What is ASVAB Word Knowledge?
The Word Knowledge (WK) section of the ASVAB is one of the most important subtests you'll encounter on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery.Tests vocabulary and the ability to understand word meanings. This section consists of 16 questions that you must complete in 8 minutes, giving you approximately 30 seconds per question.
The WK section directly contributes to your Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT) score, which determines your eligibility to enlist in any branch of the U.S. military. A strong score here can significantly boost your overall AFQT score and open doors to more Military Occupational Specialties (MOS).
Topics Covered in Word Knowledge
To succeed on the WK section, you'll need to master these key topics:
- synonyms
- antonyms
- context clues
- word roots
- prefixes/suffixes
Study Tips for Word Knowledge
These proven strategies will help you improve your WK score:
- 1Look for context clues
- 2Break words into roots and affixes
- 3Eliminate obviously wrong answers
- 4Read widely to build vocabulary
- 5Make flashcards for unfamiliar words
How to Practice for Word Knowledge
Consistent practice is the key to improving your WK score. ASVAB Mastery offers hundreds of practice questions specifically designed for the Word Knowledgesection. Our adaptive learning system identifies your weak areas and focuses your study time where it matters most. With detailed explanations for every question, you'll understand not just the correct answer, but why it's correct.
Many test-takers improve their scores by 15-20 points after just two weeks of dedicated practice. Start with our free practice questions and track your progress as you work toward your goal score.