watson glaser critical thinking test interpretation

What Is the Watson Glaser Test?

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Updated May 10, 2024

Modern employers have changed the way that they recruit new candidates. They are no longer looking for people who have the technical skills on paper that match the job description.

Instead, they are looking for candidates who can demonstrably prove that they have a wider range of transferrable skills.

One of those key skills is the ability to think critically .

Firms (particularly those in sectors such as law, finance, HR and marketing ) need to know that their employees can look beyond the surface of the information presented to them.

They want confidence that their staff members can understand, analyze and evaluate situations or work-related tasks. There is more on the importance of critical thinking later in this article.

This is where the Watson Glaser Critical Thinking test comes into play.

The Watson Glaser critical thinking test is a unique assessment that provides a detailed analysis of a participant’s ability to think critically.

The test lasts 30 minutes and applicants can expect to be tested on around 40 questions in five distinct areas :

Assumptions

Interpretation.

The questions are multiple-choice and may be phrased as true/false statements in a bid to see how well the participant has understood and interpreted the information provided.

Employers around the world use it during recruitment campaigns to help hiring managers effectively filter their prospective candidates .

The Watson Glaser test has been used for more than 85 years; employers trust the insights that the test can provide.

In today’s competitive jobs market where every candidate has brought the best of themselves, it can be increasingly difficult for employers to decide between applicants.

On paper, two candidates may appear identical, with a similar level of education, work experience, and even interests and skills.

But that does not necessarily mean both or either of them is right for the job.

There is much information available on creating an effective cover letter and resume, not to mention advice on making a good impression during an interview.

As a result, employers are increasingly turning to psychometric testing to look beyond the information that they have.

They want to find the right fit: someone who has the skills that they need now and in the future. And with recruitment costs rising each year, making the wrong hiring decision can be catastrophic.

This is where the Watson Glaser test can help.

It can provide hiring managers with the additional support and guidance they need to help them make an informed decision.

The Watson Glaser test is popular among firms working in professional services (such as law, banking and insurance) . It is used for recruitment for junior and senior positions and some of the world’s most recognized establishments are known for their use of the test.

The Bank of England, Deloitte, Hiscox, Linklaters and Hogan Lovells are just a few employers who enhance their recruitment processes through Watson Glaser testing.

Critical thinking is all about logic and rational thought. Finding out someone’s critical thinking skill level is about knowing whether they can assess whether they are being told the truth and how they can use inferences and assumptions to aid their decision-making.

If you are working in a high-pressure environment, having an instinctive ability to look beyond the information provided to the underlying patterns of cause-and-effect can be crucial to do your job well.

Although it is often thought of concerning law firms and finance teams, it is easy to see how critical thinking skills could be applied to a wide range of professions.

For example, HR professionals dealing with internal disputes may need to think critically. Or social workers and other health professionals may need to use critical thinking to assess whether someone is vulnerable and in need of help and support when that person does not or cannot say openly.

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Critical thinking is about questioning what you already know . It is about understanding how to find the facts and the truth about a situation or argument without being influenced by other people’s opinions .

It is also about looking at the bigger picture and seeing how decisions made now may have short-term benefits but long-term consequences.

For those working in senior managerial roles, this ability to think objectively can make a big difference to business success.

As part of the critical thinking assessment, the Watson Glaser Test focuses on the acronym, 'RED':

• R ecognize assumptions
• E valuate arguments
• D raw conclusions

Put simply, the RED model ensures you can understand how to move beyond subconscious bias in your thinking. It ensures that you can identify the truth and understand the differences between fact and opinion.

To recognize assumptions , you must understand yourself and others: what your thought patterns and past experiences have led you to conclude about the world.

Evaluating arguments requires you to genuinely consider the merits of all options in a situation, and not just choose the one you feel that you ‘ought’ to.

Finally, to draw an accurate and beneficial conclusion you must trust your decision-making and understanding of the situation.

Watson Glaser Practice Test Questions & Answers

As mentioned earlier, the Watson Glaser Test assesses five core elements. Here, they will be examined in more depth:

This part of the test is about your ability to draw conclusions based on facts . These facts may be directly provided or may be assumptions that you have previously made.

Within the assessment, you can expect to be provided with a selection of text. Along with the text will be a statement.

You may need to decide whether that statement is true, probably true, insufficient data (neither true nor false), probably false or false.

The test looks to see if your answer was based on a conclusion that could be inferred from the text provided or if it is based on an assumption you previously made.

Take a Watson Glaser Practice Test

Example Statement:

500 students recently attended a voluntary conference in New York. During the conference, two of the main topics discussed were issues relating to diversity and climate change. This is because these are the two issues that the students selected that are important to them.

Many people make decisions based on assumptions. But you need to be able to identify when assumptions are being made.

Within the Watson Glaser test , you will be provided with a written statement as well as an assumption.

You will be asked to declare whether that assumption was made in the text provided or not .

This is an important part of the test; it allows employers to understand if you have any expectations about whether things are true or not . For roles in law or finance, this is a vital skill.

We need to save money, so we’ll visit the local shops in the nearest town rather than the local supermarket

As a core part of critical thinking, 'deduction' is the ability to use logic and reasoning to come to an informed decision .

You will be presented with several facts, along with a variety of conclusions. You will be tasked with confirming whether those conclusions can be made from the information provided in that statement.

The answers are commonly in a ‘Yes, it follows/No, it does not follow’ form.

It is sometimes sunny on Wednesdays. All sunny days are fun. Therefore…

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Critical thinking is also about interpreting the information correctly. It is about using the information provided to come to a valuable, informed decision .

Like the deduction questions, you will be provided with a written statement, which you must assume to be true.

You will also be provided with a suggested interpretation of that written statement. You must decide if that interpretation is correct based on the information provided, using a yes/no format.

A study of toddlers shows that their speech can change significantly between the ages of 10 months and three years old. At 1 year old, a child may learn their first word whereas at three years old they may know 200 words

Evaluation of Arguments

This final part requires you to identify whether an argument is strong or weak . You will be presented with a written statement and several arguments that can be used for or against it. You need to identify which is the strongest argument and which is the weakest based on the information provided.

Should all 18-year-olds go to college to study for a degree after they have graduated from high school?

There are no confirmed pass/fail scores for Watson Glaser tests; different sectors have different interpretations of what is a good score .

Law firms, for example, will require a pass mark of at least 75–80% because the ability to think critically is an essential aspect of working as a lawyer.

As a comparative test, you need to consider what the comparative ‘norm’ is for your chosen profession. Your score will be compared to other candidates taking the test and you need to score better than them.

It is important to try and score as highly as you possibly can. Your Watson Glaser test score can set you apart from other candidates; you need to impress the recruiters as much as possible.

Your best chance of achieving a high score is to practice as much as possible in advance.

Everyone will have their own preferred study methods, and what works for one person may not necessarily work for another.

However, there are some basic techniques everyone can use, which will enhance your study preparation ahead of the test:

Step 1 . Pay Attention to Online Practice Tests

There are numerous free online training aids available; these can be beneficial as a starting point to your preparation.

However, it should be noted that they are often not as detailed as the actual exam questions.

When researching for online test questions, make sure that any questions are specific to the Watson Glaser Test , not just critical thinking.

General critical thinking questions can help you improve your skills but will not familiarize you with this test. Therefore, make sure you practice any questions which follow the ‘rules’ and structure of a Watson Glaser Test .

Step 2 . Paid-for Preparation Packs Can Be Effective

If you are looking for something that mimics the complexity of a Watson Glaser test , you may wish to look at investing in a preparation pack.

There are plenty of options available from sites such as TestHQ . These are often far more comprehensive than free practice tests.

They may also include specific drills (which take you through each of the five stages of the test) as well as study guides, practice tests and suggestions of how to improve your score.

Psychologically, if you have purchased a preparation pack, you may be more inclined to increase your pre-test practice/study when compared to using free tools, due to having invested money.

Step 3 . Apply Critical Thinking to All Aspects of Your Daily Routine

The best way to improve your critical thinking score is to practice it every day.

It is not just about using your skills to pass an exam question; it is about being able to think critically in everyday scenarios.

Therefore, when you are reading the news or online articles, try to think whether you are being given facts or you are making deductions and assumptions from the information provided.

The more you practice your critical thinking in these scenarios, the more it will become second nature to you.

You could revert to the RED model: recognize the assumptions being made, by you and the author; evaluate the arguments and decide which, if any, are strong; and draw conclusions from the information provided and perhaps see if they differ from conclusions drawn using your external knowledge.

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Nine Top Tips for Ensuring Success in Your Watson Glaser Test

If you are getting ready to participate in a Watson Glaser test, you must be clear about what you are being asked to do.

Here are a few tips that can help you to improve your Watson Glaser test score.

1. Practice, Practice, Practice

Critical thinking is a skill that should become second nature to you. You should practice as much as possible, not just so that you can pass the test, but also to feel confident in using your skills in reality.

2. The Best Success Is Based on the Long-Term Study

To succeed in your Watson Glaser test , you need to spend time preparing.

Those who begin studying in the weeks and months beforehand will be far more successful than those who leave their study to the last minute.

3. Acquaint Yourself With the Test Format

The Watson Glaser test has a different type of question to other critical thinking tests.

Make sure that you are aware of what to expect from the test questions. The last thing you want is to be surprised on test day.

4. Read the Instructions Carefully

This is one of the simplest but most effective tips. Your critical thinking skills start with understanding what you are being asked to do. Take your time over the question.

Although you may only have 30 minutes to complete the test, it is still important that you do not rush through and submit the wrong answers. You do not get a higher score if you finish early, so use your time wisely.

5. Only Use the Information Provided in the Question

Remember, the purpose of the test is to see if you can come to a decision based on the provided written statement.

This means that you must ignore anything that you think you already know and focus only on the information given in the question.

6. Widen Your Non-Fictional Reading

Reading a variety of journals, newspapers and reports, and watching examples of debates and arguments will help you to improve your skills.

You will start to understand how the same basic facts can be presented in different ways and cause people to draw different conclusions.

From there, you can start to enhance your critical thinking skills to go beyond the perspective provided in any given situation.

7. Be Self-Aware

We all have our own biases and prejudices whether we know them or not. It is important to think about how your own opinions and life experiences may impact how you perceive and understand situations.

For example, someone who has grown up with a lot of money may have a different interpretation of what it is like to go without, compared to someone who has grown up in extreme poverty.

It is important to have this self-awareness as it is important for understanding other people; this is useful if you are working in sectors such as law.

8. Read the Explanations During Your Preparation

To make the most of practice tests, make sure you read the analysis explaining the answers, regardless of if you got the question right or wrong.

This is the crux of your study; it will explain the reasoning why a certain answer is correct, and this will help you understand how to choose the correct answers.

9. Practice Your Timings

You know that you will have five sections to complete in the test. You also know that you have 30 minutes to complete the test.

Therefore, make sure that your timings are in sync within your practice, so you can work your way through the test in its entirety.

Time yourself on how long each section takes you and put in extra work on your slowest.

What score do you need to pass the Watson Glaser test?

There is no standard benchmark score to pass the Watson Glaser test . Each business sector has its own perception of what constitutes a good score and every employer will set its own requirements.

It is wise to aim for a Watson Glaser test score of at least 75%. To score 75% or higher, you will need to correctly answer at least 30 of the 40 questions.

The employing organization will use your test results to compare your performance with other candidates within the selection pool. The higher you score in the Watson Glaser test , the better your chances of being hired.

Can you fail a Watson Glaser test?

It is not possible to fail a Watson Glaser test . However, your score may not be high enough to meet the benchmark set by the employing organization.

By aiming for a score of at least 75%, you stand a good chance of progressing to the next stage of the recruitment process.

Are Watson Glaser tests hard?

Many candidates find the Watson Glaser test hard. The test is designed to assess five different aspects of logical reasoning skills. Candidates must work under pressure, which adds another dimension of difficulty.

By practicing your critical thinking skills, you can improve your chances of achieving a high score on the Watson Glaser test .

How do I prepare for Watson Glaser?

To prepare for Watson Glaser , you will need to practice your critical thinking abilities. This can be achieved through a range of activities; for example, reading a variety of newspapers, journals and other literature.

Try applying the RED model to your reading – recognize the assumptions being made (both by you and the writer), evaluate the arguments and decide which of these (if any) are strong.

You should also practice drawing conclusions from the information available to you.

Online Watson Glaser practice assessments are a useful way to prepare for Watson Glaser. These practice tests will give you an idea of what to expect on the day, although the questions are not usually as detailed as those in the actual test.

You might also consider using a paid-for Watson Glaser preparation pack, such as the one available from TestHQ . Preparation packs provide a comprehensive test guide, including practice tests and recommendations on how to improve your test score.

How long does the Watson Glaser test take?

Candidates are allowed 30 minutes to complete the Watson Glaser test . The multiple-choice test questions are grouped into five distinct areas – assumptions, deduction, evaluation, inference and interpretation.

Which firms use the Watson Glaser test?

Companies all over the world use the Watson Glaser test as part of their recruitment campaigns.

It is a popular choice for professional service firms, including banking, law, and insurance. Firms using the Watson Glaser test include the Bank of England, Hiscox, Deloitte and Clifford Chance.

How many times can you take the Watson Glaser test?

Most employers will only allow you to take the Watson Glaser test once per application. However, you may take the Watson Glaser test more than once throughout your career.

What is the next step after passing the Watson Glaser test?

The next step after passing the Watson Glaser test will vary between employers. Some firms will ask you to attend a face-to-face interview after passing the Watson Glaser test, others will ask you to attend an assessment center. Speak to the hiring manager to find out the process for the firm you are applying for.

Start preparing in advance for the Watson Glaser test

The Watson Glaser test differs from other critical thinking tests. It has its own rules and formations, and the exam is incredibly competitive. If you are asked to participate in a Watson Glaser test it is because your prospective employer is looking for the ‘best of the best’. Your aim is not to simply pass the test; it is to achieve a higher score than anyone else taking that test .

Therefore, taking the time to prepare for the Watson Glaser test is vital for your chances of success. You need to be confident that you know what you are being asked to do, and that you can use your critical thinking skills to make informed decisions.

Your study is about more than helping you to pass a test; it is about providing you with the skills and capability to think critically about information in the ‘real world’ .

You might also be interested in these other Psychometric Success articles:

Or explore the Aptitude Tests / Test Types sections.

How to Prepare and Pass the Watson-Glaser Test

In the following article, we will explore one of the most challenging pre-employment tests in the UK and worldwide – the Watson Glaser test – which is most commonly used for recruitment in the legal sector.

Included are an overview of the test, its main challenges, and how to overcome them with effective practice methods. The article also features two brief introductory videos:

Video #1 – Structure, content, and practice tips

Video #2 – Step-by-step solutions to five Watson Glaser sample questions, to exemplify the rules and requirements of the test.

What Is the Watson Glaser Test?

The Watson Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal (WGCTA) is a pre-employment test used primarily in the law industry. Some of the major employers using the test are Linklaters, Clifford Chance, Hogan Lovells, and the Government Legal Service. The test assesses your critical thinking – namely, your ability to analyse and interpret verbal information, draw conclusions, evaluate arguments, etc.

The test contains 40 questions divided into 5 sections, each one assessing a different aspect of critical thinking:

• Recognition of Assumptions
• Interpretation
• Evaluation of Arguments

Visit the Complete Watson Glaser Test Guide for a full overview of the test sections and content, including sample questions and a free sample test.

The Watson Glaser Test Guide

Check out the following 3.5-minutes video for a complete overview of the Watson Glaser test:

What Are the Main Challenges of the Watson Glaser Test and How to Overcome Them?

The Watson Glaser test is indeed considered a difficult test, designed with very specific rules, and often requiring counterintuitive solving methods. And yet, with a good understanding of the three main challenges of the test and the ways to overcome them, you CAN improve your score and get the offers you want. Let’s see how:

Challenge #1 – A Single Trait Measured

The Watson Glaser test is aimed at assessing one thing only – your critical thinking. It does so in five different ways and being successful on all of them is the best guarantee to passing the test.

Overcoming Challenge #1 – Prepare for Test Sections as They Are

You have a test, so prepare for the test.

Learn how the Watson Glaser test questions look like, and practise that.

Once you have a grasp of the test, you can certainly construct your own practice plan using open sources. However, structured preparation plans such as JobTestPrep’s Watson Glaser Preparation Pack make it much easier, with practice material replicating the actual test’s rules and formatting.

Challenge #2 – A Unique Set of Rules

The Watson Glaser has its own set of rules, unparalleled by any other critical thinking test. For example:

• Generalisation equals existence
• “Probably True” and “Probably False” answer choices.

This makes the Watson Glaser test a unique, tailored testing experience, which requires a tailored preparation plan.

Overcoming Challenge #2 – Learn to Let Go

A major part of your preparation will be to uproot all your misconceptions about how to solve critical thinking questions and to learn how to ignore any irrelevant information. This may be the hardest part of you preparation. You will learn to go against what you believe to be true, just to get the question right. To beat your competitors, you must think like the test does and not like you do.

Want to see the test rules in action? Watch the following video , where we explain the logic behind five sample Watson Glaser questions, one of each category.

Challenge #3 – Intuition and Knowledge Will Fail You

The Watson Glaser test uses a collection of tactics to constantly elude, distract, and mislead you with near-correct answers. To avoid these pitfalls, you must understand the exact rules of the test and disregard anything else.

Up for the challenge? Try a 7-minutes free Watson Glaser sample test

Overcoming Challenge #3 – Develop Thinking Algorithms

One of the best ways to make sure you set your own beliefs and opinions aside is developing thinking algorithms – a methodical series of simple Q&As that lead you to the correct answer. For instance:

• Evaluation of Arguments– ITDN table
• Recognition of Assumptions – The Negative Test
• Inference – Common Inference vs. Common Knowledge

With some focused practice, thinking algorithms will replace your intuition and personal knowledge as your main critical thinking tool.

This article was written by Shlomik Silbiger, JobTestPrep’s expert on the Watson Glaser test. If you have any questions, contact  [email protected]

Free access to JobTestPrep for Oxford University students

As an Oxford University student, you can get free access to JobTestPrep via the Careers Service to practise for a wide variety of online recruitment tests, including Watson Glaser CTA, e-tray exercises and assessment centres as well as numerical-, verbal- and spatial-reasoning tests. Find out how you can gain access >>

Watson-Glaser Assessments: Guidelines & Practice Examples

Originally designed by Goodwin Watson and Edward Glaser, The Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal (Form AM) was a measurement of “how well you are able to reason analytically and logically.” After their extensive use during World War One, experts increasingly used the tests as a tool to rank and filter individuals in contexts including (but not limited to) education and employment. In this article, we’ll be providing you with an overview of The Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal, its test format, and question examples for your practice.

Table of Contents

What is a Watson Glaser test?

The Watson Glaser Assessment (Watson Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal) is designed by Pearson Talentlens – a part of the famous Pearson education publishing house. The assessment is a quick, consistent, and accurate measurement of the test-takers ability to analyze, reason, interpret and draw logical conclusions from written information .

This critical thinking test has five scales which are the elementary units of critical thinking and reasoning . These five units serve as parameters to measure all areas of critical thinking ability.

The test is administered to appraising adults (16 years and above) with questions of varying difficulty and format.

Watson Glaser Test format

The Watson Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal is a timed test. It can be administered both online and offline, depending on the company you are applying to.

• For the online version (W-G III), the test is suitable for the unproctored screening of job applicants . Questions are selected randomly from a larger pool of questions called “item bank”. This helps minimize the possibility of cheating due to the fact that there are no applicants having the same set of questions.
• For the offline version (W-G II Forms D and E), applicants have to take the test under supervised conditions .

Upon finishing, applicants receive a percentile score with norm groups either provided by Pearson Talentlens or designed by the company.

Popular test formats are as follows:

• 40 questions – 30 minutes
• 80 questions – 60 minutes

The question distribution in a 40-question Watson Glaser test includes the following:

• Inference – 5 questions
• Recognition of assumptions – 12 questions
• Deduction – 5 questions
• Interpretation – 6 questions
• Evaluation – 12 questions

Watson Glaser test: 5 question types & examples

Five types of questions appearing in the test are

Infer questions

• Recognize Assumption questions

Deduce questions

Interpret questions.

• Evaluate Argument questions

You will find five choices of answers for each inference in the question: True, Probably True, Insufficient Data, Probably False, and False. Your job is to determine which choice best fits the hypothesis.

• True : If you think the inference is definitely TRUE; that it properly follows beyond a reasonable doubt from the statement of facts given.
• Probably True : If, in the light of the facts given, you think the inference is Probably True; that it is more likely to be true than false.
• Insufficient Data : If you decide that there are Insufficient Data; that you cannot tell from the facts given whether the inference is likely to be true or false; if the facts provide no basis for judging one way or another.
• Probably False : If, in the light of the facts given, you think the inference is Probably False; that it is more likely to be true than false.
• False : If you think the inference is definitely False; that it is wrong, either because it misinterprets the facts given, or because it contradicts the facts or necessary inferences from those facts.

Unlike popular aptitude tests where you use solely given information, this test allows the use of specific commonly accepted knowledge or information that practically every person has.

Source: Pearson Talentlens

During the past month, managers scheduled for international assignments voluntarily attended our company’s cross-cultural business training workshop. All of the managers reported that the quality of the training was high and focused on valuable work skills that could be immediately applied.

The majority of training was devoted to rules and regulations for doing business in this country. 

A. True B. Probably True C. Insufficient Data D. Probably False E. False

Answer : Probably False

Explanation : Probably False because the training focused on cross-cultural business. It cannot be considered definitely false because the specific course content is not provided.

Practice Example:

Chamonix is one of the oldest ski resorts in France. Last year, the Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Valley authorities introduced a climate and energy action plan, the first in the French Alps. The plan commits to reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the area by 22 percent. Among the proposed measures is a ban on the most polluting lorries using the nearby Mont Blanc tunnel. Climate change will have a major impact on the valley’s main economic activities: less snow on low-altitude ski slopes and the risk of increased pressure on high-altitude ski slopes have been recorded in recent studies. Natural habitats, river patterns, forests, and agriculture might be radically transformed, increasing the likelihood of hazards such as avalanches, floods, and landslides.

Although air quality is a great concern for those living at the foot of Mont Blanc, noise pollution is arguably the most noticeable at a local level.

A. True B. ProbablyTrue C. Insufficient Data D. Probably False E. False

Answer : Insufficient Data

Explanation : The passage does not mention noise pollution, as well as its existence at local level.

Recognize assumption questions

In this question, you are presented with a statement and two choices “ Assumption made ” or “ Assumption not made “. Your job is to determine whether the statement is an assumption taken for granted (Assumption made) or an assumption not necessarily taken for granted (Assumption not made).

We need to save time in getting there so we’d better go by plane.

There is a plane service available to us for at least part of the distance to the destination. 

A. Assumption made B. Assumption not made

Answer : Assumption made

Explanation :

This is assumed in the statement because, in order to save time by plane, it must be possible to go by plane.

While owning a pet can be expensive and is occasionally an inconvenience, it’s a good thing to do if you want to improve your chances of living a satisfying life.

Pet owners will always lead more satisfying lives than those who don’t own pets.

Answer : Assumption not made

From the given premises, we can only see that: if you want a satisfying life, it is a good thing to have a pet. However, having a pet does not definitely lead to a satisfying life. There is no indication to compare the satisfaction between having a pet or not having a pet as a way to live a satisfying life. 

In this type of question, each item contains several statements (premises) followed by several suggested conclusions. For the purposes of the test, you must consider the given statements as true without exception. The question presents you with two options

• Conclusion follows : If you think the conclusion necessarily follows from the statements given;
• Conclusion does not follow : If you think it is not a necessary conclusion from the statements given. 

Since the test requires you to regard given statements as completely true, you have to try not to let your common sense and existing knowledge interfere. You have to stick to only the given statements (premises) and make judgments as to whether it necessarily follows from the statement or not.

One thing to note is the use of the word “Some” in this type of question. It means an indefinite part or quantity of a class of things. It can be either a portion or perhaps all of the class.

Sample: 

Some Sundays are rainy. All rainy days are boring. Therefore …

Some Sundays are boring.

A. Conclusion follows B. Conclusion does not follow

Answer : Conclusion follows

The conclusion necessarily follows from the statements because, according to them, rainy Sundays must be boring.

Damage to roads in the area has made them unsuitable for loads over one ton. These loads are being transported to the capital by air, but as air resources are limited they are restricted to carrying food and medical supplies. Roads cannot be repaired until medical emergencies are dealt with. Therefore, …

Food can be taken to the capital by road.

Answer : Conclusion does not follow

Roads can not be used to transport food in loads over one ton. Food loads over one ton are being transported by air. We are not sure whether food in loads under one ton are delivered by road or anything else.

An interpret question provides you with a short paragraph followed by several suggested conclusions. You must assume that everything in the short paragraph is true, for the purpose of the test. To answer the question, you have to judge whether or not each of the suggested conclusions logically follows beyond a reasonable doubt from the information presented in the paragraph.

You have two answer choices:

• Conclusion follows : If you think the conclusions follow beyond a reasonable doubt (although they may not follow absolutely and necessarily);
• Conclusion does not follow : If you think the conclusions doesn’t follow beyond a reasonable doubt from the facts given in the short paragraph. 

As a rule of thumb, you should judge each conclusion independently from your common sense or outside knowledge.

Source: Watson Glaser

A study of vocabulary growth in children from ages eight months to six years old shows that the size of spoken vocabulary increases from zero words at age eight months to 2562 words at age six years.

Vocabulary is slowest during the period when children are learning to walk.

Answer : Conclusion does not follow.

The conclusion does not follow because there is no information given that relates the growth of vocabulary to walking.

An accounting computer program, MagicNumber, is Wisdom Software’s biggest-selling product, with its development involving 20% of programmers and 30% of marketing staff. DesignAid, a graphic design program, is the latest offering from the company. It is definitely expected to sell more copies than MagicNumber and will have fewer programmers working on its design, but more marketing staff.

DesignAid will bring in greater profits for the company than MagicNumber.

The paragraph only mentioned that DesignAid is expected to sell more than MagicNumber. This does not necessarily mean that DesignAid uiwll bring greater profit than MagicNumber.

Evaluate argument questions

The question involves distinguishing between strong and weak arguments, as far as the question at issue is concerned. In each question, there is a series of arguments that you must regard as true. Your job is to determine whether or not each of these arguments is a strong or a weak one.

• Argument strong : If you think the argument is strong;
• Argument weak: If you think the argument is weak.

For an objective evaluation of the argument, you must judge each argument independently on its own merit, without the influence of your personal perception.

One thing to note is the use of the word Should. By using Should at the beginning of each question, it means “Would the proposed action promote the general welfare of the people in your country?”

Should young adults in this country go to university?

No; a large percentage of young adults do not have enough ability or interest to derive any benefit from university training.

A. Argument strong B. Argument weak

Answer : Argument strong.

If this is true, as the directions require us to assume, it is a weighty argument against all young adults going to university.

Practice Example 5:

Is it worthwhile for a business to invest in training employees?

Yes, research shows the amount of money spent on training is positively related to profitability.

A. Argument Strong B. Argument Weak

Answer : Argument Strong

The explanation show that business can increase their profit by invest more money on training. This is a direct back up evidence for the claim.

Which companies use Watson Glaser tests?

Watson Glaser Tests are popular in the pre-employment process across sectors such as medical, marketing, education, legal, and professional services. The test can be used for different job levels like Graduates, Execs and Managerial, Supervisors, and Professionals., depending on the company hiring request.

There are a great number of UK companies using it for their pre-employment screening process. The names include the following

• Simmons & Simmons
• Hill Dickinson
• Bank of England
• Burges Salmon
• Ince & Co
• Government Legal Service
• Irwin Mitchell
• Clifford Chance
• Hogan Lovells

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Watson Glaser Assessments

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Watson Glaser tests are a form of psychometric assessment that fall under the category of critical thinking tests. They are designed to determine how well an individual can process information from a logical perspective, and then evaluate, analyse and make sound judgements. As such, they are commonly used in the recruitment process for professions that rely on these skills.

What is a Watson Glaser test?

Watson Glaser test is a comprehensive psychometric assessment that falls under the category of critical thinking tests. It is designed to determine how well an individual can process information from a logical perspective, and then evaluate, analyze and make sound judgments. Watson Glaser test is commonly used in the recruitment process for professions that rely on these skills.

Watson Glaser tests have been around since 1925 when they were first developed by American psychologists Goodwin Watson and Edwin Glaser. Subject to many revisions and improvements over the years, they are now produced by test publisher TalentLens and are considered one of the most trusted methods of evaluating critical reasoning.

Critical thinking is a complex skill that requires the ability to interpret information, differentiate fact from fallacy, draw evidence-based conclusions and identify sound arguments, all while remaining objective.

Like many critical thinking tests , the Watson Glaser test measures these skills through verbal information: that is, statements or passages of text from which an individual is required to make deductions and inferences, pinpoint assumptions needed to validate a proposition, and weigh up the strength of an argument.

These are inherent skills, more prominent in some than others. The Watson Glaser test, therefore, requires no prior knowledge. Success relies on existing knowledge being put to one side, the sole focus being the evidence laid out in each question.

You may be asked to sit a Watson Glaser test by the potential employer if applying for a graduate, professional or managerial level position in a sector where critical thinking is a prerequisite. Watson Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal is most commonly used in the legal sector, but also the selection process of organizations like the Bank of England.

The test may be used for screening purposes in the initial stages of the hiring process, or at a later date as part of an assessment day .

What is the format of a Watson Glaser test?

The Watson Glaser test is a timed, multiple-choice assessment, the most recent version of which consists of 40 critical reasoning questions with a 30-minute time constraint.

Questions are split across five areas of logical reasoning ability:

Drawing inferences

To draw inferences is essential to make an educated guess based on the evidence in front of you, without being swayed by any pre-existing knowledge or subconscious bias.

You’ll be presented with a short paragraph, followed by a set of inferred statements. Potential employees need to critically analyse the information in the given paragraph to determine if these statements are true, probably true, false, probably false, or if there is insufficient proof to determine either way.

Recognising assumptions

Assumptions relating to what we understand to be true without needing solid proof. They are the underlying facts that give an argument its validity.

In this section of the test, you’ll be presented with a statement and a set of assumptions. If the statement relies on the assumption being true, you would mark it as ‘assumption made’.

If the assumption is irrelevant to the statement or bears no weight on its validity, you would mark it as ‘assumption not made.

Deductive reasoning is the act of arriving at a fact-based conclusion through a logical thought process. A deduction differs from an assumption in that it is what we take away from an argument, as opposed to the facts on which an argument needs to stand.

Based solely on the evidence presented in a statement or short paragraph, you’ll need to determine if a list of conclusions does or does not logically follow the information in front of you.

Interpreting

The interpretation section of the Watson Glaser test is similar to the deduction section, in that you’ll be asked to determine whether a given conclusion can logically be drawn from an argument.

However, with these questions, you’ll need to be able to identify significant pieces of information and decide if a logical interpretation can be applied in support of the conclusion in question.

Evaluating arguments

This last section looks at your ability to separate a weak argument from a strong one. It is designed to test your impartial evaluation of arguments, not your personal opinion.

A question will be posted, followed by a set of arguments on either side of the debate. You’ll need to decide if an argument is relevant and challenging, and therefore strong, or vague and unrealistic, and therefore weak.

What skills does it look to measure?

The five sections combined to give an overall picture of your performance in key areas, and measure your ability to:

Define a problem

Select key points of information to formulate a solution

Understand when an assumption has been made, and when it has not

Hypothesise, or select an applicable hypothesis based on limited evidence

Draw fact-based conclusions

Determine the probability of an inference

What is a passing score on the Watson Glaser tests?

The results of your Watson Glaser test will be assessed against a norm group: individuals of a comparative educational background or professional standing – within a relevant field – that have previously sat the exam.

It is therefore difficult to state an exact pass score on the test since it depends entirely on the performance of your peers. Ideally, you’d look to reach 75% and above to give yourself a competitive edge.

Which professions use Watson Glaser tests, and why?

Watson Glaser tests are used to assess suitability for several occupations including those in the medical profession, marketing, and education. Those critical reasoning tests are most common in law firms and professional services sectors.

Many positions in law, banking, and finance, for example, require that an individual make informed decisions that can be justified, are rooted in fact, and are free from bias. Since critical thinking is an essential skill here, employers use Watson Glaser tests to determine how well-suited a candidate is for these professions.

How to prepare for a Watson Glaser test

Practice is the first port of call when preparing for your Watson Glaser test. Although critical thinking is an inherent skill, it can be nurtured and improved upon.

Watson Glaser tests are built around a model known as RED . Try to keep this in mind as you approach both practice tests and daily tasks.

The components associated with the RED model are:

Recognising assumptions . Instead of simply taking things at face value, such as the news or a part of a conversation with a friend or co-worker, ask yourself if what you’re hearing can be classified as true, and what the facts are that back it up. Are they evidential, or based on assumptions?

Evaluating arguments . We’re all guilty of seeking out information that confirms our perspective. Instead, actively look for opinions that contradict your own and assess them from an objective point of view. The better you become at seeing both sides of a story, the more prepared you’ll be to critically evaluate arguments in your Watson Glaser test.

Drawing conclusions . Try to get used to drawing fact-based conclusions, rather than those based on emotional reactions or subconscious bias. These conclusions may not align with your perspective, but a Watson Glaser test requires that you conclude impartially – and as with most things in life, practice makes perfect here.

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Tips for Watson Glaser tests

Study the practice questions.

In the official test, you’ll have the opportunity to complete practice questions. These are there for a reason, so use them wisely. Each section of the test differs slightly in its approach, and the more comfortable you are with what is being asked of you, the more clearly you’ll be able to approach the problem.

Leave instinct and intuition at the door

To succeed on a Watson Glaser test, you need to go against human nature and ignore everything you think you know. Each question will contain all the relevant information you need. Whether you believe it to be true, agree with it, or not, is irrelevant. For the sake of the test, evaluate only the information given. Any outside knowledge should temporarily be forgotten.

Examine each question carefully

The key to strategic critical thinking is to fully understand what is being presented. You cannot draw a valid conclusion, or understand what assumptions support an argument, if you do not fully comprehend what is put forward. You may feel the need to rush under the time pressure, but attention to detail is vital.

Look for keywords and phrases

The statement, proposition or paragraph of text at the start of each question will inevitably include keywords or phrases that relate directly to the assumptions, inferences or conclusions given. These are your clues. Identify them, and you’ll find it much easier to analyse each scenario objectively.

Split your time evenly

Remember, you have a set amount of time to work through all five sections of the test. Split this evenly across the board before you start, and keep track of how much time you spend on each question. It may seem counterintuitive to add to the pressure, but in setting yourself a time frame, you eliminate the risk of dedicated excessive attention to any one part of the test.

For further advice, check out our full set of tips for Watson Glaser tests .

Practice Aptitude Tests is not associated with Watson Glaser. We provide preparation services for Watson Glaser psychometric tests. Our tests are not designed to be identical to any style, employer or industry. Visit https://www.talentlens.co.uk/product/watson-glaser/ to find out more.

Sample Watson Glaser Tests question Test your knowledge!

What can be inferred from the following statement? 'Despite increased competition, sales figures for Company Y have improved.'

• Increased competition has had a direct negative effect on sales figures.
• Company Y has possibly employed successful strategies to overcome competitive challenges.
• The overall market has been declining.
• Company Y's products are unaffected by competition.

Which of the following conclusions can logically be drawn from the information given? Despite its small size, Company X is the market leader in its segment.

• Company X's market segment prefers quality over size.
• Company X has a larger market share in its segment than its bigger competitors.
• The size of a company is not related to its market leadership.
• Company X is the smallest company in its market segment.

After reading the passage, what is the author's main argument?

• Traditional education systems are adequate to meet current workforce needs.
• Workplaces need to ensure their employees are consistently learning to keep up with technological changes.
• Technological innovation has little impact on the skills required by the workforce.
• Education systems are evolving faster than workplaces can keep up.

Which assumption is implicit in the following statement? 'We expect our customer base to double when we expand our services internationally.'

• International markets are eager for the company's services.
• The company has conducted ample market research on international markets.
• The company's services are currently not available internationally.
• Customers are dissatisfied with the current services.

Evaluate the strength of the given argument: 'Since implementing the new safety protocol, our factory has seen a 30% reduction in workplace injuries.'

• The new safety protocol is ineffective and should be reviewed.
• The 30% reduction in workplace injuries can be solely attributed to the new safety protocol.
• The factory should promote the person responsible for the new safety protocol.
• The new safety protocol may have contributed to the reduction in workplace injuries.

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Watson Glaser Tests Tips

1 understand the test structure.

Before you dive into practicing for the Watson Glaser tests, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with their structure. These tests aim to assess critical thinking skills across a range of areas, which TalentLens categorizes as ‘select’, ‘develop’, and ‘engage’. By understanding the types of questions and sections you will encounter, you can tailor your test preparation strategy effectively.

2 Focus on Critical Thinking

Critical thinking is at the heart of Watson Glaser tests. It’s not just about what you know but how you apply your knowledge to analyze, evaluate, and make decisions. Spend time honing your reasoning skills—practice breaking down complex information into manageable parts and consider arguments from multiple perspectives.

3 Manage Your Time Wisely

Like many aptitude tests, the Watson Glaser tests require you to balance accuracy with speed. Practice managing your time efficiently so you can give each question the attention it deserves while ensuring you complete the test within the allotted time frame. Use timers in your practice sessions at Practice Aptitude Tests to simulate real test conditions.

4 Sharpen Your Reading Skills

Reading comprehension is essential for Watson Glaser tests, as you’ll need to interpret written material quickly and accurately. Practice reading dense and challenging texts to improve your absorption and analysis capabilities. The key here is to not only understand the passages but also to critically evaluate them.

5 Stay Calm and Confident

Test anxiety can affect your performance. Remember to stay calm, take deep breaths, and approach each question with confidence. Regular practice at Practice Aptitude Tests will help build your familiarity with the question types and format, which in turn will boost your test-taking confidence.

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Watson Glaser Tests FAQs

How does watson glaser define critical thinking.

According to the methodology behind Watson Glaser tests, critical thinking is the ability to observe a scenario and consider it from various perspectives, whilst identifying what is fact, what is assumed and what is mere opinion. In doing so, you should be able to draw logical conclusions and use these for informed decision making.

How can I improve my critical thinking skills?

Critical thinking is a part of our daily lives; we’re just not always aware that we’re doing it. To improve your skills, tune in to the world around you, ask questions, read actively and look for evidence in every statement or argument you come across. Take practice tests regularly to assess your progress.

Is the Watson Glaser test hard?

Watson Glaser tests are considered among the most challenging of all critical thinking assessments, since they test five separate aspects of logical reasoning ability . Time constraints also add to the pressure. That said, they are typically no harder than the careers for which they test your suitability, and with dedicated practice, you can hone your skills and make critical thinking second nature.

Where can I practice Watson Glaser tests?

There are multiple online resources available to help you prepare for your Watson Glaser test, including our own free practice tests . We recommended you work through these questions to familiarise yourself with the format and improve your critical thinking skills.

Reviews of our Watson Glaser tests

What our customers say about our Watson Glaser tests

Jozef Bailey

United Kingdom

April 05, 2022

Doesn't cover all aspects of Watson-Glaser tests but useful

The WGCTA uses more categories to assess critical thinking, but this was useful for the inference section.

April 01, 2022

Just practicing for an interview

Good information and liked that it had a countdown clock, to give you that real feel in the test situation.

Jerico Kadhir

March 31, 2022

Aptitude test

It was OK, I didn't understand personally whether or not the "cannot say" option was acceptable or not in a lot of the questions, as it may have been a trick option.

Salvarina Viknesuari

March 15, 2022

I like the test because the platform is simple and engaging while the test itself is different than most of the Watson Glaser tests I've taken.

Alexis Sheridan

March 02, 2022

Some of the ratios were harder than I thought!

I like how clear the design and layout is - makes things very easy (even if the content itself is not!)

Cyril Lekgetho

February 17, 2022

Mental arithmetic

I enjoyed the fact that there were multiple questions pertaining to one passage of information, rather than multiple passages. However I would've appreciated a more varied question type.

Madupoju Manish

February 16, 2022

Analytics are the best questions

I like the test because of its time schedule. The way the questions are prepared makes it easy to crack the original test.

Chelsea Franklin

February 02, 2022

Interesting

I haven't done something like this for ages. Very good for the brain - although I certainly experienced some fog whilst doing it.

[email protected]

January 04, 2022

Population/exchange rates were the hardest

Great test as it felt a bit time pressured. Very different types of questions in terms of difficulty.

faezeh tavakoli

January 02, 2022

More attention to detail + be more time conscious

It was asking about daily stuff we all deal with, but as an assessment it's scrutinising how we approach these problems.

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