Can You Use a Formula Sheet in the Numerical Reasoning Test?
Can you use a formula sheet in the numerical reasoning test? For the Australian selective and scholarship pathways parents ask about most — VIC ACER Quantitative Reasoning / Mathematics, NSW Mathematical Reasoning, and typical EduTest Numerical Reasoning papers — the answer is no. You get working paper (where allowed), not a printed formula booklet.
Victorian ACER selective entry
ACER’s candidate rules prohibit calculators, phones, smart watches, notebooks, and extra paper you bring yourself. There is no official formula sheet handed out for Mathematics or Quantitative Reasoning. Students work from memory and the working space provided in the session. See the ACER exam-day page for the current prohibited-items list, and our VIC format guide.
NSW Selective and OC Mathematical Reasoning
NSW placement tests are calculator-free. The Department provides working paper for calculations; formula sheets are not part of the kit. Calculators and personal notes are on the not-allowed list — see calculator rules and section timings.
EduTest / scholarship sittings
EduTest Numerical Reasoning and Mathematics papers are typically designed without a formula sheet. Venue instructions can vary slightly by school product, so read the candidate letter for that sitting rather than assuming. Context: EduTest practice hub.
How to prepare without a formula sheet
- Memorise core relationships you actually use (area/perimeter, simple algebra rearrangements, percentage–fraction links, speed/rate skeletons) — not an encyclopaedia of unused formulae.
- Practise every mock with scrap paper only, same constraint as test day.
- Prefer reasoning shortcuts and estimation when exact calculation is slow.
- Drill multi-step word problems so translating English into maths is automatic.
Skill guides: numerical reasoning, mathematics prep.
Try timed calculator-free papers
EduSpark numerical and maths papers are calculator-free by design. Start with 1 free paper per subject at free practice papers or browse subjects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use a formula sheet in the numerical reasoning test?▾
No for the main VIC ACER, NSW Mathematical Reasoning, and typical EduTest numerical pathways. Working paper may be provided; a printed formula booklet is not.
Are calculators allowed instead of a formula sheet?▾
No. Calculators are prohibited on NSW placement tests and VIC ACER selective exam day. Prepare calculator-free.
What should students memorise without a formula sheet?▾
Core relationships they actually use — area/perimeter, simple algebra rearrangements, percentage–fraction links, and rate skeletons — practised under time with scrap paper only.
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