Mathematical Reasoning
This part checks how well you use maths to answer a variety of questions.
35 questions in 40 minutes
OC Question Types — Reading, Thinking Skills, Mathematical Reasoning (2026)
Updated:
Reading time: 3–4 minutes
TL;DR
- The OC test is made up of three sections: Reading, Thinking Skills, and Mathematical Reasoning
- All three sections are weighted equally with regards to the final score
- Mathematical Reasoning has 35 multiple choice questions to be answered in 40 minutes (5 possible options)
- Reading has 14 questions — 33 answers in total, as some questions have multiple parts — to be answered in 40 minutes in four different formats (not all multiple choice)
- Thinking Skills has 30 multiple choice questions to be answered in 30 minutes (4 possible options)
- There are short breaks between sections in the full test
- Take a baseline test to see where you are at and then focus on the areas you need to improve
Question type cards
Reading
This part checks how well you understand different types of texts.
The texts are drawn from non-fiction, fiction, poetry and can include sections of novels or non-fiction books, poems, magazine articles and reports.
33 answers across 14 questions in 40 minutes
Thinking Skills
This part checks how well you can you solve a variety of problems related to logical reasoning.
30 questions in 30 minutes
OC past papers and practice tests
The NSW Department of Education publishes three official practice tests, which are papers from past years. They are the best first look at the real question formats above, and they are free. Our OC practice tests guide covers where to find them and how to use them well.
Once your child has worked through them, Sharp Minds Club practice tests mirror the same structure, timing and question formats across all three sections, with an explanation for every answer. Start a free 7-day trial to sit a timed practice test online.
Related guides & next steps
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