As a top global quant trading firm, Optiver OA assesses candidates’ overall abilities. It includes 80 speed calculations in 8 minutes (“80-in-8”), 10probability 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.
1. 80-in-8: Speed Mental Math
This section tests your ability to perform rapid mental calculations under pressure. You’ll face 80 arithmetic problems—addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division—all to be solved within just 8 minutes. Accuracy matters, but so does speed, so it’s crucial to strike a balance.
2. Probability Questions (90 seconds each)
You’ll be presented with 10 logic-based or combinatorial probability problems, each timed at 90 seconds. These questions often involvedice, cards, coins, or abstract logic puzzles—designed to test your reasoning under time constraints.
Consider a standard deck of 52 playing cards (no jokers). What is the probability of randomly drawing two cards in a row, with both being aces?
Solution:
- Probability of first card being an ace: 4/52 = 1/13
- Probability of second card being an ace (after one ace is drawn): 3/51 = 1/17
- Combined: (1/13) × (1/17) = 1/221
3. Sequence Puzzles (26 in 25 minutes)
This section includes number, letter, or pattern-based sequences that require logical deduction. You’ll need to spot the rule behind thepattern and select the correct next item.
4. Zap-N: Reaction & Cognitive Speed Games
Zap-N tests your reaction time, pattern recognition, and short-term memory through a series of gamified tasks. It’s fast-paced andrequires you to stay focused even as the patterns change rapidly.
5. Zap-Q: Behavioral and Personality Questionnaire
This untimed section assesses your personality traits, work style, and alignment with Optiver’s culture. It includes behavioraljudgment questions and self-assessment scales.
Final Thoughts
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