Understanding the Watson Glaser Test: How to Improve Your Critical Thinking Skills

Jun 11, 2023

Written By Yi Kang Choo

The Watson Glaser test is a popular measure of critical thinking ability used by employers (especially law firms) to evaluate a candidate's reasoning and problem-solving skills. In this article, we'll explore what the test consists of, its importance, and how you can improve your critical thinking skills to score well in similar tests.

What is the Watson Glaser test?

Originally developed by psychologists John B. Watson and Edward M. Glaser in the 1920s, the Watson Glaser test is a cognitive ability test designed to assess an individual's critical thinking skills. Being able to think critically and analytically has always been a vital part of a lawyer’s work, so there’s a clear rationale for law firms to use Watson Glaser Tests to assess their candidates and future trainees.

The test usually consists of 40 multiple-choice questions and measures five key components of critical thinking: inference, recognition of assumptions, deduction, interpretation, and evaluation of arguments.

There might be some variations depending on law firms (you can assess free practice tests online), but most questions are commonly designed to test your ability to analyse information, draw logical conclusions, and identify key strengths/weaknesses in arguments.

What is the purpose of the Watson Glaser test?

By administering the Watson Glaser test, law firms are searching for individuals who can analyse complex information, make sound decisions, and solve problems creatively instead of only applying rigid solutions.

Through the test, candidates can also demonstrate their strengths and weaknesses when it comes to critical thinking. Some employers will even publish a free report for candidates outlining these after the test. This allows candidates to work on their weaknesses, in order to become more effective problem solvers.

How can I improve my critical thinking skills?

Whilst improving your critical thinking skills takes time and effort, it is still possible to significantly improve them before taking the test! Here are some tips for enhancing your general critical thinking ability:

- Practise active listening: Pay attention to what others are saying and try asking useful questions to clarify their ideas. Try to avoid just relying on underlying assumptions.

- Read widely: Reading (op-eds, the news) exposes one to different ideas and perspectives. It also helps to develop a broader understanding of different issues that might actually be relevant to your future as a solicitor.

- Evaluate arguments: Search for trusted facts and evidence to support or refute arguments. It will also be helpful if you can identify any biases or logical fallacies behind such arguments.

- Seek feedback: Never be shy to request for feedback on your ideas/arguments, and be open to constructive criticism to help improve the way you think.

- Reflect on how you think: Take time to also reflect on your own thinking process and identify areas for improvement (i.e. being prone to relying on biases or being emotionally-driven).

- Challenge your assumptions: It is important to be willing to challenge your own assumptions and consider alternative viewpoints.

By practising these skills regularly, you can improve your critical thinking ability. This will help you generally, as well when you are taking the Watson Glaser test.

How can I improve my Watson Glaser score?

Aside from your general critical thinking skills, there are also some key technical tips on how you might be able to score better in the future. These include:

- Doing as many practice tests as possible. Even if you might be able to think critically, you will still need to familiarise yourself with the actual tests. Different questions will usually have different instructions that require very different ways of thinking.

- Read the instructions in detail, and don’t rush through the questions. Make sure you are super mindful of not just the actual questions and statements but also the instructions. They might include key details that will play a vital role in your final decision-making/analysis.

- Check if your test is timed. Whilst most firms do not time candidates for their Watson Glaser Test, it is still very important to double check. This ensures you can practise the test under timed constraints.

By understanding the rationale for why employers are using Watson Glaser tests, and familiarising themselves with the details of the test itself, students should be able to score well.

Regardless, improving your critical thinking skills in general will always be a transferable skill that is crucial for aspiring lawyers to excel in their personal and professional lives.

Selection & Assessment