Optiver's Trading OA is fundamentally different from their SWE assessment — it tests mental math speed, probabilistic reasoning, and market making intuition rather than coding ability. This guide covers the assessment structure and preparation strategies.
Assessment Structure
| Module | Content | Duration | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mental Math | Fast arithmetic operations | 8 min | High |
| Numerical Reasoning | Data/chart analysis | 20 min | Medium |
| Probability Reasoning | Expected value & probability | 25 min | High |
| Market Making Sim | Quoting strategy game | 15 min | High |
| Personality Test | Behavioral assessment | 15 min | Low |
Module 1: Mental Math
What's Tested
Complete many calculations in very short time:
- Two-digit multiplication:
67 × 43 = ? - Fraction comparison:
7/13 vs 11/19 - Percentage calculation:
17% of 847 = ? - Chain operations:
23 + 47 - 18 × 2 = ?
Speed Techniques
1. Multiplication shortcuts
- Near-integer method: 67 × 43 = 67 × 40 + 67 × 3 = 2881
- Cross multiplication for two-digit numbers
2. Fraction comparison
- Cross multiply: 7/13 vs 11/19 → 133 vs 143 → latter is larger
3. Percentage shortcuts
- 10% base method: 847 × 17% ≈ 84.7 + 59.3 = 144.0
Module 2: Probability Reasoning
Example 1: Combinatorics
Bag with 5 red and 3 blue balls. Draw 3 without replacement. P(exactly 2 red, 1 blue)?
P = C(5,2) × C(3,1) / C(8,3) = 30/56 = 15/28 ≈ 0.536
Example 2: Expected Value (Markov Chain)
Fair coin flipped repeatedly. Expected flips until two consecutive heads?
E0 = 6 flips (solved via state equations)
Example 3: Decision Making
Choose between:
- A: Guaranteed $50
- B: 60% chance of $100, 40% chance of $0
EV(A) = $50, EV(B) = $60 → B is better in expectation
Module 3: Market Making Simulation
Key Strategies
- Initial spread: Set reasonable width based on uncertainty
- Bayesian updating: Adjust quotes based on trade direction
- Inventory management: Skew quotes to reduce position risk
- Risk control: Widen spread during high uncertainty
FAQ
Does Optiver Trading OA require coding?
No. The Trading OA has zero coding — it tests mental math speed, probability reasoning, and market making intuition. Completely different from the SWE OA.
How fast is the mental math test?
Typically 80 questions in 8 minutes (~6 seconds per question). Both speed and accuracy matter. Practice at least 30 minutes daily.
How do I prepare for the market making game?
Use TraderMath.org's market making simulator. Core concepts: bid-ask spread, Bayesian updating, inventory management. Optiver's Ready Trader Go competition is also great practice.
Can I apply for both Trading and SWE at Optiver?
Yes, the OAs are completely independent. Choose based on your strengths — Trading values math and intuition, SWE values coding and system design.
What's the compensation for Optiver Trading Intern?
Optiver Trading Intern compensation is among the highest in quant: annualized $250K-$400K+ (base + performance bonus).
Preparing for Optiver Trading OA?
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