IBEW Aptitude Test Math Section — What to Expect and How to Prepare
The math section is where the IBEW aptitude test is won or lost. It is the most heavily weighted section, the longest, and the one most applicants fail. This guide walks through every math topic on the test with worked examples and a focused study plan.
What the Math Section Covers
- Fractions — add, subtract, multiply, divide; mixed and improper
- Decimals and rounding
- Percentages — "what is X% of Y", percent change
- Ratios and proportions
- Basic algebra — solve for x, single-variable
- Order of operations (PEMDAS)
- Applied word problems — wire length, hours worked, material cost
Time Limit and Question Count
33 questions in 46 minutes. That works out to roughly 84 seconds per question. If you spend more than 90 seconds on any single problem, mark it and move on — come back if you have time.
10 Worked Example Problems
1. Fractions: 3/4 + 5/8
Common denominator 8: 6/8 + 5/8 = 11/8 (or 1 3/8).
2. Solve for x: 3x + 7 = 22
Subtract 7: 3x = 15. Divide by 3: x = 5.
3. 15% of 240
10% = 24. 5% = 12. Sum: 36.
4. Ratio word problem
A wire runs 3 ft for every 2 ft of conduit. Conduit is 14 ft. Wire? 14 / 2 = 7 units of 3 ft each. 21 ft.
5. Percent change
Voltage drops from 240V to 228V. % drop? (240 − 228) / 240 = 12 / 240 = 5%.
6. Multi-step word problem
5 electricians complete a job in 12 days. 3 electricians at the same pace? Total man-days = 60. 60 / 3 = 20 days.
7. Solve for x: 2(x − 3) = 14
Distribute: 2x − 6 = 14. Add 6: 2x = 20. x = 10.
8. Order of operations: 4 + 2 × 5 − 6 / 3
Multiplication and division first: 4 + 10 − 2 = 12.
9. Hours/pay calculation
$18.40/hr, 8.5 hours/day, 5 days. Daily = $156.40. Weekly = $782.
10. Fraction subtraction
7/12 − 1/4. Common denominator 12: 7/12 − 3/12 = 4/12 = 1/3.
Common Mistakes That Cause Failures
- Trying to do math in your head instead of writing it out
- Forgetting PEMDAS — doing operations left-to-right
- Mixing decimals and fractions without converting
- Spending too long on a single question and running out of time
- Not answering every question (no penalty for wrong answers)
5 Practice Problems for You
Try these on your own. Answers below.
- What is 5/6 − 1/3?
- Solve: 5x − 12 = 38
- What is 30% of 180?
- If 4 hours = $58 in pay, what is the hourly rate?
- What comes next: 3, 7, 13, 21, 31, ___?
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Take the Free Practice TestFrequently Asked Questions
What math is on the IBEW aptitude test?
The IBEW math section covers fractions, decimals, percentages, ratios, basic algebra (solving for x), order of operations, and applied word problems. A calculator is not permitted.
How many math questions are on the IBEW aptitude test?
The IBEW math/algebra section has 33 questions with a 46-minute time limit. That works out to about 84 seconds per question.
Can I use a calculator on the IBEW aptitude test math section?
No. Calculators are not permitted on the IBEW aptitude test. You must be able to solve algebra and fraction problems by hand. Practice every problem by hand.
What is the hardest part of the IBEW aptitude test?
Math is the section that causes the most failures, particularly fraction operations and solving algebraic equations without a calculator. Focused daily practice for 2-4 weeks is the proven fix.
Related Resources
Michael B.
IBEW Local 134 Journeyman · Licensed Contractor · IL Educator
Michael started in the IBEW at 18 and made foreman as a 3rd-year apprentice. Thirteen years in, he’s a Local 134 journeyman, a licensed electrical contractor, a licensed Illinois teacher, and OSHA 30 and EPA 608 certified. He teaches a federally recognized pre-apprenticeship on the south side of Chicago — where he’s helped 100+ students get into the IBEW. He built Sparky AI around exactly what the NJATC exam tests and what trips people up. Prep with this and you walk in ready.