JDF Recruit Assessment key terms

A conclusion drawn from evidence in a passage even though the passage does not state it directly. Readers must combine stated facts with everyday logic to reach it.

The central point a passage is built around, usually stated or implied in a single sentence. Every supporting detail in the text should relate back to it.

An unstated belief an argument relies on for its conclusion to hold. If the assumption is false, the reasoning in the passage collapses.

The claim an argument is trying to establish, supported by the other statements in the passage. It is the point the writer wants the reader to accept.

A stated reason or piece of evidence offered in support of a conclusion. Premises are the starting points an argument uses to build its case.

A short restatement of a text's key points in the reader's own words, leaving out minor detail. A good summary keeps the original meaning without copying wording.

Rewording a passage's content while keeping its meaning intact, often to show understanding. Unlike a summary, it may cover most of the original detail.

A word whose meaning is opposite to another word, such as hot and cold. Antonym questions test whether you can identify contrast in meaning.

A word that has the same or nearly the same meaning as another word, such as begin and start. Synonym questions test vocabulary breadth and precision.

A hint inside a sentence or paragraph that helps a reader work out the meaning of an unfamiliar word. Clues include examples, contrasts, and definitions nearby.

A comparison of two quantities showing how many times one contains the other, written as 3:2 or 3 to 2. Ratios can be scaled up or down without changing the relationship.

An equation stating that two ratios are equal, such as 3:4 = 9:12. Solving a proportion means finding the missing value that keeps both sides balanced.

A fraction expressed as a number out of one hundred, so 25% means 25 per 100. Percentages make it easy to compare parts of different-sized wholes.

The sum of a set of values divided by how many values there are. The mean shifts if one unusually high or low value is added to the set.

The middle value in a set of numbers arranged in order. If the set has an even count, the median is the mean of the two middle values.

The difference between the largest and smallest values in a data set. It gives a quick sense of how spread out the numbers are.

A method for solving equations involving two fractions set equal, multiplying each numerator by the opposite denominator. It converts the proportion into a simple linear equation.

A ratio that compares quantities measured in different units, such as kilometres per hour or cost per litre. Rates describe how one quantity changes with another.

A rigid bar that pivots on a fulcrum to move or lift a load when force is applied. Levers trade distance from the pivot for the effort needed.

The pivot point on which a lever turns. The position of the fulcrum relative to load and effort determines how much force is needed.

The factor by which a machine multiplies the effort force applied to it. It equals the load divided by the effort, or the effort arm divided by the load arm for a lever.

The relationship between the number of teeth on two meshing gears, which sets how speed and turning force trade off. A larger driven gear turns more slowly but with greater torque.

A turning or twisting force produced when a force acts at a distance from a pivot. Increasing the distance from the pivot increases the torque for the same push.

A wheel with a grooved rim over which a rope or belt runs, used to change the direction or size of a force. Multiple pulleys can reduce the effort needed to lift a load.

The amount of force acting on a given area, commonly measured in pascals. For the same force, a smaller contact area produces greater pressure.

A turn of an object around a fixed point or axis, such as a quarter turn clockwise. Describing rotation requires both an angle and a direction.

A mirror-image flip of a shape across a line, producing a reversed but same-sized figure. The line of reflection lies exactly halfway between matching points.

A slide of a shape to a new position without turning or flipping it. Every point moves the same distance in the same direction.

A flat two-dimensional pattern that folds up to form a three-dimensional solid. Matching faces and edges on the net must line up correctly when folded.

A view of an object seen from directly above, showing its layout as if on a map. It is often paired with side and front views to describe a solid.

The set of fundamental principles by which a state is governed, setting out the powers of institutions and the rights of citizens. In Australia it can only be altered by referendum.

A national vote in which citizens decide directly on a proposed change to the constitution. In Australia a referendum requires a double majority to succeed.

The division of government authority among legislative, executive, and judicial branches so that no single body holds all power. Each branch checks the others.

A system in which separate states or territories unite under one central government while keeping some of their own powers. Australia became a federation in 1901.

The ability of the heart and lungs to supply oxygen to working muscles over a sustained period. It is commonly built through running, swimming, and cycling.

Steady activity at a moderate intensity that uses oxygen for energy and can be kept up for many minutes. Examples include jogging and rowing.

The maximum rate at which the body can take in and use oxygen during intense exercise, usually expressed in millilitres per kilogram per minute. Higher values indicate stronger aerobic fitness.

The ability to change direction quickly and accurately while maintaining control and balance. It combines speed, coordination, and reaction time.

The ability of a muscle or group of muscles to keep working against resistance for a long time. It is tested with repeated actions such as push-ups or sit-ups.

The range of movement possible at a joint without discomfort or injury. Regular stretching helps maintain it and supports efficient movement.