BenchmarkPrep

BenchmarkPrep › FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know before you start or buy: what the tests cover, what they don't, and how everything works.

Updated 6 November 2026

What the tests cover

✓ Included

  • Formulas with cell references, copied down a column
  • Absolute and mixed references ($A$1, $A1, A$1)
  • SUM, AVERAGE, MIN, MAX, COUNT, ROUND
  • IF, nested IF, IFS, AND, OR, IFERROR
  • COUNTIF(S), SUMIF(S), AVERAGEIF(S), including conditions on dates
  • VLOOKUP, XLOOKUP, INDEX + MATCH, approximate-match lookups
  • Text functions: LEFT, MID, RIGHT, TRIM, PROPER, joining text
  • Date functions: YEAR, MONTH, DATEDIF
  • Number formats: currency, percentage, dates
  • Sorting data (keeping rows together)
  • PivotTables: rows, columns and Sum/Count/Average/Max/Min (Analyst & Finance tests)

✕ Not included (yet)

  • Charts
  • Filters and conditional formatting
  • Data validation and drop-down lists
  • Formulas across several sheets
  • Dynamic array functions such as FILTER, UNIQUE and SORT
  • Macros, VBA and Power Query
  • Multiple-choice theory questions

If your job ad mentions charts or conditional formatting, practise those in Excel itself as well. Our tests focus on the formula, data and PivotTable skills that make up most of a hands-on test.

Frequently asked questions

Are these the real tests employers use?

No. They are our own practice tests, written to match the format and skills of the hands-on Excel tests employers commonly use: timed tasks in a spreadsheet, marked on whether your formulas give the right result. We're not affiliated with any test provider.

Do I need Excel installed?

No. Everything runs in your web browser, in a spreadsheet that works like Excel: you type formulas, click cells to add references, copy formulas down and use the usual shortcuts (Ctrl+C, Ctrl+V, Ctrl+D, Ctrl+Z).

Does it work in the same way as real Excel?

For the skills we test, yes: about 90 Excel functions are supported and give the same results as Excel. PivotTables work much like Excel's (pick Rows, Columns and Values). It isn't a full copy of Excel, so things like charts and multiple sheets aren't available (see the list above).

How is my test marked?

Each answer must be a formula that gives the right result. Behind the scenes we also change some of the data and check your formula still works, which is how real tests catch typed-in answers. Format tasks check the number format, and sort tasks check the rows stay together.

What do I see after a test?

Your score, the time you took, and a task-by-task review showing your formula, why an answer was marked wrong, and a model answer for every task.

Can I retake the tests?

Yes, as many times as you like. The free test and every test you've bought can be retaken at any time.

What's in the free test?

Ten tasks covering the core skills (SUM, AVERAGE, ROUND, COUNTIF, IF, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, SUMIFS, absolute references and INDEX + MATCH), plus a bonus PivotTable task, timed at 22 minutes. Start it here, no sign-up needed.

What's the difference between the two packs?

Admin & Office (3 tests) is for administrative, office, data entry and customer service roles: formulas, IF, COUNTIF/SUMIF, VLOOKUP, formatting and sorting. Analyst & Finance (4 tests) is for analyst, finance and accounting roles: nested IFs, SUMIFS with dates, summary tables with mixed references, advanced lookups, data cleaning and PivotTables. The Complete Bundle includes both.

Is it a subscription?

No. Each pack is a one-time payment, and your access doesn't expire.

How do I get access after paying?

You'll get a licence key on the confirmation screen and in your receipt email. Paste it into the box on the All tests page to unlock your tests. The browser remembers it.

Can I use it on more than one device?

Yes. Enter the same licence key on each device you use, up to 5 devices. If you need more, email us and we'll reset it.

Does it work on a phone?

It works, but a laptop or desktop with a mouse is much better, as it will be for your real test.

Is my progress saved?

Yes, in your browser. If you close the tab mid-test, you can resume where you left off (the timer keeps running). Progress isn't synced between devices.

Can I get a refund?

Because you get immediate access to the full tests, we don't refund for change of mind, so please try the free test first. We do refund duplicate charges and faults we can't fix. See our refund policy.

I have another question

Email hello@benchmarkprep.com.