5 ASVAB Word Tips

Introduction to ASVAB Word Knowledge

The ASVAB, or Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery, is a multiple-choice test administered by the United States Military Entrance Processing Command. It is used to determine a person’s qualification for enlistment in the military. The test is divided into nine individual tests, one of which is the Word Knowledge test. This test is designed to measure a person’s ability to understand the meaning of words through synonyms. In this article, we will provide you with 5 ASVAB Word tips to help you prepare for the Word Knowledge test.

Tip 1: Understand the Format of the Test

The Word Knowledge test consists of 35 questions, and you have 11 minutes to complete it. The test presents a word, and you must choose a synonym for that word from a list of four possible answers. To do well on this test, you need to have a broad vocabulary and be able to understand the nuances of word meanings. It’s essential to read each question carefully and make sure you understand what is being asked.

Tip 2: Learn Prefixes, Suffixes, and Roots

Many words in the English language have prefixes, suffixes, and roots that can help you understand their meanings. By learning these prefixes, suffixes, and roots, you can expand your vocabulary and improve your chances of guessing the correct answer on the Word Knowledge test. For example, the prefix “un-” often means “not” or “opposite of,” while the suffix “-able” often means “can be” or “capable of.” Learning these components of words can help you decipher unfamiliar words and increase your vocabulary.

Tip 3: Practice with Flashcards

Flashcards are a great way to study for the Word Knowledge test. You can create your own flashcards using index cards or purchase pre-made flashcards. Write a word on one side of the card and the definition or synonym on the other. Quiz yourself by covering the definition and trying to recall it from memory. You can also use online resources, such as apps or websites, to create digital flashcards. Practicing with flashcards can help you build your vocabulary and improve your ability to recall word meanings under timed conditions.

Tip 4: Read Widely and Often

One of the best ways to improve your vocabulary and prepare for the Word Knowledge test is to read widely and often. Read books, articles, and other materials that challenge your vocabulary and expose you to new words. Pay attention to word meanings and try to use context clues to understand unfamiliar words. You can also keep a dictionary or thesaurus handy to look up words you don’t know. The more you read, the more you will be exposed to new words and the better you will become at understanding their meanings.

Tip 5: Use Context Clues

Context clues are hints or suggestions within a sentence or passage that can help you understand the meaning of an unfamiliar word. On the Word Knowledge test, you won’t have the benefit of a sentence or passage to provide context, but you can still use context clues to help you make an educated guess. Look for words that are similar in meaning or sound to the word being tested, and use your knowledge of prefixes, suffixes, and roots to help you decipher the word’s meaning. You can also use the process of elimination to rule out answers that are clearly incorrect.

📝 Note: It's essential to manage your time effectively during the test. Make sure to read each question carefully, and don't spend too much time on any one question. If you're unsure of an answer, make an educated guess and move on to the next question.

To summarize, the key to success on the Word Knowledge test is to have a broad vocabulary, understand the format of the test, and be able to use context clues and prefixes, suffixes, and roots to help you decipher unfamiliar words. By following these tips and practicing regularly, you can improve your chances of scoring well on the test.