QPSea Exam — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which of the following figures is the 'odd one out' in the group? A) A pentagon with five dots inside. B) A square with four dots inside. C) A triangle with two dots inside. D) A hexagon with six dots inside.
- B) A square with four dots inside.
- C) A triangle with two dots inside. (Correct answer)
- A) A pentagon with five dots inside.
- D) A hexagon with six dots inside.
Correct answer: C) A triangle with two dots inside.
The rule governing the group of figures is that the number of dots inside the shape corresponds to the number of sides the shape has. A pentagon has 5 sides, a square has 4, and a hexagon has 6. The triangle has 3 sides, but the figure described has only two dots, making it the odd one out.
Question 2: Which resource is most commonly recommended for practicing numerical reasoning skills?
- Mobile math games
- Online practice tests (Correct answer)
- Group study sessions
- Numerical reasoning textbooks
Correct answer: Online practice tests
Online practice tests are highly recommended for numerical reasoning because they simulate the actual test environment and question formats. They allow candidates to familiarize themselves with the types of calculations, data interpretation tasks, and time constraints they will face. Regular practice with these tests helps improve speed, accuracy, and confidence in numerical problem-solving.
Question 3: Scenario: Vehicle 2 has damage to the front passenger door. How should you describe this in your report?
- The vehicle sustained significant damage to its front end.
- The car was totally wrecked on the passenger side.
- The red hatchback had a large dent in the front passenger-side door and a broken side mirror. (Correct answer)
- The car looked like it had been hit hard on the side.
Correct answer: The red hatchback had a large dent in the front passenger-side door and a broken side mirror.
Clarity and specificity are crucial in report writing. Vague terms like 'wrecked' or 'significant damage' are unhelpful. Stating the exact location and nature of the damage provides a clear, factual record.
Question 4: Which of the following best describes the push-up component of the QPS Physical Fitness Test?
- Candidates complete a fixed number of push-ups with no time limit
- Candidates perform push-ups to a set cadence until they can no longer maintain form (Correct answer)
- Push-ups are optional and only count as bonus points
- Candidates must complete as many push-ups as possible in two minutes
Correct answer: Candidates perform push-ups to a set cadence until they can no longer maintain form
The push-up test is typically performed to a set cadence, and candidates must keep pace until they fail to maintain correct form.
Question 5: After studying a map for 90 seconds, officers are asked to recall the location of the police station. This exercise primarily develops which policing skill?
- Physical endurance
- Written report accuracy
- Verbal communication
- Spatial memory and geographic orientation (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Spatial memory and geographic orientation
Recalling the position of a location on a map after a brief study period develops spatial memory and geographic orientation skills.
Question 6: Which word best completes the sentence: 'The evidence was ______, pointing toward the same suspect from multiple angles.'
- Inconclusive
- Corroborative (Correct answer)
- Ambiguous
- Contradictory
Correct answer: Corroborative
Corroborative means providing confirmation or support, fitting evidence that points consistently to one suspect.
Question 7: A sequence of shapes is shown. An arrow points upwards, then right, then down. Which shape is next in the sequence?
- An arrow pointing right.
- An arrow pointing down.
- An arrow pointing left. (Correct answer)
- An arrow pointing up.
Correct answer: An arrow pointing left.
The pattern is a simple 90-degree clockwise rotation at each step. Starting upwards, the first rotation points it right, the second points it down. The next 90-degree clockwise rotation will point the arrow to the left.
Question 8: A sequence of shapes is shown: 1. A square. 2. A square with a small circle inside. 3. A square with a small circle and a small triangle inside. Which shape is next in the sequence?
- A square with just a circle.
- A square with a circle, triangle, and cross inside. (Correct answer)
- A square with two circles and a triangle inside.
- An empty square.
Correct answer: A square with a circle, triangle, and cross inside.
This is an additive pattern. In each step, a new, different shape is added inside the main square. The next logical step would be to add a third new shape, such as a small cross, to the existing circle and triangle.
Question 9: Scenario: A witness states, "The blue car definitely ran the red light." How should this be documented in the report?
- The cause of the collision was Vehicle 1 failing to stop at a red light.
- A witness stated that Vehicle 1 proceeded through a red traffic signal. (Correct answer)
- It was confirmed by a witness that the blue car ran the red light.
- A witness accused the driver of Vehicle 1 of breaking the law.
Correct answer: A witness stated that Vehicle 1 proceeded through a red traffic signal.
A witness statement is evidence, but it is not confirmed fact until proven. The report should accurately reflect what was said without presenting it as an undeniable truth. Paraphrasing accurately ('proceeded through a red traffic signal') is a professional way to record this.
Question 10: Scenario: You attend a minor traffic collision. The driver of Vehicle 1, John Smith, is shouting and waving his arms. Which is the most professional way to describe his demeanor in your report?
- Mr. Smith was acting aggressively and was probably at fault.
- The male driver appeared hysterical and irrational.
- The driver, John Smith, spoke in a raised voice and made expansive hand gestures. (Correct answer)
- The driver was clearly very angry and out of control.
Correct answer: The driver, John Smith, spoke in a raised voice and made expansive hand gestures.
Police reports must be objective and factual. Describing specific actions ('spoke in a raised voice', 'made expansive hand gestures') is objective. Using subjective labels like 'angry', 'hysterical', or 'aggressive' introduces opinion and should be avoided.
Question 11: A 2x2 grid is presented. The top-left square contains a circle. The top-right square contains a circle with a horizontal line through it. The bottom-left square contains a square. Following the established pattern, what should the bottom-right square contain?
- A square with a vertical line through it.
- A square with a horizontal line through it. (Correct answer)
- A circle with a vertical line through it.
- A square.
Correct answer: A square with a horizontal line through it.
The pattern demonstrates a relationship across the rows. The shape in the right column is the same as the shape in the left column, but with a horizontal line added through its center. Therefore, the bottom-right square should contain a square with a horizontal line through it.
Question 12: A series of five boxes is presented. In each box, there is a large square. Inside the square, a small black circle moves from one corner to the next in a clockwise direction with each step in the series. Which of the answer choices correctly shows the next step in the sequence?
- A box containing a large square with the black circle in the top-left corner.
- A box containing a large square with the black circle in the bottom-right corner.
- A box containing a large square with the black circle in the top-right corner. (Correct answer)
- A box containing a large square with the black circle in the bottom-left corner.
Correct answer: A box containing a large square with the black circle in the top-right corner.
The pattern shows a small black circle moving clockwise from corner to corner within a square. If the last position shown was the bottom-right corner, the next logical position in the clockwise sequence is the top-right corner.
Question 13: A police vehicle travels at an average speed of 60 km/h to an urgent call 5 km away. How long will it take to arrive?
- 6 minutes
- 12 minutes
- 3 minutes
- 5 minutes (Correct answer)
Correct answer: 5 minutes
Time = Distance / Speed. The distance is 5 km and the speed is 60 km/h. Time = 5/60 hours. To convert this to minutes, multiply by 60. (5/60) * 60 = 5 minutes.
Question 14: Read the following witness statement and answer the question below. **Witness Statement:** "I was sitting in the cafe on the corner of Elm and Oak Street at around 3:00 PM. I saw a blue sedan run the red light and collide with a silver hatchback that was proceeding through the intersection on a green light. The driver of the blue sedan, a young man with blonde hair, got out and started shouting. The driver of the hatchback, an older woman, appeared shaken but uninjured." According to the witness, who was at fault for the collision?
- Both drivers were equally at fault.
- The driver of the blue sedan. (Correct answer)
- The driver of the silver hatchback.
- The statement does not specify who was at fault.
Correct answer: The driver of the blue sedan.
The witness statement clearly indicates that the 'blue sedan run the red light' while the 'silver hatchback was proceeding... on a green light'. Therefore, the driver of the blue sedan is identified as being at fault.
Question 15: Which is the best opening sentence for a police report summary about the traffic collision?
- John Smith and Jane Doe were involved in a car crash on Tuesday afternoon.
- At approximately 14:30 hours on 15/07/2023, I was dispatched to a two-vehicle traffic collision at the intersection of Main St and High St. (Correct answer)
- On the date in question, a blue sedan and a red hatchback collided.
- This report details a traffic accident between two vehicles.
Correct answer: At approximately 14:30 hours on 15/07/2023, I was dispatched to a two-vehicle traffic collision at the intersection of Main St and High St.
A strong opening sentence should be a concise summary of the key facts: who, what, where, and when. This option provides the time, date, nature of the incident, and location, giving the reader immediate context.
Question 16: While off duty, you witness a serious road accident. You are not in uniform and do not have your police radio. What is the MOST appropriate course of action?
- Photograph the scene for evidence and report it the next day
- Stop, call 000, identify yourself as a police officer, and render first aid if safe (Correct answer)
- Drive past as you are off duty and have no equipment to assist
- Observe from a distance and wait for on-duty officers to arrive
Correct answer: Stop, call 000, identify yourself as a police officer, and render first aid if safe
Police officers have a duty of care at all times; calling emergency services and providing assistance when safe is always the appropriate response.
Question 17: Which sentence uses apostrophes correctly?
- Its important to file the report before the end of shift.
- The polices' primary role is to ensure public safety.
- The vehicles' damage was extensive, but it's driver was unharmed.
- The two officers' reports were identical in their details. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: The two officers' reports were identical in their details.
'It's' is a contraction of 'it is'. 'Its' is a possessive pronoun. 'The two officers' reports' is correct because it shows possession for more than one officer (plural possessive). 'Police's' is the correct singular possessive form for the collective noun 'police'.
Question 18: Which sentence is grammatically correct in its use of pronouns?
- Her and the sergeant arrived at the scene simultaneously.
- The supervisor gave the assignment to him and me. (Correct answer)
- The commendation was awarded to my partner and I.
- Us officers have a duty to protect the community.
Correct answer: The supervisor gave the assignment to him and me.
Pronouns that are the object of a verb or preposition should be in the objective case (me, him, her, us, them). In option C, 'him' and 'me' are the objects of the preposition 'to', which is correct. In option A, it should be 'my partner and me'. In option B, it should be 'She and the sergeant'.
Question 19: The table shows police response times for Priority 2 calls on a single day. What was the average response time in minutes? **Table Data (in minutes):** - Call 1: 12 - Call 2: 15 - Call 3: 9 - Call 4: 10
- 11.5 minutes (Correct answer)
- 12 minutes
- 10.5 minutes
- 46 minutes
Correct answer: 11.5 minutes
To find the average, you sum the values and divide by the number of values. The sum is 12 + 15 + 9 + 10 = 46. The number of calls is 4. Therefore, the average is 46 / 4 = 11.5 minutes.
Question 20: A police officer is writing a report about a traffic incident. The report must be objective and factual. Which of the following sentences is the MOST appropriate for the officer to include in the report?
- It appeared that the blue car was trying to get away from the other vehicle.
- The driver of the red car stated that he was angry at the other driver.
- The driver of the red car was clearly reckless and seemed to be in a hurry.
- The red car, travelling at an estimated 80 km/h in a 60 km/h zone, collided with the front passenger side of the blue car. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: The red car, travelling at an estimated 80 km/h in a 60 km/h zone, collided with the front passenger side of the blue car.
This statement provides specific, observable facts (speed estimate, location of impact) without making assumptions about the driver's emotional state or intentions, which would be subjective.
Question 21: Which tool can help candidates improve their time management during the test?
- Timed practice tests (Correct answer)
- Study calendars
- Alarm clocks
- Peer group discussions
Correct answer: Timed practice tests
Timed practice tests are an invaluable tool for improving time management during the actual assessment. By regularly completing practice tests under timed conditions, candidates learn to pace themselves, identify questions that take too long, and develop strategies for efficient completion. This practice helps reduce anxiety and ensures they can attempt all questions within the allocated time, maximizing their potential score.
Question 22: What is the minimum character requirement for applicants?
- Good character with no criminal convictions (Correct answer)
- Limited traffic violations allowed
- No character check required
- Minor offenses are acceptable
Correct answer: Good character with no criminal convictions
The Queensland Police Service requires applicants to demonstrate good character and have no criminal convictions. This stringent requirement is fundamental for maintaining public trust and the integrity of the police force. It ensures that officers uphold the law and serve as exemplary members of the community, free from past conduct that could compromise their credibility or ability to perform their duties.
Question 23: What is a reliable resource for learning about test format and question types?
- Official Queensland Police Service website (Correct answer)
- Social media groups
- Unofficial blogs
- General online forums
Correct answer: Official Queensland Police Service website
The official Queensland Police Service website is the most reliable resource for learning about the test format and question types. It provides accurate and up-to-date information directly from the source, ensuring candidates receive correct details about the assessment structure, content, and expectations. Relying on official information prevents misinformation and helps candidates prepare effectively for the specific requirements of the QPSea.
Question 24: Scenario: The driver of Vehicle 2, Jane Doe, refuses to provide her driver's license when you request it. How should you document this?
- The driver had a bad attitude and wouldn't show me her license.
- Jane Doe illegally refused to provide her identification.
- Ms. Doe was being difficult and uncooperative.
- When requested, Jane Doe failed to produce her driver's license for inspection. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: When requested, Jane Doe failed to produce her driver's license for inspection.
The most professional and objective way to report this is to state the facts of the event. 'Failed to produce' is neutral, factual language that describes the action (or lack thereof) without adding subjective or emotional commentary like 'uncooperative' or 'bad attitude'.
Question 25: A sequence of shapes is shown: 1. A white circle. 2. A black circle. 3. A white circle. 4. A black circle. What is the next shape in the sequence?
- A white square.
- A black square.
- A black circle.
- A white circle. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: A white circle.
This is a simple alternating pattern. The color of the circle switches between white and black with each step. Since the last shape was a black circle, the next one must be a white circle to continue the pattern.
Question 26: What is the meaning of the prefix 'mis-' in the word 'misconduct'?
- Again
- After
- Wrongly or badly (Correct answer)
- Before
Correct answer: Wrongly or badly
The prefix 'mis-' means wrongly or badly, so misconduct means bad behaviour.
Question 27: Shapes grow by adding one side per step: triangle, square, pentagon, hexagon. Which rule also describes the number of diagonals in each successive shape?
- Diagonals stay the same
- Diagonals increase by 1, then 2, then 3 (Correct answer)
- Diagonals decrease
- Diagonals double each step
Correct answer: Diagonals increase by 1, then 2, then 3
A triangle has 0, square 2, pentagon 5, hexagon 9 diagonals — differences are 2, 3, 4, showing the increment itself increases by 1 each time.
Question 28: A sequence of shapes is shown. The first shape is the letter 'F'. The second shape is a horizontally mirrored 'F'. The third shape is the letter 'F' again. What is the next shape in the sequence?
- The letter 'F' rotated 90 degrees.
- The letter 'F' mirrored horizontally. (Correct answer)
- The letter 'F' upside down.
- The letter 'F'.
Correct answer: The letter 'F' mirrored horizontally.
The pattern alternates between the original shape and its horizontal mirror image. Since the third shape is the original 'F', the fourth shape must be its mirror image to maintain the alternating sequence.
Question 29: Scenario: It is raining lightly at the collision scene. Which statement is most appropriate for the report?
- Weather conditions at the scene were overcast with light rain, and the road surface was wet. (Correct answer)
- The weather was miserable, which made conditions dangerous.
- It was raining at the time of the incident.
- The collision was likely caused by the poor weather.
Correct answer: Weather conditions at the scene were overcast with light rain, and the road surface was wet.
The report should include relevant conditions that might have contributed to the incident. The best answer is factual, precise, and notes the effect of the weather (wet road surface) without drawing conclusions about causation.
Question 30: If 3 officers can process 36 statements in 4 hours, how many statements can 6 officers process in the same time?
- 66
- 72 (Correct answer)
- 60
- 54
Correct answer: 72
Doubling the officers doubles the output from 36 to 72 statements in 4 hours.
Question 31: The bar chart shows the number of noise complaints by day of the week. What is the total number of complaints for the weekend (Saturday and Sunday)? **Chart Data:** - Mon: 10 - Tue: 8 - Wed: 12 - Thu: 15 - Fri: 30 - Sat: 45 - Sun: 35
- 75
- 80 (Correct answer)
- 65
- 155
Correct answer: 80
To find the total for the weekend, you need to add the number of complaints for Saturday and Sunday. According to the data, this is 45 (Saturday) + 35 (Sunday) = 80.
Question 32: You are writing your first use-of-force report and are unsure of how to accurately describe the events. A more experienced officer offers to write it for you. What should you do?
- Accept the offer as the experienced officer knows the correct format
- Ask the officer to review your draft once you have written it
- Decline and write the report yourself, seeking guidance on format if needed (Correct answer)
- Submit the report jointly with the other officer
Correct answer: Decline and write the report yourself, seeking guidance on format if needed
Use-of-force reports must be completed by the officer involved to ensure accuracy and personal accountability.
Question 33: Which citizenship status is required for eligibility?
- Australian citizenship or permanent residency (Correct answer)
- Temporary work visa
- Student visa
- Tourist visa
Correct answer: Australian citizenship or permanent residency
To be eligible for the Queensland Police Service, applicants must hold Australian citizenship or permanent residency. This requirement ensures that officers have a long-term commitment to Australia and are fully integrated into the community they serve. It also addresses security and legal considerations associated with holding a position of significant public trust and authority.
Question 34: When reviewing a draft of an official police statement for public release, which of the following is the MOST important element to check for?
- Length and entertainment value.
- Use of complex legal terminology.
- Inclusion of officers' personal opinions.
- Clarity, accuracy, and appropriate language. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Clarity, accuracy, and appropriate language.
Official statements must be easily understood by the public (clarity), factually correct (accuracy), and use professional and respectful language (appropriate language). The other options are either incorrect or secondary to these core requirements.
Question 35: You witness a colleague being unnecessarily rude to a member of the public. What is the best initial response?
- Ignore it, as it is not your place to correct another officer.
- Immediately interrupt and apologize to the member of the public on your colleague's behalf.
- Wait until the interaction is over, then speak to your colleague privately about their conduct. (Correct answer)
- Immediately report your colleague to your supervisor without speaking to them first.
Correct answer: Wait until the interaction is over, then speak to your colleague privately about their conduct.
This situation requires balancing professionalism with respect for your colleague. Intervening publicly can undermine your colleague, while ignoring it fails to uphold standards. The best approach is to address the issue privately and constructively with the colleague first.
Question 36: Read the following passage and answer the question below. 'Police officers are often required to de-escalate volatile situations. This involves using communication skills to calm individuals and prevent conflicts from becoming violent. A key technique is active listening, where the officer pays full attention to what is being said, both verbally and non-verbally, before responding. Empathy, or the ability to understand and share the feelings of another, is also crucial. While tactical knowledge is important, these interpersonal skills are fundamental to modern community policing.' Based on the passage, which of the following is most accurate?
- De-escalation is only necessary when a situation has already become violent.
- Empathy and active listening are vital interpersonal skills for de-escalating situations. (Correct answer)
- Tactical knowledge is considered more important than communication skills in modern policing.
- Active listening primarily involves waiting for a chance to speak.
Correct answer: Empathy and active listening are vital interpersonal skills for de-escalating situations.
The passage explicitly states that empathy and active listening are crucial techniques for de-escalation and that such interpersonal skills are 'fundamental to modern community policing'.
Question 37: In a grid, each row contains a large shape, a medium shape, and a small shape. Each column contains a circle, a square, and a triangle. The bottom-right cell has a large circle and medium triangle. What shape is missing in the top-right cell?
- Small square (Correct answer)
- Small triangle
- Small circle
- Medium square
Correct answer: Small square
The top-right cell must be small (to complete large/medium/small in that column) and a square (to complete circle/square/triangle in that row).
Question 38: What does the Illinois Agility Run primarily assess in the context of the QPS physical fitness requirements?
- Upper body strength
- Grip and hand strength
- Agility and change of direction speed (Correct answer)
- Cardiovascular endurance
Correct answer: Agility and change of direction speed
The Illinois Agility Run measures a candidate's ability to change direction quickly, which is directly relevant to police operational duties.
Question 39: Which sentence contains a dangling modifier?
- The officer, running toward the scene, spotted the suspect.
- Running toward the scene, the suspect was spotted. (Correct answer)
- After running toward the scene, the officer spotted the suspect.
- Running toward the scene, the officer spotted the suspect.
Correct answer: Running toward the scene, the suspect was spotted.
In option B, the modifier 'running toward the scene' incorrectly implies the suspect was running.
Question 40: Read the passage: 'The constable's report was thorough, detailing every witness account without omission.' What does 'omission' mean?
- Exaggeration
- Something left out (Correct answer)
- Addition
- Error
Correct answer: Something left out
An omission is something that has been left out or excluded.
Question 41: Observe the sequence: The first figure is a single arrow pointing up. The second figure shows the same arrow, with a second arrow added, pointing right. The third figure adds another arrow pointing down. What is the logical next figure in this sequence?
- The previous figure with the first arrow removed.
- The previous figure with an added arrow pointing up.
- The previous figure with an added arrow pointing left. (Correct answer)
- A single arrow pointing left.
Correct answer: The previous figure with an added arrow pointing left.
The sequence adds an arrow in a clockwise direction with each step: Up, Right, Down. The next logical direction for a new arrow to be added is Left, completing the clockwise rotation.
Question 42: A series of figures shows a clock face. The first figure shows the time 3:00. The second figure shows 3:15. The third figure shows 3:30. What time should the fourth figure in the sequence show?
- 3:45 (Correct answer)
- 4:15
- 4:00
- 3:00
Correct answer: 3:45
The pattern shows the time on the clock advancing by 15-minute increments with each step in the series. Starting from 3:00, the sequence is 3:15, then 3:30. The next 15-minute increment would be 3:45.
Question 43: In a set of five shapes, four follow a specific rule, and one does not. The shapes are: A) A shaded circle. B) A shaded square. C) An unshaded triangle. D) A shaded pentagon. E) A shaded hexagon. Which shape is the odd one out?
- A shaded circle
- An unshaded triangle (Correct answer)
- A shaded pentagon
- A shaded square
Correct answer: An unshaded triangle
The common characteristic among four of the five shapes is that they are shaded. The triangle is the only figure that is unshaded, making it the one that does not fit the rule.
Question 44: Read the passage: 'Officers must exercise discretion when deciding whether to caution or charge a suspect.' What does 'discretion' mean here?
- Speed
- Careful judgment (Correct answer)
- Official policy
- Physical force
Correct answer: Careful judgment
Discretion in this context means the freedom to decide wisely based on the situation.
Question 45: A matrix shows 3 rows and 3 columns. Each row has exactly one black cell, one grey cell, and one white cell. Each column also has exactly one of each shade. The top-left is black, top-middle is grey, middle-left is white. What shade is the bottom-right cell?
- Grey (Correct answer)
- White
- Black
- Cannot be determined
Correct answer: Grey
Column 3 needs black and grey (white is at middle-right); row 3 needs black and grey; the intersection must satisfy both — the bottom-right is grey.
Question 46: How long does it usually take to receive the test results?
- 1 week
- 2-3 weeks (Correct answer)
- 1 month
- 1-2 days
Correct answer: 2-3 weeks
It usually takes approximately 2-3 weeks to receive the test results after completing the Queensland Police Service Entrance Assessment. This timeframe allows for thorough processing, scoring, and verification of all test components. Candidates should anticipate this waiting period and avoid contacting the service prematurely regarding their results.
Question 47: A sequence of shapes is shown. 1. A pentagon (5 sides). 2. A square (4 sides). 3. A triangle (3 sides). What is the next shape in the sequence?
- A circle
- A triangle
- A hexagon
- A line (Correct answer)
Correct answer: A line
The pattern involves a shape with one fewer side at each step. It starts with a pentagon (5 sides), moves to a square (4 sides), then a triangle (3 sides). The next logical shape in this descending sequence would have 2 sides, which is a line.
Question 48: Consider a 3x3 grid with shapes in each cell except for the bottom right. In the top row, there is a circle, a square, and a triangle. In the middle row, there is a square, a triangle, and a circle. In the bottom row, there is a triangle, a circle, and a blank space. What shape should be in the blank space?
- A triangle
- A square (Correct answer)
- A diamond
- A circle
Correct answer: A square
The pattern follows a Sudoku-like logic where each row and each column must contain one of each shape (circle, square, triangle). The bottom row already has a triangle and a circle, so it is missing a square. The rightmost column has a triangle and a circle, so it is also missing a square.
Question 49: A police officer works 8-hour shifts and patrols 12 km per shift. How many kilometers does the officer patrol in a 5-day work week?
- 96 km
- 72 km
- 48 km
- 60 km (Correct answer)
Correct answer: 60 km
Multiplying 12 km per shift by 5 shifts gives 60 km total for the week.
Question 50: A sequence shows: Circle with 1 dot, Square with 2 dots, Triangle with 3 dots, Circle with 4 dots. What comes next?
- Circle with 5 dots
- Square with 5 dots (Correct answer)
- Square with 4 dots
- Triangle with 5 dots
Correct answer: Square with 5 dots
The shapes cycle Circle→Square→Triangle and dots increase by 1 each step, so the next is a Square with 5 dots.
Question 51: Each figure in a series is rotated 45° clockwise from the previous. If the first figure is an arrow pointing up, what direction does the fifth figure point?
- Right
- Up (Correct answer)
- Up-right
- Down-right
Correct answer: Up
Four rotations of 45° total 180°, but an eighth rotation returns to start; the fifth figure (4×45°=180°) points down — wait: 0°→45°→90°→135°→180° so the fifth points down.
Question 52: A sequence shows a black dot moving between the four corners of a square. It starts in the top-left, moves to the top-right, then to the bottom-right. Where will the dot be in the next shape?
- In the top-left corner.
- In the top-right corner.
- In the center of the square.
- In the bottom-left corner. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: In the bottom-left corner.
The dot is moving one corner at a time in a clockwise direction around the square. From the top-left, it moves to the top-right, then the bottom-right. The next logical position in this clockwise movement is the bottom-left corner.
Question 53: An officer earns $1,250 per week. After a 4% pay rise, what is the new weekly wage?
- $1,300 (Correct answer)
- $1,310
- $1,290
- $1,295
Correct answer: $1,300
4% of $1,250 is $50, so the new wage is $1,250 + $50 = $1,300.
Question 54: Which of the following statements is INAPPROPRIATE for a police report because it is based on opinion rather than fact?
- The driver of Vehicle 2 was obviously lying about her speed. (Correct answer)
- A road-side breath test was administered to both drivers.
- I observed a strong smell of alcohol on the driver's breath.
- The driver of Vehicle 1 stated he was not injured.
Correct answer: The driver of Vehicle 2 was obviously lying about her speed.
Police reports must be based on observable facts and direct statements. Stating that someone is 'obviously lying' is a conclusion and an opinion, not an observation. An officer should report on the person's statements and any conflicting evidence, but not on their perceived truthfulness.
Question 55: Read the following shift briefing summary and answer the question below. **Shift Briefing:** "Good morning team. Overnight, there were three break-ins reported in the industrial area on Production Avenue. We have intelligence suggesting the same crew may target the area again tonight. Therefore, the primary focus for this shift will be high-visibility patrols in and around Production Avenue. All other calls are to be considered secondary unless they are Priority 1 emergencies." What is the highest priority task for the upcoming shift?
- Responding to all calls with equal priority.
- Investigating the break-ins from the previous night.
- Setting up a stationary roadblock on Production Avenue.
- Conducting patrols in the Production Avenue industrial area. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Conducting patrols in the Production Avenue industrial area.
The briefing explicitly states that 'the primary focus for this shift will be high-visibility patrols in and around Production Avenue'. This task is prioritised over all other calls except for the most urgent emergencies.
Question 56: In a series, each figure contains a smaller version of itself inside. The outer shape shrinks by half each step and rotates 90°. If step 1 is a large upright square containing a smaller upright square, what does step 3 look like?
- A small square upright inside a medium square upright
- A medium square rotated 180° inside a large square rotated 90°
- A small square rotated 180° inside a medium square rotated 90° (Correct answer)
- A large upright square with no inner shape
Correct answer: A small square rotated 180° inside a medium square rotated 90°
By step 3, the outer square is medium and rotated 90°, while the inner square is small and rotated 180° (two 90° rotations from the original).
Question 57: Read the following text about a police operation and answer the question below. **Operation Summary:** "Operation Guardian was a three-day, high-visibility traffic enforcement initiative targeting speeding and drink driving on major arterial roads. The operation resulted in 150 Traffic Infringement Notices for speeding and 12 arrests for driving under the influence. Public feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many residents noting an increased sense of safety. The operation was deemed a success in achieving its primary objective." What was the main goal of Operation Guardian?
- To test new traffic enforcement equipment.
- To improve public relations with the community.
- To reduce traffic congestion on major roads.
- To target specific traffic offences like speeding and drink driving. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: To target specific traffic offences like speeding and drink driving.
The summary describes the operation as a 'traffic enforcement initiative targeting speeding and drink driving'. This clearly defines its primary objective, which was to focus on these specific traffic offences.
Question 58: What is the best way to prepare for the Abstract Reasoning section?
- Watching tutorial videos
- Practicing speed reading
- Memorizing formulas
- Solving puzzles and pattern games (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Solving puzzles and pattern games
Solving puzzles and pattern games is the best way to prepare for the Abstract Reasoning section because these activities directly train the brain to identify sequences, relationships, and logical rules in non-verbal information. Regular engagement with such exercises enhances visual perception, critical thinking, and the ability to deduce patterns quickly and accurately. This practice is crucial for improving performance in a test that relies heavily on conceptual understanding rather than learned knowledge.
Question 59: A person description includes: female, early 30s, 165 cm tall, shoulder-length brown hair, wearing a green hoodie, grey tracksuit pants, and carrying a black backpack. If you are asked to recall her hair colour, which detail is correct?
- Red
- Brown (Correct answer)
- Blonde
- Black
Correct answer: Brown
The description clearly states shoulder-length brown hair.
Question 60: A pattern alternates: shaded pentagon, unshaded hexagon, shaded pentagon, unshaded hexagon. The number of sides increases by 1 each pair. Which figure follows a shaded heptagon?
- Shaded hexagon
- Unshaded heptagon
- Unshaded octagon (Correct answer)
- Shaded octagon
Correct answer: Unshaded octagon
After a shaded heptagon (7 sides), the pattern requires an unshaded shape with 8 sides (octagon).
QPSea Exam
The Queensland Police Service Entrance Assessment (QPSea) evaluates literacy, abstract reasoning, and writing skills for candidates seeking to join the Queensland Police Service.
Exam Rules
- You can skip questions and return to them later
- Flag questions for review before submitting
- No feedback shown until you submit the entire exam
- Unanswered questions count as wrong — answer everything
- 10 pretest questions are mixed in and don't affect your score
- Timer auto-submits when time runs out
- Your progress is auto-saved every 30 seconds
These practice questions were written with AI tools. They are not real exam questions. Exam facts are checked against the official sources listed below. Not reviewed by a subject-matter expert. Editorial policy
Sources & references
Exam facts on this page (fees, format, dates, passing scores) are checked against these official sources; the date is our last check. Editorial policy
- policerecruit.qld.gov.au — Eligibility, registration deadline, retake policy · verified Oct 2026
- qps.acer.org — Passing score, score release, score validity, test delivery, fees, retake fee · verified Oct 2026