Postal 710 Exam - Clerical Abilities - Data Conversion Operator
Position Description
The role of a Data Conversion Operator (DCO) is to prepare mail for automated sorting equipment. Typically, Data Conversion Operators will use a computer terminal to type in address information that they obtain from typed or handwritten mail. The information is used to create an address bar code that can be applied to the letter to allow for automated sorting. Most DCOs will begin as temporary employees at large postal facilities. Sometimes these positions will lead to full-time career positions. Data Conversion Operators are required to pass the Postal Exam 710 (Clerical Abilities Test).
Data Conversion Operators must have experience in typing and data entry. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate their ability to type a required number of words/numbers per minute in a timed performance test.
Postal Exam 710
The Postal Exam 710 will test you on both clerical abilities and verbal abilities. Passing your postal exam is only one step you need to take you get your local post office job. You can prepare for your postal exam by taking some free postal exam questions.
Clerical Abilities
The clerical abilities portion of Postal Exam 710 will have four timed sections for: sequencing, comparison, spelling and mathematics.
The sequencing portion of Postal Exam 710 will present you with a list of four names/codes. You will then be asked to determine where a fifth name/code belongs in the list. The time constraints imposed in this section are what make this part challenging.
The comparison portion of Postal Exam 710 presents you with three names/address/codes and asks you whether they are: all identical, all different, first and second are identical, first and third are identical, or second and third are identical.
In the spelling portion of Postal Exam 710, you will be asked to identify the best way to spell a given word from among three choices (or to choose that none of the choices are correct).
The mathematics portion of Postal Exam 710 will present you with standard addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division problems. No calculators are allowed to be used, and you will be dealing with fractions, decimals and percentages.
Verbal Abilities
The verbal abilities portion of Postal Exam 710 will present questions on: following written instructions, grammar, and vocabulary/reading comprehension.
The Following Written Instructions portion of Postal Exam 710 will assess your ability to understand and carry out written instructions. The written instructions are intended to be similar to what you may encounter on the job.
The grammar, usage and punctuation portion of Postal Exam 710 will present you questions that have four similar sentences. You are then required to choose the sentence that has the most appropriate grammar, usage and punctuation.
The vocabulary and reading comprehension section of Postal Exam 710 will test your knowledge of vocabulary and how well you understand written passages.
