CBAT Table Reading Test (TRT / MATF) Guide | Format, Timing & What to Expect

Table Reading Test

CBAT Table Reading Test (TRT/MATF): What to Expect & How to Prepare

The CBAT Table Reading Test (MATF) assesses your work rate when scanning, cross-referencing, and extracting values from tables accurately under time pressure. It’s a speed-and-accuracy task: quickly locating the right row/column (or the right table) and selecting the correct value without second-guessing.

This page explains what the test is assessing, the types of table lookups you’ll be doing, common mistakes candidates make (like mixing up axes or chasing the wrong table), and includes a short walkthrough so you can recognise the layout and question style before test day.

Table Reading Test Format & Conditions

The Table Reading Test runs for around 10 minutes including instructions and is built around a series of fast, repeatable table questions.

For each question, you’ll be cross-referencing information between what’s shown on screen and what you have in front of you:

Part 1: you’re given two values and must find the matching cell on a large grid by tracing across the correct row and down the correct column.
Part 2: you’ll use multiple tables to identify the correct value when you’re given specific inputs (you may need to choose the correct table first, then cross-reference within it). Some information is presented on the monitor, and some is provided on hand-held cards / a printed sheet.

Your job is to stay methodical: identify the inputs, pick the correct table, then cross-reference cleanly to the final value. The test rewards a consistent rhythm and accuracy while working quickly, not memorisation or complex calculation.

What Candidates Highlight After Taking CBAT

Based on feedback from candidates who passed CBAT, there weren't any real challenges with MATF. Simple advice would be:

Use your fingers to trace the 19x19 table when locating answers. As a whole, you should also utilise your hands for tests where they can be used to visualise/track/cover answers.

Table Recognition Test FAQ

How do I prepare for MATF? The Table Recognition Test is simple data analysis and visual search. Albeit there is little resource to train for this specifically, the Visual Search 2 test within CBAT Ready trains the same core skills due to the large grid images which are shown and must be navigated.