Word Knowledge (WK)
Word Knowledge is an ASVAB subtest that tests vocabulary skills, including identifying synonyms and understanding word meanings. Combined with Paragraph Comprehension, it forms the Verbal Expression (VE) score, which is doubled in the AFQT formula.
Exam Tip
WK tests vocabulary (synonyms and definitions). Combined with PC to form VE, which is DOUBLED in AFQT. Study root words, prefixes, and suffixes to decode unfamiliar words. Read widely to build vocabulary.
What is the Word Knowledge Subtest?
Word Knowledge (WK) is an ASVAB subtest that measures your vocabulary and ability to understand word meanings. It is one of the four subtests that contribute to the AFQT score, and through the VE composite, it is the most heavily weighted component.
Subtest Details
| Feature | CAT without tryouts | Paper enlistment |
|---|---|---|
| Questions | 15 | 35 |
| Time | 9 minutes | 11 minutes |
| Format | Multiple choice | Multiple choice |
Question Types
| Type | Example |
|---|---|
| Synonym identification | "Resilient most nearly means: A) fragile B) able to recover C) rigid D) heavy" |
| Word in context | "The laconic speaker used few words. Laconic means..." |
| Definition matching | "Which word means 'to make better'?" |
WK in AFQT and line scores
Word Knowledge and Paragraph Comprehension contribute to the scaled Verbal Expression score. VE enters the AFQT composite twice before percentile conversion. VE also contributes to several occupational scores, including Army GT.
Study Strategies
| Strategy | How It Helps |
|---|---|
| Root words | Learn Latin/Greek roots to decode unfamiliar words |
| Prefixes & suffixes | un-, re-, -tion, -able help determine meaning |
| Context clues | Use surrounding words to infer meaning |
| Flashcards | Daily vocabulary building with spaced repetition |
| Wide reading | Encounter new words in natural context |
| Word lists | Practice synonyms and meaning in context |
Common Root Words
| Root | Meaning | Example Words |
|---|---|---|
| bene | good | benefit, benevolent |
| mal | bad | malicious, malfunction |
| spec | look | inspect, spectacle |
| port | carry | transport, portable |
| scrib/script | write | describe, manuscript |
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Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT)
The Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT) is the ASVAB percentile used to assess military enlistment eligibility. It uses four math and verbal subtests.
Paragraph Comprehension (PC)
Paragraph Comprehension is an ASVAB subtest that tests reading comprehension skills, including the ability to identify main ideas, draw conclusions, find specific details, and determine word meaning from context. It is one of the four subtests used in AFQT calculation.
Verbal Expression (VE)
Verbal Expression (VE) is a scaled ASVAB composite based on Word Knowledge and Paragraph Comprehension. It is used for AFQT and some occupational scores.
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