Do you feel like the ASVAB Word Knowledge subtest is a game of chance? Almost like you have to get lucky with the words you get on the test?
The truth is that there's more to it! You can pass the Word Knowledge test by using the strategies we outline in this study guide!
Preparing doesn't mean knowing the exact words that will be on the ASVAB or memorizing an ASVAB word knowledge list. It's about knowing how the test is built.
We're going to cover:
- Video: Word Knowledge Strategy
- How Many Word Knowledge Questions are on the ASVAB?
- How to Study for the ASVAB Word Knowledge Subtest
- Words to Study for the ASVAB
- ASVAB Prefixes and Suffixes
- Study Tips
Watch: ASVAB Word Knowledge Strategy
Watch the Word Knowledge Strategy Video
Strategy video by Duran Learning. Click here to open Duran Learning's ASVAB YouTube Channel
How Many Word Knowledge Questions are on the ASVAB?
There are 16 questions on the Word Knowledge section.
Here's what matters though. You only have 8 minutes to complete all 16 questions. Do the math, and that's just 30 seconds per question.
No worries though! Using the following strategies, you'll have more than enough time to complete all 16 questions.
How to Study for the ASVAB Word Knowledge Subtest
Three Steps to Learning Any New Word:
- Definition - Can I define it?
- Synonyms - Do I know any other words that mean the same thing?
- Sentences - Can I use it in MULTIPLE sentences?
When it comes to learning new words, a lot of people try to memorize a list of common ASVAB words and their definitions but don't really understand what those words mean. That's because if you are not actually using the words that you want to learn, you probably won't remember them after a couple of days.
Following this strategy will help you avoid memorizing and forgetting words you want to know for the test.
Of course, when it comes to actually taking the Word Knowledge subtest, you are most likely not going to know all the words you encounter. That's ok!
This is where guessing strategies come in and you'll have to recognize prefixes and suffixes. Check out the section on ASVAB Prefixes and Suffixes below.
Words to Study for the ASVAB
Two words: COMMON WORDS
The best practice words are common words. What are common words?
Common words are not words that "everybody should know." Instead, the common words you'll want to use for your ASVAB word knowledge practice are common words in everyday English culture.
They are words that sound familiar as you may have heard them while watching the news or reading a book, but you may not actually be able to define that word or use it in your own sentence.
Those are the types of words you should be focusing on: common words.
Recommended App for Extra Practice
Vocabulary Builder by Magoosh - Available in the App Store and Google Play Store
This free app provides excellent vocabulary practice with words that commonly appear on standardized tests.
ASVAB Prefixes and Suffixes
When you encounter an unfamiliar word on the test, you can try to "hack" it by recognizing prefixes and suffixes. This strategy helps you make educated guesses even when you don't know the exact word.
Common Prefixes
| Prefix | Meaning | Example |
| un- | not | unhappy, unclear |
| re- | again | redo, rebuild |
| pre- | before | preview, prepay |
| dis- | not, opposite | disagree, disappear |
| mis- | wrong | mistake, misunderstand |
| anti- | against | antisocial, antibody |
| sub- | under | submarine, subway |
| super- | above, beyond | superhuman, supernatural |
Common Suffixes
| Suffix | Meaning | Example |
| -able/-ible | capable of | readable, visible |
| -ful | full of | helpful, beautiful |
| -less | without | helpless, careless |
| -ness | state of being | happiness, darkness |
| -ment | action or result | movement, payment |
| -tion/-sion | act or state | action, decision |
| -ly | in what manner | quickly, happily |
| -er/-or | one who | teacher, actor |
Study Tips for Word Knowledge
Tip #1: Focus on Common Words
Don't waste time memorizing obscure vocabulary. Focus on words you've heard before but can't precisely define.
Tip #2: Use the 3-Step Method
For every new word: define it, list synonyms, and use it in multiple sentences. This builds real understanding, not just memorization.
Tip #3: Learn Prefixes and Suffixes
When you encounter unfamiliar words on the test, break them down into parts. The prefix or suffix often gives clues to the meaning.
Tip #4: Read More
Reading books, news articles, and other materials exposes you to vocabulary in context. This natural exposure helps words stick better than flashcards alone.
Tip #5: Practice Under Time Pressure
With only 30 seconds per question, you need to work quickly. Practice with timed tests to build speed and confidence.
Conclusion
That's the complete guide to studying vocabulary for the Word Knowledge test.
For every word that you come across while you study, make sure to:
- Define it
- List synonyms
- Use it in multiple sentences
This will help you remember new words by actually understanding them and not just "memorizing and hoping for the best."
And for words that are unfamiliar while you're taking the Word Knowledge subtest, you can try to hack them by recognizing prefixes and suffixes.
For more ASVAB knowledge and test-taking tips, check out our other blog posts!
