How to Conquer the SOPD Exam

Are you looking to start a career with a utility company? Then, this is the guide for you.

The SOPD exam sometimes referred to as the relay-tech test,  is a strenuous pre-employment exam required for dozens of positions among utility companies. Unlike many other job assessments, this test focuses on more than logical reasoning and covers math skills and analytical reasoning.

Don’t worry, we have created this guide to give you a leg-up on the competition. Keep reading to learn all about the SOPD exam and the best ways to prepare.

What is the SOPD Exam?

SOPD, or SOPD II, stands for System Operator/ Power Dispatcher. The exam covers skills and traits that are important for someone in important and stressful positions like:

• Dispatcher Clerk
• System Operator
• Dispatcher Specialist
• Substation Operator
• Operator Trainee

The test has been around since the 1980’s and is considered a staple in the power industry, though the content of the test has been altered to keep up with modern practices and standards.

The test comprises multiple sections that cover different areas of knowledge and skill that will help discern the candidate best equipped for a job in the field. The evaluation was created after thorough research by the Edison Electric Institute and has a straightforward scoring system.

How Many Sections are In the SOPD Test?

There are four sections in the SOPD:

1. Analytic Thinking
2. Reading Comprehension
3. Multitasking Evaluation
4. Mathematical Understanding

Analytic Thinking Section

Analytical thinking involves being able to visually extract information to solve complex problems. This testing section has a 45-minute time and 23 questions. In that time, you will be assessed for your ability to think logically and solve problems under pressure.

Reading Comprehension Section

The reading section of the SOPD exam focuses on your skill at comprehending written information and isolating key data from text. You will be given 22 minutes to complete 16 multiple choice questions. 

Multitasking Evaluation Section

The multitasking simulation is a unique evaluation that forces you to complete multiple tasks on a single screen. You may have to complete these tasks simultaneously or quickly one after the other. These tasks range from memorization to visual monitoring or even basic math. You will need to stay focused and pay close attention to complete each task successfully.

Mathematical Understanding Section

Mathematical understanding and usage is an important factor in the EEI industry, so an intense math section of pre-employment testing should be no surprise. You will be given 16 multiple choice questions that evaluate your knowledge and use of mathematical formulas. The math section of the SOPD has a 17-minute time limit.

How is the SOPD Exam Scored?

Once you have completed your exam, each section will be scored individually and then combined together for final scoring. Unlike other exams, the scoring isn’t based on a percentage range of 0-100. Instead, sections are simply marked:

• Recommended
• Acceptable
• Not Recommended

From this list of scores an employer can easily ascertain your skill level and potential. This vague, limited scoring system is one of the reasons it is so important to prepare for the SOPD before attempting the test.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is the test issued on a computer?
    – Yes! The test will be given over a computer, typically at a designated testing location.

2. How many sections are on the test?
     – Four.

3. If I fail, can I retake the test?
     – This is dependent on the company you are applying to. However, most companies will usually not let you retest for at least 90 days.

4. How do I study for the SOPD?
     – Utilize the study materials and practices tests created by JobAssessmentHelp.

5. Can I take the SOPD if I am bad at math?
     – Yes! The subject matter has been deeply researched by the content-curators at JobAssessmentHelp. With the use of our SOPD study guide, you can focus on the math section and prepare yourself for the test and any questions the math section may present.

How to Prepare for the SOPD Exam

To excel at the SOPD you need to lay the groundwork for success through practice and studying. It is important to take a look through the four sections of the exam and locate your weak subjects – these are areas where you will want to spend extra time preparing.

Whether you are practicing a single section or the entire exam, you need to be certain that you are only using the best study materials available. At JobAssessmentHelp we have curated the most in-depth study pack for the SOPD.

Study from our expertly-curated curriculum and test your skills with our multiple practice tests and questions. We have provided everything you could possibly need to gain the knowledge and confidence to breeze through your SOPD test.