The Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) Concepts assessment is designed to measure the knowledge and skills of entry-level to mid-level information technology professionals in the underlying concepts, design principles, and commonly encountered implementation features of RAG systems that combine document retrieval with large language model access to build effective business applications. The test evaluates a broad range of knowledge areas including RAG Architecture and Pipeline, Vector Embeddings and Similarity Search, Vector Databases and Indexing, Chunking Strategies, Prompt Construction with Retrieved Context, and RAG Limitations and Quality Improvement Techniques. It assesses candidates' understanding of how retrieval and generation components interact, how text is converted into vector representations for similarity search, how documents are chunked and indexed, how retrieved context is incorporated into prompts, and how to recognize and address limitations such as hallucinations and context window constraints. The assessment uses a variety of question formats — including Multiple Choice, Multiple Correct Answer, and Essay Composition questions — drawn from a large pool to help prevent cheating, with one or more questions featuring time limits to further deter dishonesty and improve predictive performance, and one or more questions scored with the assistance of artificial intelligence.

The specific attributes measured include:

Following completion, the test produces a Candidate Selection Report that includes an overall score and detailed scores for each attribute.

The Candidate Selection Report also provides expert interview questions that help you probe critical or low-scoring areas, along with a guide for noting your evaluation of the candidate's responses. Consistent use of an interview guide is an important part of gaining better candidate insights and making better hiring decisions.

Note that while the Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) Concepts assessment is a useful and efficient instrument for confirming a base level of skill or knowledge about this important topic, it is not intended to pinpoint the exact level of candidate or skill. We recommend that skills tests, like this one, be used in parallel with other measurements, such as cognitive ability, job fit, and behavioral history. Each different type of test provides a valuable piece of information you can use when evaluating potential job performance.