Mental maths for quant interviews: FAQ
Short answers to the questions applicants ask most.
The basics
Trading and quant firms often use timed, no-calculator arithmetic tests early in hiring. Candidates report questions on all four operations, with decimals, fractions and percentages, and sometimes negative marking. Exact formats vary by firm and year.
Useful pages: trading interview maths guide, 80 in 8 practice test, 60 in 6 practice test and mental maths tips.
Questions people ask
What is a mental maths test for trading?
A short, timed, no-calculator arithmetic test used to check speed and accuracy with numbers.
What is negative marking?
Wrong answers lose points, commonly reported as −1 against +1 for a right answer. Skipping usually scores 0, so guessing can cost you.
What should I practise first?
Times tables and two-digit multiplication. They make up a large part of most questions and speed up everything else.
Do I need to know fraction to decimal conversions?
Yes, it helps a lot. Learn halves, quarters, fifths, eighths and tenths so you recognise them instantly.
Is a high drill score enough to pass?
It helps, but real tests add decimals, fractions and test conditions. Practise those too.
Does QuantDrill save my progress?
Yes, on your device. There are no accounts. Clearing your browser data removes it.