Skill at a Time
   • Concentrate on mastering one type of graphic or skill at a time. This method allows you to understand the nuances of each type without feeling overwhelmed.
   • Practice identifying key elements, such as axes, legends, and data points, for each type of graphic.

Recommended Study Materials and Resources

1. Official ACT® Prep Guides
   • Use official ACT® preparation guides. These guides provide practice questions, explanations, and tips specific to the WorkKeys test. They are a great resource for understanding the format and types of questions you will encounter.
2. Online Resources
   • Online materials like Albert.io can provide practice for many subjects, including graphic literacy. These resources have examples of different types of graphs and explanations to help you understand each question.

By implementing these study strategies and using the recommended resources, you can build a strong foundation in graphic literacy and improve your chances of performing well on the WorkKeys test.

Tips for Taking the Graphic Literacy WorkKeys Test

Test-taking Strategies

One of the most important strategies for taking the Graphic Literacy test is to read all instructions carefully. Misinterpreting a question can lead to mistakes, so take your time to understand each prompt. Also, using the process of elimination can be a helpful technique for difficult questions. By ruling out incorrect options, you increase your chances of selecting the correct answer from the remaining choices.

Time management is another vital aspect. Divide your time based on the difficulty of the questions. To secure points, start with the questions that seem easier to you, then move on to the more challenging ones. Practicing timed tests can also help improve your speed and comfort level with the test format. This approach reduces anxiety and helps you complete all questions within the allotted time.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

A common mistake is misinterpreting data due to rushing. It’s. important to pace yourself and double-check the information in the graphs and tables. Overlooking small details, such as labels or units, can lead to incorrect answers. Taking a moment to review these elements can enhance accuracy.

Is the WorkKeys Test Hard?

The difficulty of the WorkKeys Graphic Literacy Test can vary based on individual skill levels and preparation. In the following breakdown, we’ll help you understand what to expect and how to overcome challenges.

Factors Affecting Difficulty Level

How hard the test is depends on your familiarity with different types of graphics and your graphic literacy skills. The test ranges from Level 3 to Level 7. It starts with basic graphics and tasks and then moves into complex graphics requiring advanced skills. Therefore, students who have practiced and are comfortable with many types of graphs find the test less challenging.

Tips for Overcoming Challenges

1. Focus on Weak Areas
   • Identify the types of graphics and questions you find most challenging. Start by concentrating your study efforts on these areas. This targeted approach can help you improve where you need it most.
2. Use Practice Tests
   • Take practice tests to familiarize yourself with the test format and types of questions. This helps you understand what to expect and allows you to track your progress. Then, you can adjust your study plan accordingly. Use online practice tools like Albert.io to see a variety of questions and detailed explanations.
3. Develop Test-taking Strategies
   • Learn to carefully read instructions. Use the process of elimination for difficult questions. Time management is crucial; practice using timed practice tests.

Understanding these factors and using these strategies can help you enhance your readiness. This makes it more manageable and increases your chances of achieving a high score.

Practice Makes Perfect: Using Graphic Literacy WorkKeys Practice Tests

How to Use Practice Tests Effectively

1. Review Incorrect Answers to Understand Mistakes
   • After completing a practice test, carefully review any incorrect answers. Understanding why you got a question wrong is key to improving your skills. Look for patterns in your mistakes and focus on those areas during your study sessions.
2. Track Progress Over Time to Identify Improvements
   • Keep a record of your practice test scores and track your progress over time. This will help you identify areas where you have improved and areas that still need work. Regularly reviewing your progress can also motivate you to keep studying and improving.

Preparation is essential for success on the Graphic Literacy WorkKeys Test. As a result, understanding the test format, practicing, and reviewing mistakes are all steps in your study process.

Following the tips and using the resources here can enhance your graphic literacy skills. These will help increase your chances of performing well on the test. Consistent practice and targeted preparation are your best strategies for success.

Need help preparing for your ACT® WorkKeys Graphic Literacy test?

Albert has hundreds of ACT® WorkKeys practice questions and full-length practice tests to try out.