UCAT QR Estimation Trainer
Practise controlled estimation and answer elimination.
Written and reviewed by Dr Akash Gandhi, NHS GP (GMC 7601216) and founder of TheUKCATPeople, teaching the UCAT since 2012. Last reviewed .
Frequently asked questions
What does the UCAT QR Estimation Trainer practise?
It practises controlled estimation. For each calculation you choose the range the answer must fall in and the fastest shortcut that is still reliable, before seeing the exact value. The aim is to know when an approximation is enough to rule out answer options, not to guess.
How is the Estimation Trainer scored?
Each drill has eight calculations and each has two decisions worth one point: the range and the shortcut. A full drill is out of 16. After you check each one you see the exact answer and an explanation of why the shortcut works.
When should I estimate instead of calculating exactly in the UCAT?
Estimate when the answer options are far enough apart that a rounded calculation can only match one of them, or when you need to eliminate options quickly. Calculate exactly when options are close together. Practising the range decision helps you judge how precise you need to be before you pick up the calculator.
What happens when I get an estimate wrong?
You can record the main cause, such as rushing or choosing the wrong method. Any calculation you do not get fully right is scheduled for review a day later. When calculations are waiting, a Review mistakes button appears on the results screen and starts a drill of those calculations, due ones first. To clear a calculation you need two fully correct answers at least three days apart. A correct answer in Review mistakes counts as the first of these even if the calculation is not yet due, and the second must come at least three days later, so answering twice in one sitting will not clear it. A wrong answer starts the count again. In normal drills, new calculations are chosen before repeats.
Is my Estimation Trainer progress saved?
Yes. Each checked calculation is saved, and each drill is saved as a session with its score and time, even if you stop part way through. Signed in, it appears on your Dashboard under Quantitative Reasoning. As a guest it stays on this device until you sign in.