watson glaser critical thinking appraisal test

What Is the Watson Glaser Test?

Who uses the watson glaser test and why, why is it so important to be a critical thinker, what is the watson glaser red model, how to pass a watson glaser test in 2024, how to prepare for a watson glaser critical appraisal in 2024, frequently asked questions, the watson glaser critical thinking appraisal.

Updated November 20, 2023

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.

Practice Watson Glaser Test with JobTestPrep

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.

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…

If you need to prepare for a number of different employment tests and want to outsmart the competition, choose a Premium Membership from JobTestPrep . You will get access to three PrepPacks of your choice, from a database that covers all the major test providers and employers and tailored profession packs.

Get a Premium Package Now

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 JobTestPrep . 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.

Prepare for Watson Glaser Test

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 JobTestPrep . 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.

• Numerical Reasoning
• Verbal Reasoning
• Inductive Reasoning
• Diagrammatic Reasoning
• Logical Reasoning
• Mechanical Reasoning
• Situational Judgement
• Deductive reasoning
• Critical thinking
• Spatial reasoning
• Error checking
• Verbal comprehension
• Reading comprehension
• Psychometric tests
• Personality test
• In-Tray exercise
• E-Tray exercise
• Group exercise
• Roleplay exercise
• Presentation exercise
• Analysis exercise
• Case study exercise
• Game based assessments
• Competency based assessment
• Strengths based assessment
• Strengths based interview
• Video interview
• Saville Assessment
• Talent Q / Korn Ferry
• Watson Glaser
• Test Partnership
• Clevry (Criterion)
• Criteria Corp
• Aon / Cut-e
• Sova Assessment
• For Practice
• For Business

Watson Glaser Critical Thinking Tests

Complex and challenging critical thinking tests, including the Watson-Glaser, are used mostly by law firms.

Page contents:

About critical thinking tests and how they work, free practice critical thinking tests, the watson glaser critical thinking appraisal, what is measured by a watson glaser critical thinking test, what should i know before taking a watson glaser critical thinking test, major publishers' critical thinking tests, advice for all critical thinking tests, assessmentday's practice tests can help you to prepare for a critical thinking test, one final point, other test publishers.

Updated: 08 September 2022

Critical thinking tests, or critical reasoning tests, are psychometric tests used in recruitment at all levels, graduate, professional and managerial, but predominantly in the legal sector. However, it is not uncommon to find companies in other sectors using critical thinking tests as part of their selection process. This is an intense test, focusing primarily on your analytical, or critical thinking, skills. Some tests are still conducted by paper and pen, but, just like other psychometric tests, critical thinking tests are mostly administered online at home or on a computer at a testing center.

The questions are multiple choice, and these choices and the style of questions are explained in more detail further down the page. The tests will often follow these two common timings:

• 30 questions with a 40 minute time limit
• 80 questions with a 60 minute time limit

Critical Thinking can be defined in many ways and an exact description is disputed, however, most agree on a broad definition of critical thinking, that 'critical thinking involves rational, purposeful, and goal-directed thinking...by using certain cognitive skills and strategies.' An absence or lack of critical thinking skills at times may lead us to believe things which aren't true, because we haven't sufficiently analysed and criticized the information we've received or used this to formulate and independently test our own theories, arguments and ideas. These are all examples of critical thinking skills put into practice. Glaser (An Experiment in the Development of Critical Thinking, 1941) stated that to think critically involved three key parts:

• An attitude of being disposed to consider in a thoughtful way the problems and subjects that come within the range of one's experiences
• Knowledge of the methods of logical inquiry and reasoning
• Some skill in applying those methods

Note: AssessmentDay and its products are not affiliated with Pearson or TalentLens. Our practice tests are for candidates to prepare for the Watson Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal; we do not sell tests for employers to select candidates.

Free Critical Thinking Test

Here, we have a full critical thinking test for you to practice for free. You can dive straight in and practice the full test (in blue at the bottom), or tackle each individual section one at a time.

All answers and explanations are included at the end of the test, or alternatively you can download the Solutions PDF. Each test has been given a generous time limit.

Critical Thinking Test 1

• 40 questions

Critical Thinking Test 2

Critical thinking test 3, critical thinking test 4.

TalentLens' Watson Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal (WGCTA) is the most common critical thinking test. You can visit their official site here: Watson Glaser . Most other critical thinking tests are based on the Watson Glaser format. More than 90 years' of experience have led to many modifications and improvements in the test.

The Watson Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal is widely regarded as a good predictor of work productivity and at identifying candidates with a good potential to become managers and occupy other positions as a senior member of staff. The latest edition of the Watson Glaser Critical Thinking Test has improved its validity, appealed more to businesses by focusing on business-relevant topics, switched to the Item Response Theory (IRT) for its scoring, updated norm groups, and integrated anti-cheat measures by having an online retest, which can be used to validate results.

Developed by Goodwin Watson and Edward Glaser, the Watson Glaser test is favored by law firms , keen to measure people's abilities to reason, reach conclusions and know when leaps in logic have been made. Skills which are required in the legal sector. The questions in each of the 5 sections aims to evaluate the candidate's ability to:

• 1. Arrive at correct inferences
• 2. Identify when an assumption has been made
• 3. Use deductive reasoning
• 4. Reach logical conclusions
• 5. Evaluate the effectiveness of arguments

Did You Know

The most recent revision of the W-GCTA was published in 2011 with notable improvements being better face validity and business-relevant items, scoring based on Item Response Theory (IRT), updated norm groups, and an online retest which can be used to validate a paper and pencil test result.

A Critical thinking tests assesses your ability in 5 key areas mentioned above; assumptions, arguments, deductions, inferences and interpreting information. Often in this order. A short paragraph of text a few sentences long or a single sentence is used as a starting point. This passage will contain information which you will base your answer to the question on. Another sentence is then presented to you and you will be asked to judge something about this sentence based on the information in the short paragraph. The five sections are explained in more detail here:

• Assumptions - You are being asked to state whether the information in the second set of text you are presented is an assumption made in the first paragraph. Quite a tricky concept to get your head around at first. In a nutshell, when people speak or make arguments, there are underlying assumptions in those arguments. Here you are presented with some assumptions and are asked to judge if that is being made in the original statement. For example in the statement "only people earning a high salary can afford a fast car," what's being assumed is that fast cars are expensive because only people who are earning a lot of money can buy one, however, what's not being assumed is that people without high salaries aren't legally allowed to buy a fast car. You are asked to choose whether an assumption has been made or has not been made.
• Arguments - You are presented with an argument, such as "Should college fees be abolished?" Regardless of your own opinions and thoughts on the argument, you are then presented with statements related to this original argument. You are asked to say whether the responses to the original argument of "Should college fees be abolished?" make for strong or weak arguments. Arguments are considered strong if they are related to the topic such as, "Yes, many people who would benefit from a college education do not because they cannot afford it. This hurts the country's economic growth." The argument presented is sound, related to the original question. Compare this with a weak argument, "No, I do not trust people who read a lot of books." It is clear that the second argument bears very little relation to the subject of the abolition of college tuition fees. This is not to say that an argument against the original argument will always be a weak one, or that an argument in favor will always be a strong one. For example, "Yes, I like people that read books," is in favor of the abolition as indicated by "yes," but that person's like or dislike of others that read books isn't related, or hasn't been explained how it's related to removing the fees. Carefully considering what is being said, remove it from your own personal opinions and political views to objectively analyse what someone else has put forward.
• Deductions - A few sentences of information are presented to you. Another separate short statement will also be shown to you, which is supposed to represent a conclusion that someone has reached. You will have to determine whether this conclusion logically follows from the information given to you. Can the statement be deduced from the information available>? If so, and without a doubt, then the conclusion follows, if not, then the conclusion does not follow. Your decision must be based on the information given and not from your own knowledge.
• Inferences - A short scenario is described to you, followed by possible inferences. The inferences are short statements. Imagine that these are what people have said is inferred from the scenario. Use your judgement and the short scenario to assess whether what's being said has actually been inferred from the passage and the likelihood of this inference. You are asked to rank each inference as either 'true,' 'false,' 'possibly true,' 'possibly false.' For some proposed inferences there isn't enough information to say either 'true' or 'false' so a fifth option is included; 'more information required.' You can only select one option from the five.
• Interpreting Information - Following a similar format to the previous four sections, a short passage of information and then a series of statements are shown to you. You are asked to judge whether the information in the passage can be interpreted as the statements suggest. The answer options are straightforward here; you either select 'conclusion follows,' or 'conclusion does not follow,' depending on whether or not you believe that the statement can be logically reached from the information given. Again, for this section and all others, you are to base your choice of answer on what you're given, not on any specialized knowledge you might have.

If a watson glaser critical thinking test is used in the early stages of the application process it's likely to be used as a screening tool. This puts some pressure on candidates to meet a minimum pass mark, which will allow them to be selected to go on to the next stage of the selection process. If it's used at a later stage in the process, the results from this will be combined with performance in other assessments, tests, exercises and interviews. All the information you need to answer the questions will be in the test. Below the details of a few companies' critical thinking tests are pointed out.

Here is a list of critical reasoning tests on the market at present, which candidates may be likely to encounter for recruitment, selection or development.

• W-GCTA - The Watson Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal as it is formally called is the most ubiquitous critical thinking test out there. This is the one that you are most likely to encounter.
• GMAT - The general management aptitude test, used by business schools and colleges test students' critical thinking ability. The critical thinking questions are written in a business or finance context.
• SHL - SHL have produced the Critical Reasoning Test Battery composed of 60 critical reasoning questions with a strict time limit of 30 minutes.
• Cornell - Cornell have developed a critical thinking test to be used in educational environments. The two levels, X and Z, are aimed at children and adults, respectively.
• Area-specific - There are tests which focus on either numerical critical reasoning skills and verbal critical reasoning skills. These tests will ask only numerical or only verbal questions to assess your skills in a specific area.

Here is some general advice to help you perform to the best of your ability for your critical reasoning test.

• No prior knowledge - The key point here is that critical reasoning tests are measuring your ability to think, or the method that you use to reach a conclusion. You should therefore not rely on prior knowledge to answer the question. Questions will be written so that you do not need to know any specialist knowledge to answer the question. For example, you will not be expected to know mathematical formulas or laws of nature and to answer questions with that information. If you are given the formula and its description in the questions, you are expected to use that information to reach the answer.
• Carefully read the instructions - There are 5 sections to most critical thinking tests and each will assess a slightly different skill. Make sure you have read the instructions and understand what it is you are expected to do to answer the questions for this section. There is quite a difference between the Assumptions section and the Deductions section for example. Applying the rules of one to the other would lead to just guessing the answers and making many mistakes.
• Keep your eye on the timer - These tests are complex. You might find yourself fixated on answering one question and taking up a lot of the time you are allowed. Checking how much time you have every so often can help you to more evenly distribute your time between the questions. This is done to avoid spending too much time on one question when that time would be better spent answering more or checking your answers. This time management applies to all tests, but is particularly important with Critical Thinking tests, as many people believe they have such a large amount of time, but underestimate the number of questions they have to answer.
• Logical fallacies - Identifying logical fallacies is key to many parts of this test, and researching the difference between sound and fallacious logic will prove helpful in a critical reasoning test. A fallacy is an error in reasoning due to a misconception or a presumption, and an argument which employs a formal fallacy, logical fallacy or a deductive fallacy in its reasoning becomes an invalid argument. Researching the different types of fallacy (i.e. red herring argument, straw man argument, confusing correlation and causation etc.) can help you spot these in the test and correctly answer the question.

The practice tests that we have cover all of the sections of the Watson Glaser Critical Thinking test and these overlap with many of the variations in Critical Thinking tests produced by major publishers. practice helps to increase your confidence, gives you a chance to learn from your mistakes in a risk-free environment, and can reduce stress before an exam.

The best place to get advice on taking a critical thinking tests is the test publisher's website, for example this one for the Watson Glaser .

If you have already successfully passed a few initial stages of the application process, it's unlikely that companies will focus solely on your results in the Watson Glaser Critical Thinking test when deciding whether or not to hire you. This type of selection by results on one test is more likely if it is part of the early stages of the process. However, towards the later stages the company will look at your results across interviews, group exercises, other aptitude tests and your résumé and will collate all of this information before reaching a decision. If you have been invited to undertake a critical reasoning test then the organisation clearly has an interest in hiring you, let that fact inspire confidence and perform to the best of your ability on your test, good luck!

You may also be interested in these popular tests 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

Prepare for aptitude tests with MConsultingPrep

Explore MConsultingPrep’s Aptitude Test – a strategic & comprehensive practicing platform with

• A question bank of +1000 aptitude questions (Numerical, Verbal & Logical)
• A comprehensive explanation of every question
• Evaluation and recording tools for performance reviews

You’ll be practicing more strategically with our test packages, to gain more confidence for every test question you might experience in your future aptitude tests.

Our massive question bank consists of a significant number of question variations from many test publishers and companies, across different companies & businesses.

With questions organized by type, you can leverage your preparation by

• Focusing on practicing questions in specific types
• Improving your performance in questions that you struggle with

With evaluation tools coming in handy, you have better insights into your overall performance, what you excel at, and what you need improvements on.

Scoring in the McKinsey PSG/Digital Assessment

The scoring mechanism in the McKinsey Digital Assessment

Related product

Aptitude Test Package

Simulating most common test publishers, this package provides you with 1400+ numerical, verbal and logical reasoning questions. Ace the aptitude test with our practical study guides tailored to each question type.

Let’s dive deep into aptitude tests: definition, different types, and free practice materials for this world-famous assessment tool!

Aptitude tests are usually compulsory in the application process. So how much time should you spend on learning to get a high score?

While the majority of aptitude tests contain multiple-choice questions, some test providers provide gamified assessments. Dive in the details now!

• Numerical Reasoning
• Verbal Reasoning
• Inductive Reasoning
• Logical Reasoning
• Situational Judgement
• Mechanical Reasoning
• Watson Glaser Critical thinking
• Deductive reasoning
• Abstract reasoning
• Spatial reasoning
• Error checking
• Verbal comprehension
• Reading comprehension
• Diagrammatic Reasoning
• Psychometric tests
• Personality test
• In-Tray exercise
• E-Tray exercise
• Competency based assessment
• Game based assessments
• Analysis exercise
• Group exercise
• Presentation exercise
• Video interview
• Strengths based assessment
• Strengths based interviews
• Saville Assessment
• Talent Q / Korn Ferry
• Watson Glaser
• Criterion Partnership
• Test Partnership
• Cut-e / Aon
• Team Focus PFS
• Sova Assessment

Watson Glaser Critical Thinking Practice Tests and Advice

Critical thinking tests are high-level aptitude tests, with the Watson-Glaser being the most common.

• Buy critical tests
• Start for free

Page contents:

What is a critical thinking test, critical thinking test format.

• Watson Glaser critical thinking explained

Critical thinking arguments tutorial

Free watson glaser practice tests, critical thinking assumptions tutorial.

• What does a critical test measure?

Critical thinking deductions tutorial

• Most popular critical thinking tests

Critical thinking inferences tutorial

• How to pass Watson Glaser test

Watson Glaser FAQs

Updated: 24 August 2023

A critical thinking test is used to assess your ability to logically analyse assumptions, arguments, deductions, inferences and interpreting information. Critical thinking can be defined as ‘the ability to consider a range of information derived from many different sources, to process this information in a creative and logical manner, challenging it, analysing it and arriving at considered conclusions which can be defended and justified’ (Moon, 2008).

Critical reasoning tests, also known as critical thinking tests, are psychometric tests commonly used in graduate, professional and managerial recruitment. These high-level analytical test are most commonly encountered in the legal sector, but other organisations such as the Bank of England also use them as part of their selection process.

If we lack critical thinking skills, it is possible to be misguided into believing that an argument is strong, when in actual fact there is little evidence to support it. Critical thinking skills therefore include the ability to structure a sound, solid argument, to analyse and synthesise available information, and to make assumptions and inferences. Critical thinking skills are also about being able to evaluate the information and draw conclusions that can be supported.

Your critical thinking test may be pencil and paper or, more likely, it may be administered online. Which one you take will often depend on the format and the structure of the recruitment process. The questions will be multiple choice format and will usually be administered under time constraints.

Common test formats are as follows:

• 40 questions - 30 minutes
• 80 question - 60 minutes

Once you understand the format of your test, you are much more likely to perform better. Practice is the best way to maximise your chances of test success.

Watson Glaser critical thinking appraisal explained

By far the most common type of critical thinking test is the Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal (W-GCTA) which is published by TalentLens. You can visit their official site here: Watson Glaser . With over 85 years' worth of development, the Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal is the most popular measure of critical thinking ability. The test is most commonly used by law firms, which is understandable as the abilities measured by the W-GCTA are good predictors of future success in roles which require clarity of understanding from multiple perspectives and the ability to reason with fact versus assumption.

The Watson-Glaser Thinking Appraisal (W-GCTA) is one of the main evaluating tools for cognitive abilities in professionals, since it measures critical thinking. It is seen as a successful tool to predict job success, as well as being used to select good managers and finding possible future leaders. It is also used in order to select the right person for a specific job role, especially for careers in the law.

Did You Know

The most recent revision of the W-GCTA was published in 2011 with notable improvements being better face validity and business-relevant items, scoring based on Item Response Theory (IRT), updated norm groups, and an online retest which can be used to validate a paper and pencil test result.

The W-GCTA was originally developed by Goodwin Watson and Edward Glaser. The W-GCTA measures the critical skills that are necessary for presenting in a clear, structured, well-reasoned way, a certain point of view and convincing others of your argument. The test questions are looking at the individual’s ability to:

• Make correct inferences
• To recognise assumptions
• To make deductions
• To come to conclusions
• To interpret and evaluate arguments

The following video features Ben explain how to answer an arguments-style question from a critical thinking test:

Free Critical Thinking Test

We have broken down a critical thinking test into the different sections. You can try each section or take the full test (86 questions, 60 minutes).

Critical Thinking Test 1

• 40 questions

Critical Thinking Test 2

Critical thinking test 3, critical thinking test 4.

The following video features Ben explain how to answer an assumptions-style question from a critical thinking test:

87% of users aced their employment test in 2022*

Get a completely free starter account with over 20 tests included.

*According to our 2022 survey of 1486 users

What does a critical thinking test measure?

Critical thinking tests assess your ability to logically analyse assumptions, arguments, deductions, inferences and interpreting information. You will be given a passage of information which may contain a mixture of verbal and numerical data, and will be provided with a statement which requires the candidate’s critical assessment of how true that statement is based on the above passage.

The Watson and Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal contains five sections which are specially designed in order to find out how good an individual is at reasoning analytically and logically. There are five sections:

• Assumptions: In these questions a statement will be presented and the candidate will have to decide if an assumption has been made in making the statement. For example in the statement “only people earning a high salary can afford a fast car” it is assumed that fast cars cost more than not fast cars (this is just one of many assumptions implicit in the statement). An assumption is something someone effectively takes for granted. Statements are given for the individual to read and they are then followed by several proposed assumptions. The candidate has to select whether an assumption has or has not been made.
• Analysing arguments: Candidates will be provided with a given scenario i.e. “Should the government pay student’s tuition fees?” They are subsequently provided with a list of arguments for or against the scenario presented. The candidate will need to assess if each argument is strong or weak, based on how relevant it is and how well it addresses the question. The argument is considered to be strong if it directly relates to the question or statement, and weak if it is not directly related to the question or statement.
• Deductions: Candidates will be provided with a passage of information and candidates will need to evaluate a list of deductions made based on that passage. If one cannot deduce a particular statement from the passage, then that deduction does not follow, and the candidate must select which deductions follow and which do not follow. The answer must be entirely based on the statements made and not on conclusions made from one’s own knowledge.
• Inferences: In this section candidates will be provided with a passage of information on a scenario. A subsequent list of possible inferences will follow, and candidates will be asked to rate if they are true, false, possibly true, possibly false or whether it is not possible to say based on the information in the passage.
• Interpreting Information: A paragraph of information will be provided to the candidate, with a list of possible conclusions. Candidates will need to interpret the information in the paragraph and decide if each conclusion follows based on the presented information. Once again the decisions must solely be based on the information given.

With so many sections, each having their own instructions and guidelines, it can be tough to become confident on all areas.

Survey results

We asked critical thinking test takers what they found was the most difficult section of a critical thinking test. 35% of them believed 'assumptions' to be the most difficult. You can see the full results below:

The following video features Ben explain how to answer a deductions-style question from a critical thinking test:

Most popular critical thinking test publishers

There may be variations in your test depending on the test publisher you have for your critical thinking test.

Throughout 2020, we analysed a sample of critical thinking tests to discover the most popular test publishers. It was found that 77% of critical thinking tests were published by Watson Glaser.

Here is a list of critical reasoning tests on the market at present, which candidates may be likely to encounter for recruitment, selection or development:

• Watson Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal: The W-GCTA is the most widely-used critical reasoning test on the market, and the one candidates are most likely to encounter.
• SHL Critical Reasoning Test Battery: The SHL Critical Reasoning Test Battery is a collection of 60 critical reasoning questions with varying difficulty depending of the level of candidate. This test has a time limit of 30 minutes.
• Cornell Critical Thinking Assessment: The Cornell Critical Thinking Assessment is a test primarily used in educational settings. There are two versions of this test, one for children and one for adults. This test may be used for entry onto particular degree courses or for recruitment/development purposes.
• Cappfinity Critical Reasoning Test: This assesses your problem solving and decision making skills. Its topics have similarities with the Watson Glaser.
• Test Partnership Concepts Critical Thinking Test: This also shares some similarities with the Watson Glaser. Test Partnership assesses the classic aspects of critical thinking with a modern candidate experience.

The following video features Ben explain how to answer an inference-style question from a critical thinking test:

How to pass Watson Glaser test - critical thinking tips

Here is some general advice to help you learn how to improve your Watson Glaser score:

• Only use the information contained in the test: When reading the passages of information within the test, your first instinct may be to use general knowledge or your own personal experience. Critical reasoning tests are not tests of what you think; they are tests of how you think. You will not be required to utilise any prior knowledge when answering a question, and at times the correct answer will completely contradict what you know to be true based on your own knowledge, but is true in the context of the passage.
• Read the instructions thoroughly: Critical reasoning tests will require numerous separate types of logical reasoning, and reading the instructions will inform you of how to answer questions correctly. For example if a question requires you to evaluate the strength of an argument, the instruction page will inform you what constitutes a strong or weak argument. Take ample time to ensure you know how to answer questions regardless of any time limits.
• Pay attention to time limits: Due to the complex nature of critical reasoning tests, there will often be no time limits or there will be generous time limits. Candidates are advised to use this to their advantage and take plenty of time when reading, evaluating and answering. An easy mistake to make is treating this type of test like a verbal or numerical reasoning test and answering questions as quickly as possible. Rushing through a critical thinking test may lead to candidates missing key points, and answering incorrectly as a result.
• Understand logical fallacies: Understanding logical fallacies is an important part of the test, and researching the difference between sound and fallacious logic can help maximise performance on a critical reasoning test. A fallacy is an error in reasoning due to a misconception or a presumption, and an argument which employs a formal fallacy, logical fallacy or a deductive fallacy in its reasoning becomes an invalid argument. Researching the different types of fallacy (i.e. red herring argument, straw man argument, confusing correlation and causation etc.) can help you identify them in the test and therefore answer the question correctly.

Join the 600k test success stories!

View all Google reviews

You will not be hired solely on your Watson Glaser score, but a score of 75% is a good score that will give you a good chance of progressing through selection rounds. When taking practice Watson Glaser tests try to achieve +75% in your raw score, this should be enough.

The Watson Glaser test has a time limit of 30 minutes. There is a total of 40 questions to complete within this time limit.

Yes, the Watson Glaser test is multiple-choice format and is split into the five section: assumptions, analysing arguments, deductions, inferences, interpreting information.

Most law firms will use a Watson Glaser test to assess the candidate's critical thinking ability. Some well known law firms include: Hogan Lovells, Clifford Chance, DLA Piper, Linklaters, Freshfields BD and others.

Get 25% off all test packages.

Get 25% off all test packages!

Click below to get 25% off all test packages.

Watson Glaser Tests

• https://www.talentlens.co.uk/product/watson-glaser/
• 228 questions

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.

Within two hours of practice I have improved my score from 50% correct to 88%.

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.

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.

Enjoy what you’ve read? Let others know!

• Share on whatsapp
• Share on linkedin
• Share on twitter
• Share on facebook
• Share via email

Try Watson Glaser Tests for Free

Watson glaser 01.

20 Questions | 20 Minutes

Watson Glaser 02

Watson glaser 03, improve your scores with our intelligent learning system.

Immediate access. Cancel anytime.

• 30 Numerical reasoning tests
• 30 Verbal reasoning tests
• 30 Diagrammatic reasoning tests
• 30 Situational judgement tests
• 34 Publisher packages e.g. Watson Glaser
• 252 Employer packages e.g. HSBC
• 29 Extra packages e.g Mechanical
• Dashboard performance tracking
• Full solutions and explanations
• Tips, tricks, guides and resources
• Access to free tests
• Basic performance tracking
• Solutions & explanations
• Tips and resources

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.

By using our website you agree with our Cookie Policy.

What Is Critical Thinking?

Why is critical thinking important to potential employers, how to prepare for a watson glaser test in 2024, tips to pass the watson glaser test, frequently asked questions, watson-glaser critical thinking test (2024 guide).

Updated July 26, 2023

All products and services featured are independently selected by WikiJob. When you register or purchase through links on this page, we may earn a commission.

The Watson Glaser critical thinking test , initially developed by Goodwin Watson and Edward Glaser and now published by Talentlens/Pearson, is designed to assess an individual’s ability to digest and understand situations and information.

It is a psychometric test often used by organisations where the ability to critically consider arguments or propositions is particularly important, such as law firms .

Most people complete the Watson Glaser test within 50 minutes (approximately 10 minutes per sub-test). Tests administrators normally allow candidates one hour to complete the test.

The Watson-Glaser test has been co-normed on a sample of over 1,500 respondents representative of graduate-level candidates. You will be judged against this respondent group when you sit the test.

You can practise realistic Watson Glaser Tests here .

Get Our Watson Glaser Practice Test

Critical thinking is the ability to logically and rationally consider information.

Rather than accepting arguments and conclusions presented, a person with strong critical thinking will question and seek to understand the evidence provided.

They will look for logical connections between ideas , consider alternative interpretations of information and evaluate the strength of arguments presented.

Everyone inherently experiences some degree of subconscious bias in their thinking. Critical thinking skills can help an individual overcome these and separate out facts from opinions.

The Watson Glaser critical thinking appraisal is based around the RED model of critical thinking:

Recognise assumptions . This is all about comprehension. Actually understanding what is being stated and considering whether the information presented is true, and whether any evidence has been provided to back it up. Correctly identifying when assumptions have been made is an essential part of this, and being able to critically consider the validity of these assumptions – ideally from a number of different perspectives – can help identify missing information or logical inconsistencies.

Evaluate arguments . This skill is about the systematic analysis of the evidence and arguments provided. Being able to remain objective, while logically working through arguments and information. Critical evaluation of arguments requires an individual to suspend their judgement, which can be challenging when an argument has an emotional impact. It is all too easy to unconsciously seek information which confirms a preferred perspective, rather than critically analyse all of the information.

Draw conclusions . This is the ability to pull together a range of information and arrive at a logical conclusion based on the evidence. An individual with strong critical thinking skills will be able to adjust their conclusion should further evidence emerge which leads to a different conclusion.

Critical reasoning tests are a common feature of the job application process in many different industries.

Critical thinking is important to employers because individuals who engage in quality thinking make better decisions. They arrive at conclusions which are impartial, well informed and objective.

Furthermore, such people are able to make decisions with limited supervision, enabling them to independently make judgements: in a world where time can be money, waiting for someone else to validate decisions can be costly and result in missed opportunities.

Practice Watson Glaser Test with JobTestPrep

What Is Involved in the Watson Glaser Test?

The Watson Glaser test evaluates a candidate’s critical thinking ability in five separate areas:

• Recognition of Assumptions
• Interpretations
• Evaluation of arguments

Each of these skills is tested separately and there are therefore five different types of questions in the Watson Glaser test. We will explore each of these below.

1. Inferences

An inference is a conclusion based on evidence and reasoning . It enables conclusions to be drawn that are not explicitly stated. For example, if we see someone driving a Ferrari we may conclude that they are wealthy.

However, there are a number of alternative explanations: they may have rented or borrowed the car, or they may have acquired huge debt as a result of buying the car.

The problem with inferences is that people often reach a conclusion based on insufficient data, and the conclusion may not, therefore, be correct.

An inference question typically involves a statement (which you are to assume is true) and a number of inferences based on that statement. Your job is to evaluate whether the inference is correct. You can do this using both the information contained within the passage and information which is commonly accepted knowledge or information that practically every person has.

You will be given five potential responses and you have to select which you feel is most accurate. These options are:

• Definitely True – from the facts given there is no reasonable possibility of it being incorrect.
• Probably True – in light of the facts given, it is more likely to be true than false.
• Insufficient Data – in light of the facts given it is impossible to say whether it is true or not.
• Probably False – in lights of the facts given, it is more likely to be false than true.
• Definitely False – from the facts given, there is no reasonable possibility of it being true.

Example Question

If you need to prepare for a number of different employment tests and want to outsmart the competition, choose a Premium Membership from JobTestPrep . You will get access to three PrepPacks of your choice, from a database that covers all the major test providers and employers and tailored profession packs.

Get a Premium Package Now

2. Recognition of Assumptions

An assumption is something we take for granted. An example might be: “When I retire I will receive a final salary pension”. This assumes that you will get to retire, that you will be alive at retirement age, that your pension fund performs well, and that your pension arrangements will not change.

People make many assumptions which may not necessarily be correct; being able to identify these is a key aspect of critical thinking.

An assumption question typically involves a statement and a number of assumptions. Your job is to identify whether an assumption has been made or not, and you will have a choice of two answers: yes or no.

3. Deductions

A deduction is the drawing of a conclusion in a particular instance, by referring to a general law or premise. However, there may be occasions when such deduction is incorrect.

For example, in the statement: "Satsumas, oranges and clementines are all citrus fruits. They are all orange; therefore all citrus fruits are orange." Clearly this is incorrect.

The deduction section will include a statement (which you must assume is true), followed by a number of potential conclusions.

Your job is to identify whether the conclusion logically follows from the given statement and you will have two options: yes or no.

4. Interpretation

An interpretation is an evaluation of whether a conclusion can logically follow from the information or evidence provided. This requires an individual to understand the precise meaning or significance of a piece of information and applying this information appropriately.

For example, if you are told in a study that the wavelength of light visible to the human eye range from 380–750 nm, you can conclude that no humans can see light at 30 nm.

5. Evaluation of Arguments

This set of questions examines your ability to evaluate the strength of an argument.

You might be faced with strong arguments or weak arguments, and to be strong an argument must be important and directly related to the question.

In these questions, you will be presented by a statement followed by a number of arguments (which you should assume are true) and you must then decide whether each argument is strong or weak.

Take a Free Practice Watson Glaser Test If you would like to practise a simulation Watson Glaser test, please try the one below, which was created by JobTestPrep in association with psychometric experts, and is closely modelled on real tests. The test consists of 10 questions to be answered in 10 minutes approx (although there is no timer on the test itself). Our test is slightly harder than the real thing, in order to make it sufficiently challenging practice. You need to get 70% correct to pass the test. Don't forget to first check out the test techniques section further down this page beforehand. You can take the test as many times as you like. Click the 'Take test' link below to get started.

Watson Glaser Test By Our Partner JobTestPrep

A Watson Glaser test is designed to assess your ability to digest and understand situations and information; it is frequently used by law firms. Try these 15 questions as an introduction.

Get Our Watson Glaser Practice with Free Tests

Step 1 . Practice Critical Thinking

Critical thinking ability can be significantly improved by practice . It is a skill that can be learned, although it does come more easily to some people than others.

Look for opportunities to think critically about information every day. Once you start practising, you’ll find useful material everywhere: blog posts, newspapers, and journal articles are great places to look.

It can be useful to organise your thinking and practice around the RED model mentioned earlier in the article:

Recognise assumptions . Practise identifying the assumption made in the material. What can be objectively proven and what is inferred? Where might there be gaps in your logic? What information is important and relevant, and what isn’t? What is missing? Is there any information that needs to be included which isn’t?

Evaluate arguments . Practice carefully analysing the arguments presented. What is your perspective on the evidence? Could someone else have a different perspective? Consider the impacts of the arguments from a range of different viewpoints (it can be useful to use a model like PESTLE – political, economic, socio-demographic, technological, legal and environmental – to organise your thoughts). How would someone argue against your position? What merits are there to their arguments?

Draw conclusions . After you have considered all of the facts, what is the best possible conclusion? Could there be any other conclusions? What new information might change your conclusion? Does this conclusion seem sensible based on your common sense and experience? What are the implications of this conclusion?

Step 2 . Develop Self-Awareness

It is also useful to develop your self-awareness. Understanding your biases and thinking patterns can help you identify where your thinking might be limited.

In most of these critical thinking questions, you will need to analyse the text given to you without including any prior knowledge you have.

Step 3 . Take Practice Tests

Finally, take some practice questions .

It can be really helpful to work through some examples with explanations as you will really start to understand how they work and how to think through the questions and arrive at the correct answer.

Here are a few tips to help you prepare for and pass the Watson Glaser test:

Familiarize Yourself with the Test: Gain an understanding of the test format, question types and time constraints. Obtain practice materials, such as sample questions or practice tests, to become familiar with the style of questions and improve your performance.

Develop Critical Thinking Skills: Enhance your critical thinking abilities by practicing logical reasoning, analyzing complex information, evaluating arguments and drawing sound conclusions. Read articles, engage in debates and solve puzzles to sharpen your critical thinking skills.

Time Management: The Watson Glaser test is typically timed, so practice working under time constraints. Learn to allocate your time efficiently across the different sections and questions.

Read Instructions Carefully: Pay close attention to the instructions provided for each question. Understand what is being asked, and ensure you are addressing the specific requirements of the question.

Practice with Realistic Scenarios: The Watson Glaser test often presents scenarios that simulate real-life situations. Practice analyzing and evaluating arguments and making informed judgments based on the information provided.

Review Logical Fallacies: Familiarize yourself with common logical fallacies, such as false assumptions, weak correlations, and flawed arguments. Being aware of these fallacies can help you identify weaknesses in the arguments presented.

Remember that preparation is key to performing well on the Watson Glaser test.

By practicing, honing your critical thinking skills, and familiarizing yourself with the test format, you can increase your chances of success.

What is a good score on the Watson Glaser test?

There is no set pass or fail mark for the Watson Glaser test.

Each employer will have a different benchmark but it is sensible to aim for a score of at least 75%. To achieve this, you will need to correctly answer at least 30 of the 40 test questions.

The recruiting organization will use Watson Glaser test results to compare candidates within the selection pool. The higher your Watson Glaser test score, the better your employment prospects.

How is Watson Glaser scored?

Watson Glaser tests comprise 40 multiple-choice questions. Many questions have just two possible answers.

A test-takers score is used to work out their relative position within a norm group. Candidates with the highest relative Watson Glaser test score will progress to the next stage of the hiring process.

Watson Glaser test results are split into a development report and a profile report. Both reports are passed directly to the recruiting organization.

• The development report highlights strengths and areas for development.
• The profile report provides a percentile score, including the raw number of correct answers.

The Watson Glaser score system accounts for the difficulty level of each question, meaning candidates can earn more points for correctly answering a difficult question. The percentile score also considers the education level, occupation and position of the candidate’s norm group.

Is the Watson Glaser test free?

Watson Glaser test candidates are not required to pay a fee to take the test. The recruiting organization will need to pay a fee to use the Watson Glaser test within the hiring process.

Which firms require the Watson Glaser test?

Watson Glaser tests are a popular recruitment tool for law firms in particular, including Allen & Overy, Clifford Chance, Dentons and Linklaters.

What is a good score on the Watson Glaser Test?

The Watson Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal is typically scored on a scale from 0 to 100, with a higher score indicating a better performance.

However, what constitutes a 'good' score can vary depending on the context and the specific requirements of the employer or organization using the test.

Generally, a score above 70 is considered a strong performance, demonstrating strong critical thinking skills and the ability to analyze and evaluate complex information effectively.

What employers use the Watson Glaser?

The Watson Glaser test is widely used by employers across various industries to assess critical thinking skills and decision-making abilities of job candidates.

It is commonly utilized in the fields of law, finance, consulting, business, and other roles that require strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.

Many law firms, financial institutions, consulting firms and large corporations incorporate the Watson Glaser test into their selection processes.

Versions and forms of the Watson Glaser Test

The Watson Glaser test has different versions and forms available, depending on the specific needs of employers.

These variations may include different question formats, content areas, or levels of difficulty. Some commonly used versions include the Watson Glaser Form A, Form B and Form S.

The different forms may contain different question types, such as arguments, deductions, interpretations and evaluations, but they generally assess similar critical thinking skills.

You might also be interested in these other Wikijob articles:

Or explore the Aptitude Tests / Test Types sections.

What Is a Watson Glaser Test?

The correct watson glaser test answers: how to prepare, frequently asked questions, final thoughts, a guide to the watson glaser test: & tips.

Updated November 18, 2023

The Watson Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal , commonly referred to as the Watson Glaser test, is usually used as a pre-employment psychometric test largely used in the recruitment process for roles in the legal industry.

The Watson Glaser test consists of 40 questions separated into five sections, assessing the critical thinking skills of the candidate. The five sections are:

• Recognition of assumptions
• Interpretation
• Evaluation of arguments

This article will discuss the Watson Glaser test’s format and content and how it’s applied.

It will also suggest different ways that you can prepare yourself for the test, gives some examples of the types of questions you might face and some tips that will help you achieve the test score you need to progress.

Practice Watson Glaser Test

The pre-employment Watson Glaser test was developed by Goodwin Watson and Edward Glaser, and it focuses only on critical thinking skills and decision making.

The Watson Glaser critical thinking test (WGCTA) was originally published and used in 1964, with studies undertaken on its validity at predicting future success demonstrating that it is a useful tool in selecting candidates that have the required critical thinking skills.

This test has been widely used in the recruitment process for roles related to the legal industry because it allows candidates to demonstrate that they have the right level of logical thinking skills .

It can be used by the recruitment team to choose the candidates for the role that are able to draw conclusions, evaluate arguments and recognise assumptions.

The Watson Glaser assessment is a challenging test, which is why the top law firms globally rely on it to help filter through applicants.

The test is used by companies like:

• Clifford Chance
• Government legal services
• Hogan Lovells

The Watson Glaser Assessment Format

If you are required to take a Watson Glaser test as part of an application process, then you are most likely to be invited to complete the assessment online and in your own time via an email link.

The Watson Glaser assessment contains 40 questions that need to be answered in 30 minutes.

The questions are separated into five separate sections, each looking at a different aspect of critical thinking.

1. Inference

An inference is the way people can reach a conclusion based on facts with the addition of reasoning, even if the conclusion itself is not explicitly stated.

People make inferences about everyday things, based on their own experiences and the presentation of facts.

There are five questions about recognising inferences in this section. The questions are presented as a statement followed by a series of inferences. You need to rate each inference based on a scale from true to false .

You need to assume all the information given in the statement is true and use that information as part of your critical reasoning.

2. Recognition of Assumptions

An assumption is something that a person makes when they think about things. Assumptions are something viewed as being true, even when there is no proof or evidence.

In this section, comprising of 12 multiple-choice questions, candidates are required to demonstrate that they can recognise false assumptions and can avoid them in their critical thinking.

In this section, a statement is made then followed by an assumption.

To answer the question, you need to decide whether the statement works with the proposed assumption, choosing Assumption Made and Assumption Not Made .

3. Deduction

Deductions are something that people make throughout their daily lives; it means drawing logical conclusions from presented information using general laws and principles.

Making a logical deduction is not straightforward, especially when the reasoning that is given is incorrect, and recognising that conclusions may or may not follow is what this assessment is about.

There are six questions in this section, and each is based on a statement that you must assume to be true. After the statement are a series of given conclusions.

You need to decide whether the conclusions logically follow from the statement, choosing Conclusion Follows or Conclusion Does Not Follow .

4. Interpretation

Interpreting information can mean explaining it to show that you understand, and in this section of the assessment you are required to interpret the significant information in a statement and decide if a given conclusion can be reached from it beyond a reasonable doubt.

There are six questions in this section, and although it is phrased and structured in a similar way to the above Deduction section, the logic used is less formal and more about your understanding.

You still need to decide between Conclusion Follows and Conclusion Does Not Follow , however.

5. Evaluation of Arguments

This is a section that can be tricky for people who are used to dealing with their own opinions on dividing subjects, because in this section you will be presented with a question that has a yes or no answer, alongside an argument for either side of the debate.

You are required to analyse the strength of the argument, relative to the information provided in the question – not whether the answer is right or wrong.

In this section there are 12 questions, each posed with an argument that you have to name as Argument Strong or Argument Weak .

Watson Glaser Practice Test Examples

Here are some practice questions to help you get an idea of what you might face in the test.

ABC Company have presented their end of year results, and there has been an overspend in the recruitment category that could have a number of explanations, but the HR team insist that the quality of candidates is the main issues. A spokesperson has said that too much time is being wasted in the recruitment process, and that streamlining the process is an important step that needs to be taken to improve the figures and reduce the overspend.

Inference: There are not enough people applying for roles at ABC Company.

a) True b) Probably true c) Neutral d) Probably false e) False

Biscuit manufacturers are up in arms after a rogue manufacturer combined both a cake and a biscuit, creating a cross-over of products that consumers have become extremely excited about. One cake manufacturer called it a “chocolate-covered calamity” and claim that it is the worst invention ever made.

Assumption: Cake and biscuit combinations are not popular with cake manufacturers.

a) Assumption made b) Assumption not made

Statistics show businesses selling bakery products, like sweet buns and cupcakes, are more likely to succeed if they are marketed as French or Belgian.

Conclusion: French and Belgian products are more expensive.

a) Conclusion follows b) Conclusion does not follow

Children experience developmental leaps, and these happen at predictable and defined times throughout early development. Caregivers and parents will notice that during these periods babies and toddlers seem to have trouble sleeping and can develop strange sleeping patterns.

Conclusion: Children do not sleep at all during developmental leaps.

Should governments set a minimum wage, outlining a minimum amount an employee is paid per hour?

Argument: Yes, a minimum wage is key part of civilised society.

a) Strong argument b) Weak argument

Step 1 . Practice

Online assessments can be difficult, even if the content is simple enough, because they are unfamiliar and you will be under exam conditions pressure, including time limits.

One of the best things that you can do before any pre-employment assessment is to take practice tests, and the most useful ones will be similar in structure and content to the tests that you are facing.

What this means for you is that you should look for free Watson Glaser practice tests that you can take online.

You can find a number of free practice Watson Glaser tests or take advantage of preparation packages from sites such as JobTestPrep .

Practice tests offer a couple of key benefits for candidates:

First, you will become familiar with the structure and layout of the test, as well as how long you have to answer each question – which is usually less than you might think.

Second, practice tests give you an opportunity to see where your strengths and weaknesses lie, so that you can have the chance to practice and develop any areas where you might need some extra help. Revision of skills is easier when you have some focus from your test results, and then you can take the test again to see your progress.

Step 2 . Boost Your Critical Thinking

Critical thinking is not an easy thing to develop, even though people do it subconsciously much of the time.

The Watson Glaser test is based on the RED Model of critical thinking. This stands for:

• R ecognising assumptions
• E valuating arguments
• D rawing conclusions

To boost your thinking power, you can play brain training games on your smartphone, do cryptic crosswords, sudoku, or logic puzzles and apply different critical thinking theories to the world around you.

For example, if you are watching a news report, think about the conclusions that are being drawn from the information that is given:

Are there inferences and assumptions being made? Are there alternative viewpoints that are not being covered? Does the presented conclusion follow logically from the report?

Step 3 . Read a Lot

Reading is an excellent way to apply critical thinking.

Reading from a wide range of sources gives you access to a lot of material that can help you establish some good critical thinking habits and will help you to avoid falling into common traps when it comes to arguments and presented evidence.

With the RED model in mind, when you are reading think about some of the following:

• Is the information given true, and does the conclusion logically follow?
• Is all the necessary information to draw the conclusion provided?
• Does the evidence support the argument? Are there other perspectives that could present a stronger argument?
• Can you summarise the information into a logical conclusion, or do you reach a different conclusion from what you have read?

Step 4 . Understand Logical Fallacies

Great philosophers have spent countless decades and centuries looking at different ways to argue, and critical thinking means recognising when someone is making an argument that contains a logical fallacy.

There are potentially dozens of different logical fallacies that could be applied to a conclusion, but you are not expected to know all of them – just focus on some of the more relevant ones in your research.

Logical fallacies include:

• Appeal to probability
• Masked man fallacy
• Existential fallacy
• False authority
• Cherry picking
• Red herring

A fallacy in an argument undermines the logic and makes it impossible to draw a true conclusion based on the facts presented.

How to Do Well in the Watson Glaser Assessment

Read the question carefully.

Although the Watson Glaser test is meant to be challenging, it is straightforward in the way that the questions are asked and answered.

This means there are no trick questions. However, you need to make sure that you read the question carefully so that you understand what you need to do to answer correctly.

While under time pressure, taking those few seconds to reread the question might seem extravagant, but it will save you time in the long run and minimise the risk of you missing simple marks.

Don’t Make Assumptions About the Questions

You are being asked to spot assumptions, not to make them – so don’t assume that you know the answer to a question.

This is especially true when you are evaluating arguments – you need to keep your opinion out of consideration when you are answering because you must base your conclusions only on the information presented in the statement.

Don’t Get Stuck on Tricky Questions

You will be under time pressure in this assessment, and you will have less than a minute per question – so don’t get tied up with any question that you are unsure about.

If you really don’t know the answer, guess and move on – you can always come back at the end if you have time.

Don’t Use Prior Knowledge or Experience

Critical thinking tests are usually used for legal roles, and this means that the candidates taking them are likely to have some experience or previous knowledge in the area.

However, this can actually hinder your success.

You need to take all the information given to you in the given statement as being true, and you should not be applying any outside knowledge to the problem.

You are being marked on the critical thinking skills you use when faced with new information, not on how well you can recall lessons that you might have learned.

What is the Watson Glaser test?

The Watson Glaser test is a pre-employment assessment created to evaluate candidates’ critical thinking skills and is usually used in the application process for roles in the legal industry.

It is an online test that consists of 40 questions that have to be answered in 30 minutes.

Is the Watson Glaser test hard to pass?

The Watson Glaser test is challenging, because it is assessing candidates on their critical thinking and logical reasoning skills.

The assessment is straightforward to complete in terms of structure and layout, but the content can make it hard to pass for those who are not great at reaching logical conclusions.

Where can I prepare for the Watson Glaser test?

The recruitment team might provide you with some material to help you prepare for the Watson Glaser test, but if they do not then there are many different resources available online that can help.

We recommend using JobTestPrep for this – not only do they have lots of free revision material, detailed descriptions of what to expect and practice tests, they also have extensive resources as a PrepPack, including multiple full-length tests as well as tips and tricks.

Can you fail the Watson Glaser test?

If you do not reach the benchmark score set by the company you are applying to when taking the Watson Glaser test, you will not be taken further in the recruitment process.

The score you need will depend on the role you have applied for, so the best way to ensure you pass is to aim for the highest score possible.

Can you retake the Watson Glaser test?

If you fail the Watson Glaser test, your application will be terminated, and you will not progress any further in the recruitment process.

In some cases, you might be allowed to reapply at a later date, and if this is the case you may be allowed to retake the assessment. This will depend on the company you are applying to.

What is a good score for the Watson Glaser test?

Your score for the Watson Glaser test is presented as a percentage, based on the number of correct answers and the relative difficulty of the question.

Benchmark scores (the score you need to reach to be considered for the position you have applied for) depend entirely on the needs of the company; in most cases, you should aim to score above 75%.

Where can I find more sample questions for the Watson Glaser test?

If you are looking for more sample questions for the Watson Glaser test, or even full-length practice tests and other useful material, look at the resources available at JobTestPrep .

What is the purpose of the Watson Glaser test?

The Watson Glaser test is used as a pre-employment assessment in the recruitment process for roles that require logical deductions and critical thinking.

The test allows candidates to demonstrate that they can recognise assumptions, evaluate arguments and draw conclusions in a logical way.

How to pass the Watson Glaser test?

To pass the Watson Glaser test, you need to answer enough of the questions correctly. There are 40 questions in the test, separated into five test sections:

Is the Watson Glaser test timed?

Yes, the Watson Glaser test is timed: you will have 30 minutes to answer 40 questions.

The time constraint is part of the test’s challenge so make sure you practice answering quickly and accurately.

How many questions are on the Watson Glaser test?

There are 40 test questions on the Watson Glaser test, all based around critical thinking skills like recognising assumptions, drawing conclusions and evaluating arguments.

Where can I find a complete study guide for the Watson Glaser test?

For more detail and a complete guide to the Watson Glaser test, JobTestPrep is an invaluable resource. This is where you will be able to access practice tests, get more information about the different sections and get some revision guides too.

The Watson Glaser test is an assessment designed to evaluate candidates on their critical thinking skills during the selection process for graduate roles, usually within the legal sector.

It is a challenging test that is often used in the recruitment process for careers in the legal sector, or for other roles that require a logical thinking process.

To prepare for the Watson Glaser test, the best thing you can do is practice your critical thinking and read widely, so that you are more used to actively using skills like evaluating arguments, drawing conclusions and recognising assumptions.

With practice and preparation, you can score highly on the Watson Glaser test and get that perfect job opportunity.

You might also be interested in these other PRT articles:

• Practice Tests
• Predictive Index
• Firefighter
• Hogan Assessments
• Leadership Assessment
• GardaWorld Pre Board
• Criticall Dispatcher
• Ramsay Technician Course
• Watson-Glaser
• Cubiks Course
• NEO Personality Inventory
• Texas Success Initiative
• TSA Prep Booster™ Course
• TSA Practice Test
• TSA Written Skills Assessment
• TSA CBT X-Ray Object Recognition Test
• SHL Assessment Prep Course
• Practice Test & Answers
• SHL Practice Tests
• SHL Test Answers
• SHL Inductive Reasoning Test
• SHL Numerical Reasoning Test
• SHL Verbal Reasoning Test
• SHL Verify G+ Test
• SHL Mechanical Comprehension Test
• SHL Situational Judgment Test
• SHL OPQ Personality Test
• Predictive Index Test Behavioral & Cognitive Assessment Course
• Predictive Index Cognitive Assessment Course
• Predictive Index Behavioral Assessment Course
• Predictive Index Practice Test
• Predictive Index Results
• Caliper Course
• Caliper Test Prep With Real Practice Test
• USPS Postal Exam
• Postal Exam 474
• Postal Exam 475
• Postal Exam 476
• Postal Exam 477
• USPS Postal Exam Prep
• Pass the 2024 Postal Exam With Practice Tests
• Virtual Entry Assessment (VEA)
• General Police Prep Course
• Police Situational Judgement Test
• Police Psychological Exam Course
• EB Jacobs Law Enforcement Aptitude Battery
• Massachusetts State Police Exam
• Pennsylvania Police Exam
• Philadelphia Police Exam
• Nassau County Police Exam Course
• Suffolk County Police Exam
• CJBAT Study Guide
• Correctional Officer Exam
• DELPOE Police Exam
• Texas LEVEL Test With Expert Guides
• MTA Police Exam
• NY State Trooper Exam Prep Course
• PELLETB Course
• School Safety Agent Course
• Police Officer NYPD Exam
• Police Fitness Prep Course
• FBI Test Phase 1 (Special Agent Exam): Guide with Practice Test [2024]
• Police Test Preparation Suite
• Pass a Polygraph Test (Lie Detector): Expert Tips & Questions – 2024
• Firefighter Aptitude and Character Test
• Firefighter Psych Test
• FCTC Firefighter Prep Course
• NFSI Firefighter Prep Course
• FireTeam Prep Course
• FDNY Firefighter Prep Course
• Firefighter Test
• Master Course
• Hogan Assessments Master Course
• Personality Courses
• Hogan Personality Inventory (HPI)
• Hogan Development Survey (HDS)
• Hogan Motives, Values & Preferences Inventory (MVPI)
• Busines Reasoning Course
• Hogan Business Reasoning Inventory (HBRI)
• Leadership Assessment Test
• GardaWorld Pre Board Primer
• Bennett Mechanical Comprehension Test II (BMCT-II) Success Prep Course
• Beat the 2024 BMCT With Industry Expert Guides & Realistic Practice Tests
• 911 Dispatcher Course
• Criticall Dispatcher Course
• Criticall Dispatcher Test
• CCAT Course
• Beat the 2024 Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test & Guide & Free CCAT Practice Test
• Criteria Pre-employment Testing: Personality, Aptitude & Skill Tests
• CRITERIA COGNITIVE APTITUDE TEST
• Korn Ferry Course
• Ace the 2024 Korn Ferry Assessment With Practice Test & Expert Guides
• Ramsay Electrical Course
• Ramsay Maintenance Course
• Ramsay Mechanical Course
• Ramsay Multicraft Course
• Ramsay Electrical Practice Test
• Ramsay Maintenance Practice Test
• Ramsay Mechanical Practice Test
• Ramsay Multicraft Practice Test
• Ramsay Test Prep
• SIFT Practice Test & Study Guide
• Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Course
• Watson Glaser Test 2024: Free Practice Tests, Format, and 5 Sections Overview
• Take on the Watson Glaser and Secure your Future Career

Beat the Watson Glaser and Upgrade Your Career

• Cubiks Test: Guide on all Test Types and Free Cubiks Practice Test
• Cubiks PAPI Test: Focus Areas and Test Format (2024)
• Cubiks Assessment Test to Start Working at KPMG
• Texas Success Initiative Course
• TSI Practice Test 2024: Math, Reading & Writing
• TSI Reading Practice Test: 15 Q&A with Explanations
• Pass our Free TSI Math Practice Test (2024 Update)
• Take our Free TSI Writing Practice Test (2024)
• How it Works

Prepare for the Watson Glaser with industry expert-made guides and realistic practice test, and show prospective employers that you’re the right choice.

The Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal (WGCTA) is the first step you will need to take when applying for many high-profile job positions. This is especially common with legal professional and managerial jobs. High performance on the Watson Glaser critical thinking test demonstrates to prospective employers that you’re the best fit for the job, both in skill set & competence.

The Watson-Glaser aptitude test is believed to be one of the most difficult and demanding tests on the psychometric test market, and proper prep is essential if you wish to stand a chance against other applicants who are vying for the same job. Prepterminal’s Watson Glaser Prep Course has been designed by industry experts to prepare you for this difficult exam so you can take on the real thing with confidence. Click on Get Started to begin your prep immediately or read on for further information.

What Is the Watson Glaser Test?

Created by Goodwin Watson and Edward Glaser, The Watson Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal Test (WGCTA) evaluates and interprets the critical thinking skills of the test-taker.

Critical thinking assessments are psychometric tests used for recruitment at various levels including, professional, managerial, and graduate and are used in many sectors. However, they are most commonly seen in the legal field.

Employers use this test to measure the abilities of a candidate and to see how they understand arguments, identify assumptions, and form conclusions founded on those assumptions.

The Watson Glaser Test mainly assesses a candidate’s ability to think critically and analytically. For many applicants, this will cover topics they haven’t had to deal with in many years – preparation with Prepterminal’s Watson Glaser Prep Course provides an excellent summary of each topic covered with realistic practice questions and expert guides.

The Structure of the Watson Glaser Test

The Watson Glaser test consists of 40 questions. There is a timed version and an untimed version. Those taking the timed version have 30 minutes to finish the 40 questions.

The test is made up of 5 sections:

• Identification of assumptions
• Interpretation of information
• Assessment of arguments

All questions on the test have multiple-choice answers (five choices are given in the inference section and two choices are given in all the rest of the questions).

There are currently two available versions of the test:

• Watson-Glaser II forms D & E (computerized or pen & paper)
• Watson-Glaser III (only computerized).

The central difference between the two versions is that the Watson Glaser III uses an item bank of questions and doesn’t require a test officer.

The test can be taken offline or online, and keep in mind that no marks are taken off for choosing an incorrect answer.

Start preparing today by taking PrepTerminal’s Free Watson Glaser Practice Test.

Free arguments practice test questions, free inferences practice test questions, free recognizing assumptions practice test, free deduction practice test, free interpretation practice test, what’s included, quick online prep pack.

Get an immediate access to our advanced and adaptive learning software and get fully prepared to beat the Watson-Glaser within a few hours.

Top Quality Watson Glaser Materials

Prepare within a few hours, with the most up-to-date, accurate & effective Watson-Glaser prep materials.

Watson-Glaser Practice Tests

3 timed, full-length Watson Glaser-style practice tests with 10 module quizzes.

Watson-Glaser Expert Lessons

Quickly learn the best tactics for all 5 types of Watson-Glaser questions with fluff-free guides and practice on any device, 100% online.

Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Course Modules

• 1 Introduction Buy this Course: Get full access to all lessons, practice tests and guides.
• Evaluating Arguments - Written Guide
• Arguments Questions
• Arguments Questions 2
• Evaluating Assumptions - Written Guide
• Assumptions Questions
• Assumptions Questions 2
• Evaluating Deductions - Written Guide
• Deduction Questions Part 1
• Deduction Questions Part 2
• Evaluating Inferences - Written Guide
• Inferences Questions
• Inferences Questions 2
• Interpreting Information - Written Guide
• Interpreting Information Questions
• Interpreting Information Questions 2
• Watson Glaser Full Practice Test 1
• Watson Glaser Full Practice Test 2
• Watson Glaser Full Practice Test 3
• 8 BONUS Interview Prep Video Guide Buy this Course: Get full access to all lessons, practice tests and guides.

What does the Watson Glaser Critical Thinking Test Measure?

The Watson Glaser test measures your abilities in 5 key areas: assumptions, arguments, deductions, inferences, and interpreting information. Let’s take a look at each of these question types individually.

You will be presented with a short scenario and then will be given possible inferences. The inferences are concise statements. You will need to assess whether these concise statements have been inferred from the passage.

You will also have to decide the likelihood of the inference. You will be asked to say if the inference is ‘true,’ ‘false,’ possibly true,’ ‘possibly false’ or ‘more information is required.’ You can only select one answer.

Identification of Assumptions

When people have discussions or present arguments, there are underlying assumptions in their arguments. In the test, you will be given an initial statement. You will also be presented with various assumptions. You will be asked to decide if the assumption is evident in the initial statement.

For example, in the statement “only people earning a high salary can buy a big house”, what is being assumed is that big houses are costly because only individuals who earn a high salary can purchase one. However, what’s not being assumed is that people who are not high earners aren’t legally permitted to buy a big house.

In these question types, it is your job to choose whether an assumption has or has not been made. You will need to answer: yes or no.

You will be given a few sentences of information. Another different short statement will also be presented to you, which is meant to be a conclusion that an individual has made. You will need to decide if the conclusion is logical, based on the information presented to you.

If yes, then the conclusion follows on from the information available. If no, then the conclusion does not follow on from the information given. You need to base your decision on the information given and not on your previous experience or knowledge.

Interpreting information

You will be presented with a passage of information and then will be shown various statements. You will be asked to decide whether the ‘conclusion follows,’ or ‘conclusion does not follow’. You choose one of these answers depending on whether or not you think that the statement can be logically arrived at from the information provided.

Here like before you need to base your answer solely on the information given to you in the question.

You will be given an argument, such as “Should school uniforms be compulsory?” You will then be given statements that relate to this argument. You are asked to state whether the statements or responses to the argument “Should school uniform be compulsory?” create a strong or weak argument.

Arguments are deemed strong if they directly relate to the topic. For example, “Yes, many people would benefit from wearing school uniforms because school kids will be less likely to form opinions about each other based on their choice of fashion. This makes for a less judgmental school environment.” The argument given is reasonable and relates to the question.

A weak argument could be something like “No, I don’t trust people who wear baggy clothes”. This second argument has little to do with the topic of making school uniforms compulsory. When you are presented with these questions you need to think objectively about the argument being made and put aside your personal judgments and opinions.

How is the Watson Glaser Test Scored?

A candidate’s score on the Watson Glaser test is given in comparison to a norm group.

A potential employer will compare and contrast the profile of all potential applicants. Applicants with the highest relative scores will pass the Watson Glaser test and likely move on to the next stage of the hiring process.

Doing well on the Watson Glaser test may not be enough, as candidates will have to do better than their competitors if they want to stand out.

A good score on the Watson Glaser test is dependent on the company a candidate is applying to. Ultimately, an applicant should aim to score 80% or more, to be considered a likely candidate for the job.

Practice is thus essential. Prepterminal’s Watson Glaser Test prep course provides Watson Glaser practice test questions and more.

Which Companies Use the Watson Glaser Critical Thinking Test?

The top five companies that use the Watson Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal as part of their hiring process:

• Clifford Chance – Ranked among the top 10 multinational law firms, in the world, Clifford Chance is a key member of the “Magic Circle”.
• Linklater – Linklaters is a “Magic Circle” member and is one of the top three law firms in England.
• Dentons – This is a relatively young law firm. However, it has grown to be the 5th largest law firm – based on revenue.
• Hogan Lovells – This American-British law firm is the 11th largest international law firm.
• GLS – The British Government Legal Services hires lawyers who represent the government in court and give legal advice to the government.
• Clifford Chance – Ranked among the top 10 multinational law firms, Clifford Chance is a key member of the “Magic Circle”.
• Dentons – This is a relatively young law firm. However, it has grown to be the 5th largest law firm based on revenua.

How To Prepare For Watson Glaser Test: Top Tips

Answer solely based on the information provided.

Answer each question using only the facts and conditions given in the question itself. Do not use your own knowledge of the subject matter, even if you are well-versed in a particular area.

Read each question slowly and carefully

Some of the questions featured on the Watson Glaser Practice Test may be long, and you may want to skim through them. Refrain from doing so. If you quickly scan a question, you may skip over valuable information. Read each question thoroughly before choosing an answer.

Manage your time effectively

The Watson Glaser test features both long and short questions, so it may be hard to ascertain in advance how much time you need for each question. Nevertheless, the more you practice the more familiar you will become with the question types and the better you will be at pacing yourself.

Practice, practice, practice

To do well on this test you will need to practice. Take as many practice tests as you can so you can learn to anticipate the type and structure of the questions. This way you can approach the test with confidence.

How Difficult is the Watson Glaser Test?

As you have seen the Watson Glaser test is very tricky. It is especially hard for individuals who are not familiar with the question types.

Enrolling in Prepterminal’s preparatory Watson Glaser Test course with Watson Glaser Practice Test questions will help you become familiar with the structure and nature of the questions featured in this notoriously difficult test.

We will help you understand the specific nuanced rules of the Watson Glaser test and how to accept the statements presented to you in the test and more.

6 Benefits of Prepterminal’s Watson-Glaser Test Prep Course

• Learn how to think like the creators of the test require you to think.
• Understand how to base your judgments exclusively on the information given to you in the test.
• Understand the specific rules of the test.
• Learn how to accept statements presented to you in the test at face value.
• Practice using carefully crafted course material that covers the specific subject matter of the Watson Glaser test.
• Learn how to make decisions without being influenced by your past experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How does the course work.

It’s 100% online and you get immediate access sent to your email as soon as you sign up. No books, No DVDs, No PDFs. You can study and practice on your computer or your phone. It works on any device with an internet connection!

If I’m struggling with a question, can I get help?

Don’t worry – send an email to Matt, our Watson-Glaser expert, at [email protected] and he’ll be back to help you ASAP!

I have a very short notice, do I have enough time to prepare?

How many times will i be charged.

You’ll only be charged once for your course license. There are no recurring payments, and no hidden fees.

Created by: Matthew Appleyard

Psychometric tutor, prepterminal test expert, 6876 students, 4.8 , 1396 reviews.

I’m Matt, Prepterminal’s Watson-Glaser Test Prep Expert. Any questions about the course? Let me know at [email protected]

Username or email  *

Password  *

Forgotten password?

[email protected]

+44 (0)20 8834 4579

Watson Glaser Test - What Is The WGT and How To Prepare

This guide covers the different parts of the Watson Glaser Test and how to answer the types of questions you could face. Discover top Watson Glaser Test tips and strategies using Watson Glaser practice questions to help you prepare.

Prepare Yourself for the Watson Glaser

• Read a breakdown of the format of the test
• See some example questions and explanations
• Find out what is considered a good score

Jump to Section

• Deciding on Law
• How to Become a Lawyer
• Areas of Law
• Solicitor vs Barrister
• What is a Solicitor
• Becoming a Barrister
• Legal Executive
• What Is A Legal Secretary?
• How to Become a Judge
• Legal Apprenticeships
• Studying Law at University
• Law at Oxbridge
• Studying Law Abroad
• Personal Statement
• Law Research Techniques & Resources
• Commercial Awareness
• Law Work Experience
• Vacation Schemes
• Law Courses
• Non-Law Students
• PGDL (Conversion)
• Bar Training Guide

Training Contract Applications

• Watson Glaser Test
• Firms Requiring the Watson Glaser Test
• Watson Glaser Test For Clifford Chance
• Watson Glaser Test For CMS
• Watson Glaser Test For DLA Piper
• Watson Glaser Test For Freshfields
• Watson Glaser Test For Hogan Lovells
• Situational Judgement Tests
• Training Contract Interviews
• Training Contract Salaries
• How Many Applications Should I Send?
• In-House Training Contract Guide
• Baker & McKenzie: Application Timeline
• Expert Insight: A Day in the Life (Debevoise)
• Freshfields: Training Contract
• Freshfields: Top TC Tips
• Gibson Dunn: Hong Kong Secondment
• Herbert Smith Freehills: Training Contract
• Simmons & Simmons: Top Tips
• Taylor Vinters: Training Contract
• Taylor Vinters: Top Tips
• Law Firm Applications
• Pupillage: a Guide for Aspiring Barristers
• Law Firm Insights
• Networking Guide
• Diversity In Law

The Watson Glaser Test is part of the law training contract recruitment process. You will most likely have to complete the Watson Glaser Test of critical thinking before securing a place on a training contract or a vacation scheme . But what is the Watson Glaser Critical Thinking Test, and how can you prepare for it? Our dedicated guide explains the Watson Glaser and how to achieve a good test score.

What Is The Watson Glaser Test?

The Watson Glaser Test measures the skills required to present a certain point of view in a clear, well-structured, well-reasoned, and persuasive way to convince others of your argument.

Originally created by Goodwin Watson and Edward Glaser, the test is designed to assess a person’s critical thinking abilities – among other things – and is widely used across legal practices. It is a comprehensive aptitude test that helps law firms to create a shortlist of candidates deemed likely to have what it takes for training contracts and vacation schemes.

In a law-based scenario, your critical thinking ability is extremely important. The Watson Glaser Test assesses your ability to:

• Think critically
• Come to conclusions
• Analyse strong and weak arguments
• Recognise assumptions
• Evaluate arguments

What Does The Watson Glaser Test Involve?

The Watson Glaser Test follows a multiple-choice format and can feature up to 40 or 80 questions split into five sections, including:

Assessment of inferences (5 questions*). Test questions are focused on a single statement that you must assume is true. You are not able to use any outside knowledge to influence your answer. The single statement is then followed by a series of inferences relating to it, which you will be required to label either true or false.

Recognition of assumptions (12 questions*). You are issued with another statement to assess and you are then given a number of assumptions related to that statement. You then need to deduce whether assumptions have, or have not been made.

Deduction (5 questions*). You are presented with a passage and a series of proposed conclusions to the passage. You will need to determine whether the conclusion follows or doesn’t follow the information contained in the passage.

Interpretation (6 questions*). You are presented with a passage in which you assume everything to be true. You must then determine the level of importance of the information provided and apply it logically – analysing whether or not the conclusion follows.

Evaluation (12 questions*). From the information provided, you must be able to decide whether the argument presented is a strong one or a weak one.

*based on 40 questions being asked.

Prepare For The Watson Glaser Test

Start Boosting Your Scores Today

How Long Is The Watson Glaser Test?

The standard time given to complete the Watson Glaser Test is anywhere between 30 and 60 minutes – depending on the number of questions being asked. You will be given a deadline or time limit for completing the test by the law firm you are applying to for a training contract or vacation scheme.

Why Do Employers Use The Watson Glaser Test?

More candidates are applying for training contracts and vacation schemes every year. With critical thinking being a key component of the legal profession, the test has become a great assessment tool not only to assess a candidate’s critical thinking ability, but to speed up the candidate application process.

Watson Glaser Test Results

A good Watson Glaser Test score depends on the quality of your Watson Glaser Test answers and the firm that you are applying to. The pass mark for the test varies from year-to-year based on the average Watson Glaser test score achieved by candidates across each law firm.

To give yourself the best chance of being chosen for a training contract or vacation scheme, a Watson Glaser Test score of 75% or more is what you should aim for. However, you shouldn’t solely rely on passing the test to secure a job offer from a law firm as candidates are assessed across all areas of the recruitment process, including the quality of training contract applications.

Watson Glaser Test Example Questions

Assessment of inferences sample question.

Statement: Two hundred students in their early teens voluntarily attended a weekend student conference in a city in England. At this conference, the topics of race equality and means of achieving lasting world peace were discussed, since these were the problems the students selected as being most vital in today’s world.

Recognition of Assumptions Sample Question

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

Deduction Sample Question

Statement: Some Sundays are rainy. All rainy days are boring. Therefore:

Interpretation Sample Question

Statement: 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 2,562 words at age six years.

Evaluation of Arguments Sample Question

Question: Should all young adults in the United Kingdom go on to higher education at university?

Watson Glaser Free Online Practice Test

To help you prepare for a Watson Glaser Test and to improve your chances of achieving a good test score, try our free Watson Glaser online practice test.

Alternatively, try out Job Test Prep’s bank of Watson Glaser questions to help you increase your score.

Free Guides

Our free guides cover everything from deciding on law to studying and practising law abroad. Search through our vast directory.

Upcoming Events

Explore our events for aspiring lawyers. Sponsored by top institutions, they offer fantastic insights into the legal profession.

Join Our Newsletter

Join our mailing list for weekly updates and advice on how to get into law.

Law Quizzes

Try our selection of quizzes for aspiring lawyers for a fun way to gain insight into the legal profession!

Which Law Firms Require the Watson Glaser Test?

Loading More Content

Watson Glaser Test

This practice package will help you prepare for the Watson Glaser Critical Thinking Test. All exercises are based on the questions that are used in the assessments of the major assessment companies.

Watson Glaser Test Free Practice Test

We recommend that you first take a free practice test without time pressure. That way you can first see what kind of questions occur and how to solve them.

Assessment Practice pack

Parts of the watson glaser test practice pack, watson glaser test explanation.

The Watson Glaser Critical Thinking Test assesses your skills in reading, analyzing and interpreting text.

Critical thinking can be defined as 'the ability to consider a range of information derived from many different sources, to process this information in a creative and logical manner, challenging it, analysing it and arriving at considered conclusions which can be defended and justified’ (Moon, 2008).

Critical thinking skills include the ability to structure sound, solid argumentation, analyze available information, and make assumptions and inferences. Critical thinking is also about being able to evaluate available information and draw correct conclusions.

By far the most common form of critical thinking test is the Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal (W-GCTA) published by TalentLens. You can visit their official site here: Watson Glaser. You will see that the questions in the practice package below correspond very well with the practice questions available at TalentLens.

The test consists of 5 parts. By first studying the components separately, you will ultimately score better on your assessment. All lessons contain a short explanation, three detailed example assignments and 3 exercises.

Watson Glaser Test assessments

We recommend that you do at least 3 practice sets with time pressure. At the end of each exercise set, we indicate how your score relates to the norm group and whether you need to work faster or more precisely to get the highest possible score on your assessment. This way you know exactly when you are optimally prepared.

Watson Glaser Test Evaluation of your results

View the results of the assessments you have completed to determine whether you are optimally prepared for the Watson Glaser Test. By clicking on an assessment, you will see more detailed results with personalized advice based on your results compared to the reference group.

• Table of Contents
• New in this Archive
• Chronological
• Editorial Information
• About the SEP
• Editorial Board
• How to Cite the SEP
• Special Characters
• Support the SEP
• PDFs for SEP Friends
• Make a Donation
• SEPIA for Libraries
• Back to Entry
• Entry Contents
• Entry Bibliography
• Academic Tools
• Friends PDF Preview
• Author and Citation Info
• Back to Top

Supplement to Critical Thinking

Educational methods.

Experiments have shown that educational interventions can improve critical thinking abilities and dispositions, as measured by standardized tests. Glaser (1941) developed teaching materials suitable for senior primary school, high school and college students. To test their effectiveness, he developed with his sponsor Goodwin Watson the Watson-Glaser Tests of Critical Thinking, whose descendants are in widespread global use under the name “Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal” (Watson & Glaser 1980a, 1980b, 1994). He found that senior secondary school students receiving 10 weeks of instruction using these materials improved their scores on these tests more than other such students receiving the standard English curriculum during the 10 weeks, to a degree that was statistically significant (i.e., probably not due to chance). More recently, Abrami et al. (2015) summarized in a meta-analysis the best available evidence on the effectiveness of various strategies for teaching students to think critically. The meta-analysis used as a measure of effectiveness a modified version of a statistical measure known as “Cohen’s d”: the ratio of a difference in mean score to the statistical deviation (SD) of the scores in a reference group. A difference of 0.2 SD is a small effect, a difference of 0.5 SD is a moderate effect, and a difference of 0.8 is a large effect (Cohen 1988: 25–27). Abrami et al. (2015) found a weighted mean effect size of 0.30 among 341 effect sizes, with effect sizes ranging from −1 to +2. This methodologically careful meta-analysis provides strong statistical evidence that explicit instruction for critical thinking can improve critical thinking abilities and dispositions, as measured by standardized tests.

Although contemporary meta-analysis provides a more justified verdict on claims of causal effectiveness than other methods of investigation, it does not give the reader an intuitive grasp of what difference a particular intervention makes to the lives of those who receive it. To get an appreciation of this difference, it helps to read the testimony of the teachers and students in the Laboratory School of Chicago where Dewey’s ideas obtained concreteness. The history of the school, written by two of its former teachers in collaboration with Dewey, makes the following claim for the effects of its approach:

As a result of this guarding and direction of their freedom, the children retained the power of initiative naturally present in young children through their inquisitive interests. This spirit of inquiry was given plenty of opportunity and developed with most of the children into the habit of trying a thing out for themselves. Thus, they gradually became familiar with, and to varying degrees skilled in, the use of the experimental method to solve problems in all areas of their experience. (Mayhew & Edwards 1936: 402–403)

A science teacher in the school wrote:

I think the children did get the scientific attitude of mind. They found out things for themselves. They worked out the simplest problems that may have involved a most commonplace and everyday fact in the manner that a really scientific investigator goes to work. (Mayhew & Edwards 1936: 403)

An alumna of the school summed up the character of its former students as follows:

It is difficult for me to be restrained about the character building results of the Dewey School. As the years have passed and as I have watched the lives of many Dewey School children, I have always been astonished at the ease which fits them into all sorts and conditions of emergencies. They do not vacillate and flounder under unstable emotions; they go ahead and work out the problem in hand, guided by their positively formed working habits. Discouragement to them is non-existent, almost ad absurdum. For that very fact, accomplishment in daily living is inevitable. Whoever has been given the working pattern of tackling problems has a courage born of self-confidence and achieves. (Mayhew & Edwards 1936: 406–407)

In the absence of control groups, of standardized tests, and of statistical methods of controlling for confounding variables, such testimonies are weak evidence of the effectiveness of educational interventions in developing the abilities and dispositions of a critical thinker—in Dewey’s conception, a scientific attitude. But they give a vivid impression of what might be accomplished in an educational system that takes the development of critical thinking as a goal.

Dewey established the Laboratory School explicitly as an experiment to test his theory of knowledge, which

emphasized the part in the development of thought of problems which originated in active situations and also the necessity of testing thought by action if thought was to pass over into knowledge. (Dewey 1936: 464)

Hence the curriculum of the school started from situations familiar to children from their home life (such as preparing food and making clothing) and posed problems that the children were to solve by doing things and noting the consequences. This curriculum was adjusted in the light of its observed results in the classroom.

The school’s continued experimentation with the subject matter of the elementary curriculum proved that classroom results were best when activities were in accord with the child’s changing interests, his growing consciousness of the relation of means and ends, and his increasing willingness to perfect means and to postpone satisfactions in order to arrive at better ends…. The important question for those guiding this process of growth, and of promoting the alignment and cooperation of interest and effort, is this. What specific subject-matter or mode of skill has such a vital connection with the child’s interest, existing powers, and capabilities as will extend the one [the interest–DH] and stimulate, exercise, and carry forward the others [the powers and capabilities–DH] in a progressive course of action? (Mayhew & Edwards 1936: 420–421)

In an appendix to the history of the Laboratory School, Dewey (1936: 468–469) acknowledges that the school did not solve the problem of finding things in the child’s present experience out of which would grow more elaborate, technical and organized knowledge. Passmore (1980: 91) notes one difficulty of starting from children’s out-of-school experiences: they differ a lot from one child to another. More fundamentally, the everyday out-of-school experiences of a child provide few links to the systematic knowledge of nature and of human history that humanity has developed and that schools should pass on to the next generation. If children are to acquire such knowledge through investigation of problems, teachers must first provide information as a basis for formulating problems that interest them (Passmore 1980: 93–94).

More than a century has passed since Dewey’s experiment. In the interim, researchers have refined the methodology of experimenting with human subjects, in educational research and elsewhere. They have also developed the methodology of meta-analysis for combining the results of various experiments to form a comprehensive picture of what has been discovered. Abrami et al. (2015) report the results of such a meta-analysis of all the experimental and quasi-experimental studies published or archived before 2010 that used as outcome variables standardized measures of critical thinking abilities or dispositions of the sort enumerated in Facione 1990a and described in sections 8 and 9 of the main entry. By an experimental study, they mean one in which participants are divided randomly into two groups, one of which receives the educational intervention designed to improve critical thinking and the other of which serves as a control; they found few such experiments, because of the difficulty of achieving randomization in the classrooms where the studies were conducted. By a quasi-experiment, they mean a study with an intervention group that receives an educational intervention designed to improve critical thinking and a control group, but without random allocation to the two groups. Initially, they included also what they called “pre-experiments”, with single-group pretest-posttest designs, but decided at the analysis stage not to include these studies. By a standardized measure, they mean a test with norms derived from previous administration of the test, as set out in the test’s manual, such as the Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal (Watson & Glaser 1980a, 1980b, 1994), the Cornell Critical Thinking Tests (Ennis & Millman 1971; Ennis, Millman, & Tomko 1985; 2005), the California Critical Thinking Skills Test (Facione 1990b, 1992) and the California Critical Thinking Dispositions Inventory (Facione & Facione 1992; Facione, Facione, & Giancarlo 2001). They included all such studies in which the educational intervention lasted at least three hours and the participants were at least six years old.

In these studies they found 341 effect sizes. They rated each educational intervention according to the degree to which it involved dialogue, anchored instruction, and mentoring. They found that each of these factors increased the effectiveness of the educational intervention, and that they were most effective when combined. They explained the three factors as follows.

Dialogue : In critical dialogue, which historically goes back to Socrates, individuals discuss a problem together. The dialogue can be oral or written, and cooperative or adversarial. It can take the form of asking questions, discussion, or debate. Some curricula designed to promote critical thinking establish “communities of inquiry” among the students. Such communities were a prominent feature of Dewey’s Laboratory School, incorporated as a means of promoting the primary moral objective of fostering a spirit of social cooperation among the children.

An important aspect of this conditioning process by means of the school’s daily practices was to aid each child in forming a habit of thinking before doing in all of his various enterprises. The daily classroom procedure began with a face-to-face discussion of the work of the day and its relation to that of the previous period. The new problem was then faced, analyzed, and possible plans and resources for its solution suggested by members of the group. The children soon grew to like this method. It gave both individual and group a sense of power to be intelligent, to know what they wanted to do before they did it, and to realize the reasons why one plan was preferred to another. It also enlisted their best effort to prove the validity of their judgment by testing the plan in action. Each member of the group thus acquired a habit of observing, criticizing, and integrating values in thought, in order that they should guide the action that would integrate them in fact. The value of thus previsioning consequences of action before they became fixed as fact was emphasized in the school’s philosophy. The social implication is evident. The conscious direction of his actions toward considered social ends became an unfailing index of the child’s progress toward maturity. (Mayhew & Edwards 1936: 423–424)

Communities of inquiry are also a feature of the Montessori method described by Thayer-Bacon (2000) and of the Philosophy for Children program developed by Matthew Lipman (Splitter 1987). Lipman (2003) examines theoretically what is involved in creating communities of inquiry. Hitchcock (2021) argues that the most obvious way for schools to develop critical thinking is to foster development of communities of inquiry.

Anchored instruction : In anchored instruction, whose advocacy goes back to Rousseau (1762) and Dewey (1910), there is an effort to present students with problems that make sense to them, engage them, and stimulate them to inquire. Simulations, role-playing and presentation of ethical or medical dilemmas are methods of anchoring.

Mentoring : Mentoring is a one-on-one relationship in which someone with more relevant expertise (the mentor) interacts with someone with less (the mentee). The mentor acts as a model and as a critic correcting errors by the mentee. Examples of mentoring are an advisor talking to a student, a physician modeling a procedure for a medical student, and an employee correcting an intern. Abrami et al. (2015) identified three kinds of mentoring in the studies that they analyzed: one-on-one teacher-student interaction, peer-led dyads, and internships.

Abrami et al. (2015) also compared educational interventions with respect to whether they were part of subject-matter instruction. For this purpose, they used a distinction among four types of intervention articulated by Ennis (1989). A general approach tries to teach critical thinking separately from subject-matter instruction. An infusion approach combines deep subject-matter instruction in which students are encouraged to think critically with explicit reference to critical thinking principles. An immersion approach provides deep subject-matter instruction with encouragement to think critically, but without explicit reference to critical thinking principles. A mixed approach combines the general approach with either the infusion or the immersion approach; students combine a separate thread or course aimed at teaching general critical thinking principles with deep subject-matter instruction in which they are encouraged to think critically about the subject-matter. Although the average effect size in the studies using a mixed intervention (+0.38) was greater than the average effect sizes in the studies using general (+0.26), infusion (+0.29) and immersion (+0.23) interventions, the difference was not statistically significant; in other words, it might have been due to chance.

Cleghorn (2021), Makaiau (2021), and Hiner (2021) make specific suggestions for fostering critical thinking respectively in elementary, secondary and post-secondary education. Vincent-Lancrin et al. (2019) report the results of a project of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development to develop with teachers and schools in 11 countries resources for fostering creativity and critical thinking in elementary and secondary schools.

Ennis (2013, 2018) has made a detailed proposal for a mixed approach to teaching critical thinking across the curriculum of undergraduate education. Attempts at implementing such an approach have faced difficulties. Weinstein (2013: 209–213) describes the attempt at Montclair State University in Montclair, New Jersey, from 1987 through the 1990s. He reports that the university’s requirement to include critical thinking in all general education courses led to the use of the concept in identifying topics and tasks in course syllabi, but without a unifying theoretical basis. The committee that approved courses as satisfying a general education requirement ignored the relation of curricular outcomes to critical thinking, and focused instead on work requirements with a prima facie relation to reflective thought: term papers, projects, group work, and dialogue. Sheffield (2018) reports similar difficulties encountered in his position from 2012 to 2015 as the inaugural Eugene H. Fram Chair in Applied Critical Thinking at Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) in Rochester, New York. A cross-disciplinary faculty advisory group was not ready to accept RIT’s approved definition of critical thinking, but never reached a consensus on an alternative. Payette and Ross (2016), on the other hand, report widespread acceptance of the Paul-Elder framework, which involves elements of thought, intellectual standards, and intellectual virtues (Paul & Elder 2006). Sheffield (2018) reports that many colleges and universities in the United States have received funding for so-called “Quality Enhancement Plans” (QEPs) devoted to critical thinking, many of them written by Paul and Elder or developed in consultation with them. He faults the plans for having a typical time frame of five years, which he argues is probably too short for meaningful results, since lasting institutional change is often extremely slow.

Copyright © 2022 by David Hitchcock < hitchckd @ mcmaster . ca >

• Accessibility

Support SEP

Mirror sites.

View this site from another server:

• Info about mirror sites

The Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy is copyright © 2023 by The Metaphysics Research Lab , Department of Philosophy, Stanford University

Library of Congress Catalog Data: ISSN 1095-5054