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Want to know more about the Watson Glaser critical reasoning skills?
You can learn a lot here about the Watson Glaser test format and the different types of reasoning skills needed to answer the different types of Watson Glaser test question.
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Watson Glaser practice test sample.
Watson Glaser Introduction
There’s plenty more critical reasoning test practice on our site. In fact, there are several university admissions tests which also assess applicants’ critical thinking skills. The Watson Glaser test:
- Remains one of the world’s leading critical thinking tests. As such a popular critical thinking assessment tool, the Watson Glaser test is widely used in various fields, such as law, education, business, and government.
- Used by a wide range of organizations and institutions to assess critical thinking skills in individuals.
- Designed to assess an individual’s ability to think critically and logically, and to evaluate and interpret information in a systematic and objective manner.
- Such skills are highly valued in a wide range of settings, including education, employment, and other professional contexts.
In addition to our practice Watson Glaser tests, there’s many other ways to practice for the Watson Glaser test:
- Reading articles, books, and other materials on a variety of topics can help you improve your critical thinking skills.
Build your reading comprehension abilities.
Practice analyzing arguments and identifying assumptions and biases.
Studying with a group of peers can help you learn from others’ perspectives and get feedback on your ideas and analysis.
Many online and in-person courses are available that focus on developing critical thinking skills.
Practice your writing and practice summarizing arguments and writing persuasive essays.
Analyzing arguments from different perspectives can help you improve your critical thinking skills.
Identify underlying assumptions, evidence, and potential weaknesses in arguments.
Watson Glaser video guide
Improving your critical reasoning skills
Here’s our other critical reasoning tests related posts:
- Use our TSA thinking skills past papers and TSA test prep 2024.
- Try our 11+ critical reasoning skills test practice papers to assess your critical thinking skills
- We also recommend these LNAT critical thinking test practice papers and LNAT practice tests.
- Watson Glaser critical thinking test practice papers ; Watson Glaser Test prep 2024 and Watson Glaser test tips.
Ask ROB (expert test developer) your questions by emailing passedpapers@gmail.com
Rob Williams Assessment Ltd are assessment specialist in both work and education settings and have worked for the school entrance test publishers ISEB, GL Assessment and Hodder.
Watson Glaser test Practice
Key Watson Glaser facts
The Watson Glaser Test comprises five sub-tests. First sub-test assesses your ability to do something different: analysing which arguments are strong arguments and which are weak arguments.
Later Watson Glaser subtests measure how effectively you can make deductions; recognise assumptions; make inferences; and evaluate arguments.
Potential employers can ask you to take a Watson-Glaser test as part of their selection process.
The test is usually taken online (though sometimes it may be in pencil and paper format). You’ll be given 30 minutes to answer 40 multiple choice questions.
The Watson Glaser test assesses critical thinking. Such skills are particularly crucial for lawyers. as this career requires critical reasoning.
How do I pass each of the Watson Glaser Test’s 5 sections?
How to pass Watson Glaser Test section Assessment of Inferences
There is a passage then several inferences.
For each inference, you need to evaluate whether it’s True, Probably True, Insufficient Data, Probably False, False.
Here you can download Pearson TalentLens introducing their own Watson Glaser test and its key features:
Critical Thinking Watson Glaser Appraisal (WG III).
It’s worth trying this free Critical Thinking Test by the Watson Glaser Test publisher. OK, so it’s not an actual Watson Glaser test. However, taking this Watson Glaser Test version will:
- Improve your Watson Glaser Test understanding.
- Show you the different Watson Glaser Test subtest questions.
- Demonstrate the key critical resoning test skills you will need to develop to pass the Watson Glaser Test in reality.
Upon completion you are provided with a ‘Watson Glaser Test’ report.
Passing Watson Glaser Test section Recognition of Assumptions
There is a statement then several assumptions.
You need to decide whether each assumption has actually been made in the statement,
by choosing between Assumption Made and Assumption Not Made.
Sample Watson Glaser test Recognition of Assumptions questions
Assumption: The economy is likely to improve in the next quarter.
Q1 – What is the evidence that supports the assumption that the economy will improve in the next quarter?
Assumption: Taking vitamin C supplements will prevent colds.
Q2 – What is the underlying assumption that taking vitamin C supplements will prevent colds?
Assumption: People who have a high IQ are more likely to be successful.
Q3 – What evidence supports the assumption that people who have a high IQ are more likely to be successful?
Assumption: Learning a foreign language will increase your chances of getting a good job.
Watson Glaser Deduction Section summary tips
There is a passage of information followed by several potential deductions / conclusions.
For each deduction, your job is to decide whether the Conclusion Follows or the Conclusion Does Not Follow
Try not to let your prejudices influence your judgement – just stick to the given statements (premises) and judge whether each conclusion necessarily follows.
The word ‘some’ in any of these statements means an indefinite part of quantity of a class of things. ‘Some’ means at least a portion, and perhaps all of the class.
Our Watson Glaser Test Deduction test practice
designed by test design expert Rob Williams Assessment.
Sample Watson Glaser test Deductions questions
All politicians are argumentative. Some people who are not politicians are also argumentative.
Therefore:
A. No argumentative people are politicians.
B. Some argumentative people are politicians.
C. Some politicians are not argumentative.
D. All people are argumentative.
- All dentists are trained professionals. Some dentists do not practice privately.
Therefore:
A. All practicing dentists have a private practice.
B. No practicing dentists have a private practice.
C. Some practicing dentists have a private practice.
- All successful business leaders are confident. Some confident people are not successful business leaders.
Therefore:
A. No successful business leaders are confident.
B. Some successful business leaders are not confident.
C. All confident people are successful business leaders.
All successful actors are rich. Some people who are not successful actors are also rich
Therefore:
A. All rich people are successful actors.
B. No charismatic people are successful actors.
C. Some rich people are successful actors.
Passing Watson Glaser Test section Interpretation
INSTRUCTIONS for Watson Glaser Test’s Interpretation sub-test:
This section asks you to interpret the meaning or significance of a passage of information, and decide whether a number of conclusions can logically follow.
You need to choose between Conclusion Follows and Conclusion Does Not Follow for each one.
- Each of the following exercises consists of a short paragraph followed by several suggested conclusions. For the purpose of this test, assume that everything in the short paragraph is true.
- The problem is to judge whether or not each of the proposed conclusions logically follows beyond a reasonable doubt from the information given in the paragraph.
- So, you have to answer, whether the assumptions or conclusion is true or not. One should not be providing personal opinions or answers as per historical experience. Rather, one should be answering based on only what you’ve read in the passage.
Sample questions for the Watson Glaser test’s Interpretation section
The painting depicts a young man standing on the beach looking out at the sea. The use of warm colors and gentle brushstrokes creates a serene and peaceful atmosphere.
Based on this, it can be interpreted that: A. The painting is a representation of the artist’s inner turmoil. B. The woman in the painting is longing for someone or something. C. The painting is an expression of the artist’s love for nature. D. The woman in the painting is content and at peace with her surroundings.
The video game is set in a post-apocalyptic world where the survivors are struggling to rebuild society. The protagonist, a young woman, embarks on a journey to find a new home for her community.
Based on this, it can be interpreted that:
A. The video game is a commentary on the dangers of technology and scientific progress. B. The protagonist is a symbol of hope and resilience in the face of adversity. C. The video game is a cautionary tale about the consequences of environmental degradation. D. The community’s search for a new home represents the human desire for a sense of belonging.
The marketing campaign for the new luxury car features a series of glamorous and aspirational images. The tagline for the campaign is “Experience the ultimate in luxury.”
Based on this, it can be interpreted that: A. The car is aimed at a niche market of wealthy consumers. B. The car is a practical and reliable mode of transportation. C. The marketing campaign is trying to appeal to consumers’ emotions and desires. D. The car is a sustainable and eco-friendly vehicle.
The document argues that the rise of social media has led to an increase in cyberbullying and online harassment. The author points to several examples of high-profile cases of cyberbullying and its negative impact on victims.
Based on this, it can be interpreted that: A. Social media platforms should be banned to prevent cyberbullying. B. Cyberbullying is a new phenomenon that did not exist before the advent of social media. C. Social media companies have a responsibility to address the issue of cyberbullying. D. The benefits of social media outweigh the negative effects of cyberbullying.
The film called America follows the story of a group of immigrants who are trying to make a new life in America. The film explores themes of identity, cultural assimilation, and discrimination.
Based on this, it can be interpreted that: A. The film America is a commentary on the political and social climate of the country. B. The film America is an examination of the human experience and the struggle for acceptance. C. The film America is a celebration of diversity and multiculturalism. D. The film America is a critique of the “American Dream” notion and its false promises.
Passing Watson Glaser Test section Evaluation of Arguments
Here you’ll be asked to analyse the strength of an argument. You’ll be given a statement or question, followed by a number of arguments both for and against that statement.
Your job is to choose between Argument Strong or Argument Weak for each one.
- You need to firstly ensure that each argument makes sense. However there is more to the Watson Glaser Argument Evaluation of Arguments section than that.
- Your key focus then needs to be on the following: distinguishing between strong and weak arguments.
- Remember to judge each argument separately on its own merit.
- Try not to let your personal attitude toward the question influence your evaluation of the argument, since each argument is to be regarded as true.
Our Watson Glaser Test Ealuation of Arguments test practice
Watson Glaser sample questions for the Evaluation of Arguments section:
The number of broadband users has increased dramatically in the past decade. Therefore, it can be concluded that broadband usage is a positive trend.
A. Strongly agree B. Agree C. Disagree D. Strongly disagree
The new university policy aims to provide equal opportunities to all students regardless of their socioeconomic background. However, the policy is not adequately funded and may not be implemented effectively. Therefore, it cannot be concluded that the new policy will be successful in achieving its objectives.
A. Strongly agree B. Agree C. Disagree D. Strongly disagree
The organization’s profits have increased significantly in the past year. However, the organization has been accused of unethical business practices. Therefore, it cannot be concluded that the company’s success is a result of ethical behavior.
A. Strongly agree B. Agree C. Disagree D. Strongly disagree
A recent study shows that people who consume large amounts of chocolate are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes. However, some people argue that genetics and lifestyle factors may also play a role in the development of the disease. Therefore, it cannot be concluded that chocolate consumption is the sole cause of type 2 diabetes.
A. Strongly agree B. Agree C. Disagree D. Strongly disagree
To pass each Watson glaser test section you need to practice how well you…
- Recognise assumptions. You should be able to understand the information being presented and whether there’s evidence to support it.
- Evaluate arguments. You should be able to objectively consider the arguments and evidence provided.
- Draw conclusions. You should be able to use the information to come to a rational conclusion
What’s the Watson Glaser pass mark?
The passing mark for the test depends from the company to company and how they rate the candidates. One should practice enough before appearing for the test for the best results as it is one of the toughest assessments that one will ever take in their professional life.
Yes, the test is hard but not impossible. Such a positive mindset will allow individuals to focus on what is being asked and not be distracted under pressure.
Introducing our top Watson Glaser Test tips per section
SECTION 1) Passing Watson Glaser Drawing Inferences question type
Let’s start by considering the key issue at stake here. What is an inference?
An inference is a conclusion that a person can draw from certain observed or supposed facts.
It will help your understanding to review a couple of example Inferences questions.
You therefore need to reflect upon the following two key Watson Glaser critical reasoning skills:
- How quickly can you draw conclusions from facts?
- Can you make judgements based on limited information?
Watson Glaser Test’s Inferences summary
Drawing inferences is one of the most important Watson Glaser Test sections.
You must reading each Inferences passage very carefully two or three times. Only then go through the assumptions and conclusions provided as questions.
INSTRUCTIONS for Watson Glaser Test’s Inferences section
Does a follow-on statement is true based on a prior statement?
Again, you have a binary choice in your answer: pick ‘yes’ or ‘no’.
Watson Glaser sample questions for the Inferences section
The report states that there has been a decline in the number of students studying English in universities.
Based on this, it can be inferred that:
A. Students are more interested in studying science and technology subjects.
B. The job market for English graduates is not as lucrative as other fields.
C. The government has reduced funding for English programs in universities.
D. English courses have become less relevant to students.
The weather forecast predicts that there will be heavy snow in the region tomorrow.
Based on this, it can be inferred that:
A. The local reservoirs will be filled up with water.
B. Traffic congestion may increase due to slippery road conditions.
C. Outdoor events and activities will be cancelled.
D. People will stay indoors to avoid the heavy snow.
The organization announced that it has achieved record sales figures in the past quarter.
Based on this, it can be inferred that:
A. The company’s profits have also increased significantly.
B. The company has successfully launched a new product line.
C. The company’s market share has increased compared to its competitors.
D. The company’s marketing strategy has been effective in attracting customers.
- The lecturer commented that the students in the class have shown remarkable improvement in their writing skills.
Based on this, it can be inferred that:
A. The lecturer has implemented new teaching methods in the classroom.
B. The students have been receiving extra tutoring outside of class.
C. The students have been practicing writing on their own.
D. The lecturer has been providing constructive feedback to the students.
SECTION 2) Recognition of Assumptions question type
Let’s start with the key learning point, what is an assumption?
An assumption is something presupposed or taken for granted. When you say, ‘I’ll be a qualified solicitor in two months’, you take it for granted that you will be alive in two months, that you will pass the relevant examinations, and similar things.
Remember to judge each assumption independently.
INSTRUCTIONS for Watson glaser Test’s Recognition of Assumptions section
- Each Recognition of Assumptions statement is followed by several proposed assumptions.
- Is there either an Assumption made?
- Or is there no assumption made?
Passing Watson Glaser Test’s Deduction section
- In the Deduction sub-test, premises are followed by proposed conclusions.
- Does each Conclusion follow? Or not follow on from the conclusion given?
Watson Glaser Interpretation questions
- How well can you assess the weight of different arguments given a predetermined assumed-to-be-true statement?
- From a series of passages, you rate the level of importance of the information provided.
- And apply it logically – assessing whether or not the conclusion follows or not.
- You must decide whether the conclusion is fair ‘beyond reasonable doubt’.
SECTION 5) Passing Watson Glaser Argument Evaluation of Arguments section
- You need to firstly ensure that each argument makes sense. However there is more to the Watson Glaser Argument Evaluation of Arguments section than that.
- Your key focus then needs to be on the following: distinguishing between strong and weak arguments.
- Remember to judge each argument separately on its own merit.
- Try not to let your personal attitude toward the question influence your evaluation of the argument, since each argument is to be regarded as true.
Why does the Watson Glaser Test have a Evaluation of Arguments section?
In making decisions about important questions, it is desirable to be able to distinguish between arguments that are strong and arguments that are weak, as far as the question at issue is concerned.
The Watson Glaser’s Evaluation of Arguments section is an excellent assessment of how effectively applicants can determine whether arguments are:
- Strong or weak.
- Make sense.
- True or false.
- Portrayed.
Watson Glaser Test Evaluation of Arguments tips.
Sample questions for the Watson Glaser test’s Evaluation of Arguments section
The CFO of a company claims that the organization’s profits have increased due to their effective cost-cutting measures. However, an investigation reveals that the company has been involved in fraudulent accounting practices.
A. The CFO’s claim is true and the investigation is flawed.
B. The CEO’s claim is false and the investigation is reliable.
C. The investigation and the CFO’s claim are both unreliable.
D. The investigation has no bearing on the CFO’s claim.
An op-ed argues that the government’s policies to combat global warming are unnecessary and will harm the economy. However, the article cites several studies that have shown that the economic benefits of investing in renewable energy outweigh the costs.
A. The op-ed is accurate and the studies are flawed.
B. The studies are accurate and the op-ed is flawed.
C. The studies and the op-ed are both accurate and reliable.
D. The studies and the op-ed are both unreliable and should not be trusted.
A politician argues that the UK’s healthcare system should be privatized to increase efficiency and reduce costs. However, opponents of the proposal point to several examples of countries with public healthcare systems that provide high-quality care at a lower cost.
A. The politician’s proposal is the best solution to the problem.
B. The opponents’ argument is flawed and should be dismissed.
C. The opponents’ argument is more persuasive and supported by evidence.
D. Both arguments have merit and the issue requires further study and discussion.
How do law firms use the Watson Glaser?
Each Watson-Glaser test is composed of scenarios similar to those typically found in a variety of settings, including the workplace, the school, and other organisational settings. The Watson Glaser forms a key part of somelaw firms’s recruitment, as follows:
- There is no set pass mark or fail mark, as most
- Such law firms will use a percentile cutoff that is applied to all their applicants’ scores.
- Doing considerably less well than most other law firm applicants may mean that that particular otential employer does not progress your application any further.
- Some law firms will offer you feedback of your watson glaser score.
Other organisations use the Watson Glaser critical thinking assessment and resulting Development Report to identify where an individual’s strengths and development areas lie and provide suggestions for coaching activities and exercises.
How do I prepare for the Watson Glaser test?
The important thing to remember is that the test differs from university exams in the sense that students cannot study for the test by reading law textbooks and practising essays.
To some that may be a positive, but many people struggle with tests like these. There are many tests available online; for instance, Clifford Chance have their own free practice test.
Read editorials in newspapers which are making a specific argument. Try to find articles about something you are interested in. While you are reading these articles, look to see which arguments you think are strong and which arguments you think are weak.
Another good idea is to watch political debates such as Prime Minister’s Questions, although make sure you set your own biases aside.
Doing regular practice tests and actively practicing critical thinking skills can improve your likelihood of passing the test.
What are the Watson Glaser Test’s Key Features to Know?
- The Watson Glacier thinking test takes 30 minutes
- It has 40 questions.
- There are several other more advanced Watson Glaser levels too. Here, for example, in a more advanced Watson Glaser test there will be more questions to answer. 80 Watson Glaser questions in fact. The time duration is also doubled to 60 minutes.
Watson Glaser practice
Top Watson Glaser tips
- Watson Glaser Test Tip 1 – Logically summarize the facts
Firstly, you must understand the main points that the passage makes. So, start by placing the key statements into the two easiest categories to define. These are the Definately True and the Definately False categories.
Secondly, if sequences of events are described in the passage then put such sentences into the ‘correct’ logical order.
Watson Glaser Test Tip 2 – Developing Your Reading Skills
Critical reading skills are useful in determining ways of studying different sources depending on intended inputs in an assignment. For instance, skimming is adequate in getting general information,scanning is appropriate when one wants to grasp cere concepts, and in- depth examination of a source is necessary for understanding its relevance (University of Leeds, n.d). Selection of sources and their useful parts is an essential skill in critical reading. Therefore, choosing reliable and current sources is the first step toward preparing good academic work.
Watson Glaser test tip 3 – Consider both the overall meaning and detail
There are several different questions types throughout the Watson Glaser Test. Still, what you will always need to do is to focus on the passage’s overall meaning and detail. To keep both higher ‘big picture’ and lower level, more detailed analyses in your head at the same time, we recommend:
- Analysing the main point(s) of the paragraph objectively.
- It can be helpful, particularly if you are short of time, to focus on the first and last sentences in a paragraph.
- Ask yourself such ‘big picture’ questions as:
- What is the main message?
- Who is the intended audience?
4. Then, when reflecting on the passage’s detail ask yourself:
- What are the facts?
- What’s the most important information in a passage
Tell me more about the Watson Glaser Test
- The Watson Glacier thinking is a psychometric test that is suggested to many candidates in different departments such as financial companies.
A Watson Glaser test taker is judged on the basis of his or her thinking ability. A smart and psychologically strong person should be able to analyze different situations rapidly and come with a definitive outcome.
Several financial employers look for this kind of skill in their employees. The Watson critical thinking test is one of the most challenging tests that one can be tested based on it. One should be engaging in a good amount of practice and gather as much information as possible before taking this test. Luckily, here we will be discussing some of the best ways to prepare for this test so that the results are positive.
Watson Glaser Test format
The Watson Glacier thinking test can be taken both online as well as offline. One should always ask before taking the test as there are many different versions to it. The test duration is 30 minutes, where the subject will be provided with 40 questions.
There is another advanced level as well, where one will be asked to answer 80 questions with a time duration of 60 minutes. There will be certain key areas that will be covered in the question which are discussed below.
This last question almost defines logical deduction or deductive reasoning; the critical reasoning from linking one or more general statements, or premises, to make a logically certain conclusion. It’s important to clarify at this point the difference between deductive reasoning and inductive reasoning (inference).
What are critical reasoning skills?
- Inductive reasoning (inference); Induction is based on what is probable or what is likely to be true from true premises.
- Deductive reasoning; deduction is based on what must logically follow from true premises. Deductive reasoning links premises with conclusions.
Critical reasoning involves the use of inductive and/or deductive reasoning in arguments. If the form of a deductive argument is valid and the premises are true, it is logically impossible for the conclusion to be false. Those people who struggle with their critical thinking skills, are more easily misled into believing that opinions and/or assumptions are facts. Newspaper articles in particular may be written with the intention of portraying a specific viewpoint.
When are critical reasoning skills used?
Refined and astute verbal critical thinking skills are needed to pick apart biased articles: to discern what is fact, what is opinion and where evidence has been included to support logical conclusions. A well-founded logical argument requires careful thought before being committed to the page. Certain newspapers are known to represent a more conservative agenda, some are clearly focused on business interests (of their reader) and there are even some more liberal newspapers in the UK. Basic verbal critical thinking skills will flag in your mind when what you are reading has been written with a deliberate bias against particular political parties or groups of people.
Any good criminal lawyer has to:
– Be objective and not to be prejudiced by their own opinions or any knowledge outside of their current case.
– Critically analyse a large amount of information to reach valid conclusions that build a case for their client.
– Identify whether legal doctrine can be interpreted differently.
This explains why a specific verbal critical thinking tests – the LNAT – is used for entry to the legal profession. Similarly, a barrister will lay out the evidence of their case and only then state their conclusion. The jury has to use their critical thinking skills to balance all the evidence for and against the accused.
Which Critical Thinking skills does the Watson Glaser assess?
- Defining a problem clearly.
- Formulating and selecting relevant hypotheses.
- Judging the validity of inferences.
- Thinking on your feet.
- Assessing evidence.
- Judging the validity of complex arguments.
- Communicating clearly.
In summary, these critical thinking skills play an important part in most executive and technical positions.
What is the Watson Glaser development report?
Other organisations use the Watson Glaser critical thinking assessment issues both a score and a Watson Glaser Development Report. This :
- Identifies where an individual’s strengths; to
- Highlights where development areas lie; and to
- Provides suggestions for coaching activities and exercises.
Global use of the Watson Glaser Test
This aptitude test is in widespread use across the globe. Principally by law schools and law firms. It assesses the key critical reasoning skills for a legal career. Those individuals who perform well in this test have excellent logical, analytical, and comprehension skills.
Watson Glaser Summary
- The critical thinking abilities tested in a Watson Glaser test include the areas of deduction, interpretation, inference, evaluation of arguments, and recognition of assumptions.
- Since its introduction in 1925, the Watson Glaser test has undergone several tevisions and updates to improve its efficiency in assessing critical thinking abilities.
- You need to be able to analyze different descriptions rapidly and come with a definitive outcome.
- Otherwise, ask yourself what is the structure of the argument? What kind of information would be required to evaluate the conclusion? Integrate these strategies.
So, what’s critical thinking?
When you “think on your feet” and when you have to decide which of the online reviews to believe you are using critical thinking (or critical verbal reasoning). The terms might sound a bit scary, but critical thinking skills are a learned skill. With the right practice most individuals who have a learning mentality, can develop sufficient critical thinking skills to pass this type of verbal reasoning test.
More specifically, you use these skills whenever you try to win a argument by focusing on your own argument and point of view. It is your critical thinking skills that allow you to tear apart other people’s arguments and use of facts/opinions. In fact you probably have used exactly these skills when accusing someone of ignoring the facts and just giving their own opinion.
Critical reasoning skills allow you to consider different perspectives on an issue, and to perceive the logical consequences of reading or hearing someone’s argued position. this could be in conversation, what you hear on TV or the radio, and/or written emails/books/articles. You need to reason verbally with this information in order to get to the key points of an issue. To determine what is fact, from what is an opinion or an assumption.
How is my Watson Glaser score used?
If used as a sift at an early stage of the recruitment process (for example as the LNAT is used in the UK and the LSAT in the US) then there will be a specific mark that you have to pass in order to proceed further with your application.
When used as part of an assessment centre, a critical thinking test is unlikely to be used a sift that excludes a % of applicants. In other words, your test score will be used to provide additional information but would not be the only reason why you succeed or fail at this particular stage.
If you are still confused about what specifically is being assessed, here is a quick summary of what you need to demonstrate:
- Identifying statements which are not supported by any facts
- Separating facts from inferences and opinions
- Identifying the implications of a factual statement
- Making logical deductions from a passage of prose
OK, how do critical thinking tests work?
In many job roles that require verbal reasoning skills one of the specific abilities required is that of critical reasoning. The critical reasoning skills that are key to many senior managerial and executive positions require you to assess evidence effectively and to communicate your position clearly.
Critical thinking tests and verbal reasoning tests are high-level analytical tests that assess how you think about and process verbal information. These tests are used – typically in addition to a verbal reasoning test – for graduate and managerial assessment. Within certain professions where verbal dexterity is needed to interpret complex verbal information (e.g. the legal profession’s LNAT critical thinking test – see case study below) critical thinking tests are more commonly found.
What is being tested by the Watson Glaser Test?
Critical verbal reasoning is quite literally applying a critic’s eye (i.e. critical analysis) to verbal information. It encompasses the logical analysis of the following features of complex written arguments and viewpoints: assumptions; inferences; opinions; facts and interpretations.
As with verbal comprehension tests a passage is presented followed by a few questions. Now the passage is likely to be longer and comprise of more complex written material then the verbal reasoning test formats presented in this book. Again, as with a verbal comprehension test, some questions will ask the candidate – just as a verbal comprehension test does – whether a statement is True or False. However there is a much wider variety of other types of critical reasoning question, including the analysis and interpretation of arguments, assumptions, inferences and deductions. Clearly, a finer level of detailed analysis is required to answer these question formats than previous chapters described in this book have addressed.
Highest levels fo critical reasoning skills
The highest level form of critical reasoning tests, such as the LNAT and the Watson-Glaser test understanding of complex prose. Candidates are asked to assess the strength of complex written arguments. The inherent logic – or otherwise – of these arguments is tested. To consider whether or not a sound and logically solid argument has been constructed piece by piece. The presented evidence and facts need to be analysed and subtle shades on meaning interpreted. Critical thinking skills also need to be applied to evaluate the text to determine which logical conclusions can be made. Therefore it becomes important to be able to distinguish opinion from fact, to recognise “inferences ” and “deductions” and to understand what is meant by such terminology.
Who uses critical thinking skills?
When journalists prepare one of the long Comments articles for one of the broadsheet newspapers, there are typically both sides of a particular debate presented. The headline may be misleading since it is designed to catch the eye and to present the most controversial statement within the entre article. Understanding and also correctly interpreting such an article is where critical thinking skills are needed.
Just as a lawyer will review all the documented verbal information, so a newspaper reader will need to analyse such a Comments article, asking themselves:
– What are the differences in the points being made?
– Which points are assumptions, facts or opinions?
– Is each point a valid one?
– What is presented as fact and what is presented as (the author’s) opinion?
– What conclusions can be drawn from the facts?
– Does the overall conclusion follow on from the evidence and facts presented?
Critical reasoning Test tips
Our Waton Glaser test practice question section will also give you a feel of the type of text that you will need to understand in a critical reasoning test. Such practice, together with your raised awareness of what to expect, can certainly improve your performance in most critical thinking tests. Unfortunately, there isn’t any secret formula for passing this type of verbal reasoning test.
The practice question section will also give you a feel of the type of text that you will need to understand in a critical reasoning test. Such est critical reasoning tpractice, together with your raised awareness of what to expect, can certainly improve your performance in most critical thinking tests. Unfortunately, there isn’t any secret formula for passing this type of verbal reasoning test.
Why is the Watson Glaser test so popular?
Easy to administer: The Watson Glaser test is relatively easy to administer, as it is a standardized, multiple-choice test that can be completed in a short amount of time. This makes it a popular choice for employers and organizations looking to assess critical thinking abilities quickly and efficiently.
Well-known: The Watson Glaser test has been around for more than 90 years, and it has a well-established reputation as a reliable and valid assessment tool. This has helped to make it a popular choice for organizations and employers that want to assess critical thinking abilities in their employees or job candidates.
Watson Glaser test’s Validity and reliability
The Watson Glaser test is a reliable and valid assessment tool that has been extensively researched and validated over the years. The test measures critical thinking abilities and has been shown to be a good predictor of job performance and success in various fields.
Watson Glaser test’s Objectivity
The Watson Glaser test is an objective assessment tool that provides a standardized measure of critical thinking abilities. This makes it a fair and unbiased way to assess critical thinking skills, regardless of a person’s background, education, or experience.
Overall, the Watson Glaser test is a popular assessment tool because of its validity, reliability, ease of administration, objectivity, and well-established reputation as a measure of critical thinking abilities.
Similar Watson Glaser-type tests
Cornell Critical Thinking Test which assesses critical thinking skills in verbal reasoning, argument analysis, and analysis of situations.
California Critical Thinking Skills Test which assesses critical thinking skills in areas such as evaluation of arguments, analysis of information, and inference.
Halpern Critical Thinking Assessment which assesses critical thinking skills in areas such as deduction, induction, and scientific reasoning.
eiIghten Critical Thinking Assessment which assesses critical thinking skills in areas such as analysis, inference, evaluation, and deduction.
Collegiate Learning Assessment which assesses critical thinking skills in areas such as analytical reasoning, writing, and problem-solving
Who uses the Watson Glaser test?
The Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal is used by a variety of organizations and institutions to assess critical thinking skills in individuals. Some of the common users of the Watson-Glaser test include:
Educational institutions e.g. college admissions or as part of a course curriculum, to assess critical thinking skills in students.
Employers
Law firms
Government agencies
Armed forces
Which skills does the Watson Glaser test?
The Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal is designed to assess an individual’s critical thinking skills in several areas, including:
Inference and drawing conclusions and make predictions based on available information.
Recognition of assumptions, and identifying underlying assumptions and premises in arguments and situations.
Deduction and drawing valid and sound conclusions based on available information and logical principles.
Interpretation and analyzing and interpret information, including textual and numerical data.
Evaluation of arguments and assessing the strength and quality of arguments and to identify fallacies and weaknesses.
Evaluation of information and assessing the credibility and reliability of information from various sources.
How can I pass the Watson Glaser test?
Familiarize yourself with the test: Obtain as much information as possible about the test format, structure, and content. This will help you understand what to expect and focus your preparation efforts.
Practice critical thinking: The more you practice critical thinking, the more you will develop the skills that the Watson-Glaser test is designed to assess. You can find various resources online or in print that provide practice questions and exercises for critical thinking.
Improve your reading comprehension: The Watson-Glaser test often includes reading passages and questions based on them, so improving your reading comprehension skills can be helpful. Practice reading and analyzing complex texts and articles.
Develop time management skills: The Watson-Glaser test is timed, so it’s important to develop time management skills to ensure that you have enough time to complete all the questions. Practice with timed mock tests.
Avoid jumping to conclusions: Take time to read the questions and all available information carefully before answering. Don’t rush into answering questions without fully understanding what is being asked.
Be objective and analytical: The Watson-Glaser test is designed to assess your ability to evaluate arguments and information objectively and analytically. Avoid making assumptions and base your answers on the available evidence.