What is the primary purpose of reading comprehension in the NPST?

The primary purpose of reading comprehension in the NPST is to assess a candidate's understanding and interpretation of written information. This means that the test focuses on evaluating how well a candidate can grasp the meaning of texts, make inferences, draw conclusions, and engage with the material critically. It is essential for candidates, particularly in a law enforcement context, to be able to read and understand various documents, reports, and instructions accurately.

This skill is fundamental for effective communication and decision-making, which are vital components of police work. The test does not center around writing skills, grammatical accuracy, or merely measuring how quickly one can read, as these aspects, while important, do not directly reflect a candidate's ability to comprehend and interpret information. Therefore, the emphasis is on understanding and interpretation, highlighting the ability to engage thoughtfully with written material.