How to Prepare for the Uber Excel Analytics Test

SEE ALSO: Uber Excel Analytics Test, Questions and Answers, Uber Interview Class

Uber's job interview process is well-known for testing your math and analytical abilities. It usually includes a 2-hour timed analytics test, which includes 32 questions. Some of them are multiple choice, but the most daunting are two CSV files which require candidates to use and analyze data using Excel. If you're not familiar with Excel, this might not be the right role for you.

To help you succeed, Joe Watabe, the author of How to Ace the Uber Interview and How to Ace the Uber Excel Analytics Test, and I have put together our thoughts on what you can expect for the interview process and some tips in how to prepare.

What to Expect in the Uber Excel Analytics Test

The Uber Excel Analytics test is given to candidates who have applied for the roles of Operations and Logistics, General Manager, Associate General Manager, and the Marketing Manager. Candidates are sent an email and asked to download 2 .CSV files into Microsoft Word and answer a 2-hour timed online test.

There are two sections in the Excel test, the first consists of 28 to 32 multiple choice questions and the second section is short- and long-questions.

Sample questions: multiple choice section

• Between the 1st and the 5th, which date had the most completed trips?
• What hour of the day had the most completed trips on February 11th?
• What hour of the day from the 15 day period in February had the least number of requests?
• What is the weighted average of requests per driver for the 15 day data set?
• Drivers’ schedules are drafted in 4 hour shifts, and Uber wants to change this to 8 hour shifts. Calculate which shift has the highest request for the 15 day data set.
• On which day is the ration the highest for the number of complete trips to requests?

Sample questions: short- and long-question sections

• In a paragraph, explain to someone who is not familiar with the term, what surge-pricing is and the main reasons behind why it’s a good choice for Uber.
• In 3 to 5 sentences, convince a chauffeur driver to switch to become an Uber driver.
• Write a letter to restaurants asking if they would like to join the new UberEATS service starting in San Francisco.
• There is no traditional office or meeting place where all of the Uber drivers go before their shifts. How do you suggest to build community between the drivers?

How to prepare for the Excel analytics test

For the multiple choice section of the Excel analytics test, I recommend:

• Practicing manipulating large data sets in Microsoft Excel
• Practicing using pivot tables, graphs, and charts in Excel
• Answering multi-step questions in a timely manner

For the short- and long-questions of the Excel analytics test, I recommend the following generalized problem-solving questions:

• Take a moment to clarify the situation. You must have courage to ask questions. You do not want to answer questions incorrectly or disadvantage yourself by answering questions without having full information.
• Analyze the root cause of the issue. A powerful technique, pioneered by Sakichi Toyoda, to identify the root cause of an issue is the 5 Whys.
• Brainstorm ideas. Innovation is a volume game. To get one good idea, you increase your chances when you have many to choose from. If you're looking to improve your brainstorm skills, I'd recommend grabbing a copy of Thinkertoys.
• Summarize your recommendation.

For definitional questions, I'd go to Uber's web site for information about products and their business. I'd also consult TechCrunch's Uber articles as well as BusinessInsider's Uber articles.

For communication questions, always keep the following in mind:

• Determine a goal for competitive responses
• Focus on positives of Uber
• Use the Rule of Three

For community outreach questions, you can consider the Rule of Three again. But also keep in mind the focus of your message along with the intended audience.

Lastly, for sign-up questions, briefly explain the new service, describe benefits to the person or company, and provide sign-up details.

SEE ALSO: Uber Excel Analytics Test, Questions and Answers, Uber Interview Class