New York City employs 325,000 civil service employees throughout 80 government agencies. DCAS exams only include more than ten different types of pre-employment exams for civil service positions.
This page will provide candidates with free practice materials for the NYC DCAS Civil Service and the NYC Bridge Exam, reflecting the real exam experience.
Shir, Civil Service Assessments Expert at JobTestPrep
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Like many other Civil Service exams, the DCAS Civil Service NYC Exams contain several questions: Memorization, Spatial Orientation, Written Comprehension, Written Expression, Information Ordering, Inductive Reasoning, Deductive Reasoning, Visualization, Problem Sensitivity, etc.
Let's begin our practice with the Memorization questions. The test's memorization section is considered the most difficult part of the entire test. You will have 10 minutes to carefully study the details of a photo. You will not take notes, and you will not have time to look at the picture afterward. The questions will cover the most basic aspects of the picture.
Let's begin our practice:
INSTRUCTIONS: Study the image below very carefully for five minutes. You will be asked detailed questions about this image throughout the following questions. Once you are instructed to turn the page, you will not be allowed to look back at the photograph. (In this practice test we suggest that you zoom in and look very carefully at the picture)
Question #1
How many bicycles can be seen clearly/ fully in the photo? (Not cut, cropped, or hidden)
Answer:
The answer is 1, although there are two bicycles, one of them is hidden by a car and can’t be seen fully. (The orange arrow for the bicycle, and the green arrow is for the hidden bicycle.)
Question #2
What is between the two U.S.A flags?
Answer:
The answer is 3, the object between the U.S.A flags is a white door.
Question #3
Howw many people are visible in the photo? (Not cut, cropped, or hidden)
Answer:
The correct answer is 3, there are three people fully visible in the picture, and another one is hidden by the person that walks next to them in the picture.
💡Tip: As you view the photo, don't try to remember every single detail, as this can be overwhelming. Instead, focus on key elements that stand out, such as unique features, patterns, or distinctive objects. Try to create a mental "map" of the photo based on these key elements. When the viewing time ends, take a few seconds to consolidate your mental image before attempting to answer the questions. This selective approach can help you recall important information efficiently and improve your accuracy in memorization questions. For more info and practice about specific DCAS exams, check our Corrections Officer Exam, School Safety Agent Exam, Sanitation Worker Exam pages.
Next, we'll discuss Spatial Orientation questions. This part of the assessment not only assesses your relative (left-right) and absolute (north-south) directional skills but also requires reading comprehension, attention to detail, and problem-solving abilities. You will often be given a map in this section and asked to find the fastest route between two locations. You may also have to determine an object or person's last known direction or location through a written scenario.
Let's begin with our practice:
An arrow on the street indicates that, along the entire road, traffic is only allowed to travel in the direction the arrow is pointing.
Question #4
Answer
The correct answer is 3.
1 is wrong because the bank is to the west/northwest of the community center.
2 is wrong because the Police Department is to the north.
4 is wrong because that would be to the east.
Question #5
Answer
The correct answer is 4. The large park is southwest of the small park.
Question #6
The high school is ____ of the ______.
1. North, Gym
2. West, Townhall
3. South, Bank
4. Northeast, Soap factory
Answer
The correct answer is 1.
💡Tip: One of the best tips for specific map-based questions is quickly identifying key landmarks and paths. For written scenarios of spatial orientation, visualize the scene and use directional cues in the text to orient yourself. Always double-check your initial instinct against the map or scenario details. for more information about specific DCAS exams, you can check our DCAS Plumber Exam, New York Police Department Police Officer Exam, Deputy Sheriff Exam pages.
The NYC Bridge Exam is a unique assessment tool designed for various civil service positions in New York City. It evaluates a wide range of abilities from problem-solving and data interpretation to communication skills, mirroring the diverse challenges faced in civil service roles.
The key to excelling in the NYC Bridge Exam is thorough preparation that aligns with the test's multifaceted nature. Our specialized PrepPack provides realistic practice scenarios and questions akin to those on the actual test, allowing you to develop and sharpen the necessary skills. It includes extensive study materials, practice tests, and strategic insights tailored for the NYC Bridge Exam. Our team has meticulously crafted this pack to offer a comprehensive preparation experience, ensuring that you become well-versed in the types of questions and scenarios you'll encounter.
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Excellent practice tests
The tests were excellent and certainly gave me practice for the actual tests I did the following day. Anyone who hasn't done any form of test for a long while should definitely do these tests before the actual assessments.
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Steve. D
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Now we'll continue to another question you'll face in the assessment - Written Comprehension questions. You will be presented with several passages pertaining to police work (e.g. a sample crime report) in this section to test your ability to read and comprehend written information. You will be asked a series of questions about the text details after each passage.
Let's continue our practice:
Answer the following question based on the current information:
A recent environmental initiative has raised concerns about the declining bee population and its impact on global ecosystems. The campaign highlights the critical role of bees in pollination and the alarming rate at which their numbers are decreasing, largely due to pesticides and habitat loss. While the initiative has been successful in spreading awareness, it has also sparked debate. Some experts argue that the focus on bees might overshadow the importance of other pollinators and ecological factors, leading to a narrow perspective on environmental conservation efforts.
Question #7
Answer
The information provided makes it clear that the initiative aims to emphasize the importance of bees in pollination and ecosystem health: “The campaign highlights the critical role of bees in pollination...” Therefore, the statement is true as it aligns with the campaign's primary goal.
Question #8
What is a potential concern regarding the campaign's focus on bees?
1. Ignoring the effects of climate change
2. Overshadowing other environmental issues
3. Promoting the use of pesticides
4. Misrepresenting bee population data
Answer
The passage indicates a concern related to the campaign’s narrow focus: “Some experts argue that the focus on bees might overshadow the importance of other pollinators...” This suggests that overshadowing other environmental issues is a potential downside, making B the correct answer.
Question #9
Which term best replaces 'alarming' in the context of this passage?
1. Encouraging
2. Insignificant
3. Disturbing
4. Misleading
Answer
The term ‘alarming’ in the passage refers to the rate of decline in bee populations: “...the alarming rate at which their numbers are decreasing.” The most suitable synonym in this context is 'disturbing', which carries a similar sense of urgency and concern. The other options do not match the intended meaning of 'alarming' in this scenario.
💡Tip: The best tip for specific reading comprehension questions is to read each passage carefully, focusing on the main idea and key details. Before looking at the questions, briefly summarize the passage in your mind. This helps in recalling details when answering questions. For more practice questions and expert tips like this, check our Bus Operator and Train Conductor Exam, Traffic Enforcement Agent Exam, Fire Department New York Firefighter Exam.
Now we'll continue to another question you'll face in your NYPD Police exam- Information Ordering. This section involves sequencing rules or actions. The questions can include letters, numbers, pictures, words, procedures, sentences, and mathematical/logical operations to be placed in order. Let's dive in and see what it is all about:
Question #10
The following steps should be followed when administering CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation). (These steps are not listed in the correct order.)
The most logical order for the steps above is:
Question #11
The following steps should be followed when extinguishing a small fire with a fire extinguisher. (These steps are not listed in the correct order.)
The most logical order for the steps above is:
Question #12
The following steps should be followed when setting up a tent for camping. (These steps are not listed in the correct order.)
The most logical order for the steps above is:
💡Tip: In these types of questions, it is crucial to identify the underlying pattern or rule governing the sequence. Start by looking for the simplest connections or order, then apply this to arrange the given items. Double-check to ensure the sequence logically follows the identified rule. for more info, check our pages about Special Officer Exam, Traffic Device Maintainer Exam, Carpenter Exam.
Now we'll continue to another question you'll face in your exam- Inductive Reasoning. In these questions, you'll be required to identify the crime committed within a specific scenario based on offence classifications. The assessment assesses your ability to apply a rule in a new scenario. In certain items, there will be witness statements, so you need to pick the one that is most likely to be accurate or inaccuracy. Let's dive in and see what it is all about:
RULES:
LIBRARY STAFF ROSTER
Question #13
The correct answer is (A).
Answer (A) is impossible: "Staff members are not allowed to work more than 16 hours consecutively." – Librarian Anna cannot work 16 hours straight even with a shift exchange.
Answer (B) is possible: With a 48-hour break between shifts, three consecutive days off are feasible without shift exchanges.
Answer (C) is possible: Working two different shifts in 48 hours is feasible, considering the mandatory 8-hour break between shifts.
Answer (D) is possible: Staff can exchange shifts with others, allowing for two consecutive days off.
Question #14
The correct answer is (A).
Answer (A) is possible: With the mandatory 8-hour break, Librarian Emily can work another shift after her break.
Answer (B) is impossible: "Staff members are not allowed to work more than 16 hours consecutively." – Librarian Frank cannot work two shifts in a row.
Answer (C) is impossible: The maximum break between shifts, without exchanges, is 48 hours, not 72.
Answer (D) is impossible: Shift exchanges must be for whole shifts, not partial shifts.
Question #15
The correct answer is (D).
Answer (A) is possible: The maximum break between shifts without exchanging is 48 hours.
Answer (B) is impossible: "Every staff member must have at least 8 hours off between shifts." – A 6-hour break is not sufficient.
Answer (C) is impossible: "Every staff member must have at least 8 hours off between shifts." – A 6-hour break is not compliant with the rules.
Answer (D) is possible: Exchanging shifts can allow for a 32-hour break between two 8-hour shifts.
Tip: In these types of questions, it is crucial to understand the general rule or classification first. Then, carefully apply this rule to the specific scenario presented, ensuring that all aspects of the scenario are considered. Avoid overthinking or assuming information is not given. for more info about DCAS products check our Environmental Conservation Officer Exam, Caseworker Exam, Auto Mechanic (gas or diesel).
We'll continue with another question you'll face in your exam - Deductive Reasoning. This section involves applying a rule to specific problems in the most logical way. This test section involves tables, picture matching, and lists of detailed information. Let's dive in and see what it is all about:
Question #16
The correct answer is (C). According to the text, “Urban green spaces... significantly improve the mental and physical well-being of city residents”.
(A) Is incorrect because the text states that these spaces enhance social interaction.
(B) Is incorrect as the text mentions the need for funding and management for maintaining these spaces.
(D) Is incorrect because the text indicates that these spaces provide environmental benefits.
Question #17
The correct answer is (C). According to the text, “regular exercise enhances cognitive function and memory in individuals of all ages”.
(A) Is incorrect because the text clearly states the positive impact of exercise on cognitive function.
(B) Is incorrect as the text suggests that exercise should be combined with other lifestyle factors for optimal cognitive health.
(D) Is incorrect because the text indicates that exercise lowers the risks of cognitive decline.
Question #18
The correct answer is (C). According to the text, “the effectiveness of online learning in terms of engagement varies depending on individual student needs and learning styles”.
(A) Is incorrect because the text suggests that the increase in engagement is not universal for all students.
(B) Is incorrect as the text states that online learning offers access to a wider range of resources.
(D) Is incorrect because the text does not claim that all students are less engaged in online learning.
💡Tip: For solving deductive reasoning questions effectively, focus on understanding the general rule or principle first, then apply it logically to the specific situation presented in the question. Deductive reasoning moves from a general rule to specific examples. Ensure that you clearly understand the rule of law given in the question, and then methodically apply it to the scenarios or choices provided. This approach will help you avoid assumptions or biases and lead you to a logical conclusion based on the given premises. Remember, in deductive reasoning, if the premises are true and you apply them correctly, your conclusion should also be true.
We'll continue with another question you'll face in your exam- Visualization. In these questions you'll you will encounter diagrams, geometric shapes, floor plans, and pictures of human faces as you test your ability to identify an object after it has been superficially altered or repositioned. Let's dive in and see what it is all about:
Question #19
The answer is B.
This type of question can be slightly confusing. We recommend that you begin by eliminating the choices least likely to be the answer and then focus on the portraits more similar to that of the suspect. In this question we can see that A has the wrong eyes, C has the wrong nose and D has a different mouth from the portrait we need, therefore B is the answer.
Question #20
The answer is B.
B has a different nose in comparison to the suspect.
💡Tip: For solving visualization questions effectively, focus on maintaining strong spatial awareness and a keen eye for detail. Pay close attention to how objects are oriented and relate to each other, and note any subtle changes in position, shape, or appearance. Developing a mental image of the original state can also be helpful for comparison. This approach will aid in accurately identifying objects that have been altered or repositioned.
We'll continue with the last type of question you'll face in your Police exam - Problem Sensitivity. In this section of the test, you are evaluated on your ability to identify issues in a variety of police-related scenarios. Examples include spotting a problematic testimony, identifying an incongruency with procedures, or suspicious information at a crime scene. Let's check it out:
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Read the RULE carefully and answer the question:
Library Quiet Zone Regulations
Following quiet zone regulations must be observed in the library:
Note: The Quiet Zone is strictly enforced to maintain a silent study environment.
Question #21
Answer
The correct answer is 2.
According to the RULE, “Food and drinks, except water, are not allowed in the Quiet Zone.” – Tom violated the RULE by eating a sandwich in the Quiet Zone.
Answer choice A is incorrect as there is no mention of Tom talking.
Answer choice C is incorrect because Tom's phone was on silent mode, as required by the RULE.
Answer choice D is incorrect as Tom did violate the RULE by eating food in the Quiet Zone.
Question #22
Answer
The correct answer is 3.
According to the RULE, “Mobile phones must be on silent mode; no phone calls are allowed.” – Emily violated the RULE as her phone rang loudly, which is not permitted in the Quiet Zone.
Answer choice A is incorrect because using headphones, even at a loud volume, is not explicitly against the RULE.
Answer choice B is incorrect as drinking water is allowed in the Quiet Zone.
Answer choice D is incorrect as Emily did violate the RULE regarding phone usage.
Question #23
Answer
The correct answer is 2.
According to the RULE, “Food and drinks, except water, are not allowed in the Quiet Zone.” – John violated the RULE by drinking coffee in the Quiet Zone.
Answer choice A is incorrect as answering a text message is not mentioned as a violation in the RULE, especially if the phone is on silent mode.
Answer choices C and D are incorrect as they are not violations of the RULE.
💡Tip: To effectively tackle problem sensitivity questions, which often involve identifying issues or conflicts in scenarios, it's crucial to carefully read and understand the context provided. Focus on identifying key elements and underlying issues in the scenario. Think about how different elements interact and what their potential implications are. This type of question requires you to be perceptive and considerate of nuances in the given information, aiming to anticipate problems or conflicts that may arise from the situation described. F
Congratulations on completing our Free DCAS Civil Service Practice Test! Now that you've acquainted yourself with the NYC Civil Service Exam content and various problem-solving strategies, it's time to enhance your preparation. Explore our in-depth guides to gain a better understanding of the exam's content, delve into unique problem-solving techniques, and receive valuable tips for psychometric assessments.
Take advantage of full-length simulation tests to simulate the actual exam experience and aim for a high score that will significantly boost your readiness. Achieving top scores necessitates a thorough grasp of all solving methods, systematic practice, and meticulous preparation.
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