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-ASVAB | Paper ASVAB |
|---|---|---|
| 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) flexible 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 Calculation
VE = WK + PC
AFQT = 2VE + AR + MK
Because VE is doubled, WK effectively contributes to about 25% of the AFQT score directly and has more weight than AR or MK individually.
WK in Line Scores
WK contributes to VE, which is used in many line scores:
| Composite | Uses VE (WK + PC)? |
|---|---|
| GT (General Technical) | Yes |
| CL (Clerical) | Yes |
| OF (Operators/Food) | Yes |
| SC (Skilled Technical) | Yes |
| ST (Surveillance/Comm) | Yes |
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 | Study commonly tested ASVAB vocabulary |
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 |
Study This Term In
Related Terms
Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT)
The AFQT is the most important ASVAB score, calculated from four subtests using the formula AFQT = 2VE + AR + MK. It is reported as a percentile (1-99) and determines eligibility for military enlistment across all branches.
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 combined ASVAB score calculated by adding Word Knowledge (WK) and Paragraph Comprehension (PC) standard scores. VE is doubled in the AFQT formula, making it the most heavily weighted component for military enlistment eligibility.
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