How do you study for the ASVAB?
Study the four AFQT subtests first, because that score decides whether you can enlist: Word Knowledge, Paragraph Comprehension, Arithmetic Reasoning and Mathematics Knowledge. Take a practice test, drill the weakest of the four, then add the job subtests like Mechanical Comprehension. Most people plan three to six weeks. Minimum scores differ by branch, so ask a recruiter.
The ASVAB has nine subtests, and they do two jobs. Four of them make up your AFQT score, which is the one that decides whether a branch will take you. The other five feed the line scores that qualify you for specific jobs. So study in that order: AFQT first, job subtests second.
The usual test is the CAT-ASVAB, taken on a computer. It adapts: if you answer correctly the next question gets harder, so you cannot skip around and you cannot go back. That makes steady accuracy more useful than speed. Math and vocabulary are the best places to gain points, because both improve fast with daily practice.
| Subtest | What it covers | Counts toward AFQT |
|---|---|---|
| Word Knowledge | Word meanings and synonyms | Yes |
| Paragraph Comprehension | Main idea and details in short passages | Yes |
| Arithmetic Reasoning | Math word problems | Yes |
| Mathematics Knowledge | Algebra and geometry basics | Yes |
| General Science | Life, earth and physical science | No |
| Electronics Information | Circuits and electrical basics | No |
| Auto and Shop Information | Cars, tools and shop practice | No |
| Mechanical Comprehension | Forces, levers, pulleys and gears | No |
| Assembling Objects | Putting shapes and parts together in your head | No |
- 1Ask a recruiter which AFQT score your branch needs and which jobs you want, since jobs use different subtests.
- 2Take a full practice ASVAB to get a baseline and see which subtests are weakest.
- 3Drill the four AFQT subtests first, starting with the weakest one.
- 4For math, practice word problems and basic algebra and geometry, and review the formulas a little every day.
- 5For Word Knowledge, learn 10 to 15 new words a day with flashcards, and for Paragraph Comprehension, read short passages and state the main idea.
- 6Add the subtests your job needs, such as Mechanical Comprehension, then take one timed full practice test in the last week.