Test-taking Strategy - Spatial Orientation

TEST TAKING STRATEGY FOR SPATIAL ORIENTATION

Spatial Orientation questions measure your ability to keep a clear idea of where you are in relation to the space in which you happen to be.  You will be given diagrams and asked to answer questions regarding that defined space. The diagrams or maps used for Spatial Orientation questions are somewhat similar to materials used for Memorization or Visualization questions.  But the Spatial Orientation materials tend to be more complex, and the questions tend to emphasize either where you are in a diagram or how to go from one spot to another on the diagram or map.

Spatial Orientation questions may be based on diagrams on buildings, outdoor areas, or any other "space" in which you might happen to be as a firefighter.  These are not timed questions.  You will probably be allowed to use your pencil to write on the diagrams or maps as a way of testing your answer choices, since these are not Memorization questions.  (If you are forbidden to write on the question paper, you can still use the eraser end of your pencil or your finger to trace things on the question paper, or use scrap paper, if provided.)

When using your pencil to write on a diagram or map, be sure to write lightly.  Erase any of your jottings which do not work out or are no longer needed.  If there are several questions based on the same diagram or map and you have made pencil markings for them, the diagram can get quite confusing as a result of your markings.  Hence, you should erase your markings as soon as you are done with them, if there is another question to be answered on the basis of the same diagram.

Many diagrams or maps use symbols.  Look at the whole page to see if there is a key to symbols.  For instance, a note at the top or bottom of a diagram might indicate that a tiny circle represents a fire hydrant; a circle with a letter in it might represent the location of a firefighter in the diagram.  An arrow may indicate what direction something is moving in.  A dotted line may indicate movement of something or someone from one position to another position in the diagram or map.  Be sure to look for a key to symbols.  An important feature of many diagrams and maps is the direction of North, East, South and West.  Look for a symbol to indicate directions.

Often questions are based on phrases like "to your left" or "to your right" or "to the left of the rear entrance."  The test maker often approaches a diagram or map from the side or from the top, so that "left" and "right" do not correspond to where you are sitting in relation to the diagram.  Just turn the test paper sideways or upside down when figuring out the answers to such questions.  Turn the diagram or map so that "left" or "right" on the map is the same direction as your left or right hand.

Good luck in your pursuit of the greatest job on the face of the earth!  Remember – luck goes to the prepared!