As a top global quant trading firm, Optiver OA assesses candidates’ overall abilities. It includes 80 speed calculations in 8 minutes (“80-in-8”), 10 probability questions (90s each), 26 sequence puzzles in 25 minutes, 9 reaction games in “Zap-N”, and untimed BQ & personality tests in “Zap-Q”. Let’s explore each part to help you ace it.
Optiver OA Overview
The Optiver Online Assessment is the first step in the recruitment process for trading, quantitative research, and software roles. Its primary goal is to evaluate a candidate’s quantitative reasoning, mental agility, logical thinking, and personality fit under time pressure.
Typical structure of the OA:
| Section | Purpose | Time / Questions |
|---|---|---|
| Mental Math | Test speed and accuracy in basic arithmetic without a calculator | 80 questions, 8 minutes |
| Probability & Logic | Assess reasoning and probabilistic thinking | ~10 questions, ~90 sec each |
| Sequence Puzzles | Evaluate pattern recognition and problem-solving ability | Varies, timed |
| Zap‑N Games | Measure reaction speed, short-term memory, and cognitive flexibility | Interactive mini-games, time-limited |
| Zap‑Q Behavioral & Personality | Assess behavioral traits, decision-making style, and cultural fit | Untimed questionnaire |
Key takeaways:
- High-speed accuracy is critical; both mental math and sequence puzzles are timed.
- Logic and probability questions test analytical skills under pressure.
- Zap‑N games require cognitive agility and sustained focus.
- Zap‑Q evaluates personality and cultural alignment, influencing whether you advance to interviews.
Optiver OA Sample Questions & Solution Approaches
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the main sections of the Optiver Online Assessment, with sample questions and solution strategies to help candidates prepare effectively.
1. 80-in-8: Speed Mental Math
Overview:
This section evaluates your ability to perform rapid mental calculations under strict time pressure. You will face 80 arithmetic problems including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, all within just 8 minutes.
Strategy:
- Accuracy matters, but speed is critical.
- Use splitting, rounding, and approximation techniques to solve faster.
- Practice mental math daily to build confidence under time constraints.
Example Problem:
Calculate 47×2347 \times 2347×23 quickly.
Solution Approach:
- Break the multiplication: 47×23=47×(20+3)47 \times 23 = 47 \times (20 + 3)47×23=47×(20+3)
- Multiply separately: 47×20=94047 \times 20 = 94047×20=940, 47×3=14147 \times 3 = 14147×3=141
- Add results: 940+141=1081940 + 141 = 1081940+141=1081
2. Probability Questions (90 seconds each)
Overview:
This section includes 10 logic-based or combinatorial probability problems, each timed at 90 seconds. Common scenarios involve dice, cards, coins, or other abstract logic puzzles designed to assess your reasoning under pressure.
Sample Question:
From a standard 52-card deck (no jokers), what is the probability of drawing two aces in a row without replacement?
Solution Approach:
- Probability first card is an ace: 4/52=1/134/52 = 1/134/52=1/13
- Probability second card is an ace (after one ace is drawn): 3/51=1/173/51 = 1/173/51=1/17
- Combined probability: (1/13)×(1/17)=1/221(1/13) \times (1/17) = 1/221(1/13)×(1/17)=1/221
Strategy:
- Use systematic counting or combinatorial reasoning.
- Practice classic probability problems to improve speed.
3. Sequence Puzzles (26 in 25 minutes)
Overview:
This section tests pattern recognition and logical deduction. Sequences may involve numbers, letters, or more abstract patterns. Candidates must identify the underlying rule and select the correct next item.
Strategy:
- Look for arithmetic, geometric, or alternating patterns.
- Time management is crucial: average less than 1 minute per sequence.
- Practice with common OA-style sequences to increase recognition speed.
4. Zap-N: Reaction & Cognitive Speed Games
Overview:
Zap-N evaluates reaction time, short-term memory, and cognitive flexibility. You will encounter fast-paced, gamified tasks that require you to react accurately as patterns change rapidly.
Strategy:
- Stay focused and minimize distraction.
- Familiarize yourself with reaction games before the OA.
- Train hand-eye coordination and pattern recognition under timed conditions.
5. Zap-Q: Behavioral and Personality Questionnaire
Overview:
Zap-Q is an untimed assessment measuring personality traits, work style, and cultural alignment with Optiver. It includes behavioral judgment questions and self-assessment scales.
Strategy:
Prepare by reflecting on past experiences related to teamwork, problem-solving, and decision-making.
Answer honestly to reflect your natural tendencies.
Be aware of Optiver’s collaborative, high-pressure culture.
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