interview questions to identify critical thinking

Critical Thinking Interview Questions: 15 Interview Questions to Identify Top Candidates

Critical thinking goes beyond technical expertise and is essential in a wide range of professions. It’s a skill that enables employees to analyze information, solve problems, and make informed decisions. You can gauge critical thinking using assessment tests, practical problem solving, or through crafting interview questions highlighting critical thinking abilities.

In this blog, we’ll be going through questions you can ask your candidates to figure out if they have the critical thinking skills you require for your open position. But first, let’s talk about why critical thinking skills are so important.  

Why Are Critical Thinking Skills Necessary?

Critical thinkers are especially necessary positions that require problem solving skills, juggling various priorities, and analyzing data. Although many jobs and industries require a certain level of critical thinking ability, these skills are essential for some job roles and industries, including:

• K-12 : The best teachers are creative problem solvers. Between classroom management and learning fatigue, critical thinking skills help teachers find the best way to connect with their students.
• Leadership Positions : Effective leaders must make strategic decisions, often in ambiguous situations. Critical thinking is crucial in leadership roles.
• Creative Fields : In industries such as design, advertising, and content creation, the ability to think critically allows individuals to come up with innovative and unique solutions and ways to attract prospective customers.
• Healthcare : Medical professionals must critically assess patient conditions, interpret test results, and make decisions that can have a significant impact on a patient’s well-being.
• Technology : IT professionals, software developers, and data analysts rely on critical thinking to troubleshoot, create algorithms, and analyze data.

Now, let’s dive into a list of interview questions that can help you evaluate a candidate’s critical thinking abilities.  

Interview Questions to Assess Critical Thinking:

Note: Feel free to mix and match these questions based on the specific role and the level of critical thinking required. Also–to expand on questions like these, you can use tools like AI Question Assist . interviewstream’s Ethical AI tool helps you come up with position and industry-based questions using community knowledge from a large language

• Tell me about a situation where you faced a complex problem at work? How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?
• How do you typically approach a new project or task? What steps do you take to understand the problem and develop a plan?
• Give an example of a situation where you had to think on your feet and adapt to unexpected challenges.
• Describe a project where you had to evaluate multiple options before making a decision. How did you assess the pros and cons?
• Provide an instance where you identified a problem in your current or previous role that others might have overlooked? What did you do about it?
• What methods do you use to gather and evaluate information when solving complex issues?
• Tell me about a situation where you had to analyze data to make a decision. What tools or methodologies did you use?
• Describe a project where you had to anticipate potential obstacles and develop contingency plans. How did your proactive thinking benefit the project?
• Provide an example of a time when you identified a solution that significantly improved a process or operation at your company?
• Describe a situation where you had to explain a complex concept or solution to someone who had little to no knowledge of the subject. How did you ensure effective communication?
• How do you prioritize tasks and allocate your time when dealing with multiple projects or assignments?
• Explain your process for identifying the root cause of a problem. Can you provide an example from your experience?
• Describe a project where you had to innovate and think outside the box to overcome a challenge or reach a goal?
• Tell me about a time when you had to analyze financial data or budgets to make recommendations or decisions for your department or company.
• How do you approach a project that requires you to think long-term and consider the potential future implications of your decisions?

How to Use Critical Thinking Interview Questions in your Interviewing Process

The ability to think critically and solve complex problems is relevant across a wide range of job roles and industries. You can use the questions above to assess the critical thinking abilities of your candidates. And you can assess those skills even better if you ask these questions in an in-person or video interview .

Especially if you are using these questions in screening interviews , video screening is an effective way to see the candidate process critical thinking questions in real time. For more information on interview questions, we wrote an article on the best interview questions to ask for team players , or you can fill out this form to chat with us today about how interviewstream can help you ask the right questions, every time.

About The Author

Caroline Chessia is the Marketing Operations Specialist at interviewstream. She loves color-coordinated graphs, hiking in the mountains, and every dog she meets—especially the Golden Retrievers.

For over 20 years, interviewstream has been committed to driving hiring success for a diverse range of clients, including K-12 school districts, healthcare organizations, government agencies, emerging businesses, mid-sized companies, large enterprises, and institutions of higher education.

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Interview Questions

50 Interview Questions About Critical Thinking (With Answers)

Being able to look at something deeply can change your perspective. Here are 50 interview questions about critical thinking.

May 18, 2024

The ability to think critically can help companies save money and solve problems better. This post includes 50 interview questions about critical thinking and why you need to think critically at work.

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What is critical thinking?

Critical thinking is a vital soft skill that involves the objective analysis and evaluation of an issue in order to form a judgment. It encompasses the ability to logically and coherently reason, reflect, and connect ideas, discern between facts and opinions, solve problems creatively, and make decisions based on evidence and sound reasoning rather than assumptions or emotional responses. Critical thinkers are characterized by their willingness to question assumptions, explore alternative viewpoints, and consider the implications of their decisions. This skill is crucial across various aspects of life, from personal decision-making to professional environments where strategic planning and effective problem-solving are key to success.

Why is critical thinking important in the workplace?

1. problem-solving efficiency.

Critical thinking equips employees with the ability to analyze complex problems, identify their root causes, and devise effective solutions. This skill is invaluable in navigating the challenges that arise in a dynamic work environment, ensuring that issues are resolved efficiently and innovatively.

2. Decision-Making Quality

In the fast-paced business world, making informed decisions is crucial. Critical thinking enables individuals to evaluate options critically, consider potential outcomes, and make decisions based on logic and evidence rather than impulse. This leads to better decision-making that can significantly impact the success and growth of an organization.

3. Enhanced Communication

Critical thinking also plays a key role in improving communication within the workplace. It encourages individuals to question assumptions, analyze information, and articulate their ideas clearly and logically. This fosters an environment of open dialogue and collaboration, where ideas are scrutinized constructively, leading to more robust strategies and solutions.

5 Tips for Answering Critical Thinking Interview Questions

When you're in an interview and faced with questions designed to assess your critical thinking skills, your responses can significantly impact the impression you leave on the hiring panel. Critical thinking is a valued skill across all professions, indicating your ability to analyze situations, make reasoned judgments, and solve problems effectively. Here are five tips to help you showcase your critical thinking abilities during an interview:

1. Understand the Question

Before diving into your answer, take a moment to fully understand the question. Critical thinking begins with comprehension. If necessary, ask for clarification. This shows you're attentive and committed to providing a thoughtful response.

2. Structure Your Response

Employ the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answer. This technique helps you present your response in a coherent and logical sequence, illustrating your critical thinking process. Begin by describing a specific situation, outline the task you were faced with, detail the actions you took by applying your critical thinking skills, and conclude with the results of those actions.

3. Provide Examples

Use real-life examples from your previous experiences to demonstrate your critical thinking ability. Describing how you've applied critical thinking in past situations provides tangible evidence of your skill. Whether it was a problem you solved, a complex project you managed, or an innovative solution you developed, specific examples will make your answer more compelling.

4. Explain Your Thought Process

Don't just state what you did; delve into how and why you did it. Explain the reasoning behind your decisions and the factors you considered. This gives interviewers insight into your critical thinking process, showing them how you approach problems and evaluate solutions.

5. Reflect on What You Learned

Critical thinkers are also reflective thinkers. Conclude your response by sharing what you learned from the experience and how it enhanced your critical thinking skills. This demonstrates your ability to learn from situations and apply those lessons to future challenges, a key aspect of continuous improvement in critical thinking.

50 Interview Questions About Critical Thinking

1. how do you define critical thinking, and why is it important in the workplace.

Critical thinking is the process of analyzing and evaluating information objectively to make reasoned judgments. It involves questioning assumptions, assessing evidence, and considering different perspectives. In the workplace, critical thinking is essential for problem-solving, decision-making, and innovation. It helps employees navigate complex situations, improve processes, and make informed, strategic choices.

2. Can you give an example of a time when you used critical thinking to solve a complex problem?

In a previous role, our team faced a significant drop in customer satisfaction scores. Using critical thinking, I conducted a root cause analysis by gathering data from customer feedback, analyzing service processes, and interviewing team members. I identified that a recent change in our service protocol was causing delays. We revised the protocol, implemented additional training, and monitored the impact, resulting in improved customer satisfaction.

3. What steps do you take when analyzing information to ensure objectivity and accuracy?

To ensure objectivity and accuracy, I gather information from multiple reliable sources, cross-verify data, and avoid personal biases. I use critical questioning techniques to challenge assumptions and seek diverse perspectives to gain a comprehensive understanding. Additionally, I document and review my analysis process to identify any potential errors or gaps.

4. Can you share a situation where your critical thinking skills led to a significant improvement or innovation?

While working on a project to reduce production costs, I used critical thinking to analyze the entire production process. By identifying inefficiencies and redundancies, I proposed an automation solution that streamlined workflows and reduced manual labor. This innovation not only cut costs by 20% but also increased production speed and consistency.

5. How do you approach decision-making using critical thinking principles?

I approach decision-making by clearly defining the problem, gathering relevant data, and identifying possible solutions. I evaluate the pros and cons of each option, considering short-term and long-term impacts. I also seek input from stakeholders to ensure diverse perspectives. Finally, I make a well-reasoned decision and monitor the outcomes to learn and adjust as needed.

6. Can you describe a time when you had to challenge assumptions or conventional wisdom in a project or task?

In a marketing campaign, the conventional wisdom was to target the largest demographic. However, after analyzing customer data, I found that a smaller, niche demographic had higher engagement and conversion rates. I challenged the assumption and proposed a targeted campaign for this niche group. The result was a significant increase in ROI compared to previous campaigns.

7. What strategies do you use to gather and evaluate relevant data when making decisions?

I start by identifying the key questions and information needed for the decision. I gather data from credible sources such as industry reports, internal records, and expert opinions. I use analytical tools to evaluate the data, looking for patterns, trends, and correlations. Cross-referencing and triangulating data from different sources ensure a well-rounded analysis.

8. Can you give an example of a time when you had to make a decision based on incomplete or ambiguous information?

During a product launch, we faced ambiguous market data due to rapidly changing consumer trends. I gathered the best available data, consulted with market experts, and conducted a risk assessment. By making informed assumptions and preparing contingency plans, we proceeded with the launch, which turned out to be successful despite the initial uncertainties.

9. How do you handle situations where there are conflicting opinions or perspectives that require critical analysis?

I handle conflicting opinions by facilitating open discussions, actively listening to all viewpoints, and asking probing questions to understand the underlying reasons. I gather evidence supporting each perspective and objectively analyze the pros and cons. By synthesizing the information, I can make a balanced decision that considers diverse insights.

10. Can you share a situation where you had to adapt your approach or strategy based on new information or insights?

In a project to expand into a new market, initial research suggested a high demand for our product. However, new information from local market surveys indicated strong competition and different consumer preferences. I adapted our strategy by customizing our product features and marketing approach to align with local needs, resulting in a successful market entry.

11. What role does creativity play in your application of critical thinking skills?

Creativity enhances critical thinking by enabling the exploration of unconventional solutions and innovative approaches. It allows for thinking outside the box and generating new ideas that can solve problems more effectively. Creativity combined with critical thinking leads to well-rounded, imaginative, and practical solutions.

12. Can you describe a time when you had to prioritize multiple factors or criteria in a decision-making process?

In a project to select a new software vendor, I had to consider factors such as cost, functionality, user-friendliness, and customer support. I created a weighted scoring system to evaluate each vendor against these criteria. By prioritizing the most critical factors and using a systematic approach, we selected a vendor that best met our needs and budget.

13. How do you ensure that your conclusions and recommendations are logical and well-supported?

I ensure my conclusions and recommendations are logical and well-supported by basing them on thorough analysis and credible evidence. I use logical reasoning to connect data points and draw clear, well-supported conclusions. I also seek feedback from colleagues to validate my findings and recommendations.

14. Can you give an example of a time when you identified a potential risk or opportunity through critical analysis?

While analyzing sales data, I noticed a downward trend in a specific product category. Through further analysis, I identified changing consumer preferences as the root cause. This critical analysis allowed us to pivot our strategy, discontinuing low-performing products and investing in new product development, which capitalized on emerging consumer trends.

15. What steps do you take to evaluate the potential impact of your decisions on stakeholders and outcomes?

I identify all relevant stakeholders and consider how each decision will affect them. I gather input from stakeholders to understand their perspectives and concerns. I conduct impact assessments, weighing the pros and cons, and consider short-term and long-term implications. This comprehensive evaluation ensures decisions are balanced and considerate of all stakeholders.

16. Can you share a situation where your critical thinking skills helped you overcome a major obstacle or setback?

During a product development project, we faced a major technical setback that threatened our timeline. Using critical thinking, I organized a brainstorming session with the team, analyzed the root cause of the issue, and explored alternative solutions. We identified a viable workaround that allowed us to stay on track without compromising quality.

17. How do you handle situations where there is pressure to make quick decisions without sufficient information?

In high-pressure situations, I prioritize gathering the most critical information quickly. I consult with knowledgeable colleagues, use my experience to make informed assumptions, and prepare contingency plans. While I aim for the best possible decision, I remain flexible and ready to adjust as new information becomes available.

18. Can you describe a time when you had to consider ethical implications in your critical thinking process?

In a project to implement customer data analytics, I had to consider the ethical implications of data privacy. I conducted a thorough review of data protection regulations and consulted with legal experts. We implemented strict data anonymization and access controls, ensuring that our practices were ethical and compliant with privacy laws.

19. What role does collaboration play in enhancing your critical thinking abilities?

Collaboration brings diverse perspectives, knowledge, and expertise, which enrich critical thinking. Engaging with colleagues in discussions and brainstorming sessions helps identify blind spots, challenge assumptions, and develop well-rounded solutions. Collaboration fosters a collective approach to problem-solving, enhancing the quality of decisions.

20. Can you give an example of a time when you had to think outside the box to find a creative solution to a problem?

We faced declining engagement in our marketing campaigns. Thinking outside the box, I proposed leveraging user-generated content to create more authentic and relatable marketing materials. We launched a social media campaign encouraging customers to share their experiences, which significantly boosted engagement and brand loyalty.

21. How do you assess the reliability and credibility of sources when conducting research or gathering information?

I assess the reliability and credibility of sources by considering the author's expertise, the publication's reputation, and the evidence supporting the information. I cross-check information with multiple reputable sources and look for peer-reviewed articles, official reports, and data from established institutions to ensure accuracy.

22. Can you share a situation where you had to challenge a flawed or biased argument using critical thinking principles?

In a budget meeting, a colleague argued for cutting training programs based on short-term cost savings. I challenged this by presenting data on the long-term benefits of employee training, such as increased productivity and reduced turnover. By highlighting the flawed reasoning and providing evidence-based counterarguments, we retained the training budget.

23. What steps do you take to remain objective and open-minded when evaluating different perspectives?

I remain objective by actively listening to all perspectives, questioning my own assumptions, and seeking diverse viewpoints. I use evidence-based analysis and avoid letting personal biases influence my judgment. Keeping an open mind allows me to consider new ideas and solutions that I might not have initially recognized.

24. Can you describe a time when you had to analyze complex data sets or information to draw meaningful conclusions?

While working on a market research project, I analyzed complex data sets from multiple sources to identify consumer trends. I used statistical tools to identify patterns and correlations, cross-referenced findings with industry reports, and drew meaningful conclusions that informed our marketing strategy and product development roadmap.

25. How do you handle situations where there are conflicting priorities or goals that require critical prioritization?

I handle conflicting priorities by assessing the urgency and impact of each goal. I use a prioritization matrix to evaluate tasks based on factors such as importance, deadlines, and resource availability. By aligning priorities with organizational objectives and stakeholder needs, I ensure that critical tasks are addressed effectively and efficiently.

26. Can you give an example of a time when you had to analyze a process or workflow to identify inefficiencies or areas for improvement?

In a logistics project, I analyzed the order fulfillment process to identify inefficiencies. By mapping out each step and gathering input from the team, I identified bottlenecks and redundant tasks. We implemented process improvements, such as automation and better inventory management, which reduced lead times and increased efficiency.

27. What strategies do you use to communicate your critical thinking process and conclusions effectively to others?

I use clear and concise language, supported by data and evidence, to communicate my critical thinking process and conclusions. Visual aids, such as charts and diagrams, help illustrate key points. I ensure my arguments are logical and well-structured, and I encourage feedback and questions to clarify any uncertainties.

28. Can you share a situation where your critical thinking skills helped you anticipate and mitigate potential risks or challenges?

In a project to launch a new service, I anticipated potential risks related to customer adoption and technical challenges. I conducted a thorough risk assessment, developed mitigation strategies, and created contingency plans. This proactive approach helped us address issues promptly and ensured a smooth and successful launch.

29. How do you approach problem-solving using a structured and systematic critical thinking framework?

I approach problem-solving by defining the problem clearly, gathering relevant data, and identifying possible solutions. I evaluate each solution based on criteria such as feasibility, impact, and resources required. I select the best solution, implement it, and monitor the results to ensure it effectively addresses the problem.

30. Can you describe a time when you had to make a decision with limited resources or constraints that required creative critical thinking?

During a budget cut, we needed to maintain customer support quality with fewer resources. I proposed leveraging AI chatbots to handle common queries, freeing up human agents for complex issues. This creative solution maintained service quality, reduced costs, and improved efficiency despite the constraints.

31. What role does feedback play in refining and improving your critical thinking skills?

Feedback is essential for refining critical thinking skills as it provides insights into areas for improvement and alternative perspectives. Constructive feedback from colleagues and mentors helps identify blind spots, validate reasoning, and enhance decision-making processes. Continuous learning and adaptation based on feedback strengthen critical thinking abilities.

32. Can you give an example of a time when you had to evaluate the validity of an argument or claim using evidence and reasoning?

In a proposal to switch suppliers, the argument was made based on cost savings. I evaluated the claim by analyzing the long-term reliability, quality, and service levels of the new supplier. Evidence from industry reports and case studies revealed potential risks. Based on this analysis, we decided to maintain our current supplier to ensure quality and reliability.

33. How do you handle situations where there is uncertainty or ambiguity that requires critical analysis and judgment?

In uncertain situations, I gather as much relevant information as possible and identify key uncertainties. I use scenario analysis to evaluate potential outcomes and develop contingency plans. By consulting with experts and considering various perspectives, I make informed judgments that balance risks and benefits.

34. Can you share a situation where your critical thinking skills helped you identify patterns or trends that others may have overlooked?

In a sales performance review, I noticed a subtle but consistent decline in a particular product category. Further analysis revealed a shift in consumer preferences that others had overlooked. By identifying this trend early, we adjusted our product strategy and marketing efforts, ultimately improving sales and customer satisfaction.

35. What steps do you take to ensure that your solutions or recommendations are practical and feasible?

I ensure solutions are practical and feasible by considering resource availability, implementation timelines, and potential obstacles. I conduct pilot tests or simulations to validate the approach and gather feedback from stakeholders. Regularly reviewing and adjusting the plan based on real-world insights ensures successful implementation.

36. Can you describe a time when you had to analyze competing solutions or options to make an informed decision?

In a project to choose a new CRM system, we had multiple options with varying features and costs. I analyzed each option based on criteria such as user-friendliness, integration capabilities, and long-term ROI. By scoring and comparing the options, we selected the CRM system that best met our needs and budget.

37. How do you incorporate feedback and lessons learned from past experiences into your critical thinking approach?

I incorporate feedback and lessons learned by reflecting on past decisions and their outcomes. I document key insights and use them to inform future decision-making processes. Regularly reviewing successes and failures helps identify patterns, refine strategies, and improve critical thinking skills over time.

38. Can you give an example of a time when you had to challenge the status quo or traditional ways of thinking to drive positive change?

In a project to improve customer service, the traditional approach focused on reactive support. I challenged this by proposing a proactive support model using predictive analytics to anticipate customer needs. Implementing this innovative approach led to a significant reduction in support tickets and increased customer satisfaction.

39. What strategies do you use to encourage and foster critical thinking among team members or colleagues?

I encourage critical thinking by fostering a collaborative and open environment where diverse perspectives are valued. I use techniques such as brainstorming sessions, critical questioning, and case studies to stimulate thinking. Providing training and resources on critical thinking skills also helps team members develop their abilities.

40. Can you share a situation where your critical thinking skills helped you identify and capitalize on opportunities for growth or expansion?

While analyzing market trends, I identified an emerging demand for eco-friendly products. By leveraging this insight, we developed a new line of sustainable products, tapping into the growing market. This strategic move not only boosted sales but also enhanced our brand's reputation as an environmentally responsible company.

41. How do you handle situations where there are conflicting interests or priorities that require careful consideration and analysis?

I handle conflicting interests by clearly defining each priority's importance and impact. I facilitate discussions with stakeholders to understand their perspectives and use a decision matrix to evaluate options based on criteria such as urgency, feasibility, and alignment with organizational goals. This structured approach ensures balanced and informed decisions.

42. Can you describe a time when you had to evaluate the potential long-term implications of a decision using critical thinking?

When considering an investment in new technology, I evaluated the potential long-term implications, such as scalability, maintenance costs, and impact on existing systems. By conducting a thorough cost-benefit analysis and consulting with experts, I ensured that the decision aligned with our long-term strategic goals and provided sustainable value.

43. What role does data analysis and interpretation play in your critical thinking process?

Data analysis and interpretation are crucial for informed decision-making. They provide evidence to support or refute assumptions and help identify trends, patterns, and correlations. By analyzing and interpreting data, I can draw meaningful conclusions, develop well-supported recommendations, and ensure decisions are based on objective information.

44. Can you give an example of a time when you had to weigh the pros and cons of different courses of action using critical thinking principles?

In a project to reduce operational costs, I had to choose between outsourcing and implementing new technology. I weighed the pros and cons of each option, considering factors such as cost savings, quality control, and implementation time. By evaluating these factors critically, we chose the option that provided the best balance of cost efficiency and quality.

45. How do you approach decision-making in high-pressure or time-sensitive situations using critical thinking?

In high-pressure situations, I prioritize gathering the most critical information quickly and consult with key stakeholders. I use frameworks such as SWOT analysis to assess options and make informed decisions. While I aim for the best possible decision, I remain flexible and ready to adjust as new information becomes available.

46. Can you share a situation where your critical thinking skills helped you identify and address root causes of problems or issues?

In a project experiencing frequent delays, I used critical thinking to analyze the workflow and identify the root causes. I found that poor communication and unclear task assignments were the primary issues. By implementing clear communication protocols and defined roles, we addressed the root causes and improved project timelines.

47. What steps do you take to ensure that your critical thinking process is thorough and comprehensive?

I ensure thoroughness by defining the problem clearly, gathering relevant information from multiple sources, and using analytical tools to evaluate the data. I seek input from diverse perspectives and document my process to identify any gaps. Regularly reviewing and refining my approach ensures a comprehensive and rigorous critical thinking process.

48. Can you describe a time when you had to evaluate the potential risks and benefits of a decision using critical analysis?

When deciding to enter a new market, I evaluated the potential risks and benefits through a detailed market analysis. I assessed factors such as market demand, competition, regulatory environment, and investment requirements. By weighing the risks and benefits, we made an informed decision that minimized potential downsides and maximized opportunities.

49. How do you handle situations where there are competing priorities or constraints that require creative problem-solving and critical thinking?

I handle competing priorities by assessing their importance and impact on organizational goals. I use creative problem-solving techniques such as brainstorming and mind mapping to generate innovative solutions. By evaluating options against constraints and aligning them with strategic objectives, I make decisions that balance competing demands effectively.

50. Can you give an example of a time when your critical thinking skills led to a successful outcome or achievement in your role?

In a cost reduction initiative, I used critical thinking to analyze our supply chain and identify inefficiencies. By negotiating better terms with suppliers and optimizing inventory management, we achieved significant cost savings. This critical analysis and strategic action led to improved profitability and operational efficiency for the organization.

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17 critical thinking interview questions to find the perfect candidate

Find top critical thinkers for your open roles today.

Critical thinking is an important skill in any role, and its significance only increases the more complex responsibilities employees have.

The best way to ensure your candidates have the skills to tackle sophisticated problems is to screen applicants using a Critical Thinking skills test and create a shortlist of quantifiably competent interviewees.

The next step is to ask thought-provoking interview questions. This interview process is tricky, but to help you out, we’ve created a list of 17 critical thinking interview questions to ask candidates.

Table of contents

The importance of thought-provoking interview questions, 17 critical thinking interview questions and answers, summary of all 17 critical thinking interview questions, uncover critical thinking with talent assessments and in-depth interview questions, never miss great talent with our skills tests and critical thinking interview questions .

Research shows that the demand for critical thinking and analysis is growing at a faster rate than any other skill group, likely thanks to the increased need for critical analysis when navigating technological change.

To meet this demand, hiring managers need a robust system for assessing critical thinking skills for most positions. When we talk about critical thinking, we refer to a range of sub-skills, including:

Self-reflection

These skills are essential to many business processes , particularly for managers who must evaluate complex variables to make effective business decisions. 

For example, critical thinking skills are necessary to effectively re-evaluate processes during agile project management, which drives innovation.

The problem with critical thinking skills is that it’s difficult to identify them relying solely on resume evaluation. Anyone can write “critical thinking skills” on a resume, but it doesn’t make them critical thinkers.

That’s where talent assessments come in. Skills testing measures candidates’ critical thinking skills, ensuring shortlisted candidates meet a certain benchmark. Then, asking interview questions for critical thinking gives you a well-rounded understanding of a candidate’s aptitude for objective analysis. The questions should be thorough enough to give you insight into a candidate’s motivations, problem-solving style, and decision-making skills.

Asking interview questions about critical thinking gives you insight into a candidate’s thinking style as well as relevant sub-skills, such as: 

Decision-making

Problem-solving

Information processing

Deductive reasoning

Conflict resolution

In candidates’ answers to all these critical interview questions, look for their ability to: 

Give a clear, concise, structured answer – for example, using the STAR method , outlining the situation, task, action, and result

Illustrate their points with specific examples 

Reflect honestly on their strengths and weaknesses

Show self-awareness about areas for improvement

So, what are some critical thinking interview questions?

1. How do you go about completing a task without clear information?

Answers to this question should show how the candidate would perform in time-sensitive environments, where workers often make decisions with incomplete information. 

Based on the answers, gauge how the candidate would handle the lack of information in complex situations, including: 

How they review the information they have 

How they use creative thinking to fill in the blanks

What experiences, resources, or training they draw on to make educated guesses about missing data 

How they decide on a solution 

Whether they continually use analytical skills to re-evaluate their chosen solution as they receive more information

What the outcomes have been in past instances of doing tasks while missing information

2. What is the most difficult work-related decision you’ve had to make?

This critical thinking interview question probes candidates’ ability to make sound decisions under pressure. A good answer shows a clear thought process and measured judgment to select a course of action.

Look out for candidates who can: 

Lay out all the variables involved in the decision 

Explain why these factors were at odds with each other and what the stakes were

Reflect on how they handled the stress of the decision 

Show that they created a logical system for making the decision – and stuck to it 

Display willingness to take ownership of their decisions even in difficult circumstances, such as layoffs

3. How do you process new ideas and approaches?

Open-mindedness is central to critical thinking. Candidates shouldn’t fear abandoning traditional methodologies if a superior alternative emerges. Equally, they should exercise their judgment to evaluate whether a new method meets the bar. 

When a candidate answers this question, look out for: 

Awareness of new ideas and approaches emerging in their field – this is a sign that a candidate is proactive and engaged in their work

An established process for fact-checking or testing new approaches

Ongoing reevaluation of new methods and ideas

Adaptability and willingness to consider ideas that contradict their way of doing things 

4. How do you respond to opposing viewpoints?

Critical thinking depends on a person’s ability to weigh both sides of an argument. Even when one course of action is worse than another, candidates should be able to respond to opposing perspectives respectfully and constructively.

Candidates with strong critical thinking skills:

Show they understand opposing viewpoints

Practice active listening to ensure everyone feels heard

Identify the conflict between others’ ideas and their opinion 

Address this conflict respectfully and back up their views with hard evidence 

Where applicable, shift their viewpoint according to new information or reach a suitable compromise

5. How quickly do you make decisions?

In a fast-paced work environment, employees must act swiftly and decisively. This critical thinking interview question asks the candidate to expand on their decision-making process. Strong answers strike a balance between careful consideration and urgency, showing:

An understanding of decision-making timelines in their role or industry: quicker isn’t always better, and making snap decisions is often a sign of arrogance

An awareness of the time needed to make different types of decisions and which stakeholders are involved 

Methods for assessing how much time they have to make a decision and how they manage their tasks to stay on track

Variables they prioritize in decisions they have limited time to make

6. Have you ever anticipated a complex problem before it arose? How did you deal with it?

This critical thinking interview question separates the proactive thinkers from the passive ones, helping you spot candidates who plan and anticipate risks – an invaluable skill in any organization.

Good answers to this question show: 

A solid understanding of the key functions or outputs of their business and the resources these rely on 

Proactive evaluation of changes to this environment

Risk assessment and risk management skills , and knowing when to take action and when to hold off

7. What work-related advice would you give to former employers?

This question gauges a candidate’s propensity to voice criticism and whether they express it constructively or negatively. There’s no right or wrong answer here. Candidates simply need to thoughtfully explain suggestions for managers in their previous roles.

“Green flags” when looking at candidates’ answers to this question include: 

An awareness of the factors that went into their bosses’ decision-making 

A clear explanation of their disagreements or amendments to these policies 

Practical suggestions for improving the situation 

A “red flag” would be making personal or non-constructive remarks or failing to show understanding and respect for former employers.

8. How often do you ask coworkers for help?

Workers should know when to seek help from others while working on a project. They shouldn’t burden co-workers with work they could do themselves, nor should they be too stubborn to proceed without some outside opinion or help.

Keep an eye out for candidates who:

Understand which tasks in their role are suitable for collaboration and which require independence 

Show willingness to look for their own solution before asking others for help 

Know their limitations, particularly within time constraints – for example, when to ask for help from a colleague who can complete a task faster 

Awareness of and respect for their colleagues’ priorities 

A willingness to learn so this situation is less likely to repeat itself

9. How should friction between team members be dealt with?

Conflict resolution is a skill that’s hard to come by for hiring managers. In work environments with people with different opinions and values, it’s important to have someone who can defuse conflict situations with a proactive, patient, and impartial approach.

Look for candidates who: 

Know the difference between healthy and toxic conflict

Understand organizational or legal protocols for conflict resolution – for example, which situations should be dealt with formally 

Resolve conflicts using non-violent communication

Are familiar with processes for restabilizing the team after conflict resolution

10. What is the most innovative work-related idea you have come up with? How did it benefit the organization?

This question asks candidates to describe past experiences of thinking outside the box to deliver a new solution. Having proactive problem-solvers in your organization helps it stay ahead of the curve. 

A good answer to this critical thinking interview question shows that a candidate: 

Is on the lookout for opportunities to innovate or optimize processes

Comes up with practical ways to implement their solutions

Stands up for their ideas if they’re not met with enthusiasm initially

11. Describe a situation when you received negative feedback you didn’t understand.

If applicants have received negative feedback they didn’t understand, getting defensive should not be their first instinct. An employee who analyzes situations critically should know that the feedback could enhance the quality of their work and strive to understand it better.

Look out for candidates who show: 

A willingness to receive critical feedback 

The ability to restate what they heard and ask for clarifications on aspects that elude them

A keenness to follow up with the supervisor and ask about their progress since the feedback was given

12. Describe a time you made a serious mistake at work.

Owning up to past mistakes shows applicants’ integrity and honesty. How they describe the mistake and their subsequent actions should hint at the strength of their critical analysis ability. Ask yourself: 

Are they able to explain what they learned from the mistake? 

Can they describe how they took accountability for their errors?

Did they use the errors as learning opportunities?

Has the mistake reoccurred, or have they used this lesson to prevent it?

13. Describe a digital skill you need to improve.

Companies worldwide are experiencing massive shortages of digital skills, even among younger workers. One UK-based survey found that employers believed some of the top skills graduates lacked were:

Basic IT skills

Data ethics

Machine learning

Programming

Data communication skills

A good answer to this question should show that candidates understand the importance of mastering digital processes. 

It also shows that the candidate has the critical thinking skills needed to recognize these weaknesses in their digital know-how, particularly where they impact their job.

Ask them if they are taking courses or reading books to improve.

14. Do you have any methods for improving your problem-solving skills?

Problem-solving skills are an adjunct of critical thinking that prepares candidates for handling challenging assignments by prioritizing tasks, planning and executing strategies, and anticipating additional problems. 

To improve their problem-solving skills, candidates can: 

Share ideas with coworkers to learn new problem-solving strategies

Improve analytical skills to assess the root causes of problems

Practice creative and critical thinking

Assessing your applicants’ problem-solving skills is quick and simple with our Problem Solving and Critical Thinking tests. Use these tests for a data-driven hiring process.

Spot top problem-solvers without bias

Find out how our skills tests can help you find the best hire for your open position.

15. Have you ever received negative feedback from senior management?

Negative feedback from senior managers may seem jarring, but employees should see it as a wake-up call and an opportunity to improve performance. Your applicants should show their critical thinking aptitude by explaining:

How they accept negative comments from senior leadership 

What they do to implement the necessary changes to their work 

How they use it as a learning opportunity

Ask your candidates to provide an example of a time they received negative feedback and ask extra questions to see how the criticism improved their work.

 For instance, if a senior manager reproached an applicant for not motivating a team effectively, you may ask, “How did your motivational strategies change after that?”

16. How would you coach an employee who’s failing to meet targets?

Coaching enables underperforming team members to enhance their approach to the task and achieve their goals more efficiently. Successful coaching demands critical thinking skills on the mentor’s part to inform the best strategy. 

Consider whether your applicants have coaching experience and can provide an example of a situation when their coaching strategies helped an employee who was failing to meet targets.

Strategies they could mention include:

Scheduling one-on-one meetings to discuss company targets 

Using efficient communication to share their expectations with the employee

Evaluating the reasons why the team member is struggling 

Looking for ways to help them address challenges with training or mentorship

17. How do you ensure your team trusts your choices?

Team management requires strong critical thinking skills because managers must understand what motivates each of their team members, communicate their decisions in a way that resonates with them, and project reliable authority.

Examples of how candidates could do this include:

Being transparent in their decision-making process 

Admitting mistakes 

Communicating effectively

Using team-building activities

Holding regular team meetings

Whichever method they use, applicants should describe the outcomes of their processes to help you appraise their managerial expertise.

What are examples of critical thinking questions? Here’s our full list of critical thinking questions and answers.

In traditional hiring, the earliest you could assess critical thinking skills is during the interview. Hiring managers spend much time and effort inviting candidates to interviews and prepping the questions, only to find they aren’t suitable.

This situation doesn’t happen if you screen candidates using TestGorilla’s Critical Thinking test , which evaluates their basic critical thinking abilities with questions like this:

Using skills-based hiring during the shortlisting process lets you cut out the time you’d otherwise spend checking if candidates have critical thinking skills.

Instead, you can look more closely at how they approach problems with interview questions for strategic thinking. Then, you can evaluate whether their approach would work in your business environment.

This approach leads to better hires and a shorter time to hire. For example, the game development and publishing studio Visionaries FZ-LLC saves 15 hours per hire by only inviting candidates to interview if they score above 80% on TestGorilla’s assessment.

Don’t waste time finding skilled candidates.

Create your first multi-measure assessment for free with TestGorilla today.

Critical thinking is at the top of the list when deciding what to assess with your interview questions. In this article, we’ve broken down: 

Why critical thinking skills are so important 

A list of the best critical thinking questions for interview candidates

How skills testing can help you create even better thought-provoking questions for interviews

To learn how to get started with skills testing, sign up for a demo with one of our experts today. 

You can also look around our platform yourself by taking a product tour .

Or, if you’re ready to get started straight away, sign up for our Free forever plan now.

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Fundamental Interview Questions to Assess Critical Thinking

14 Aug 2024

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Critical Thinking

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You've found the perfect candidates whose CVs sparkle with impressive skills and experiences. But the real challenge lies in uncovering how they think and solve problems. This is where assessing critical thinking during interviews comes into play. Critical thinking helps you understand a candidate's ability to analyse, evaluate, and create solutions, providing a glimpse into their problem-solving prowess. Here, you'll discover what critical thinking entails, why it matters, and how you can effectively gauge it during interviews.

1. Understanding Critical Thinking in Interviews

1.1 what is critical thinking.

Critical thinking involves analysing facts to form a judgment. It's a key competency that means going beyond basic problem-solving, enabling candidates to comprehend complex issues and make reasoned decisions. They're not just taking information at face value; they’re evaluating it, comparing different data points, and synthesising a conclusion that is logical and well-founded.

In an interview, critical thinking can be represented by how well a candidate dissects a problem, recognising various facets and implications. It’s shown in their thought process, where they identify the core issue, ask pertinent questions, and arrive at a recommended solution. By focusing on a candidate’s critical thinking abilities, you ensure that you’re bringing onboard individuals who can adapt and think on their feet in a fast-paced work environment.

1.2 Why is Critical Thinking Important in Candidates?

Critical thinking is crucial as it translates directly into job performance. A candidate with strong critical thinking skills will approach problems methodically, avoiding snap judgments and instead drawing on a reasoned thought process. They will think about the long-term effects of their decisions, identify potential pitfalls, and propose strategies that are sustainable and effective.

Hiring someone with these skills means you're adding value to your team. You can count on them to:

Make informed decisions: They weigh the pros and cons and make choices based on sound reasoning.

Solve complex problems: They dissect the problem to understand it fully and create well-thought-out solutions.

Innovate within their role: They bring fresh ideas and an analytical mindset to drive continuous improvement.

1.3 How to Identify Critical Thinking During Interviews?

Identifying critical thinking during interviews requires asking the right questions. Focus on open-ended questions that encourage candidates to explain their thought processes. Look for evidence of their ability to break down issues, consider different perspectives, and draw logical conclusions.

Here’s what you can do:

Ask situational questions: Present hypothetical challenges relevant to the role.

Use past experiences: Request examples of when they tackled a significant problem.

Evaluate their reasoning: Pay attention to how they justify their decisions.

The key is to observe how candidates navigate through their explanations. Are they considering multiple factors? Do they articulate their thoughts clearly and logically? Their responses can reveal much about their capacity for critical thinking.

2. Top Interview Questions to Assess Critical Thinking

2.1 example scenario analysis.

As an interviewer, you can gauge a candidate's critical thinking by presenting a relevant real-world scenario they might face in your company. A good example could be: "Imagine you notice a recurring customer complaint about the same product issue. How would you approach this problem?" This question forces candidates to think critically about identifying the root cause and suggests proactive solutions.

Look for responses that use logical steps. Good answers might include:

Gathering Data: Collecting feedback from customers and employees.

Identifying Patterns: Analysing data to pinpoint recurring issues.

Proposing Solutions: Implementing fixes and monitoring outcomes.

Pro-tip: A candidate who collaborates with different departments to solve the issue indicates strong teamwork and critical thinking.

2.2 Problem-Solving Approach

Asking candidates about their problem-solving approach is essential. A question like, "Tell me about a time when you had to solve a difficult problem. What steps did you take?" helps identify how they handle pressure and think on their feet. This question is crucial for roles that frequently encounter unexpected challenges.

Look for these elements in their answers:

Understanding the Problem: Clearly defining the problem.

Brainstorming Solutions: Considering multiple solutions before deciding on one.

Implementing and Reflecting: Executing a plan and evaluating its effectiveness.

Pro-tip: Pay attention to candidates who mention learning from the process. This shows they can adapt and improve from past experiences.

2.3 Decision-Making Process

Another way to assess critical thinking is by asking about decision-making processes. For example, "How do you make important decisions, particularly when information is limited?" This reveals how a candidate copes with uncertainty and the methods they use to make sound decisions.

In their response, look for:

Information Gathering: Seeking out all available data.

Weighing Options: Considering the pros and cons of each option.

Justifying the Decision: Providing a clear rationale for the chosen path.

Pro-tip: Candidates who explain how they consider the impact on various stakeholders show foresight and comprehensive thinking.

2.4 Logical Reasoning Challenges

To test a candidate's logical reasoning, present them with a puzzle or complex problem: "Suppose you're given a task with ambiguous instructions. How would you clarify and proceed with the task?" This will test their ability to process information clearly and methodically.

Effective answers should:

Clarify Requirements: Ask pertinent questions to understand the task better.

Create a Plan: Outline a step-by-step process for approaching the task.

Assess Outcomes: Continuously evaluate progress to ensure alignment with goals.

Pro-tip: Select candidates who demonstrate patience and persistence in their approach—these qualities are indispensable in logical reasoning tasks.

2.5 Creativity and Innovation Queries

Understanding a candidate's creativity and innovation can be crucial. Ask, "Can you describe a time when you had to think outside the box to solve a problem?" This question assesses their ability to think beyond conventional methods and bring fresh ideas to the table.

Key aspects to look for include:

Identifying the Problem: Recognising an area where traditional solutions failed.

Creative Thinking: Coming up with unique and effective solutions.

Implementation and Results: Successfully applying the solution and achieving positive outcomes.

Pro-tip: Candidates who emphasize collaborative innovation signal that they can inspire and work well within teams to drive creative solutions.

3. Evaluating Answers for Insight into Critical Thinking

3.1 what to look for in responses.

To assess a candidate's critical thinking skills effectively, look for structured and logical responses . Strong answers will include a clear point, backed by evidence or rationale . For instance, when asked to solve a particular problem, the candidate should detail the steps they would take and explain why each step is necessary. They should also compare alternatives if relevant.

You should notice how they break down complex issues into manageable parts and describe their approach comprehensively. Highlight solutions or conclusions should be based on data or factual information. For example, if discussing a past project, they might reference specific metrics that guided their decision-making. Watch for signs of originality and flexibility , as these indicate a robust critical thinking ability.

Pro-tip: Pay attention to candidates who consistently ask clarifying questions before answering—this often signifies a thoughtful and thorough approach.

3.2 Interpreting Thought Processes and Reasoning

When interpreting a candidate's thought processes, focus on their ability to articulate their reasoning clearly . Good critical thinkers will not only present their conclusion but also walk you through the journey of how they arrived there. This might include describing their initial understanding, the intermediate steps, and any modifications to their strategy based on new information or insights.

Check for candidates who identify potential obstacles and their methods for overcoming them. This often signals proactive planning and an ability to foresee and mitigate future risks. Strong responses will highlight not only the what but also the why—showing that they understand the impact of their decisions and actions on the outcome.

Pro-tip: Look for candidates who reflect on their previous experiences and demonstrate how lessons learned influenced their problem-solving strategies.

3.3 Assessing the Depth of Critical Analysis

Evaluating the depth of a candidate's critical analysis involves looking beyond surface-level answers. Seek detailed responses that show consideration of multiple factors or viewpoints . For example, when asked about making a difficult decision, the candidate should discuss the pros and cons of each option, the stakeholders involved, and long-term implications.

Depth in analysis also means recognising ethical dimensions and broader consequences. Candidates who discuss not just immediate outcomes but the ripple effects of a decision exhibit strong critical thinking. Their answers should reflect an awareness of context and the potential for unforeseen issues.

Pro-tip: Candidates who reference specific frameworks or methodologies they use for analysis often bring a more disciplined approach to critical thinking.

In conclusion, assessing critical thinking in interviews requires focusing on detailed, logical, and structured responses. By posing scenario-based questions and seeking thorough explanations, you can gauge a candidate's analytical skills and their ability to navigate complex problems. Look for clear reasoning, consideration of multiple factors, and reflective insights to identify strong critical thinkers.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are some good critical thinking interview questions.

How would you solve [specific problem]?

Describe a time you had to make a quick decision with limited information.

How do you prioritise tasks in a pressured situation?

What are some good critical thinking questions?

What criteria do you use to evaluate success?

Can you explain a challenging project you've managed?

How do you handle conflicting priorities?

What question would you ask to test the applicant's critical thinking skills?

How do you approach solving a problem when you don't have all the information?

How to assess critical thinking?

Ask scenario-based questions.

Look for structured, logical responses.

Evaluate the consideration of multiple factors.

Check for clear reasoning and insights.

Explore the guides

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Interview Baba

Top 25 Critical Thinking Interview Questions & Answers

Table of Contents

1. Introduction

Embarking on the quest to find the ideal candidate, interviewers are turning to critical thinking interview questions as a decisive tool. These inquiries delve into the applicant’s ability to analyze situations, make informed decisions, and solve problems effectively. This article aims to unlock the potential of such questions and guide you through crafting your responses.

Critical Thinking in the Hiring Process

When it comes to identifying top-tier talent, the ability to engage in critical thinking is a highly sought-after skill across various industries. It is not merely about being smart; it’s about approaching problems in a systematic and logical manner. Whether you’re aiming for a role in tech, finance, management, or any other sector, demonstrating your critical thinking prowess can make you stand out. The questions curated in this article are designed to probe your analytical abilities, gauge your problem-solving strategies, and assess how you handle complex situations—skills that are pivotal for success in any dynamic work environment.

3. Critical Thinking Interview Questions

1. describe a situation where you had to solve a difficult problem. what approaches did you consider and why (problem-solving skills).

How to Answer: When responding to this question, focus on a specific problem you faced in the past, outlining the context, the steps you took to address it, and the reasoning behind your chosen approaches. Employers are looking for evidence of systematic thinking, the ability to evaluate different options, and the use of resources or frameworks that helped guide your decision-making process.

My Answer: In my previous role, I was confronted with a major issue when our customer service satisfaction scores started to decline. After analyzing initial feedback, it became clear that the problem was rooted in slow response times and a lack of effective solutions provided to customers.

I considered several approaches to tackle this problem:

• Training: I proposed additional training for the customer service team to ensure they had the necessary product knowledge.
• Staffing: I analyzed our staffing schedules and discovered that there were not enough representatives during peak hours, so I considered adjusting the schedules.
• Technology: I evaluated the possibility of implementing a new customer relationship management (CRM) system to improve efficiency.

I decided to implement a combination of all three approaches. Training would empower the team with knowledge, better staffing schedules would ensure availability during high-volume periods, and an improved CRM system would streamline the problem-solving process. This strategy was chosen because it addressed all identified issues contributing to the decline in satisfaction scores.

2. Can you provide an example of a time when you had to challenge the status quo? What was the outcome? (Innovation and Change)

How to Answer: In your response, illustrate a specific instance where you identified a need for change and took action to initiate that change, despite potential resistance. Explain your motivation for challenging the status quo and describe the process and outcome. Employers are looking for your ability to think creatively and your courage to drive change.

My Answer: At my previous company, we were using an outdated process for tracking project progress, which was time-consuming and error-prone. I noticed that we were spending more time managing the process than actually working on the project itself.

To challenge the status quo, I:

• Researched alternative methods: Explored modern project management tools that offered real-time updates and collaborative features.
• Prepared a case: Compiled data showing the time wasted with the old system and the potential time and error reduction with a new solution.
• Presented to stakeholders: Demonstrated the benefits and efficiencies to the management team and addressed their concerns.

The outcome was successful; the management agreed to a trial period of the new system, which eventually became our standard project management tool. This led to a significant reduction in administrative overhead and an increase in project delivery efficiency.

3. How do you distinguish a correlation from a causation in a given scenario? (Analytical Thinking)

To distinguish between correlation and causation, you can look for the following factors:

• Temporal precedence: Causation requires that the cause happens before the effect.
• Non-spuriousness: There should be no hidden variable that explains the relationship between the two variables in question.
• Consistency: The cause-and-effect relationship should be consistent across different studies and scenarios.
• Theoretical rationale: There should be a plausible mechanism explaining why the cause leads to the effect.

Here’s a simple example to illustrate the difference:

In this scenario, there’s a correlation between ice cream consumption and drownings. However, to establish causation, we would need to rule out other variables. In this case, a third variable, hot weather, likely causes both higher ice cream consumption and more people swimming, which can lead to more drownings.

4. Describe a complex project you worked on. How did you ensure you understood all the variables involved? (Project Understanding and Analysis)

In a complex project involving the deployment of a new IT infrastructure, I took the following steps to ensure I understood all the variables:

• Document Review: I thoroughly reviewed all project documentation, including technical specifications, project plans, and stakeholder requirements.
• Stakeholder Interviews: Conducted interviews with key stakeholders to gather additional insights and identify any unaddressed needs or concerns.
• Expert Consultation: I consulted with technical experts to better understand the technological aspects and constraints.
• Risk Analysis: Performed a risk analysis to anticipate potential challenges and devise mitigation strategies.
• Feedback Loops: Established regular feedback loops with the project team to ensure ongoing alignment and address any issues promptly.

By taking these steps, I was able to grasp the complexity of the project and contribute effectively to its success.

5. When was the last time you made a decision that was unpopular and how did you handle the feedback? (Decision-Making and Feedback Reception)

How to Answer: Talk about a decision where you weighed the pros and cons and decided in favor of the long-term benefit or greater good, despite immediate pushback. Explain the decision-making process and how you communicated your decision. Then discuss how you managed the feedback, both positive and negative.

My Answer: In my previous role as a team leader, I decided to implement a mandatory ongoing professional development program. Despite its benefits for long-term career growth, the decision was unpopular due to the additional time commitment required.

• Communication: I explained the rationale behind the decision and how it aligned with our goals for quality and competitiveness.
• Openness to Feedback: I listened to the team’s concerns and adjusted the implementation to make the program more flexible.
• Regular Check-ins: I scheduled regular check-ins to gather feedback and make further adjustments as needed.

In the end, the feedback was overwhelmingly positive as the team members started seeing the benefits of the program in their work quality and career progression.

6. Explain a situation where you used data to make a decision. How did you process and interpret the data? (Data Analysis)

How to Answer: When discussing how you used data to make a decision, be specific about the context, what kind of data was involved, the methods or tools used to process that data, and how you interpreted the results to inform your decision. Employers want to see that you have an analytical mindset and can use data effectively to make informed decisions.

My Answer: In my previous role, we were trying to optimize our marketing strategy to increase user engagement. We had data from various campaigns—email, social media, and pay-per-click (PPC)—and needed to decide where to allocate our budget for the best return on investment (ROI).

• I started by collecting and cleaning the data from all campaigns, ensuring it was accurate and up-to-date.
• I then used statistical software to analyze the data, looking at metrics such as click-through rates, conversion rates, and the cost-per-acquisition (CPA) for each campaign.
• To interpret the data, I performed a comparative analysis to determine which campaigns were most cost-effective.
• I also conducted a cohort analysis to see how long-term value varied by acquisition channel.

Based on my analysis, I found that while PPC campaigns had higher upfront costs, they also brought users with a higher lifetime value compared to other channels. I presented these findings to our team, and we decided to allocate a larger portion of our budget to PPC campaigns, which ultimately increased our overall user engagement by 20%.

7. How do you prioritize your tasks in a project with tight deadlines and multiple stakeholders? (Time Management and Prioritization)

How to Answer: Discuss your method for prioritizing tasks, such as using the Eisenhower Matrix, ABCDE method, or other prioritization tools. Explain how you manage expectations and communicate with stakeholders, as well as how you adapt your approach when circumstances change.

My Answer: To manage tasks effectively in a high-pressure project, I use the following prioritization framework:

• Identify Critical Tasks: I determine which tasks have the highest impact on the project’s success and deadlines.
• Assess Stakeholder Needs: I consider the expectations and requirements of each stakeholder to understand their priorities.
• Urgency vs. Importance: I use the Eisenhower Matrix to categorize tasks as urgent, important, both, or neither.
• Delegation: Where possible, I delegate tasks that are not the best use of my time or that others are better equipped to handle.
• Communication: I keep open lines of communication with stakeholders for updates on progress and to manage expectations.

Through this approach, I ensure that the most critical aspects of the project are addressed first and that stakeholders are kept informed throughout the process.

8. Can you talk about a time when you had to convince your team of your idea? How did you do it? (Persuasion and Teamwork)

How to Answer: Share a specific instance where you successfully persuaded your team. Discuss the tactics you used, such as gathering evidence, preparing a persuasive argument, and being open to feedback. Emphasize your collaborative approach and willingness to incorporate other perspectives.

My Answer: In my previous project, I proposed a shift in our software development methodology from Waterfall to Agile to improve efficiency and adaptability. To convince my team, I used the following strategies:

• Data and Evidence: I gathered data on Agile’s benefits, including case studies from other companies that had successfully made the transition.
• Presentation: I prepared a compelling presentation that outlined the current challenges with our process and how Agile could address them.
• Listening and Addressing Concerns: I actively listened to my team’s concerns and addressed them with practical solutions and examples.
• Trial Period: I suggested a trial period for the team to experience the benefits firsthand without fully committing to the change.

By combining evidence with open communication and a willingness to test the idea, I was able to gain my team’s buy-in, and we successfully transitioned to Agile.

9. How do you assess the credibility of sources when conducting research? (Research Skills and Source Evaluation)

How to Answer: Discuss the criteria you use to evaluate the reliability of sources, such as the author’s credentials, the publication’s reputation, citation of sources, and the presence of bias or objectivity. This shows you have a systematic approach to ensuring the quality of your research.

By using the above table to screen sources, I can maintain a high standard for the credibility of information I use in my research.

10. What steps do you take to ensure you’re not biased when analyzing information? (Objectivity and Bias Awareness)

How to Answer: Explain the techniques and approaches you use to minimize personal biases, such as seeking diverse perspectives, applying critical thinking, using blind review processes, and relying on data and evidence. This showcases your commitment to objectivity in analysis.

My Answer: To ensure I remain impartial when analyzing information, I take several steps:

• Seeking Diverse Perspectives: I consult with colleagues who may have different viewpoints to challenge my own preconceptions.
• Critical Thinking: I question assumptions and consider alternative explanations for the data.
• Blind Review Processes: When appropriate, I anonymize data to prevent personal biases related to demographics from influencing my analysis.
• Evidence-Based Decisions: I base conclusions on data and evidence rather than hunches or gut feelings.

By consistently applying these checks and balances, I strive to maintain objectivity in all my analytical work.

11. Can you recall a situation where you identified a problem others had overlooked? How did you identify it and what was done about it? (Attention to Detail)

How to Answer: When answering this question, you should aim to demonstrate your attention to detail, analytical skills, and initiative. Start by setting the context for the situation and explain what the overlooked problem was. Describe the steps you took to identify the problem. Then, outline the actions you took or recommended to address the problem. If possible, conclude by mentioning the positive outcomes that resulted from your actions.

My Answer: Yes, I can recall a situation in my previous role where I identified a discrepancy in our client billing process, which others had not noticed. The problem was that services rendered were not being billed at the correct rates due to an outdated pricing structure in our system.

• Identification: I identified the problem while conducting a routine audit of our billing system. I noticed that the numbers did not add up when comparing the service logs with invoices.
• Action Taken: After identifying the issue, I compiled a report detailing the discrepancies and presented it to my manager. We convened a team meeting to discuss the problem. Together, we reviewed the current pricing structures, updated the rates in the system, and implemented additional checks to prevent future occurrences.

As a result of my attention to detail, we were able to recover a significant amount of unbilled revenue and also improved our billing accuracy going forward.

12. Discuss a time when you had to make a decision without all the information you needed. How did you proceed? (Decision-Making Under Uncertainty)

How to Answer: Discussing decision-making under uncertainty requires you to show how you handle ambiguity and risk. Explain the context in which you had to make the decision, and describe the steps you took to make the most informed decision possible given the constraints. Highlight your thought process, how you weighed the pros and cons, and if you consulted with others or relied on your experience and intuition.

My Answer: In my previous position, there was an instance where we had to decide whether to continue with a marketing campaign launch with incomplete market research data due to time constraints.

• Approach: I decided to proceed with the launch by using the data that was available and supplementing it with industry benchmarks and our own historical marketing performance data. I also consulted with the marketing and sales teams to gather their insights and experiences.
• Risk Mitigation: To mitigate the risk, we launched the campaign in phases, closely monitoring the initial results and customer feedback to make adjustments as needed.

This approach allowed us to move forward without delay and adjust our strategy in real-time, leading to a successful campaign with measurable ROI.

13. How do you approach a new subject or field you are unfamiliar with? (Learning and Adaptability)

How to Answer: This question is designed to assess your ability to learn and adapt to new situations. Describe the strategies you use to familiarize yourself with new topics and how you ensure that you become competent in those areas. Mention any tools, resources, or methodologies that you find helpful.

My Answer: When approaching a new subject or field, I employ a structured method to ensure a comprehensive understanding:

• Initial Research : I start with a broad overview of the topic to understand the basic concepts and terminology.
• In-Depth Study : I then delve into more detailed resources such as books, academic papers, and online courses specific to the field.
• Practical Application : I apply what I’ve learned through hands-on practice or small projects to reinforce the knowledge.
• Seek Expert Advice : I reach out to professionals or mentors with expertise in the field for guidance and insights.

This multi-faceted approach accelerates my learning curve and allows me to adapt to new fields effectively.

14. Describe how you would handle a conflict of opinion within your team. (Conflict Resolution)

How to Answer: Conflict resolution skills are crucial for any professional setting. Explain the steps you would take to resolve a disagreement among team members. Focus on communication, respect for all viewpoints, and finding a common ground or a compromise that aligns with the team’s goals.

My Answer: To handle a conflict of opinion within a team, I would:

• Open a Dialogue : Encourage an open discussion where each team member can express their viewpoint without interruption.
• Understand Perspectives : Actively listen to each opinion to understand the underlying reasons for the disagreement.
• Identify Common Goals : Highlight shared objectives to refocus the team on the bigger picture.
• Explore Solutions : Brainstorm possible solutions, evaluate their pros and cons, and come to a consensus.

By fostering a culture of respect and collaboration, conflicts can be resolved constructively, leading to better team dynamics and outcomes.

15. How do you approach making a recommendation that relies on assumptions? (Assumption Analysis)

How to Answer: When making recommendations based on assumptions, it’s important to communicate the rationale behind your assumptions and how they influence your recommendation. Explain how you validate your assumptions and the contingencies you have in place should the assumptions prove incorrect.

When I make a recommendation based on assumptions, I take the following steps:

• List Assumptions : Clearly state each assumption that the recommendation is based on.
• Justify Assumptions : Provide a justification for each assumption, explaining why it is reasonable or likely.
• Assess Impact : Evaluate how each assumption affects the recommendation and the risks involved.
• Contingency Planning : Develop alternative plans in case the assumptions turn out to be invalid.

Here’s an example table outlining this process:

By systematically analyzing and documenting assumptions, I ensure that my recommendations are robust and that there are clear plans in place should circumstances change.

16. What strategies do you use to test the validity of your own assumptions? (Critical Self-Evaluation)

How to Answer: To answer this question effectively, you should describe specific techniques or methods that you use to critically evaluate your assumptions. These can include seeking feedback, using empirical evidence, or applying logical reasoning. Employers ask this question to gauge your ability to think objectively and your willingness to challenge your own beliefs.

My Answer: I employ several strategies to test the validity of my assumptions:

• Seeking External Feedback: I consult with colleagues or mentors to gain different perspectives and challenge my initial thoughts.
• Empirical Evidence: I look for data that either supports or refutes my assumptions and base my conclusions on the evidence.
• Hypothesis Testing: I treat assumptions as hypotheses and design experiments or scenarios to test them.
• Counterargument Analysis: I actively think about potential counterarguments to my assumptions to assess their strength.
• Historical Comparison: I compare the situation with similar past experiences to draw parallels and understand potential outcomes.

17. How do you deal with situations where your team members come to a different conclusion using the same data? (Team Dynamics and Analysis)

How to Answer: This question tests your interpersonal skills and your ability to handle disagreement constructively. Employers are looking for candidates who are collaborative and can navigate conflicts while maintaining a positive team dynamic. Highlight your communication skills and willingness to consider alternative viewpoints.

My Answer: When my team members reach different conclusions from the same data, I take the following steps:

• Encourage Open Dialogue: I create an environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing their interpretations.
• Understand Perspectives: I make sure to understand the reasoning behind each conclusion.
• Data Re-Evaluation: We collectively reassess the data set to ensure there’s no misinterpretation or overlooked information.
• Seek Common Ground: I look for areas of agreement that can be built upon to reach a consensus.
• Utilize Expertise: If the disagreement persists, I suggest consulting an external expert or using additional resources to provide clarity.

18. Provide an example of how you have adapted your thinking or approach after receiving new information. (Adaptability and Open-Mindedness)

How to Answer: Discuss a specific instance where you modified your perspective or methodology after encountering new evidence or insights. This showcases your ability to be flexible and responsive to changing situations, a trait highly valued in dynamic work environments.

My Answer: In a previous project, I was working on developing a marketing strategy based on certain customer demographics. Midway through, new market research data indicated a shift in consumer behavior. I adapted by:

• Reevaluating the Strategy: I paused the current plan and reevaluated our approach in light of the new information.
• Consulting the Team: I discussed the implications of the new data with the team and brainstormed potential adjustments.
• Piloting New Ideas: We quickly prototyped new marketing tactics that aligned with the updated research and tested them in a controlled environment.
• Implementing Changes: After validating the new approaches, I overhauled the strategy to focus on these insights, leading to an increase in customer engagement.

19. How do you balance the need for thoroughness with the importance of meeting deadlines? (Efficiency and Thoroughness)

How to Answer: You should explain how you prioritize tasks and manage your time effectively to achieve quality results within a given timeframe. The goal is to convey that you can deliver detailed, accurate work under pressure without compromising on deadlines.

My Answer: Balancing thoroughness and deadlines involves several key actions:

• Prioritization: I identify the most critical aspects of a task that will have the greatest impact on the outcome.
• Time Management: I allocate specific time blocks for deep work, ensuring I can focus on complex tasks without interruptions.
• Resource Allocation: If necessary, I delegate tasks to team members based on their strengths and capacities.
• Regular Check-ins: I set milestones and conduct regular check-ins to monitor progress and adjust plans as needed.
• Efficiency Techniques: I use techniques such as the Pareto Principle (80/20 rule) to focus on the 20% of the work that will yield 80% of the value.

20. Can you describe a time when you had to analyze a big data set? What approach did you take? (Big Data Analysis)

How to Answer: Discuss a specific situation where you tackled a large data set, outlining the steps you took to analyze it and the tools you used. This will demonstrate your analytical skills and familiarity with data analysis methodologies.

My Answer: Yes, I once had to analyze a large data set to identify trends in user behavior for an e-commerce platform. My approach was as follows:

• Data Cleaning: I began by cleaning the data, removing duplicates, and handling missing values to ensure accuracy.
• Data Segmentation: I segmented the data into relevant categories such as demographics, purchase history, and user activity.
• Statistical Analysis: I used statistical software to run descriptive and inferential analyses, determining patterns and relationships.
• Visualization: To make the results accessible, I created visualizations such as charts and heat maps.
• Insight Generation: Based on the analysis, I developed insights that informed the company’s marketing and product development strategies.

By systematically working through these steps, I ensured the analysis was both thorough and actionable.

21. How do you ensure that your decisions are aligned with the strategic objectives of the organization? (Strategic Alignment)

How to Answer When answering this question, it is important to demonstrate that you have an understanding of strategic goals and how your role fits within the broader business context. Reflect on how you ensure your actions contribute to the company’s vision and objectives. You might want to talk about goal-setting, collaboration with others, and how you measure the impact of your decisions.

My Answer To ensure that my decisions are aligned with the strategic objectives of the organization, I follow these steps:

Understand the Strategic Objectives : I make it a priority to understand the company’s mission, vision, and strategic goals. This includes keeping up-to-date with any changes and understanding how my department’s objectives fit into the bigger picture.

Consistent Communication : I regularly communicate with my managers and stakeholders to ensure alignment. It’s important for me to have a clear understanding of their expectations and how my decisions should support the organization’s strategy.

Decision Frameworks : I use decision frameworks aligned with strategic objectives. This may include a cost-benefit analysis, SWOT analysis, or any other tool that helps assess how a decision supports the strategic goals.

Metrics and KPIs : I establish and track key performance indicators (KPIs) that are directly linked to strategic objectives. This way, I can measure the impact of my decisions and adjust accordingly.

Feedback Loops : I create mechanisms for feedback to ensure continuous alignment. This may involve regular check-ins with the leadership team or setting up advisory groups within the organization.

22. What is your process for evaluating the risks associated with a decision? (Risk Assessment)

How to Answer Discuss your approach to identifying, assessing, and managing risks. Highlight your analytical skills and your ability to balance different factors to come to a prudent decision. Mention any specific techniques or tools you use to quantify or qualitatively assess risks.

My Answer My process for evaluating the risks associated with a decision includes:

Identification : I start by brainstorming all potential risks, including both obvious and non-obvious ones. I often involve a diverse group of stakeholders during this process to ensure a comprehensive risk list.

Assessment : I assess each risk based on its likelihood and potential impact. This can be done qualitatively or quantitatively.

Prioritization : I prioritize risks based on their assessment, focusing on those that could have the most significant impact on the organization.

Mitigation Strategies : For each prioritized risk, I develop mitigation strategies. These could range from avoiding the risk entirely to accepting it with contingency plans in place.

Monitoring and Review : I set up a system to monitor risks and the effectiveness of mitigation strategies, adjusting as necessary.

23. Discuss an instance where you had to use lateral thinking to solve a problem. (Lateral Thinking and Creativity)

How to Answer Give an example that demonstrates your ability to think outside the box and come up with creative solutions. Explain the situation, the conventional approach that might not have been effective, and how your lateral thinking provided a better solution.

My Answer An instance where I used lateral thinking to solve a problem was when I was faced with a product delivery delay due to a supplier issue. The traditional approach would have been to find an alternative supplier, which would have been time-consuming and potentially costly.

Instead, I used lateral thinking and reached out to a local university with a prototype shop. By partnering with them, we were able to produce the necessary parts quickly and even at a lower cost. This not only resolved the immediate issue but also led to a long-term partnership that benefited our R&D efforts.

24. How would you handle a situation where after making a decision, you realize it was incorrect? (Problem-Solving and Accountability)

How to Answer Show that you are accountable and proactive in addressing mistakes. Describe how you take responsibility, communicate with stakeholders, and implement corrective measures. It’s also important to stress what you learn from the experience.

My Answer If I realize a decision I made was incorrect, I would:

Acknowledge : Immediately acknowledge the mistake to stakeholders and take responsibility without deflecting blame.

Analyze : Understand why the decision was incorrect by reviewing the decision-making process.

Communicate : Inform everyone affected by the decision, providing transparent information about the error and the steps being taken to rectify it.

Correct : Implement corrective actions to mitigate any negative effects.

Learn : Reflect on the mistake and identify lessons learned to improve future decision-making.

25. Explain how you would go about persuading someone who is skeptical of your ideas. (Influence and Communication)

How to Answer Demonstrate your communication and persuasion skills by explaining how you tailor your approach to the audience’s values, concerns, and perspective. Show that you are empathetic and strategic in your persuasion efforts, using evidence and building rapport.

My Answer To persuade someone who is skeptical of my ideas, I would:

Understand Their Perspective : Listen actively to understand their skepticism and any underlying concerns.

Build Common Ground : Find common ground and values to connect my ideas to their beliefs or interests.

Present Clear Evidence : Use clear, logical, and data-driven arguments to support my ideas.

Use Emotional Appeal : When appropriate, make an emotional connection to the benefits of the idea.

Address Concerns Directly : Respond to their concerns and objections thoughtfully and respectfully.

Seek Endorsement : Gain support from others who have influence over the skeptic to help validate my ideas.

Follow-up : Continue the conversation if they are not immediately persuaded, showing dedication and willingness to adapt my ideas based on their feedback.

4. Tips for Preparation

To prepare for a critical thinking interview, start by familiarizing yourself with common critical thinking frameworks and problem-solving methodologies. Reflect on past experiences where you’ve demonstrated these skills, and be ready to articulate the process you followed. Research the company and understand its values, products, and industry challenges.

Practice articulating your thoughts in a clear, structured manner, as interviewers will assess how you organize and present information. Strengthen your understanding of the role’s technical aspects and review relevant case studies or industry-specific issues. Finally, prepare to showcase soft skills like communication, adaptability, and teamwork, as these are often indirectly evaluated through critical thinking questions.

5. During & After the Interview

During the interview, listen carefully and ask clarifying questions to ensure you fully comprehend the scenarios presented. Employ structured thinking to convey your responses, and support your answers with logical reasoning and concrete examples. Be mindful of non-verbal cues and demonstrate confidence without appearing arrogant.

Avoid common pitfalls such as rushing to conclusions or failing to address the question’s core aspects. At the conclusion of the interview, ask insightful questions that demonstrate your interest in the role and the company’s future. This can also be a chance to clarify any doubts and learn about the team you’d be joining.

After the interview, send a personalized thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity and to reiterate your enthusiasm for the role. This gesture keeps you fresh in the interviewer’s mind and reflects well on your professionalism. Expect to hear back within the company’s stated timeline, but if you don’t, a polite follow-up after a reasonable period is appropriate to inquire about the status of your application.

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Critical-thinking interview questions and answers

Use these sample critical-thinking interview questions to discover how candidates evaluate complex situations and if they can reach logical decisions.

An experienced recruiter and HR professional who has transferred her expertise to insightful content to support others in HR.

10 good critical-thinking interview questions

• Tell me about a time you had to make a decision with incomplete information. What did you do?
• During a live presentation to key stakeholders, you spot a mistake in your manager’s report, but your manager isn’t at the presentation. How do you handle this?
• Describe a time when you had to convince your manager to try a different approach to solve a problem.
• You’re working on a project and you struggle coming to an agreement with your team about your next step. What would you do to make sure you choose the right direction and get your co-workers onboard?
• What’s the best sales approach: increase prices to achieve higher revenues or decrease prices to improve customer satisfaction?
• How do you evaluate the credibility of a source of information?
• Describe a situation where you had to adapt your communication style to effectively convey your message.
• How do you prioritize tasks when faced with multiple urgent deadlines?
• What steps do you take to analyze a complex problem?
• Can you give an example of a time when you had to think on your feet during a crisis?

Here are 10 essential interview questions and sample answers to help identify the best candidates for this role.

1. Tell me about a time you had to make a decision with incomplete information. What did you do?

This question assesses how the candidate makes decisions when they don’t have all the facts.

Sample answer:

“I once had to decide on a vendor with limited information. I prioritized the most critical factors like reliability and cost, and made a provisional choice, subject to change as more information became available.”

2. During a live presentation to key stakeholders, you spot a mistake in your manager’s report, but your manager isn’t at the presentation. How do you handle this?

This question evaluates the candidate’s ability to handle sensitive situations tactfully.

“I would subtly correct the mistake without drawing attention to it, and later discuss it privately with my manager to prevent future errors.”

3. Describe a time when you had to convince your manager to try a different approach to solve a problem.

This question gauges the candidate’s ability to influence others and advocate for better solutions.

“I suggested an alternative workflow to my manager that could save time. I presented data to back up my proposal, and after a trial period, my approach was adopted.”

4. You’re working on a project and you struggle coming to an agreement with your team about your next step. What would you do to make sure you choose the right direction and get your co-workers onboard?

This question assesses the candidate’s collaborative problem-solving skills.

“I would facilitate a team discussion to hear all perspectives. We would weigh the pros and cons of each option and come to a consensus, ensuring everyone feels heard.”

5. What’s the best sales approach: increase prices to achieve higher revenues or decrease prices to improve customer satisfaction?

This question tests the candidate’s ability to think critically about business strategies.

“Both approaches have merits and drawbacks. The best strategy would depend on the company’s goals, market conditions, and customer base.”

6. How do you evaluate the credibility of a source of information?

This question assesses the candidate’s ability to discern reliable information.

“I look at the source’s reputation, the quality of the content, and whether the information is supported by credible references.”

7. Describe a situation where you had to adapt your communication style to effectively convey your message.

This question evaluates the candidate’s flexibility in communication to suit different situations.

“When presenting technical information to non-technical stakeholders, I avoid jargon and use analogies to make the content more relatable.”

8. How do you prioritize tasks when faced with multiple urgent deadlines?

This question assesses the candidate’s time-management and decision-making skills.

“I categorize tasks based on their urgency and importance. I tackle high-priority tasks first and delegate when possible.”

9. What steps do you take to analyze a complex problem?

This question gauges the candidate’s problem-solving methodology.

“I break down the problem into smaller parts, analyze each component, identify root causes, and then develop a step-by-step solution.”

10. Can you give an example of a time when you had to think on your feet during a crisis?

This question tests the candidate’s ability to think critically under pressure.

“During a system outage, I quickly assessed the situation, communicated with the team, and implemented a contingency plan to minimize downtime.”

What does a good critical-thinking candidate look like?

A strong candidate with critical-thinking skills is analytical, adaptable, and able to make well-reasoned decisions. They should also be effective communicators who can collaborate to solve problems.

Why test candidates’ critical-thinking skills

Critical-thinking skills allow people to evaluate situations through reasoning to reach logical decisions. Companies benefit from employees who think critically (as opposed to mechanically performing tasks) because these individuals use an independent mindset to seek ways to improve processes.

Critical thinkers are great assets in all teams and roles. They are:

• Responsible. You can count on them to make tough decisions.
• Consistent. They’re top performers who check their facts before acting.
• Unbiased. They keep their emotions in check to reach sound decisions.
• Creative. They suggest out-of-the-box solutions.

Challenge candidates with complex critical thinking questions to reveal their skills. But, present them with realistic problems related to the job. Brainteasers (e.g. some Google-type questions) are off-putting for candidates who already feel the pressure of the interview process. Questions like “How many haircuts happen in America every year?” are very popular online, but may not reveal much about their skills. Asking something like “How would you explain cloud computing to a 6-year-old?” will more accurately show you a candidate’s way of thinking.

Keep your challenging interview questions as job-related as possible. Sometimes it’s not important to assess whether the answer is right or wrong. Puzzling questions are your opportunity to evaluate how candidates react outside their comfort zone.

These critical-thinking interview question examples will help you identify candidates with high potential for future leadership positions. Combine them with various behavioral interview question types (like problem-solving and competency-based questions) to create complete candidate profiles and make better hiring decisions.

How to assess critical-thinking skills in interviews

• Use hypothetical scenarios and examples from candidates’ past experiences to understand their mindsets. An analytical way of thinking (comparing alternatives and weighing pros and cons) indicates people who make logical judgments.
• When problems arise, employees don’t always have ample time to design a detailed action plan. Opt for candidates who strike a balance between good and fast decision-making.
• Critical thinking requires questioning facts and the status quo. Look for candidates who have implemented new procedures or applied changes to processes in their past positions. These are signs of professionals who actively seek ways to improve how things get done, as opposed to taking the “this is how we always do it” approach.
• Candidates who are intrigued by solving problems are more likely to effectively manage challenges and stressful situations on the job. During your interview process, keep an eye out for candidates who show enthusiasm and don’t easily quit when faced with problems, even if they can’t immediately find solutions.
• They don’t fact-check. If you present candidates with a hypothetical problem and they don’t ask for clarifications, it’s a sign they take information for granted. A critical thinker should always research data for accuracy before relying on it.
• They make assumptions. Beyond taking things for granted, employees who make assumptions tend to jump to rushed and often biased conclusions. Look for candidates who use logical arguments to justify their decisions.
• They don’t answer. If they don’t at least try to solve the problem, they’ll probably keep procrastinating when something goes wrong or push their work onto to someone else. Asking for help when you face a challenge is more than acceptable, but avoiding problems reveals irresponsible employee behavior.
• They give you the obvious answer. Tricky questions are tricky for a reason. Candidates who go with the first answer that comes in mind are more likely to approach challenges superficially and avoid using critical-thinking skills to come up with the best solution.

Frequently asked questions

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• Decision-making interview questions and answers

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• How to assess soft skills in an interview
• A guide to interview preparation for employers
• How to interview candidates for better hiring results

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Top 50 Critical Thinking Interview Questions and Answers

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In this article

In today's competitive job market, employers are increasingly seeking candidates with strong critical thinking skills. Whether you're a recent graduate or a seasoned professional, mastering these skills can significantly enhance your chances of acing your next job interview.

In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about critical thinking interviews, from understanding their importance to providing sample answers and effective strategies. Let's dive in and equip you with the tools to succeed!

The Fundamentals of Critical Thinking

Before we delve into specific interview questions, it's essential to grasp the fundamental concepts of critical thinking. Critical thinking refers to the ability to analyze, evaluate, and synthesize information objectively, leading to well-informed decisions and problem-solving. It involves a combination of analytical, creative, and logical thinking skills, enabling individuals to navigate complex situations efficiently.

To develop your critical thinking abilities, you must understand the key components of this cognitive process. These components include:

• Analysis : Breaking down complex information into its constituent parts to comprehend the underlying structure and relationships.
• Evaluation : Assessing the strengths and weaknesses of different arguments, ideas, or solutions based on evidence and logic.
• Inference : Drawing logical conclusions and implications from available information and evidence.
• Explanation : Clearly communicating your thought processes, reasoning, and conclusions to others.
• Problem-Solving : Identifying and defining problems, exploring potential solutions, and choosing the most appropriate course of action.
• Creativity : Thinking outside the box to generate innovative ideas and approaches to challenges.

How to Prepare for Critical Thinking Interviews?

As with any interview, preparation is crucial for success. When it comes to critical thinking interviews, adequate preparation allows you to showcase your abilities confidently. Follow these steps to get ready for your interview:

• Research the Company and Industry : Understand the company's mission, values, and recent developments. Familiarize yourself with the industry's trends and challenges.
• Review the Job Description and Requirements : Analyze the job description to identify the critical thinking skills the employer seeks. Tailor your answers to align with these expectations.
• Understand the Common Critical Thinking Skills Employers Seek : Employers often look for skills such as analytical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, and decision-making. Be prepared to demonstrate these skills in your answers.
• Assess Your Own Critical Thinking Abilities and Weaknesses : Reflect on your past experiences and identify situations where you applied critical thinking effectively. Recognize areas for improvement and be ready to discuss your efforts to develop those skills.

Types of Critical Thinking Interview Questions

Critical thinking interview questions can be grouped into several categories. Each category assesses different aspects of your cognitive abilities . Let's explore each type:

Situational Questions

Situational questions present hypothetical scenarios to assess how you would handle specific situations in the workplace. The employer is interested in your problem-solving approach and decision-making process. Examples of situational questions include:

• Scenario 1: Dealing with a Team Member's Incompetence How would you handle a team member who consistently fails to meet deadlines or deliver satisfactory work? ‍
• Scenario 2: Handling a Tight Project Deadline You're assigned a high-priority project with an extremely tight deadline. How do you prioritize tasks and ensure timely completion?

Behavioral Questions

Behavioral questions inquire about your past experiences and actions to predict your future behavior. The employer seeks examples of how you approached challenges in the past. Examples of behavioral questions include:

• Question 1: Describe a Time You Resolved a Complex Problem Share a specific example of a complex problem you faced at work. How did you approach the situation, and what was the outcome? ‍
• Question 2: How Did You Handle a Conflict with a Coworker? Discuss a time when you had a disagreement with a coworker. How did you manage the situation to reach a resolution?

Hypothetical Questions

Hypothetical questions gauge your ability to think on your feet and assess how you approach novel situations. Employers are interested in your thought process and ability to generate solutions under pressure. Examples of hypothetical questions include:

• Question 1: What Would You Do If You Had to Meet a Challenging Sales Target? Imagine you're responsible for meeting a challenging sales target in a short period. How would you strategize and approach the task? ‍
• Question 2: Imagine a New Product Idea for Our Company. If given the opportunity to propose a new product idea for the company, what would it be, and how would you present its potential value?

Puzzle and Brain Teaser Questions

Puzzle and brain teaser questions test your ability to think critically, logically, and creatively. They often involve solving mathematical or logic problems or answering riddles. Examples of puzzle and brain teaser questions include:

• Question 1: How Many Golf Balls Can You Fit in a School Bus? Estimate the number of golf balls that can fit in a standard school bus. Explain your reasoning. ‍
• Question 2: How Do You Arrange Six Books on a Shelf with Limited Space? Arrange six books of different sizes on a narrow shelf with limited space. Describe your arrangement strategy.

Critical Thinking Skills and How to Develop Them

To excel in critical thinking interviews, you must cultivate specific skills that are highly valued by employers. Let's explore each critical thinking skill and strategies to develop them:

Analytical Thinking

Analytical thinking involves breaking complex problems into smaller components to understand their underlying structure and relationships. To enhance analytical thinking:

• Improve Data Interpretation and Evaluation: Practice analyzing data and information from different sources, such as reports, graphs, or case studies. Use this data to draw meaningful insights and conclusions.
• Develop Logical Reasoning: Engage in activities that require logical thinking, such as puzzles, Sudoku, or logic games. This helps sharpen your ability to reason deductively and spot patterns.

Creative Thinking

Creative thinking allows you to generate innovative ideas and solutions to challenges. To foster creativity:

• Cultivate Innovation and Idea Generation: Engage in brainstorming sessions with colleagues or friends. Encourage yourself to think beyond conventional solutions and explore new possibilities.
• Overcome Mental Blocks and Bias: Be aware of your cognitive biases and actively challenge them. Adopt a growth mindset that embraces new perspectives and encourages experimentation.

Problem-Solving

Problem-solving is the process of identifying issues and finding effective solutions to address them. To refine your problem-solving skills:

• Identify Root Causes: When facing a problem, dig deep to identify its underlying causes. Avoid addressing symptoms only.
• Apply Effective Solutions: Evaluate different potential solutions and their implications before implementing the most appropriate one.

Decision-Making

Decision-making involves making choices based on logical analysis and consideration of available information. To improve decision-making:

• Weigh Pros and Cons: Make a list of the advantages and disadvantages of each option before reaching a decision.
• Make Informed and Rational Choices: Base your decisions on evidence and facts rather than emotions or personal biases.

The STAR Method: Structured Approach to Responding

During critical thinking interviews, using the STAR method can help you deliver structured and impactful answers. The STAR method involves:

• Situation : Describe the context and situation you encountered.
• Task : Explain the task or problem you faced.
• Action : Outline the actions you took to address the situation.
• Result : Describe the outcome of your actions and any lessons learned.

Situational Interview Questions

Question 1: "imagine you are leading a project, and a team member consistently misses deadlines and fails to deliver satisfactory work. how would you address this situation".

How to Answer : When responding to this question, emphasize your problem-solving and leadership skills. Describe how you would approach the team member privately to understand any challenges they may be facing. Focus on finding solutions collaboratively, setting clear performance expectations, and offering support or training if needed. Highlight the importance of regular check-ins to monitor progress and provide constructive feedback.

Sample Answer : "If faced with a team member consistently missing deadlines, I would take a proactive approach. I would schedule a one-on-one meeting to understand the root cause of the issue and offer my support in finding solutions. By setting clear expectations and providing additional resources, I believe we can overcome this challenge together. Regular check-ins will help us track progress, and I am confident that with constructive feedback, the team member can improve their performance."

What to Look For : Hiring managers should focus on candidates who demonstrate strong communication skills, empathy, and a collaborative approach to problem-solving. Look for candidates who prioritize finding solutions and are willing to offer support to their team members.

Question 2: "You are responsible for managing a high-priority project with an extremely tight deadline. How would you prioritize tasks and ensure timely completion?"

How to Answer : Candidates should describe their process for breaking down the project into manageable tasks. Look for their ability to prioritize tasks based on urgency and dependencies. A strong response will demonstrate effective time management and the ability to communicate with stakeholders throughout the process.

Sample Answer : "To manage a high-priority project with a tight deadline, I would first break down the project into smaller tasks and identify critical milestones. By prioritizing tasks based on their dependencies and urgency, I can ensure that the most critical components are addressed first. Throughout the process, I would maintain open communication with the team and stakeholders, providing regular updates on progress and potential challenges."

What to Look For : Look for candidates who demonstrate excellent organizational and time management skills. Effective communication and the ability to handle pressure are also essential qualities to seek in their responses.

Behavioral Interview Questions

Question 3: "describe a time when you faced a complex problem at work. how did you approach the situation, and what was the outcome".

How to Answer : Candidates should provide a detailed account of the complex problem they encountered, the actions they took to resolve it, and the final outcome. Look for their ability to analyze the situation critically, make informed decisions, and adapt their approach as needed.

Sample Answer : "In my previous role, we faced a significant production delay that was affecting the project timeline. To address the issue, I gathered information from various stakeholders to understand the root cause. Working with a cross-functional team, we brainstormed potential solutions and implemented a process improvement strategy. As a result, we successfully reduced production time by 20% and completed the project ahead of schedule."

What to Look For : Seek candidates who demonstrate problem-solving skills, adaptability, and the ability to work collaboratively with others to reach a positive outcome.

Question 4: " Tell me about a time when you had a disagreement with a coworker. How did you manage the situation to reach a resolution?"

How to Answer : Look for candidates who handle conflicts constructively. They should describe their approach to resolving the disagreement, actively listening to their coworker's perspective, finding common ground, and working collaboratively to reach a resolution.

Sample Answer : "In one instance, I had a disagreement with a coworker over the approach to a marketing campaign. I approached the situation by initiating a private conversation to understand their perspective fully. By actively listening to their concerns and sharing my viewpoint without becoming defensive, we identified areas of agreement and crafted a comprehensive marketing strategy that incorporated elements from both approaches."

What to Look For : Observe candidates' communication and interpersonal skills, as well as their ability to work effectively with colleagues and find solutions in challenging situations.

Hypothetical Interview Questions

Question 5: "imagine you are responsible for meeting a challenging sales target in a short period. how would you strategize and approach the task".

How to Answer : Candidates should demonstrate their ability to strategize and set achievable goals. They should discuss how they would analyze the market, collaborate with the sales team, and monitor progress to adapt their approach as necessary.

Sample Answer : "If faced with a challenging sales target, I would conduct a thorough market analysis to identify opportunities and target segments. Collaborating with the sales team, we would set realistic goals aligned with the target. Regular performance evaluations and team meetings would allow us to track progress and adjust strategies based on real-time data."

What to Look For : Look for candidates who show a strategic mindset, data-driven decision-making, and the ability to work effectively with teams to achieve goals.

Question 6: "If given the opportunity to propose a new product idea for the company, what would it be, and how would you present its potential value?"

How to Answer : Look for candidates who demonstrate creativity and innovation in their response. They should articulate a well-thought-out product idea and explain its potential value to the company and its customers.

Sample Answer : "I believe a mobile app that complements our existing software could be a game-changer. This app would provide users with on-the-go access to essential features, enabling them to work seamlessly even outside the office. The app's integration with popular third-party tools would enhance its appeal, creating a new revenue stream while strengthening customer loyalty."

What to Look For : Seek candidates who display creative thinking, market awareness, and a customer-centric mindset in their proposed product idea.

Puzzle and Brain Teaser Interview Questions

Question 7: "estimate the number of golf balls that can fit in a standard school bus. explain your reasoning.".

How to Answer : Candidates should approach this question logically, breaking down the problem into manageable steps. Look for their ability to estimate the volume of the school bus and the volume of a golf ball, and then perform the necessary calculations to arrive at an approximate answer.

Sample Answer : "To estimate the number of golf balls that can fit in a school bus, I would first calculate the volume of the bus by multiplying its length, width, and height. Then, I would determine the volume of a golf ball using its diameter. By dividing the bus's volume by the golf ball's volume, I can arrive at an approximate number."

What to Look For : Look for candidates who demonstrate analytical thinking, mathematical reasoning, and the ability to approach complex problems systematically.

Question 8: "How do you arrange six books of different sizes on a narrow shelf with limited space?"

How to Answer : Candidates should describe their strategy for efficiently utilizing the limited space on the shelf. Look for their ability to think creatively and find practical solutions to organizing the books.

Sample Answer : "To make the best use of the limited space, I would arrange the three large books horizontally at the bottom of the shelf. This arrangement optimizes the available width. For the three smaller books, I would arrange them vertically, either next to one another or slightly overlapped. This approach maximizes the use of the available vertical space without wasting any surface area."

What to Look For : Observe candidates' creative thinking and practical problem-solving skills when arranging the books on the narrow shelf.

Analytical Thinking Interview Questions

Question 9: "you have access to a large dataset containing customer information. how would you analyze this data to identify trends and insights".

How to Answer : Candidates should outline their analytical approach to handling the dataset. Look for their ability to use data analysis tools, interpret trends, and draw meaningful insights from the information.

Sample Answer : "To analyze the customer dataset, I would start by cleaning and organizing the data to ensure its accuracy. Then, I would use data visualization tools to identify patterns and trends. By segmenting the data based on key variables, I can gain insights into customer behaviors and preferences. Finally, I would interpret the findings and present actionable recommendations to the team."

What to Look For : Observe candidates' proficiency in data analysis, data visualization, and their ability to derive actionable insights from complex datasets.

Question 10: "You need to make a critical business decision with limited information. How do you approach this situation?"

How to Answer : Candidates should describe their decision-making process when faced with limited information. Look for their ability to gather relevant data, weigh pros and cons, and make informed decisions based on available evidence.

Sample Answer : "When making a critical business decision with limited information, I would first identify the most important factors influencing the decision. Then, I would gather as much relevant data as possible and consult with subject matter experts to fill in the gaps. By analyzing the available information and potential outcomes, I can make the best decision possible given the circumstances."

What to Look For : Seek candidates who demonstrate sound judgment, analytical thinking, and the ability to make well-reasoned decisions in ambiguous situations.

Decision-Making Interview Questions

Question 11: "you are part of a team tasked with selecting a vendor for a significant project. how would you approach the vendor selection process".

How to Answer : Candidates should outline their approach to vendor selection, including criteria, evaluation methods, and stakeholder involvement. Look for their ability to consider various factors and make a well-informed choice.

Sample Answer : "To approach the vendor selection process, I would collaborate with the team to define our specific needs and requirements. We would establish evaluation criteria, including cost, quality, experience, and reputation. After researching potential vendors and obtaining proposals, we would conduct interviews and assess their fit with our project. Involving key stakeholders in the decision-making process would ensure buy-in and support for the selected vendor."

What to Look For : Look for candidates who demonstrate a systematic approach to decision-making, stakeholder engagement, and the ability to consider multiple perspectives.

Question 12: "Imagine you are presented with two potential business strategies. Both have their advantages and disadvantages. How do you determine which strategy is the most viable?"

How to Answer : Candidates should describe their approach to evaluating the two strategies objectively. Look for their ability to weigh the pros and cons, assess potential risks, and align the strategies with the organization's goals.

Sample Answer : "When faced with two potential business strategies, I would conduct a comprehensive analysis of each option. This would involve evaluating the short-term and long-term benefits, potential risks, resource requirements, and alignment with our company's mission and vision. By consulting with key stakeholders and considering market trends, I can determine which strategy is the most viable for our organization's success."

What to Look For : Seek candidates who demonstrate critical thinking, strategic reasoning, and the ability to align decisions with the overall organizational objectives.

Creative Thinking Interview Questions

Question 13: "how do you foster a culture of innovation within a team or organization".

How to Answer : Candidates should discuss strategies for encouraging creativity and innovation among team members. Look for their ability to promote an open and collaborative environment that values new ideas.

Sample Answer : "To foster a culture of innovation, I would encourage open communication and idea-sharing among team members. Providing dedicated time for brainstorming sessions and acknowledging and rewarding innovative contributions can motivate team members to think creatively. Additionally, creating cross-functional teams and encouraging experimentation can lead to breakthrough solutions and new opportunities for the organization."

What to Look For : Observe candidates' ability to inspire creativity, promote collaboration, and create an environment that supports and rewards innovative thinking.

Question 14: "Share an example of a time when you implemented a creative solution to a challenging problem. How did your innovation make a positive impact?"

How to Answer : Candidates should describe a specific situation where they applied creative thinking to solve a problem. Look for their ability to articulate the problem-solving process and the positive outcomes of their innovation.

Sample Answer : "In a previous role, we were facing declining customer engagement with our website. To address this, I proposed a gamification strategy, incorporating interactive elements and rewards. By integrating quizzes and challenges, we increased user engagement significantly. This creative solution not only enhanced the user experience but also contributed to a 30% increase in website traffic and a 20% rise in customer retention."

What to Look For : Seek candidates who demonstrate a track record of creative problem-solving and their ability to implement innovative solutions with tangible positive outcomes.

Communication and Collaboration Interview Questions

Question 15: "you are part of a cross-functional team working on a complex project. how do you ensure effective communication and collaboration among team members".

How to Answer : Candidates should describe their approach to fostering effective communication and collaboration within a cross-functional team. Look for their ability to facilitate open dialogue, establish clear channels of communication, and promote a culture of teamwork.

Sample Answer : "To ensure effective communication and collaboration in a cross-functional team, I would start by establishing regular team meetings to discuss progress, challenges, and goals. By encouraging open and respectful communication, team members can share their perspectives and expertise freely. Additionally, I would utilize collaboration tools and project management software to centralize information and keep everyone informed. Recognizing and celebrating team achievements would also foster a positive and collaborative atmosphere."

What to Look For : Observe candidates' communication skills, team-building abilities, and their commitment to creating a cohesive and collaborative team environment.

These communication and collaboration questions are vital in assessing candidates ' ability to work effectively with others and contribute to a positive team dynamic. By incorporating questions that touch on various critical thinking skills, you can identify well-rounded candidates who will excel in your organization.

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How to Answer Critical Thinking Questions?

While answering critical thinking questions, it's crucial to convey your thoughts clearly and demonstrate your problem-solving skills effectively. Here are some strategies to keep in mind:

• Demonstrate Clear and Logical Thought Processes : Clearly outline the steps you took to analyze the situation, make decisions, and arrive at your conclusions.
• Use Specific Examples and Relevant Experiences : Draw from past experiences to provide concrete evidence of your critical thinking abilities.
• Emphasize Collaborative and Innovative Approaches : Highlight instances where you collaborated with others and embraced innovative solutions to demonstrate versatility.
• Handling Stress and Pressure During Critical Thinking Interviews : When answering complex questions, stay composed and focused. Take a moment to gather your thoughts before responding.

Mistakes to Avoid During Critical Thinking Interviews

To make the best impression during your critical thinking interview, avoid the following common pitfalls:

• Relying Solely on Intuition : While intuition can be valuable, support your answers with logical reasoning and evidence.
• Making Assumptions Without Proper Evidence : Base your responses on relevant information rather than assumptions.
• Avoiding Ambiguity and Vagueness in Responses : Be precise and concise in your answers to showcase your clarity of thought.
• Overlooking the Importance of Active Listening : Fully understand the question before responding to ensure you address the interviewer's query accurately.

Final Preparation Tips

As your critical thinking interview approaches, consider these final tips to boost your confidence:

• Maintain a Positive and Confident Attitude : Display enthusiasm and confidence in your abilities throughout the interview.
• Review Key Concepts and Skills : Revisit the critical thinking skills and strategies discussed in this guide to reinforce your understanding.
• Get Adequate Rest Before the Interview Day : Ensure you are well-rested to be mentally sharp and focused during the interview.

By understanding the fundamentals of critical thinking, preparing thoroughly, and practicing your responses, you are well-equipped to tackle any critical thinking question that comes your way. Remember to embrace the STAR method, provide specific examples, and maintain a composed demeanor during the interview. With these valuable tips and strategies, you are ready to impress prospective employers and secure your dream job. Best of luck in your interviews, and may your critical thinking skills shine brightly!

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79 Critical Thinking interview questions to ask your next candidate

September 09, 2024

In today's competitive job market, finding candidates with sharp critical thinking skills is more important than ever. Asking the right interview questions can help you identify applicants who can analyze complex situations, make sound decisions, and solve problems effectively.

This blog post provides a comprehensive list of critical thinking interview questions, categorized by difficulty level and specific areas of focus. From basic questions for entry-level positions to advanced scenarios for senior roles, you'll find a variety of tools to assess candidates' analytical abilities.

By using these questions, you can gain valuable insights into how potential hires approach challenges and make decisions. Consider combining these interview questions with a pre-employment critical thinking assessment to get a more complete picture of candidates' abilities.

Table of contents

15 basic critical thinking interview questions and answers to assess applicants.

To assess candidates' critical thinking abilities effectively, use these 15 basic interview questions. These questions are designed to evaluate how applicants analyze information, solve problems, and make decisions in various scenarios.

• Describe a time when you had to make a decision with limited information. How did you approach it?
• If you noticed a recurring issue in your team's workflow, how would you go about addressing it?
• How do you verify the reliability of information sources before using them in your work?
• Explain a complex concept from your field to someone with no background in it.
• What steps would you take to improve a process that has been in place for years but is no longer efficient?
• How do you approach a problem when your initial solution doesn't work?
• Describe a situation where you had to convince someone to change their perspective. What was your approach?
• If you were given conflicting instructions from two superiors, how would you handle the situation?
• How do you ensure your personal biases don't affect your decision-making at work?
• What method do you use to prioritize tasks when everything seems urgent?
• Describe a time when you had to adapt quickly to an unexpected change in your work environment.
• How would you approach learning a new skill that's outside your comfort zone but necessary for your job?
• If you discovered a mistake in a project that was about to be presented to a client, what would you do?
• How do you evaluate the pros and cons of a major decision?
• Describe a time when you had to think outside the box to solve a problem. What was your approach?

7 Critical Thinking interview questions and answers to evaluate junior analysts

To effectively gauge whether your junior analyst candidates possess the critical thinking skills necessary for success, use this list of targeted interview questions. These questions are designed to reveal their problem-solving abilities, analytical thought processes, and approach to real-world challenges.

1. How do you handle a situation where you are asked to work on a project outside your area of expertise?

A strong candidate would explain that they approach such situations with a willingness to learn and adapt. They might mention conducting thorough research, seeking guidance from experienced colleagues, and taking relevant online courses or training sessions.

Look for candidates who demonstrate a proactive attitude and a commitment to continuous learning. Their approach should highlight resourcefulness and the ability to leverage available resources to gain the necessary knowledge and skills.

2. Can you describe a time when you identified a risk or potential issue before it became a serious problem?

Candidates should provide a specific example where they successfully identified a risk through careful analysis and proactive measures. They might describe how they monitored key indicators, analyzed data trends, or conducted risk assessments to foresee potential issues.

An ideal response should include the steps they took to mitigate the risk and the positive outcome that followed. Look for a methodical approach to risk management and an ability to anticipate and address problems before they escalate.

3. How do you approach a task that requires collaboration with team members from different departments?

A good answer would include strategies for effective communication and teamwork. The candidate might mention setting clear goals, understanding each team member's role and expertise, and fostering an open dialogue to ensure alignment and coordination.

Look for evidence of strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively across various functions. The candidate should demonstrate an understanding of the importance of leveraging diverse perspectives to achieve common objectives.

4. What steps do you take to validate the accuracy of your analysis before presenting your findings?

Candidates should describe a systematic approach to validation, which may include cross-referencing data sources, using statistical methods to check for consistency, and peer reviews to ensure accuracy and reliability.

An ideal response will indicate attention to detail and thoroughness in their validation process. Look for a commitment to maintaining high standards of data integrity and the ability to identify and correct potential errors.

5. Can you give an example of a time when you had to analyze a large dataset? How did you approach it?

Applicants should recount a specific instance where they worked with a large dataset, detailing the steps they took to manage and analyze the data. This might include cleaning the data, using analytical tools to identify patterns, and summarizing key findings.

Look for a structured approach and familiarity with analytical techniques. The candidate should demonstrate their ability to handle complexity and extract meaningful insights from large amounts of data.

6. How do you prioritize your work when faced with multiple important deadlines?

Strong candidates will describe a methodical approach to prioritization, such as creating a task list, assessing the urgency and impact of each task, and using tools like time management software to stay organized.

An ideal response should highlight their ability to balance competing priorities and maintain productivity under pressure. Look for time management skills and the ability to make informed decisions about task importance.

7. Describe a situation where you had to make a quick decision. What was your process?

Candidates should provide a clear example of a situation where they had to make a swift decision. They might describe how they gathered relevant information quickly, weighed the pros and cons, and consulted with key stakeholders if necessary.

Look for candidates who exhibit decisiveness and the ability to make sound judgments under time constraints. Their response should demonstrate confidence in their decision-making process and the rationale behind their choices.

18 intermediate Critical Thinking interview questions and answers to ask mid-tier managers

To assess the critical thinking abilities of mid-tier managers, use these 18 intermediate questions. These questions are designed to evaluate how candidates approach complex problems, make decisions, and lead teams in challenging situations.

• How would you handle a situation where two of your team members have conflicting ideas about a project's direction?
• Describe a time when you had to implement a company policy that you personally disagreed with. How did you approach it?
• If you noticed a decline in your team's productivity, what steps would you take to investigate and address the issue?
• How do you ensure that your team's projects align with the company's long-term goals?
• Describe a situation where you had to give constructive feedback to a team member who was resistant to change.
• How would you approach resolving a conflict between two departments that you manage?
• What strategies do you use to keep your team motivated during long, challenging projects?
• How do you balance the need for innovation with maintaining established processes in your department?
• Describe a time when you had to make a difficult decision that impacted your team's morale. How did you handle it?
• How do you approach setting and measuring key performance indicators (KPIs) for your team?
• If you were tasked with reducing department costs by 20%, how would you approach this challenge?
• How do you ensure that your team stays up-to-date with industry trends and best practices?
• Describe a situation where you had to manage a project with limited resources. How did you prioritize and allocate?
• How would you handle a situation where a key team member unexpectedly leaves during a critical project phase?
• What strategies do you use to foster a culture of continuous improvement within your team?
• How do you approach making decisions when faced with conflicting data or reports?
• Describe a time when you had to lead your team through a major organizational change. What was your approach?
• How do you balance the need for team collaboration with individual accountability in your management style?

8 Critical Thinking interview questions and answers related to problem-solving

To determine whether your applicants have the right problem-solving skills, ask them some of these critical thinking interview questions. These questions are designed to uncover how candidates approach challenges, make decisions, and innovate solutions.

1. How do you handle a situation where you don't have all the necessary information to make a decision?

In situations where not all information is available, strong candidates will emphasize the importance of gathering as much relevant data as possible, even if it's incomplete. They might mention consulting team members, leveraging historical data, or utilizing industry best practices to fill in the gaps.

Additionally, they should mention their ability to make educated guesses and remain flexible, adjusting their decision as more information becomes available. This approach shows their ability to be both decisive and adaptable.

Look for candidates who demonstrate critical thinking by outlining a clear process for making informed decisions despite uncertainties. Follow up by asking for specific examples from their past experiences.

2. Can you describe a time when you had to solve a problem that you had never encountered before?

Candidates should be able to describe a situation where they faced an unfamiliar problem and how they approached solving it. This might include researching the problem, consulting with experts, or breaking down the problem into smaller, more manageable parts.

They might also mention using skills required for data analysts such as data analysis, critical thinking, and logical reasoning to come up with a solution.

An ideal candidate will provide a detailed example, highlighting their problem-solving process and the ultimate outcome. Look for resourcefulness, creativity, and the ability to learn quickly from new challenges.

3. What is your process for troubleshooting an issue that is causing significant disruption to your workflow?

A strong response will outline a systematic approach to troubleshooting, starting with identifying and isolating the issue. Candidates might mention creating a step-by-step plan, documenting their findings, and testing potential solutions incrementally.

They should also discuss the importance of keeping stakeholders informed and ensuring minimal disruption to overall productivity during the troubleshooting process.

Look for candidates who demonstrate a logical and methodical approach, along with effective communication skills. Follow up by asking how they prioritize tasks during such disruptions.

4. How do you determine the root cause of a complex problem?

Candidates should describe their approach to identifying underlying issues, which might include techniques like root cause analysis, the 5 Whys, or fishbone diagrams. They might also mention the importance of collecting and analyzing data to support their findings.

They should also emphasize the need for collaboration, gathering input from various team members or departments to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the problem.

An ideal candidate will provide a clear, structured approach to problem-solving and demonstrate an ability to think analytically and critically. Follow up by asking for a specific example of a complex problem they have successfully resolved.

5. Can you give an example of a time when you identified an opportunity for improvement within your team or organization?

Candidates should describe a situation where they noticed a process, tool, or approach that could be enhanced. They might mention conducting a thorough analysis, gathering feedback from team members, and proposing a solution to stakeholders.

They should also discuss the implementation process, including any challenges faced and how they were addressed, as well as the outcomes and benefits of the improvement.

Look for candidates who demonstrate initiative, strong analytical skills, and the ability to drive positive change. Follow up by asking how they measure the success of their improvements.

6. What steps do you take when you need to make a decision under pressure?

In high-pressure situations, candidates should mention staying calm and focused, gathering essential information quickly, and prioritizing tasks based on urgency and impact. They might also discuss consulting with key stakeholders to get input and ensure alignment.

They should highlight their ability to make decisive actions, while also being prepared to adjust their approach if new information arises or circumstances change.

Look for candidates who demonstrate composure, critical thinking, and effective decision-making under pressure. Follow up by asking for specific examples of decisions made in high-pressure situations.

7. How do you handle a situation where your team disagrees on the best solution to a problem?

Candidates should discuss their approach to mediating conflicts and fostering collaboration. They might mention facilitating open discussions, encouraging diverse viewpoints, and using data or evidence to support decision-making.

They should also talk about finding common ground and building consensus, while ensuring that the final decision aligns with the team's goals and objectives.

An ideal candidate will demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, the ability to manage conflict, and a focus on achieving the best outcome for the team. Follow up by asking for a specific example of how they handled a similar situation in the past.

8. Can you describe a time when you had to balance multiple competing priorities?

Candidates should describe a situation where they faced numerous tasks or projects with conflicting deadlines. They might mention using tools like to-do lists, project management software, or prioritization frameworks like the Eisenhower Matrix to manage their workload effectively.

They should also discuss their ability to communicate with stakeholders, set realistic expectations, and make necessary adjustments to ensure that critical tasks are completed on time.

Look for candidates who demonstrate strong organizational skills, the ability to prioritize effectively, and effective communication. Follow up by asking how they ensure that quality is maintained while juggling multiple priorities.

12 Critical Thinking interview questions about logical reasoning

To assess candidates' logical reasoning skills, use these 12 critical thinking interview questions. These questions help evaluate how applicants approach complex problems, analyze information, and draw sound conclusions - crucial abilities for any analytical role.

• How would you determine if a new product feature is successful?
• What steps would you take to validate a hypothesis about customer behavior?
• How would you approach identifying patterns in a large, messy dataset?
• Explain how you would design an A/B test to improve website conversion rates.
• How would you go about estimating the market size for a new product?
• What method would you use to forecast sales for the next quarter?
• How would you determine the root cause of a sudden drop in user engagement?
• Describe your approach to creating a data-driven strategy for entering a new market.
• How would you design a system to detect fraudulent transactions?
• What metrics would you use to evaluate the effectiveness of a marketing campaign?
• How would you approach building a predictive model for customer churn?
• Describe how you would set up a dashboard to monitor key business metrics.

10 situational Critical Thinking interview questions for hiring top employees

To assess a candidate's critical thinking skills in real-world scenarios, use these situational questions during interviews. These questions help evaluate how applicants approach complex problems, make decisions, and handle challenges they might face in the role.

• You're leading a project that's falling behind schedule. How would you analyze the situation and get things back on track?
• A client is unhappy with a deliverable, citing it doesn't meet their expectations. How would you approach this situation?
• Your team has proposed two different strategies for a new product launch. How would you evaluate which one to pursue?
• You notice a significant discrepancy in the monthly financial report. What steps would you take to investigate and resolve this issue?
• A new company policy is causing unintended negative consequences. How would you address this problem?
• You're tasked with improving customer satisfaction scores. How would you approach analyzing the current situation and developing a solution?
• Your team is struggling to meet a crucial deadline. How would you reassess priorities and allocate resources?
• A competitor has just released a product that threatens your market share. How would you analyze the situation and develop a response strategy?
• You've identified a potential security vulnerability in your company's system. How would you go about verifying and addressing this issue?
• Your department's budget has been unexpectedly cut by 15%. How would you approach reorganizing your team's projects and resources?

9 behavioral Critical Thinking interview questions and answers

To identify candidates who can think on their feet and handle complex situations, these behavioral critical thinking interview questions are a must-have in your interview toolkit. Use them to see how applicants approach real-world problems, assess their decision-making processes, and gauge their ability to adapt and innovate.

1. Describe a time when you had to make a decision without having all the necessary information. What was your process?

In situations where not all information is available, I first identify the key factors that will impact the decision. I gather as much relevant data as possible within the given constraints, prioritize the most critical elements, and consider potential risks and benefits.

For example, when leading a project with an impending deadline and incomplete data, I focused on the most pressing issues that could affect the outcome. I consulted with team members for their insights and used my experience to fill in the gaps. After making a decision, I monitored the results closely and was prepared to make adjustments if necessary.

Look for candidates who demonstrate a structured approach and the ability to make informed decisions despite uncertainties. They should show adaptability and a willingness to seek input from others.

2. Can you share an example of a time when you had to analyze a problem and develop a solution under pressure?

In high-pressure situations, my approach involves quickly gathering and analyzing relevant information to identify the root cause of the problem. I prioritize tasks based on their impact and feasibility, then develop a solution that addresses the most critical issues first.

Once, during a product launch, we encountered a major bug that threatened to delay the release. I immediately organized a team to investigate the issue, conducted a thorough analysis to understand its scope, and implemented a temporary fix to mitigate the impact. Simultaneously, we worked on a long-term solution to prevent future occurrences.

An ideal candidate should show composure under pressure, a methodical problem-solving process, and the ability to prioritize and act swiftly. They should also demonstrate effective team collaboration.

3. How do you approach evaluating conflicting pieces of data or opinions?

When faced with conflicting data or opinions, I start by verifying the sources to ensure reliability. I then analyze the context of each piece of data to understand the underlying assumptions and perspectives. This helps me identify any potential biases or errors.

For instance, during a marketing campaign analysis, I found discrepancies between website traffic data and sales figures. I cross-checked the data sources and consulted with the web and sales teams to understand the discrepancies. This collaborative effort helped us identify a tracking issue, which we resolved to align our data.

Candidates should show a systematic approach to validating data and a balanced consideration of different viewpoints. They should be able to collaborate effectively to resolve conflicts and ensure data accuracy.

4. How do you handle a situation where you have to make a decision that is unpopular but necessary?

Making an unpopular but necessary decision requires clear communication and empathy. I ensure that I thoroughly understand the reasons behind the decision and its potential impact. I then communicate the decision transparently, explaining the rationale and expected outcomes.

For example, in a previous role, I had to implement cost-cutting measures that included downsizing a department. I held meetings with the affected team members to explain the financial situation and the necessity of the decision. I offered support and resources for those impacted and ensured a smooth transition.

Look for candidates who can demonstrate empathy, transparency, and strong communication skills. They should be able to justify their decisions logically and handle difficult situations with sensitivity.

5. Describe a time when you had to prioritize multiple important tasks. How did you manage your time and resources?

When prioritizing multiple important tasks, I first assess each task's urgency and importance. I create a timeline and allocate resources based on the tasks' potential impact on overall goals. I also delegate tasks where possible to ensure efficient use of time and resources.

For instance, during a product rollout, I had to manage marketing, training, and customer support tasks simultaneously. I created a project plan with timelines, identified key milestones, and assigned team members to specific tasks based on their strengths. Regular check-ins ensured that we stayed on track and addressed any issues promptly.

Candidates should demonstrate strong organizational skills, the ability to prioritize effectively, and efficient resource management. They should also show a capacity for delegation and teamwork.

6. Can you give an example of how you have used data to inform a strategic decision?

Using data to inform strategic decisions involves gathering and analyzing relevant information to identify trends and insights. I ensure that the data is accurate and comprehensive before making any conclusions.

For example, in a past role, we needed to decide whether to expand into a new market. I analyzed market data, customer demographics, and competitor performance. Based on the insights, I developed a strategy that targeted high-potential regions and tailored our marketing efforts to meet local preferences.

Strong candidates should show proficiency in data analysis and the ability to translate insights into actionable strategies. They should also highlight their attention to detail and critical thinking skills.

7. How do you handle feedback that you disagree with?

When handling feedback that I disagree with, I first take the time to understand the feedback fully. I listen actively and ask clarifying questions to ensure I grasp the other person's perspective. I then reflect on the feedback to see if there are any valid points that I may have overlooked.

In one instance, a colleague disagreed with my approach to a project. Although I initially disagreed, I listened to their concerns and realized that their perspective highlighted potential risks I had not considered. We discussed alternative solutions and collaborated to adjust the project plan, ultimately achieving a better outcome.

Look for candidates who show openness to different viewpoints, active listening skills, and a willingness to reflect and adapt. They should demonstrate a collaborative attitude and the ability to incorporate constructive feedback.

8. Describe a situation where you had to implement a solution that involved significant change. How did you ensure buy-in from stakeholders?

Implementing a solution involving significant change requires clear communication and stakeholder engagement. I start by explaining the need for change and the benefits it will bring. I involve stakeholders early in the process to gather their input and address their concerns.

For instance, when we switched to a new project management tool, I organized workshops to demonstrate its advantages and provided training sessions to ease the transition. I also kept an open channel for feedback and made adjustments based on stakeholder input to ensure smooth adoption.

Candidates should show strong communication and change management skills. They should demonstrate the ability to engage stakeholders, address concerns, and facilitate a smooth transition.

9. How do you approach continuous learning and staying updated with industry trends?

Continuous learning and staying updated with industry trends are essential for professional growth. I regularly attend webinars, read industry publications, and participate in professional networks to stay informed. Additionally, I seek out opportunities for training and certification relevant to my field.

In my current role, I subscribe to key industry newsletters and follow thought leaders on social media. I also participate in online courses to enhance my skills. This proactive approach helps me stay ahead of trends and apply new knowledge to my work.

Look for candidates who demonstrate a proactive attitude towards learning and professional development. They should show a commitment to staying updated with industry trends and continuously improving their skills.

Which Critical Thinking skills should you evaluate during the interview phase?

In a single interview, it is challenging to assess every facet of a candidate's abilities. However, when it comes to evaluating Critical Thinking skills, focusing on a few core areas can provide a robust understanding of their capabilities. Here are the key Critical Thinking skills you should evaluate during the interview phase:

Problem Solving

Problem-solving is the ability to identify, analyze, and propose solutions to challenges. It is a fundamental aspect of Critical Thinking as it involves evaluating situations, understanding underlying issues, and developing effective solutions.

To assess problem-solving skills, consider using an assessment test that includes relevant multiple-choice questions. The Problem Solving Test in our library can be a useful tool for filtering out this skill.

You can also ask targeted interview questions to gauge a candidate's problem-solving abilities.

Can you describe a time when you faced a complex problem at work and how you approached solving it?

When asking this question, look for answers that show the candidate's ability to systematically break down the problem, consider different perspectives, and implement a practical solution.

Logical Reasoning

Logical reasoning involves the ability to analyze arguments, identify logical relationships, and draw valid conclusions. It is crucial for making sound decisions and ensuring that conclusions are based on accurate and consistent evidence.

To filter candidates with strong logical reasoning skills, you can use an assessment test focused on logical reasoning. Explore our Logical Reasoning Test for relevant questions.

In addition to tests, targeted interview questions can further reveal a candidate's logical reasoning capabilities.

Provide an example of a decision you made by analyzing various factors and data points. How did logical reasoning influence your decision?

Look for answers that demonstrate the candidate's ability to logically analyze information, weigh various factors, and arrive at a well-reasoned decision.

Situational Judgement

Situational judgement refers to the ability to assess and respond appropriately to specific situations, often under pressure. It reflects how well candidates can apply their Critical Thinking skills in real-world scenarios.

Utilize an assessment that includes situational judgement scenarios to evaluate this skill. Our Situational Judgement Test offers relevant questions.

To further assess situational judgement, consider asking interview questions that present hypothetical scenarios.

Imagine you are managing a team and notice a conflict between two team members. How would you handle the situation?

When asking this question, look for responses that show the candidate's ability to understand the situation, consider the perspectives of all parties involved, and propose a fair and effective resolution.

Hiring the best Critical Thinking candidates with Adaface

If you are looking to hire someone with strong Critical Thinking skills, you need to ensure they have those skills accurately.

The most accurate way to do this would be to use skill tests. Explore our Critical Thinking Test and Logical Reasoning Test .

Once you use these tests, you can shortlist the best applicants and call them for interviews.

To get started, sign up on Adaface or visit our test library .

Critical Thinking Test

Download critical thinking interview questions template in multiple formats.

Critical Thinking Interview Questions FAQs

Assessing critical thinking helps identify candidates who can analyze complex situations, solve problems effectively, and make sound decisions in their roles.

Adjust the complexity and context of questions based on the position. Use basic questions for entry-level roles and more advanced scenarios for managerial positions.

Look for candidates who demonstrate logical reasoning, the ability to consider multiple perspectives, and clear problem-solving approaches in their answers.

Ask candidates to describe past situations where they applied critical thinking. This reveals their real-world application of these skills.

It's often best to not explicitly state this, as it allows for more natural responses. However, you can mention that problem-solving skills are important for the role.

40 min skill tests. No trick questions. Accurate shortlisting.

We make it easy for you to find the best candidates in your pipeline with a 40 min skills test.

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How to Evaluate a Job Candidate’s Critical Thinking Skills in an Interview

• Christopher Frank,
• Paul Magnone,
• Oded Netzer

It’s not about how they answer your questions — it’s about the kind of questions they ask you.

The oldest and still the most powerful tactic for fostering critical thinking is the Socratic method, developed over 2,400 years ago by Socrates, one of the founders of Western philosophy. The Socratic method uses thought-provoking question-and-answer probing to promote learning. It focuses on generating more questions than answers, where the answers are not a stopping point but the beginning of further analysis. Hiring managers can apply this model to create a different dialogue with candidates in a modern-day organization.

Hiring is one of the most challenging competencies to master, yet it is one of the most strategic and impactful managerial functions. A McKinsey study quantified that superior talent is up to eight times more productive, showing that the relationship between talent quality and business performance is dramatic. Organizations seeking growth or simply survival during difficult times must successfully recruit A-list talent, thought leaders, and subject matter experts. This is often done under time constraints as you must quickly fill a key position. Essentially you are committing to a long-term relationship after a few very short dates.

• CF Christopher Frank is the coauthor of “ Decisions Over Decimals: Striking the Balance between Intuition and Information ” (Wiley) and “ Drinking from the Fire Hose: Making Smarter Decisions Without Drowning in Information ” (Portfolio). He is the Vice President of research and analytics at American Express.
• PM Paul Magnone is the coauthor of “ Decisions Over Decimals: Striking the Balance between Intuition and Information ” (Wiley) and “ Drinking from the Fire Hose: Making Smarter Decisions Without Drowning in Information ” (Portfolio). He currently serves as the head of global strategic alliances for Google.
• ON Oded Netzer is the coauthor of “ Decisions Over Decimals: Striking the Balance between Intuition and Information ” (Wiley). He is the Vice Dean for Research and the Arthur J. Samberg Professor of Business at Columbia Business School, an affiliate of the Columbia Data Science Institute, and an Amazon Scholar.

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Critical Thinking Interview Questions & Answers

• Updated July 13, 2023
• Published March 28, 2021

In dynamic and competitive work environments, it’s important that a business can keep up with innovations and changing demands from customers. This is why employers look for candidates who possess strong critical thinking skills and decision-making skills.

Interviewers use job interviews to assess your critical thinking skills. They do this by asking you questions that require you to demonstrate your ability to effectively and efficiently evaluate information to make a calculated decision. Your goal is to demonstrate that you are an innovative person that can provide rational advice and thought-out solutions when needed.

Critical thinking questions are commonly asked during job interviews because workers with strong critical thinking skills are important for companies to excel. Questions about your critical thinking skills are often  behavioral interview questions . These are a strategic type of interview questions that require you to provide an answer that includes an example situation that you experienced in your career and how you acted in that situation.

A basic example of a behavioral question in relation to critical thinking is ‘ describe a time you had to solve a problem at work without having all the information or resources .’ As you can see, the interviewer is looking for you to explain a situation where you had to think outside the box and justify your critical thinking process.

What Are Critical Thinking Interview Questions?

Critical thinking skills are related to your ability to analyze, evaluate and assess information effectively and make calculated decisions. Below we discuss a couple of important skills related to critical thinking. You must demonstrate that you possess these skills to convince the interviewer that you possess the right critical thinking skills to succeed in the position you’re applying for.

Examples of critical thinking skills are:

Observation & analysis.

The ability to observe and analyze a (potential) problem or data set is where a critical thinking process starts. People who possess strong analytical skills examine the information and understand what it means in order to explain the implications to others properly.

After a thoughtful observation and analysis, creative skills and innovation are required to spot patterns in the information or data. Critical thinkers are able to think outside the box to come up with a solution no one else thought of before. This requires flexibility, conceptualization, and imagination to take a different approach from other approaches.

• Communication

Critical thinkers also possess strong communication skills to share their approaches and conclusions with coworkers. It’s essential that ideas and solutions are shared effectively and efficiently with others. Furthermore, working together with others is an important part of the critical thinking process to figure out the right solution to business challenges. Skills involved are active listening, teamwork , collaboration, and interpersonal skills.

Problem-solving

Once an analysis is performed and solutions are discussed, it’s important that a solution is implemented. An essential part of critical thinking is coming up with an efficient solution and assessing the impact of this decision. This requires adaptability as well to modify the course of action as needed throughout the implementation process.

Critical Thinking Behavioral Interview Questions

Most questions interviewers will ask you about your critical thinking skills are  behavioral interview questions . These questions require you to provide specific examples of past work experiences in which you demonstrated your critical thinking skills. For interviewers, understanding your past professional behavior and performance is the best way to gauge your future job behavior and performance.

Behavioral questions are focused on the desired skills or competency area, such as, in this case, critical thinking. Other common competency areas for which behavioral questions are used are teamwork , communication , time management , creative thinking skills , leadership , adaptability , conflict resolution , etc.

Behavioral job interview questions usually start with:

• Give me an example of
• Tell me about a time when you
• What would you do
• Describe a situation where

Examples of critical thinking behavioral interview questions:

• Give me an example of a time you had to solve a problem without having complete information or resources.
• Tell me about a time when you presented a new idea or process to your team.
• What would you do if you had a deadline coming up, but you do not have all the components to deliver a project on time?
• Describe a situation where you find a creative way to overcome a business challenge.

As you can see, the questions mentioned above require you to discuss your past behavior. For interviewers, the most accurate predictor of future performance is your past performance in similar situations.

Before making a hiring decision, interviewers are interested in discussing previous work situations. The right interview preparation will help you do the right research to prepare answers that include the critical thinking skills the interviewer is looking for. This starts with  thoroughly reviewing the job description . The job description usually tells more about the specific skills that are required for the position. You can use this information to prepare answers that include times you were successfully using the skills the employer is looking for.

To answer behavioral questions successfully, you need to provide the interviewer with specific details about a time you used your critical thinking skills. Your answer should include the situation you were in, your task in that situation, the actions you took, and the specific results you got. In short, this is called the STAR method  of providing an answer. The STAR method is discussed in more detail later on in this article.

Why Interviewers Ask Critical Thinking Interview Questions

For interviewers, the most effective way to reveal your critical thinking skills is by asking you to describe past work experiences or provide you with hypothetical scenarios. The main reason for asking you about situations in which you successfully used your critical thinking skills is to get an understanding of how you think and act in specific, challenging situations.

Before hiring a candidate, employers want to determine if you are:

• Responsible enough to identify, analyze, and solve problems
• Able to solve a problem without having all the required data, information, or resources
• Creative enough to come up with out-of-the-box solutions
• A strong communicator who can explain issues and involve others in the problem-solving process
• Taking responsibility for your actions

During a job interview, it’s important that you have a few examples ready to discuss times you used your critical thinking skills in different situations. A proven track record of critical thinking to tackle challenges will help you convince the interviewer. This is also the reason why it’s smart to prepare answers related to the requirements for the position, prior to your job interview.

For example, if you work as a business analyst, you should be able to deal with business challenges such as changing requirements or business needs, which require critical thinking skills. Business analysts need to identify (possible) problems and are required to come up with solutions and strategies.

What Employers Look For In A Critical Thinking Interview

During a job interview, you must convince the interviewers of your critical thinking skills. Interviewers look for candidates whose work ethic and career goals align with the company culture and what they can offer you. This is also the reason why you should relate your answers to the job requirements and what the company is looking for.

The right interview preparation will help you get there. Your goal is to demonstrate that you are a strong critical thinker that is capable of taking on the day-to-day tasks required for the position and have the potential to grow .

Critical thinking interview questions are used to reveal how you identify and approach problems, if you can evaluate a point of view to determine if it’s valid or not, and if you can provide structured reasoning to support an argument. Basically, the interviewers want to get the following questions answered:

• How do you think challenges or issues through in an objective and critical way?
• Can you identify different points of view in relation to a particular problem?
• Are you able to evaluate different points of view to determine how valid or strong they are?
• Can you identify weak points that are in possible solutions or arguments?
• How do you provide structured reasoning and support for arguments when communicating with other people?

Red Flags In Critical Thinking Skills Job Interviews

There are several things you should avoid when answering critical thinking interview questions. Below we discuss a couple of red flags that could hurt your chances of landing the job you want. Make sure you avoid these mistakes during your interview to prevent a situation where you could give the interviewer the wrong impression.

1. No clear critical thinking process

The interviewer wants you to walk them through your critical thinking process. This means that you need to explain how you tackled an issue or problem by using your critical thinking skills.

A perfect answer includes a story in which you explain how you identified a problem, how you analyzed and evaluated the situation to figure out which data, facts, or information was important. Next, tell them how you made inferences and communicated issues and possible solutions with coworkers and other stakeholders. Finally, discuss how you executed the solution you came up with.

Not being able to give the interviewer a clear example in which you walk them through the steps mentioned above could be a warning sign for them. Therefore, make sure that you have a strong answer ready that relates to the job requirements and includes you successfully using your critical thinking skills to your advantage.

2. Not providing enough critical details

When interviewers ask you about your critical thinking skills, and if you can walk them through a specific time you successfully used those skills, it’s important that you include every step of your critical reasoning process.

If you claim to be a strong critical thinker that can take on the responsibilities of the position you’re applying for, you need to make sure you can back this up through clear examples of times you used these skills. Failing to do so could lead to the elimination of your chances to land the job. If the interviewer has trouble verifying your employment history, this is considered a warning sign.

3. Not taking responsibility

Taking responsibility is an important characteristic of a critical thinker. If a problem is identified but not addressed, this could quickly escalate into a bigger problem. If your answers indicate that you do not take responsibility or if you have left things for later, this could leave the impression on the interviews that your critical thinking skills and work engagement is not top-notch. Therefore, make sure you demonstrate that you take responsibility for your actions and that you’re a proactive worker that immediately deals with challenges as soon as they occur or when they are identified as potential problems.

To test you during your job interview, interviewers will ask you about times you failed in specific work situations . This is especially the case for positions where you deal with challenging situations and are required to deal with identifying and solve problems. Interviewers are interested in what went wrong in specific work situations, if you took responsibility for your actions, and what you learned from that situation. Not taking responsibility for, for instance, a  project that may have failed , is considered a warning sign for employers.

Self-awareness and being to reflect on situations that went wrong is an important characteristic to possess in the workplace – especially in work environments where critical thinking skills are important. Employers want to hire a candidate who can admit errors or who made thoughtful mistakes trying to solve problems in the past and learned from them. Employers know that candidates are human and make mistakes, just like everybody else. It’s important that your answers demonstrate that you take responsibility for situations and describe the actions you took to repair any problems or challenges.

Common Critical Thinking Interview Questions

Below we discuss common  behavioral critical thinking interview questions . These questions are broken down into two categories; regular behavioral interview questions and hypothetical interview questions.

Learn everything you need to know about commonly asked interview questions that are frequently asked during job interviews .

Behavioral Critical Thinking Interview Questions:

• Tell me about a time you had to make a decision without having all the data, information, or resources.
• Give me an example of a time you discovered a mistake that
• What do you consider the most difficult decision you had to make at work? What results did you get?
• Describe a time you convince a colleague or supervisor to use an alternative approach to solve a problem.
• Give me an example of a time you were involved in solving a problem among team members on how to approach a project.
• Tell me about a time you came up with a new or unusual idea to deal with a challenge.
• Describe a time you anticipated a potential problem. How did you develop preventative measures?
• Give me an example of a time when you faced an unexpected challenge at work and how you dealt with it.
• Describe a time a customer approached you with a problem or concern. How did you respond?
• Give me an example of a time you had to change your planned course of action at the last moment. How did you re-evaluate your priorities?
• What do you consider your most innovative new idea that you have implemented in the workplace?
• Have you ever improved the workflow of a project based on your analysis? How did you do this?
• When you’re working on several projects, it’s tricky to deliver excellent service to all of them. How do you go about prioritizing the needs of a client?

Situational Critical Thinking Interview Questions:

• How would you go about convincing a coworker, manager, or other stakeholders to try an alternative approach to solve a problem?
• What would you do if you had a deadline coming up, but you did not yet have all the required information to deliver a project on time?
• How would you determine if you need help from others when you’re solving a problem or completing a task?
• If an order has been delayed and an angry client contacts you to cancel the order and close their account, what actions would you take?
• How would you deal with a situation where you identify a weak link in a process that’s impacting quality?
• What would be your approach if you and a colleague or teammates disagree on how to move forward on a project?

How To Answer Critical Interview Questions

Interviewers look for candidates who can demonstrate through examples that they use reason and logic to make decisions. In order to do this, it’s essential that you structure your answers in such a way that you walk the interviewer through an example situation in which you successfully used your critical thinking skills. To get started, you can consider the following steps.

Step 1: Research.

Every interview preparation starts with doing the right research. Before you can answer interview questions in a specific way you need to get to know the position and company better. Furthermore, you should thoroughly understand the job requirements to prepare strong answers.

Read the job description carefully to find specific skills that a candidate needs to possess to perform the job successfully. Think of skills such as creative thinking ,  problem-solving ,  adaptability , a strong work ethic , and  communication . Also, read the company website to get more information about their mission statement and who their main clients are. Furthermore, check their LinkedIn pages and other content/news related to the company.

Researching the job and company will help you identify the required skills, qualities, and work experience for the position you’re applying for. Your research should help you make an educated guess about what kind of interview questions you can expect .

Step 2: Write down the required job skills & competencies.

Behavioral interview questions about critical thinking skills are a perfect opportunity for you to demonstrate why you are the right candidate for the position.

The skills and competencies  you have identified in your research should be your starting point to prepare answers. Write down the required skills and rank them on importance.

Step 3: Create a list of past work experiences that relate to the required job skills.

Once you have ranked the skills on importance, you can start thinking of work experiences related to these skills. Coming up with a specific answer when you’re being put on the spot during an interview is very hard, especially when discussing critical thinking skills.

Interviewers want to hear how you evaluate and assess information objectively and how you make calculated decisions. Therefore, ensure that you come up with strong examples to questions you expect ahead of your interview. Create a list of past work experiences and tailor them to the required critical thinking skills. Highlight situations where you successfully provided rational advice, came up with thought-out solutions, and made fair assessments in your work. Focus on delivering a concise and to-the-point answer.

Step 4: Prepare successful and challenging answer examples.

Strong critical thinkers are essential in the workplace. Critical thinkers use their skills to evaluate and assess information in order to make decisions effectively. During your interview, it’s therefore important that your answers demonstrate that you have successfully identified problems, proposed solutions, evaluated several options, and finally implemented a solution.

It’s also likely that the interviewer will ask you about a time you have failed to solve a problem . Interviewers ask you about failures to assess whether or not you learn from your mistakes and if you’re self-aware enough to acknowledge times you failed. Also, it helps them identify if you take calculated and smart risks when it comes to making decisions.

Step 5: Use the STAR method to structure your answers

The STAR method allows you to concisely provide the interviewer an answer by logically walking them through the situation. STAR is an acronym that stands for a situation ( S ), your task ( T ) in that situation, the actions ( A ) you took, and what results ( R ) you got based on your actions. These are the basic steps you take in your walkthrough.

Below we discuss the STAR interview technique in more detail.

STAR Interview Technique

By using the STAR method, you can give an answer that includes exactly what the interviewer is looking for. Below, the STAR acronym is broken down into each step.

Start your answer by explaining the situation that you faced. The start of your answer ‘story’ should answer questions such as:

• What was the situation/problem?
• Who was involved?
• Why did the situation happen at that time?

It’s important to provide context around what problem needed to be solved. Furthermore, make sure to provide relevant details of why you had to use your critical thinking skills in that particular situation.

Next, explain your specific role in the task ahead. Include important details, such as specific responsibilities. Focus on giving the interviewer an understanding of your task in solving the problem. This part of your answer should answer questions such as:

• Why were you involved in that specific situation?
• What’s the background story?

After you describe your task, it’s time to specifically discuss the actions you took to solve the problem. Give the interviewer a detailed description of the actions you took. This part of your answer should answer questions such as:

• What steps did you take to resolve the situation you were in?
• Why did you choose to complete your tasks this way?

Finish your answer by discussing the results you got from your actions. Detail the outcomes of your actions and ensure to highlight your strengths . Also, make sure to take credit for your behavior that led to the result. Focus on positive results and positive learning experiences. This part of your answer ‘story’ should answer questions such as:

• What exactly happened?
• What did you accomplish?
• How did you feel about the results you got?
• What did you learn from the situation?
• How did this particular situation influence who you are as a professional today?

Sample Answers to Critical Thinking Questions

Below you will find some example questions. The examples are already written in STAR format so that you can clearly see how you can structure your answers when answering critical thinking interview questions.

However, these are ‘general’ examples. Do not forget to structure your own answers in a way that includes enough detail to convince the interviewer that you’re the right person for the job! This means that you need to tailor your answer to the specific skills required for the position you’re applying for.

Critical Thinking Question 1 : ‘Tell Me About a Time You Had To Solve a Challenging Problem At Work.’

‘In my position as a business development manager at ABC Software, I’m responsible for organizing all client events and conferences. ABC Software is a major player in the IT market, and during our events, we invite industry experts to speak on market developments. These events are used to attract new clients but also to maintain our relationship with our existing ones.

Over the last two years, we analyzed our attendee data and found out that our event attendance dropped almost 10%. Furthermore, we discovered that the retention rate of our clients also decreased. When we had to plan the next event, my team and I knew that we have to get our attendance levels back up for the events to stay successful. The goal was to get our networking event popular and recurring again.

I had an idea why the attendance levels dropped, but to get more information, I interviewed several sales consultants as well. The main feedback was that we should focus more on attracting new clients through social media channels. I communicated this with our marketing team, and we decided to also reach out to our client base and ask them what they would like to see on our future events. This led to interesting new insights on topics and speakers that we could invite, plus we also received input on how to improve networking possibilities during our events. Based on our research and feedback, I created a new plan of action to market our events through our social media channels to increase exposure.

After launching our marketing campaign, we immediately gained traction online, which led to an increase in advance registrations. For that specific event, we saw a total increase in attendance of 20% in comparison to the previous year. An online survey showed that the attendees were happy with how the way the new event was structured, and 80% of respondents said that it would be likely that they would recommend our events within their network.

My approach to increase attendance at our events did not go unnoticed. My department director asked me to make a presentation about how I tackled this problem and present this to the board.’

Why this is a strong critical thinking answer:

• This example shows that you’re able to identify issues and that you understand your responsibility to address them.
• The provided example is related but also relevant to the workplace. It’s also concise, which is perfect.
• This answer shows important skills, such as being proactive, teamwork , adaptability , problem-solving skills , and creativity .
• Taking responsibility to find out why the event attendance dropped and subsequently taking action turned out successful, which gives more weight to the situation.

Critical Thinking Question 2: ‘ Tell Me About a Time You Had To Make a Decision Without Complete Information.’

Situation & task.

‘In my current positions as a market research analyst, I have dealt with several situations where I had to make a decision without complete information. Even though it’s important to have all relevant and complete information, in this position, this just isn’t possible at times.

A recent example is when I had to make a sales prediction of a new innovative product feature we were about to launch. However, the product was new in the market in our area, which made it challenging to assess the expected market conditions to make an accurate forecast. 

In a situation where I do not have complete information, I start with analyzing the information that I do have and start working from there.   In this case, I researched information, documentation, and sales results of comparable markets outside of our region for comparison purposes. Furthermore, I called in expert advice of specialists of these comparable markets to get more accurate market knowledge. 

Based on the available information, additional research of comparable markets, and conversations with the experts, I developed a new spreadsheet with more adjustable parameters than normal because there were more uncertainties. Also,  I broke the sales forecast down into monthly, quarterly, half-annually, and annual figures. Breaking the forecast down into smaller timelines made it easier to make adjustments based on actual sales to make the calculations more accurate over time. 

I initiated a brainstorming session with my team leader to discuss my research findings and spreadsheet proposal. I value different points of view, especially from colleagues with more work experience that have dealt with these circumstances before . Based on the feedback I got, I made final adjustments to the report before turning it in.

Even though I did not have all the information required to make a solid prediction like I wanted to, it allowed me to provide my manager with a report with as few assumptions as possible. The product feature launch was a success, and the forecast turned out to be accurate within the set range. My manager asked me to make a presentation about how I approached this situation and explain the new forecast model to my colleagues.’ 

Why this is a strong answer:

• The provided example is to the point and demonstrates critical thinking skills.
• This answer shows other important skills such as problem-solving skills  and  adaptability .
• The answer shows that you’re a team player and that you involve others for the better of a project’s result.

Note : This is a basic example of how to structure a critical thinking answer. However, there’s a chance the interviewer wants you to go into more detail about which specific steps you took to deal with the situation of not having complete information.

Critical Thinking Question 3: ‘ Tell me about a time you convinced a coworker to implement a different process for better results.’

‘Personally, I believe that communication is essential in such a situation to find a way that works best for the company but also best for both of us. Finding a compromise is the main goal to get the work done to the best of our ability.

Task & Action

As a management consultant, I encountered a situation where I had to convince a coworker to implement a different process. A colleague disagreed with the way I wanted to handle an issue that we encountered along the way. To address this issue, I scheduled a meeting with him to discuss the situation. I asked him about his points of view and how he thought we should go about the project.

Even though we had differences in how we felt like how the project should be approached, we quickly concluded that our goal was the same; providing our client with a high-quality final product within the set deadline.

We talked about the project and the specific aspect about which we had a difference. I explained my point of view and that I had already encountered a similar issue in the past. Ultimately, my colleague agreed to tackle the issue in the method I proposed. His insights gave me a good suggestion which we incorporated into the project as well. After that, we successfully worked together and finalized the project in time, and according to the quality level we both were proud of.’

• The provided example is concise and relevant to the workplace where problem-solving skills are important.
• This answer shows important skills such as being proactive, problem-solving skills , persuasion skills, and adaptability .
• The answer shows that you’re a team player and that you listen to the input of others for the better of a project’s result.

Note : There’s always a chance that interviewers ask you follow-up questions about how you convinced your colleague. Make sure that you can answer those questions as well.

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25+ Critical Thinking Interview Questions and Answers

There is arguably no more important skill in the modern workplace than critical thinking. The ability to think critically about information and make decisions is key to success in any field, especially for those entering management or leadership positions.

Critical thinking interview questions are one way to help identify which candidates have this valuable skill set – and which don’t! In this article, we’ll provide you with a list of some common critical thinking interview questions.

Table of Contents

What is the importance of critical thinking?

Critical thinking is important because it allows individuals to analyze information and make decisions using reason rather than emotion. Critical thinkers can overcome cognitive biases and effectively solve problems.

What are the benefits of critical thinking?

The benefits of critical thinking are numerous. Critical thinkers can think more clearly and effectively, make better decisions, solve problems, and communicate more effectively. They are also less likely to be fooled by misinformation or propaganda.

What are some of the characteristics of a critical thinker?

Some key characteristics of a critical thinker include being open-minded, logical, systematic, and objective. Critical thinkers also exhibit curiosity, skepticism, and humility.

How to improve critical thinking?

Answer:  There are many ways to improve one’s critical thinking abilities. Some beneficial strategies include reading, practicing logic problems, and taking classes in philosophy or psychology.

Critical Thinking Skills

• Analytical thinking
• Attention to detail
• Being less likely to be fooled by misinformation or propaganda
• Being open-minded
• Communicating more effectively
• Decision making
• Inquisitiveness
• Intelligence
• Making better decisions
• Open-mindedness
• Organization skills
• Overcoming cognitive biases
• Objective Oriented
• Problem-solving
• Solving problems
• Systematic thinking
• The ability to make decisions using reason rather than emotion
• Time management skills
• Questioning everything

Critical Thinking Interview Questions

What would it be if you could give one piece of advice for improving one’s critical thinking abilities.

Tip:  This question can be tricky, but it’s an excellent opportunity for the interviewer to understand the candidate’s critical thinking style. Some sound advice for improving one’s necessary thinking abilities might include being open to new ideas, questioning everything, and practicing problem-solving skills regularly.

What is your experience with critical thinking?

Tip:   This question is asked in various ways, but all variations essentially ask the same thing – have you ever had to use critical thinking skills in a professional setting? What was the situation, and how did you go about it? Candidates who have used necessary thinking skills in their previous jobs generally have an easier time answering this question.

How do you think critically?

Sample Answer:  There is no one right way to think critically – everyone does it in their unique way. However, some general tips can be helpful for anyone looking to improve their critical thinking skills. These tips include being organized, asking questions, considering other perspectives, and testing hypotheses.

What is the difference between deductive and inductive reasoning?

Answer:  Deductive reasoning is the process of applying general rules to specific situations. This type of reasoning is used to reach logical conclusions. On the other hand, inductive reasoning is the process of inferring specific facts from general observations. This type of reasoning is often used in scientific inquiry.

Example of deductive reasoning

An example of deductive reasoning would be the statement, “All men are mortal.” This statement is a general rule applied to any individual man.

Example of inductive reasoning

An example of inductive reasoning would be the statement “John is a man.” This statement is not a general rule, but rather it applies to one specific person.

Can you think of a time when you were fooled by misinformation or propaganda?

Tip:  Propaganda and misinformation can often lead individuals astray by convincing them of things that are not true. Share an experience from your personal life in which you were fooled by inaccurate information.

Sample Answer: A friend told me that eating lots of carrots would improve my vision. I am pretty sure this was an exaggeration about the effect of carrots, but I went ahead and ate them anyway. It wasn’t until years later that I learned eating too many carrots can be dangerous for your health.

What is a cognitive bias?

Answer:  A cognitive bias is a thinking error that can lead individuals to make inaccurate judgments or decisions.

Can you give me an example of a cognitive bias?

Answer: One example of a cognitive bias is the sunk cost fallacy. It happens when people continue investing time or money into something based on the belief that they have already invested so much that it would be wasteful to quit now.

How do you arrive at an answer to a problem with multiple solutions??

Tip:  The interviewer may be trying to understand the candidate’s critical thinking style by asking this question. Some good strategies for arriving at an answer include considering all possible solutions, testing hypotheses, and consulting experts when necessary.

What is your experience with multiple perspectives?

Sample Answer:  I like to approach problems by looking at them from different angles – it helps me come up with creative ideas because I can compare and contrast various perspectives on each issue. This technique has been helpful in many situations where there are only one or two apparent answers instead of several clear-cut choices.

What are some examples of critical thinking in your life?

Critical thinking can be used in various ways, depending on the situation. Some examples include analyzing data to come up with conclusions, evaluating their validity, and identifying hidden assumptions in ideas or concerns.

Sample Answer:  For example, I wrote a paper on the American Revolution when I was in school. Instead of repeating what my textbook said about the events during that period, I conducted research. I did some additional reading to develop my perspective about why certain things happened.

Is there a difference between being intelligent and having good critical thinking skills?

Answer:  While intelligence is undoubtedly a valuable asset, it is not always enough to make accurate judgments and decisions. Critical thinking skills are essential because they allow individuals to analyze information carefully and logically to arrive at the most accurate conclusions possible.

What do you think makes critical thinking so difficult?

Answer:  One challenge with critical thinking is that it requires us to be open-minded and consider different points of view. It can be difficult to have strong convictions or feel like we already know the answer.

Additionally, critical thinking can be time-consuming and require a lot of effort. However, these challenges are worth overcoming because critical thinking leads to better outcomes in both personal and professional settings.

What is the best way to teach someone how to think critically?

Answer:  The best way to teach someone how to think critically is by exposing them to new information and allowing them time for reflection. It will help individuals process their thoughts about a particular topic before reaching any conclusions or judgment calls.

What does it mean when we say “a problem well stated is half solved”?

Answer:  This phrase means that when we can articulate a problem clearly, we are already on our way to finding a solution. By identifying the issue accurately, we can focus our efforts on solving it efficiently.

What is your experience with making decisions under pressure?

Sample Answer: I’ve had a lot of experience making decisions under pressure. I often had to make snap judgments to respond quickly to changing situations in my previous job. I learned to stay calm and collected even when things were chaotic, which helped me make better decisions overall.

Are you open to new concepts and ideas?

Sample Answer:  I am open to new concepts and ideas. I learn best when exposed to further information and process my thoughts about a particular topic before reaching any conclusions or judgment calls.

What are some things you do to stay organized and efficient?

Sample Answer:  One thing I do to stay organized and efficient in create a plan of action for each day. It helps me stay on track and ensures that I make the most of my time. Additionally, I try to avoid distractions and keep my workspace organized to focus on the task at hand. Lastly, I take breaks during the day to keep my energy levels high and be at my most productive.

How would you handle a crisis?

Sample Answer:  I would handle a crisis by assessing the situation objectively and coming up with a plan of action. I would communicate with all relevant parties, including my team, and make sure that everyone is aware of the situation and what they need to do to help resolve it. I would stay calm under pressure and do whatever is necessary to get the problem under control as quickly as possible.

How do you practice self-care?

Sample Answer:  I practice self-care by taking some time each day to do something that makes me happy.

It could be anything from going for a walk or reading a book after work to listening to music during my commute home. The important thing is that it’s something I enjoy and helps me relax to face the world again the next day.

Do you consider yourself a critical thinker?

Sample Answer: I consider myself a critical thinker. I have a lot of experience making decisions under pressure, and I learn best when exposed to further information. I also try to stay organized and efficient to focus on the task. These are all qualities of a critical thinker.

What Is your greatest strength as a critical thinker?

Sample Answer:  My greatest strength as a critical thinker is my ability to stay calm under pressure. I can think clearly and objectively in chaotic situations, which helps me make better decisions.

Tell me about a time when you needed to make a decision quickly?

Sample Answer:  I recently faced a situation where I needed to make a decision quickly. My team and I were having issues completing some tasks on time, so we decided it would be best for me to take over the project while they focused their efforts elsewhere. It allowed me to complete my work simultaneously, overseeing theirs, making it possible for us to finish on time.

Describe one of the most challenging decisions you have had to make at work?

Sample Answer:  One of the most challenging decisions I have had to make at work was hiring a new member for my team. After going through numerous resumes and interviewing several candidates, it became clear that two people would be equally qualified for the role.

To decide which applicant we should hire, we decided on a case study assignment where each candidate was required to solve a problem the same way they would on the job. It helped us gain insight into how each person works and made it easier to determine who was best suited for the role.

Can critical thinking be taught?

Sample Answer:  Critical thinking can be taught. A few key things helped me improve my critical thinking skills, such as reading extensively about topics I’m interested in, listening to podcasts and TED Talks, and participating in discussions with others who have different viewpoints.

Having the opportunity to speak with others, I learn a lot about myself and other people’s perspectives. It helps me understand how different thinking styles work, which allows me to consider all of my options when making decisions in the future.

What makes a person a critical thinker?

Sample Answer:  I believe that critical thinking is something you are born with, and you hone it as your experience in the world increases. Those who work to improve their skills over time tend to do better than those who don’t practice at all, but everyone has this ability within them somewhere.

Someone’s level of critical thinking can be measured by how well they can make decisions, how open-minded they are, and how well they weigh the evidence before making a judgment call.

What would you do if you needed to decide without complete information?

Sample Answer:  In situations where I need to decide without complete information, either because I don’t have all of the facts or there’s too much data to process right away, my first step is to gather as many sources as possible.

Even if that means spending hours upon hours researching and going over every detail until it feels like I have a clear picture of what’s going on, the time spent is always worth it in the end.

Explain your decision-making process.

Sample Answer:  My decision-making process usually involves gathering as much information as possible. Once I have a good understanding of the situation, I’ll begin to think about all of the different options available to me and weigh the pros and cons of each one.

After narrowing it down to a couple of choices, I’ll assess how likely it is that I’ll be able to accomplish my goals with each option. Finally, I’ll consider what could go wrong or how things might change if another factor gets involved before deciding on the best one.

If you had to pick just one critical thinking skill, which would you choose and why?

Sample Answer:  If given a choice, I would choose the skill of being able to think about things from different perspectives. It has helped me a lot in my personal life and professional career.

Seeing all sides of an issue allows me to develop better solutions and makes it easier to understand others’ points of view. Additionally, it helps me stay open-minded and prevents me from jumping to conclusions too quickly.

Why is critical thinking important in our daily life?

Sample Answer:  Critical thinking is essential for everyone in our daily lives because we make decisions every single day. Whether it’s something as simple as what to order off of a menu or more complicated like whether your business needs to switch suppliers, critical thinking allows us to weigh the pros and cons of each choice before making a final decision.

Learn more on Critical Thinking at Stanford

We hope we have provided you with a good understanding of critical thinking and why it’s crucial. Go through all the Critical thinking interview questions and answers explained above and get ready to ace your interview.

If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, please feel free to leave a comment below. Also, don’t forget to share this article with your friends and followers!

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Best Critical Thinking Interview Questions To Ask A Candidate

Bianca Decu

June 29, 2023

Measuring a candidate's critical thinking skills plays a key role. It can make the difference between choosing an employee who can adapt, solve problems and make good decisions, versus one who struggles with these skills.

We've prepared a set of critical thinking interview questions to help you identify the right person for the job.

1. Could you describe an instance where you had to make a decision without all the necessary information?

Asking this question allows you to assess a candidate's ability to think critically and make sound decisions when faced with incomplete information.

In many real-world scenarios, decisions need to be made based on limited or ambiguous data. By understanding how the candidate approached and resolved such a situation in the past, you can evaluate their analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and ability to handle uncertainty.

2. Share a situation where your initial solution to a problem didn't work as expected. How did you handle it?

Asking this question allows you to evaluate a candidate's adaptability, resilience, and problem-solving approach in the face of unexpected outcomes.

It assesses their ability to recognize and learn from mistakes, adjust their strategies, and find alternative solutions.

3. Can you recall a time you solved a complex problem with a simple solution?

This question assesses a candidate's ability to simplify complex problems, think creatively, and find innovative solutions.

Candidates who can effectively communicate how they simplified a problem and achieved a successful outcome demonstrate critical thinking, resourcefulness, and an ability to think outside the box.

4. What was a thought-provoking book, article, or report you've recently read? Why?

Asking this question allows you to evaluate a candidate's intellectual curiosity, critical thinking abilities, and engagement with complex ideas.

It provides insights into their reading habits, interests, and their capacity to reflect on and apply concepts from their reading material.

5. Give an example of when you spotted a potential problem and took measures to stop it from escalating.

This question assesses a candidate's proactive thinking, problem-solving skills, and ability to take decisive action.

Their answer can demonstrate their critical thinking in terms of identifying potential issues, analyzing risks, and implementing preventative measures.

6. How do you gather the data necessary to make informed decisions?

This question allows you to assess a candidate's ability to collect and analyze relevant data before making decisions.

It demonstrates their critical thinking skills, information-gathering techniques, and their understanding of the importance of data-driven decision-making.

7. Describe a time when you had to persuade a team member or boss to accept an idea you had.

Asking this question helps you evaluate a candidate's persuasive and communication skills, as well as their ability to think critically to influence others.

You can gauge their capacity to articulate and present their ideas effectively, provide convincing arguments, and overcome resistance.

8. Explain a situation where you had to rethink a situation due to contrary evidence.

This question assesses a candidate's openness to new information, their ability to challenge their own assumptions, and their critical thinking skills.

Based on their answer, you can determine if a candidate is intellectually curious, adaptable, and willing to reconsider their positions when presented with conflicting information.

9. When have you had to present complex information? How did you ensure that the audience understood?

Asking this question allows you to assess a candidate's ability to analyze complex information, distill key points, and effectively communicate them to others.

A strong candidate will demonstrate their critical thinking skills in terms of organizing and presenting information in a clear and understandable manner.

10. Can you describe an instance where you had to analyze a significant amount of data?

This question gives candidates the opportunity to demonstrate their critical thinking in terms of processing and synthesizing information to derive meaningful insights.

You can evaluate a candidate's ability to prioritize information, use appropriate tools or techniques for analysis, and draw relevant conclusions from the data.

11. Could you provide an example of a project that required strategic planning?

This question allows you to assess a candidate's ability to think strategically and plan for long-term goals.

Look for answers that demonstrate a candidate's capacity to analyze the broader context, set priorities, and align their actions with strategic objectives.

12. How have you dealt with situations that required critical thinking under pressure?

Asking this question helps you evaluate a candidate's ability to think critically and make sound decisions in high-pressure or time-sensitive situations.

Candidates need to showcase their ability to remain composed, assess information quickly, and consider multiple perspectives to arrive at effective solutions.

13. Discuss a time when you had to solve a problem by identifying its root cause rather than treating symptoms.

By sharing an example of when they successfully identified and resolved the root cause, candidates demonstrate their capacity to think critically, analyze complex situations, and devise effective solutions.

This question allows interviewers to assess the candidate's problem-solving approach, attention to detail, and ability to tackle challenges holistically rather than merely treating symptoms.

14. Tell me about a time when you worked on a project or problem that required heavy analytical thinking.

This question provides insights into the candidate's approach to analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities, which are vital in many roles that require decision-making, data analysis, and critical evaluation of information.

It helps you evaluate a candidate's ability to apply analytical techniques, think systematically, and make evidence-based decisions when confronted with complex projects or problems.

15. Name a situation in which you had to consider a broader perspective or wider context than you were used to.

This critical thinking interview question assesses the candidate's ability to think beyond their immediate frame of reference and consider broader perspectives and contexts.

It is particularly relevant in a professional setting where individuals need to navigate diverse perspectives, understand complex systems, and make informed decisions that account for multiple factors.

Is there another way to assess critical thinking skills?

To complement the interview process and ensure a more comprehensive assessment, employers should also consider incorporating psychometric tests.

Psychometric tests, such as abstract reasoning tests , logical reasoning tests and diagrammatic reasoning tests , offer a data-driven and objective approach to evaluating critical thinking skills.

These tests provide standardized assessments that measure a candidate's ability to analyze patterns, draw logical conclusions, and solve complex problems.

By combining interview questions with psychometric tests, employers can obtain a well-rounded evaluation of a candidate's critical thinking capabilities.

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Nov 1, 2021

20 Critical Thinking Interview Questions to Ask Candidates

Markellos Diorinos

Co-founder and CEO of Bryq, Markellos has a simple vision: to empower every organization to hire, grow and retain talent more effectively using science backed data.

Identifying critical thinking skills is essential in the recruitment process. Candidates often encounter situations where they lack complete information or data to address an issue. Moreover, solutions to problems are rarely straightforward or dichotomous. Therefore, employees must possess the ability to think creatively and tackle complex challenges. Assessing a candidate's critical thinking capabilities, however, can be a daunting task. Incorporating critical thinking questions during interviews is an effective strategy. These questions, especially when combined with Bryq's cognitive skills assessment, are instrumental in differentiating between candidates who are proactive thinkers and those who take a more passive approach to their problem-solving methods. This combined approach is particularly valuable in refining the selection process during interviews.

What is Critical Thinking...and Why is it Important?

Critical thinking means thinking reasonably without too much emotion or subjectivity. People who think critically try to push all of that aside when making decisions. Instead, these individuals rely on objectivity, reason, and logic to solve problems. These may be considered “soft skills”, but they are becoming increasingly important in the global workforce. Some jobs might require more critical thinking skills than others, but critical thinking skills will need to be utilized in every job role, no matter how straightforward a job might seem.

Take, for instance, a cashier job. It might seem that the only responsibilities a cashier might have are scanning groceries and handling money. But what if there is a price discrepancy? What if the cashier notices that a customer might be stealing merchandise? What if the customer hands over a fake note? These are all possible situations in which a cashier will need to use critical thinking skills to solve problems.

20 Critical Thinking Interview Questions

Critical thinking skills can’t be assessed by reading resumes or looking at previous work experience. Asking a candidate open-ended questions that allow them to demonstrate their ability to think outside of the box and use logic to solve problems will give you a much better idea of how sharp a candidate’s creative thinking skills are. Even asking questions that seem like riddles is a great way to get your candidates thinking! You can also use these questions to check for both hard and soft skills.

Use the following 20 questions to see which of your candidates has both the brains and logic to stand out above the rest: 

Tell us about a time when a project did not go as planned. What can be done to avoid a similar problem in the future?

Have you ever needed to make an important decision quickly?

Has there ever been a time when you needed to decide without knowing all the details of a situation?

Imagine that you are the project manager of an important project. Two of your co-workers cannot get along, delaying the project. How do you go about solving this issue?

Have you ever had to convince your manager that your way of solving a problem was the best? How did you go about convincing them that you were right?

Imagine coming to work to see you have been sent 1,000 emails overnight. If you only have time to answer 200 of them, how would you decide which 200 emails to respond to?

Have you ever foreseen a problem before it happened? What did you do to prevent this from happening?

A customer has approached you with a problem while you are talking to your manager about something very important. How would you react to this?

Describe the color green to somebody who is blind.

How would you go about putting together a 1,000-piece jigsaw puzzle?

While in a meeting, your co-worker suggests a solution to a problem you know will not work. Do you voice your concern to the team in the meeting?

Has there ever been a time when somebody suggested an idea to you that you had not considered? If so, what was your reaction to this?

What steps do you take when addressing a problem?

Describe a time when you noticed a problem at work and came up with a solution.

Have you ever had to adapt your work style for a manager? What adjustments did you make?

Tell us about a time when you set a lofty goal for yourself and achieved it. What steps did you take to make it happen?

What is the one thing you would change about your previous job? How would you go about making these changes?

Has there ever been a time when you were dealt with an unexpected situation at work that caused you to change your approach? Tell us how you handled it.

If your manager made a mistake on an important document, how would you address it?

Is it better to increase prices to gain profit or lower prices to make customers happy?

How to Assess Critical Thinking Skills

The answers to these critical thinking interview questions can and should vary across candidates. The more creative and thought-out the response is, the better the candidate should be able to solve complex problems. However, there are some common characteristics critical thinkers have that you can look for while assessing candidates.

Critical Thinkers Are Logical

They don’t let bias or their typical way of thinking get into their decision-making. They can consider a situation from every angle and use logic to develop a solution to a problem.

Critical Thinkers Are Trustworthy

They make well-reasoned decisions based on fact and logic, not emotion. This means that they make decisions that you can trust. Additionally, they use problem-solving techniques without worrying much about the opinions of others.

Critical Thinkers Are Innovative

They are true innovators at heart. They look at problems from a different perspective. Additionally, critical thinkers offer fresh solutions to your company’s problems that you might not have thought of before.

Unexpected Answers

Candidates who possess critical thinking skills typically give creative solutions to problems. If a candidate gives a typical answer to a question or presents an obvious solution to a problem, they might lack critical thinking skills. Giving “black or white” answers suggests that these candidates don’t know how to think outside the box. You should be looking for answers and solutions that are creative yet backed by logic.

Complete Answers

Some candidates might not give detailed answers to interview questions. Alternatively, some might not even answer your question at all. It’s important to note that many critical thinking interview questions don’t have “right” or “wrong” answers. When we ask questions, we are trying to figure out whether or not the candidate has the capacity to at least try to give a fully thought-out answer backed by logical reasoning that makes sense. If a candidate tells you that the sky is actually green and not blue while presenting logical explanations as to why, you have a critical thinker on your hands. A critical thinker will convince you of things based on logic.

Check Facts

In the answers the candidates gave you, did they search for more information before moving forward in their decision-making process? When solving problems, a critical thinker prefers to find out as much information as they can before making a final decision. Make sure your candidates are making decisions based on facts and not feelings.

Logical Reasoning

In their responses, do candidates use logical reasoning to solve the issues at hand? Or do they jump to conclusions and skip logic in favor of taking action right away? When interviewing candidates, seek out logical reasoning in their answers to determine if they are critical thinkers.

How Bryq Can Help

It’s obvious that looking for critical thinking skills in the interview process is important. Of course, interview questions are only as helpful as the tools you’re using alongside them to find future hires. Bryq’s talent assessment software helps you find the perfect candidate based on personality assessments and assessment questions made to test a candidate’s cognitive abilities and critical thinking skills . Our product is based on Industrial & Organizational Psychology and measures four distinct skills - numerical skills, logical reasoning, verbal skills, and attention to detail.

Hiring employees who possess critical thinking skills can benefit your company tremendously. These employees will offer new solutions to ongoing problems and innovative ideas to improve your processes and will work hard to make sure things go smoothly. Using the critical thinking interview questions above in conjunction with Bryq’s talent assessment software is a surefire way to hire a team of critical thinkers who will get the job done.

Do you want to see our product live in action? We’d love to show you how the magic happens. Click here to book a demo with us today!

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5 Interview Questions That Gauge Critical Thinking Skills

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As a job candidate, you're likely to encounter interview questions designed to assess your critical thinking skills. Employers highly value these skills because they demonstrate your ability to analyze information, solve problems creatively, and make sound decisions. In a world filled with AI, an overabundance of data, increasingly rapid decision-making, and greater autonomy with remote work, critical thinking skills are atop employers' lists of desired candidate traits.

Questions That Assess Critical Thinking Skills

Every company will put their own spin of critical thinking interview questions, but here are five of the most common questions that you should be ready to answer:

• Tell me about a time you had to solve a complex problem at work. What was your approach?
• What do you think are the three biggest challenges facing our industry right now? How would you address them?
• Describe a time when you had to make an important decision with limited information or time. How did you handle it?
• Tell me about a time your initial approach to solving a problem didn't work. How did you pivot?
• If you were in charge of our company, what's one major change you would make and why?

The good news with these five questions is that if you construct good answers for each of them, you'll be well-positioned to handle any other variations you come across.

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When you're answering critical thinking interview questions, it's vital for you to demonstrate how you analyze situations, assess and solve challenges, and reflect and learn from your experiences. And that's where the SHER Method can be especially helpful.

The SHER Method is a structured approach to answering interview questions that stands for Situation, Hurdle, Endgame, and Reflection. When using this method, you start by briefly describing the Situation or context of the experience you're sharing. Next, you explain the Hurdle or challenge you faced. Then, you detail the Endgame, which includes the actions you took to address the challenge and the results you achieved. Finally, you conclude with a Reflection, sharing what you learned from the experience and how it has influenced your subsequent professional conduct.

The SHER Method is particularly powerful for demonstrating critical thinking skills because it guides candidates to systematically analyze a situation, identify challenges, explain their problem-solving process, and reflect on outcomes and lessons learned. It showcases your ability to think critically and learn from experiences in a structured and compelling way. And that's really the foundation of critical thinking skills.

When answering critical thinking interview questions, keep these points in mind:

• Use specific examples from your experience
• Clearly explain your thought process and reasoning
• Demonstrate a systematic approach to problem-solving
• Show that you consider multiple perspectives
• Emphasize data-driven decision making
• Highlight your ability to adapt and learn from experiences
• Be prepared to discuss both successes and failures
• Show how you've applied lessons learned to future situations

Specific Answers To Critical Thinking Interview Questions

Let's look at some specific answers to some of the aforementioned questions that assess critical thinking skills.

Question 1: Tell me about a time you had to solve a complex problem at work. What was your approach?

Why is this an important question that is often included in interviews? It's because there is no shortage of complex problems that need solving, and when a company is making a big hire, it hopes the candidate has some good solutions.

In your answer, describe the complex problem you faced, explain the main challenges you encountered, detail the steps you took to solve the problem, and share what you learned from the experience.

Here's an example answer: "In my previous role as a project manager, we were tasked with implementing a new software system that would integrate multiple departments. The primary challenge was significant resistance to change from each department. I started by mapping out all the current processes and identifying areas of overlap. Then, I conducted interviews with key stakeholders from each department to understand their specific needs and concerns. Using this information, I created a phased implementation plan that addressed each department's unique requirements while still achieving our overall integration goals. This experience taught me the importance of stakeholder engagement in managing complex changes. I've since incorporated regular cross-departmental meetings into all my projects to ensure alignment and address concerns proactively."

Question 2: What do you think are the three biggest challenges facing our industry right now? How would you address them?

Why is this an important question that is often included in interviews? Simply put, it evaluates your strategic thinking and industry knowledge. If you're interviewing somewhere that prioritizes industry veterans, this question is quite common.

In your response, acknowledge the current state of the industry, identify three specific challenges, propose solutions for each challenge, and conclude with a forward-looking statement.

Here's an example answer: "The [specific] industry is currently facing significant disruption due to technological advancements, changing consumer behaviors, and regulatory pressures. The three biggest challenges I see are: 1) Adapting to rapidly evolving technology, 2) Meeting increasing customer demands for personalization, and 3) Navigating complex regulatory environments. To address these challenges, I would: 1) Implement a continuous learning program to keep our team updated on the latest technologies, 2) Invest in data analytics to better understand and predict customer preferences, and 3) Establish a dedicated regulatory compliance team to ensure we stay ahead of legal requirements. These challenges also present opportunities for companies that can adapt quickly. By addressing them proactively, we can position ourselves as industry leaders."

Question 3: Describe a time when you had to make an important decision with limited information or time. How did you handle it?

This question assesses your decision-making skills under pressure, which are relevant to lots of companies these days. In your answer, set the scene, explain the constraints you faced, detail your decision-making process, and share the outcome and lessons learned.

For example: "During a critical product launch, we discovered a potential safety issue just 24 hours before the scheduled release. We had limited time to gather information and make a decision, and any delay would result in significant financial losses. I quickly assembled a cross-functional team including engineering, legal, and marketing. We conducted a rapid risk assessment, weighing the potential safety concerns against the impact of delaying the launch. Based on our analysis, we decided to postpone the launch by one week to thoroughly address the safety issue. This decision ultimately saved us from potential legal issues and reputational damage. It reinforced for me the importance of prioritizing safety and quality over short-term gains, and the value of having a diverse team for rapid problem-solving."

Demonstrate Critical Thinking Skills Through Your Answers

Remember that when companies ask about critical thinking skills, they're not just looking for the correct answer but for insight into how you think and approach challenges. By demonstrating your ability to analyze situations, overcome obstacles, implement solutions, and learn from outcomes, you'll position yourself as someone who exercises critical thinking skills all day, every day.

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13 critical thinking interview questions to use

If you’re looking to fill a position that requires precise and rational decision-making skills, critical thinking interview questions are an essential component in your interview process .

Many hiring managers overlook this veiled job requirement and skill because it’s not always easily assessed. Some candidates have the technical skills and experience but might not have the emotional intelligence or critical thinking skills to succeed.

That’s where interview questions to assess problem-solving skills can come in handy.

What is critical thinking?

Critical thinking is a thought process that allows a person to evaluate and assess information objectively and calculate responses and judgment. Critical thinking can be compared to rash, reactive thought processes which generate immediate and purely emotional responses.

In the workplace, people with critical thinking skills are highly valued as they usually provide rational advice, thought-out solutions, and fair assessments.

It’s tough to establish the level of a candidate’s critical thinking skills unless you specifically look for it during the interview process. Critical thinking interview questions are one of the tools available to hiring managers to gauge how a candidate will handle unpredictable situations that may arise on the job.

Tailored critical thinking interview questions

There are plenty of examples of different types of interview questions available, but your questions must relate to the position and the environment in your company. For example, if the role requires critical decisions on a technical level, the questions must be structured around the relevant skill. If the role requires critical thinking around people (customers or staff), focus on people skills.

There’s a trend to ask brainteaser questions during interviews to measure a candidate’s response, but please don’t go that route. It’s pointless! Asking something like “Jo is one of three children. Her sisters are named May and June. What’s the third child’s name?” is meaningless.

Whether the candidate answers “Jo” correctly or says “probably April” tells you nothing about their critical thinking abilities or anything else.

Apart from potentially making a candidate feel confused and uncomfortable, you could have them questioning how genuine you are.

Plan every step in the recruitment process before the interviews start. If a role needs rational decision-making, a list of critical thinking interview questions must be compiled, preferably by the hiring team rather than just the hiring manager. Collaborative thinking and inclusive staff recruitment allow for different opinions and perspectives of the same role and its requirements.

Ensure that your interview questions are challenging

These questions aren’t intended to be easy. Questions must be thought-provoking. Make the candidate think about how they would respond to and react in specific, tricky situations. You’re not necessarily looking for the right or wrong answers or solutions. Instead, you’re evaluating the candidate’s response rather than skill.

Virtually every department has positions that profoundly impact outcomes for other team members, customers, production, sales, your company brand, etc. Staff who hold these positions require well-developed critical thinking skills.

When compiling your list of interview questions, go way beyond the job skills or experience needed. Analyze what the impact of poor decision making in this role will have on existing staff, customers, your brand, and your business as a whole.

Once you’ve isolated the areas of influence connected to the role, you can start compiling your list of questions. We’re splitting the question examples into technical roles and roles that involve people skills. Your vacancy might be a combination of both. There can never be a template for critical thinking interview questions because each position and company differs, so use these as a guide to inspire you.

Critical thinking interview questions for hard skills

• What would you do if you had a looming project/production deadline, but you didn’t yet have all the information/components to deliver on time?
• If you’ve figured out a quicker or more cost-effective solution to a problem, but your manager doesn’t get what you’re saying, what would you do?
• If there’s a weak link in your team or supply chain that’s impacting productivity, how would you approach the problem?
• What would you do if a customer or manager was trying to push a project through at the expense of other projects that already have confirmed delivery dates?
• When you’re in a team of specialists, you can easily find differences of opinions on what direction projects should take. How do you find consensus?
• Have you ever had to convince a manager to try out a different solution to solve a problem?

Critical thinking interview questions for soft skills

•  An order hasn’t been delivered to a customer on time, and they’re furious. They want you to cancel the order and close their account immediately. How would you repair the damage and keep the customer?
•  Business has slowed, and you’re in a sales brainstorming session. Someone suggests lowering prices and focusing more on customer satisfaction. What’s your reaction?
•  You have an employee who’s excellent at their job, but is blunt and abrasive with colleagues and that’s causing friction in your department. How do you resolve the matter?
•  You’re in a meeting, and your manager misquotes pricing or a process that can have a significant impact on your department or a project. What do you do?
•  You notice that your manager (or a colleague) is inclined to shift blame and not accept responsibility when under pressure. How do you approach the subject?
• If you had to make a decision based on incomplete information, how would you approach this?
• How would you handle a situation where you and your teammates disagree on how to move forward on a project?

What are you looking for when asking critical thinking interview questions?

You’ll notice that the issues listed above are very broad and there’s no right or wrong answer or outcome.

• What you’re looking for is how the candidate responds. Each question is a hypothetical situation that has the potential to become a big issue if not resolved properly.
• People who have high emotional intelligence and developed critical thinking skills won’t give you any old answer. Faced with a complicated situation, their critical thinking will kick in, and they’ll most likely ask you some questions for more clarity. Don’t be surprised if you get an “mmm, I’ll have to think about that…” response initially — people with developed critical thinking process information before reacting or responding.
• People who don’t ask for more details, and don’t think before responding, likely don’t have developed analytical skills. They’re also more inclined to poor, emotional decision making.

8 benefits of critical thinkers

Critical thinkers who are capable of unbiased and fair judgment all have the following abilities:

• Developed analytical skills: They analyze situations carefully.
• Good reasoning skills: They reason in a logical and fact-based way.
• Solid emotional perception: They can separate truths from lies and point them out.
• Social experience: They conduct further research or fall back on past experiences for reference. They apply known and accepted standards and limit bias.
• Comparative analysis: They distinguish between variances and make comparisons.
• Solution-oriented thinking: They envision a solution and its potential consequences.
• Calculating actions: They quantify their conclusions and take decisive action.
• Creative thinking: They convert the situation from a negative to a positive.

This process may be gradual, developing as a situation evolves, or decisions may be made quickly depending on their skill level. Whether they have to think on their feet or address long-standing problems, people with well-developed critical-thinking skills can face a given situation and resolve it in the best way possible. They also don’t hesitate to make unpopular decisions if it’s in the best interest of the company or people involved.

Use all interview and assessment tools available

For crucial positions, you’ll need more than just a list of critical thinking interview questions to establish if a candidate is a good fit for the role. Psychometric assessments can give you more insight into a candidate’s personality.

Past employment references are also an excellent tool to establish how a candidate has handled pressures in similar situations previously. Past behavior can be a predictor of future behavior, but is not foolproof either. As people mature and environments change, so can their attitude and their aptitude in the workplace.

Tania is the Head of SEO and Content at Tellent. She's been a hiring manager for over 8 years and enjoys learning about recruitment and people management topics, in addition to solving user pain points through content.

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Critical thinking interview questions (and answers)

25 interview questions to find out critically your candidates think.

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25 good critical thinking questions

• How do you define critical thinking, and why is it important in problem-solving and decision-making?
• Describe a situation when you had to analyse complex data or information to solve a problem.
• How do you approach challenges or obstacles in your work, and how does critical thinking play a role in overcoming them?
• Share an example of a time when you used critical thinking to identify the root cause of a problem.
• How do you assess the credibility and reliability of information sources when conducting research or making decisions?
• Describe a time when you had to make a difficult decision with limited information, and how did you use critical thinking to approach it?
• How do you avoid biases and assumptions when analysing information or situations?
• Share an example of a time when you used critical thinking to evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of a process or workflow.
• How do you handle conflicting information or opinions from team members during collaborative projects?
• Describe a time when you used critical thinking to anticipate potential risks or challenges in a project and developed contingency plans.
• How do you use critical thinking to prioritise tasks and allocate resources efficiently in a project with multiple deadlines?
• Share an example of a time when you used critical thinking to evaluate the feasibility of a new idea or project proposal.
• How do you use critical thinking to identify opportunities for process improvements or innovation within your team or organisation?
• Describe a time when you used critical thinking to identify a gap in the market or industry and proposed a new solution or product.
• How do you use critical thinking to evaluate the success or failure of a project, and how do you apply lessons learned to future endeavours?
• Share an example of a time when you used critical thinking to assess the potential impact of a new business strategy or decision.
• How do you use critical thinking to identify inefficiencies or redundancies in workflows or operations?
• Describe a time when you used critical thinking to solve a complex problem that required input from multiple disciplines or expertise areas.
• How do you use critical thinking to assess the validity of assumptions and predictions in long-term planning or forecasting?
• Share an example of a time when you used critical thinking to resolve a complex conflict between stakeholders with opposing interests.
• How do you use critical thinking to stay updated on industry trends and advancements in your field?
• Describe a time when you used critical thinking to address a complex ethical dilemma in the workplace.
• How do you use critical thinking to identify potential opportunities or threats in the competitive landscape for your organisation?
• Share an example of a time when you used critical thinking to lead a team through a complex project or challenge.
• How do you use critical thinking to effectively communicate and present complex ideas or data to non-technical stakeholders?

1. How do you define critical thinking, and why is it important in problem-solving and decision-making?

What to look for:

Candidates who understand the significance of critical thinking in evaluating information and making informed decisions.

Suggested answer:

“Critical thinking involves analysing, evaluating, and interpreting information objectively to arrive at logical conclusions. It’s crucial in problem-solving and decision-making to ensure well-informed and effective outcomes.”

2. Describe a situation when you had to analyse complex data or information to solve a problem.

The candidate’s ability to apply critical thinking skills to handle complex tasks.

“In a project, I had to analyse large sets of data to identify trends and patterns. I used various analytical tools, questioned assumptions, and validated results to make data-driven recommendations.”

3. How do you approach challenges or obstacles in your work, and how does critical thinking play a role in overcoming them?

Candidates who demonstrate a proactive and analytical approach to problem-solving.

“When faced with challenges, I break down the problem into smaller components, gather relevant information, and assess potential solutions through critical thinking. It helps me develop effective strategies to overcome obstacles.”

4. Share an example of a time when you used critical thinking to identify the root cause of a problem.

Evidence of the candidate’s ability to dig deeper into issues and identify underlying causes.

“In a quality issue, I employed critical thinking to investigate the problem thoroughly. I analysed process data, interviewed team members, and determined that the root cause was a faulty component in the production line.”

5. How do you assess the credibility and reliability of information sources when conducting research or making decisions?

Candidates who can evaluate information sources critically.

“I assess information sources based on their reputation, credibility, and evidence presented. I cross-reference information from multiple reliable sources to ensure accuracy before making decisions.”

6. Describe a time when you had to make a difficult decision with limited information, and how did you use critical thinking to approach it?

The candidate’s ability to make informed decisions under uncertainty.

“During a tight deadline, I had to make a decision with incomplete information. I gathered available data, identified key assumptions, and used critical thinking to weigh pros and cons before making the best possible choice.”

7. How do you avoid biases and assumptions when analysing information or situations?

Candidates who are aware of biases and actively seek to minimise their impact on decision-making.

“To avoid biases, I challenge my assumptions and seek alternative viewpoints. I encourage feedback from diverse perspectives and remain open to changing my position based on evidence.”

8. Share an example of a time when you used critical thinking to evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of a process or workflow.

Evidence of the candidate’s ability to identify process improvements through critical analysis.

“In a project, I examined the workflow to identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies. I used critical thinking to propose process improvements that optimised resource utilisation and reduced turnaround time.”

9. How do you handle conflicting information or opinions from team members during collaborative projects?

Candidates who can navigate conflicting viewpoints and promote constructive discussions.

“In collaborative projects, I encourage open dialogue, and I use critical thinking to objectively evaluate conflicting information. I foster a collaborative environment where team members can present evidence to support their views.”

10. Describe a time when you used critical thinking to anticipate potential risks or challenges in a project and developed contingency plans.

The candidate’s ability to proactively address potential issues through critical analysis.

“In a project, I conducted a risk analysis, using critical thinking to identify potential challenges. I developed contingency plans to mitigate risks and ensure project success even in adverse scenarios.”

11. How do you use critical thinking to prioritise tasks and allocate resources efficiently in a project with multiple deadlines?

Candidates who can make strategic decisions based on critical analysis.

“In projects with multiple deadlines, I assess the urgency and impact of each task through critical thinking. I prioritise tasks based on their importance and allocate resources accordingly to optimise project outcomes.”

12. Share an example of a time when you used critical thinking to evaluate the feasibility of a new idea or project proposal.

Evidence of the candidate’s ability to objectively assess the viability of ideas.

“When presented with a new project proposal, I used critical thinking to conduct a thorough cost-benefit analysis. I considered potential challenges and long-term sustainability before making a recommendation.”

13. How do you use critical thinking to identify opportunities for process improvements or innovation within your team or organisation?

Candidates who can think strategically to drive improvements.

“I actively seek opportunities for process improvements by critically analysing existing workflows. I encourage feedback from team members and explore innovative approaches to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.”

14. Describe a time when you used critical thinking to identify a gap in the market or industry and proposed a new solution or product.

The candidate’s ability to think creatively and strategically to seize opportunities.

“While researching the market, I noticed a gap in a specific product category. Using critical thinking, I analysed consumer needs and developed a new product concept to address the gap.”

15. How do you use critical thinking to evaluate the success or failure of a project, and how do you apply lessons learned to future endeavours?

Candidates who can learn from past experiences and apply insights to improve future performance.

“After completing a project, I conduct a post-mortem analysis, using critical thinking to evaluate successes and areas for improvement. I apply lessons learned to refine processes and enhance future projects.”

16. Share an example of a time when you used critical thinking to assess the potential impact of a new business strategy or decision.

Evidence of the candidate’s ability to think analytically to assess potential outcomes.

“When considering a new business strategy, I used critical thinking to conduct a SWOT analysis and assess the potential risks and benefits. It allowed me to make an informed decision that aligned with our long-term goals.”

17. How do you use critical thinking to identify inefficiencies or redundancies in workflows or operations?

Candidates who can spot opportunities for optimisation through critical analysis.

“To identify inefficiencies, I critically evaluate workflows and processes, seeking feedback from team members. I look for opportunities to streamline operations and eliminate redundancies.”

18. Describe a time when you used critical thinking to solve a complex problem that required input from multiple disciplines or expertise areas.

The candidate’s ability to synthesise information from diverse sources to arrive at solutions.

“In a complex project, I collaborated with colleagues from different departments. Using critical thinking, I integrated their expertise to devise a comprehensive solution that addressed all aspects of the problem.”

19. How do you use critical thinking to assess the validity of assumptions and predictions in long-term planning or forecasting?

Candidates who can evaluate the reliability of assumptions in strategic planning.

“When developing long-term plans, I critically assess the underlying assumptions and consider potential changes in the external environment. I make data-driven decisions and update strategies as needed.”

20. Share an example of a time when you used critical thinking to resolve a complex conflict between stakeholders with opposing interests.

Evidence of the candidate’s ability to navigate complex situations with analytical thinking.

“In a stakeholder conflict, I gathered information from all parties involved and used critical thinking to identify common goals. By finding areas of agreement, I facilitated a resolution that satisfied everyone’s interests.”

21. How do you use critical thinking to stay updated on industry trends and advancements in your field?

Candidates who can proactively seek knowledge and apply insights to their work.

“To stay informed, I engage in continuous learning, using critical thinking to evaluate the relevance and credibility of information sources. I attend industry events and research to remain at the forefront of developments.”

22. Describe a time when you used critical thinking to address a complex ethical dilemma in the workplace.

The candidate’s ability to analyse ethical issues and make principled decisions.

“When facing an ethical dilemma, I applied critical thinking to consider the potential consequences of each decision. I sought advice from ethical experts and acted in alignment with our organisation’s values.”

23. How do you use critical thinking to identify potential opportunities or threats in the competitive landscape for your organisation?

Candidates who can think strategically to position the organisation for success.

“To assess the competitive landscape, I use critical thinking to analyse market trends, competitor strategies, and emerging opportunities. This allows me to make strategic recommendations for our organisation.”

24. Share an example of a time when you used critical thinking to lead a team through a complex project or challenge.

Evidence of the candidate’s ability to apply critical thinking in leadership roles.

“In a complex project, I facilitated brainstorming sessions, encouraging team members to think critically and contribute diverse perspectives. This approach fostered innovative solutions and led to project success.”

25. How do you use critical thinking to effectively communicate and present complex ideas or data to non-technical stakeholders?

Candidates who can distil complex information for broader audiences.

“When communicating complex ideas, I use critical thinking to structure my message logically. I focus on presenting key insights and implications in a clear and accessible manner for non-technical stakeholders.”

Please remember that the suggested answers here are examples, and candidates will (and should) provide their own set of unique responses based on their past experiences. 

As a recruiter, focus on the candidate’s ability to think analytically, objectively assess information, solve complex problems, and make well-informed decisions.

Look for real-life examples that demonstrate their critical thinking skills and how they have positively impacted projects, decision-making processes, and problem-solving initiatives.

How to measure critical thinking skills?

Critical thinking enables individuals to analyse information, solve complex problems, and make informed decisions.

Assessing critical thinking skills in potential candidates involves evaluating their problem-solving abilities, decision-making processes, analytical skills, and creativity in approaching challenges. 

Problem-solving ability:

Evaluate a candidate’s capacity to analyse complex problems, break them down into manageable components, and develop effective solutions. Assess their track record in resolving challenges within previous roles.

Decision-making process:

Inquire about a candidate’s decision-making approach. Ask them to provide examples of situations where they had to make critical decisions, considering factors, risks, and potential outcomes.

Analytical skills:

Assess a candidate’s ability to gather, interpret, and analyse information. Look for instances where they have used data and evidence to support their decisions or recommendations.

Creative thinking:

Critical thinking involves thinking outside the box and generating innovative solutions. Evaluate a candidate’s creativity in problem-solving and their ability to approach challenges from different perspectives.

Research skills:

In a work context, critical thinkers often need to conduct research to gather relevant information. Assess a candidate’s research skills, including their ability to find and evaluate reliable sources.

Logical reasoning:

Evaluate a candidate’s capacity for logical reasoning and the coherence of their thought process. Pose questions or scenarios that require logical thinking and observe how they approach and structure their responses.

Adaptability to change:

Critical thinkers are often more adaptable to change. Inquire about instances where candidates had to adjust their strategies or approaches due to changing circumstances, and evaluate their ability to learn from such experiences.

Communication of ideas:

Strong critical thinkers can articulate their ideas clearly. Assess a candidate’s communication skills, looking for their ability to express complex concepts in a way that is easily understood by others.

These points offer a concise framework for assessing a candidate’s critical thinking skills. Keep in mind that critical thinking is a valuable skill that contributes to effective decision-making, problem-solving, and overall success in a professional setting.

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5 Effective Interview Questions to Measure Critical Thinking

Interview questions

This is part of the Test Partnership interview questions series to help get the highest quality candidates.

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Lead consultant at Test Partnership, Ben Schwencke , explains why Critical Thinking is worth measuring.

Effective critical thinking is an essential cognitive ability in today's fast-paced and complex business environment. Employers are looking for candidates who can analyse information, identify patterns, and make sound decisions based on evidence and logical reasoning. As a result, measuring critical thinking has become an important part of the hiring process.

While cognitive ability tests are effective, interviews remain an essential part of the hiring process, providing valuable insights into a candidate's critical thinking skills.

To measure critical thinking effectively during interviews, employers need to ask the right questions. This article will explore five effective interview questions that can help measure critical thinking skills in candidates. Each question is designed to assess a different aspect of critical thinking, such as problem-solving, decision-making, and creativity. In this article, we will provide five effective questions to measure critical thinking in interviews, along with advice on what constitutes a strong / weak answer.

How do you approach problems that have no clear solution or path forward?

Would showcase the candidate's ability to use critical thinking to approach complex problems. The candidate should be able to demonstrate their ability to break down a problem into smaller parts, identify potential solutions, and weigh different factors to arrive at a decision. Additionally, a strong answer should showcase the candidate's ability to adapt to new information and adjust their approach as needed.

Might lack structure or clarity. The candidate might struggle to articulate a clear approach to problem-solving, or they may provide vague or generic examples that don't showcase their ability to think critically. Additionally, a weak answer might lack concrete details or evidence to support the candidate's claims, suggesting that they may not have a strong track record of using critical thinking to solve complex problems. Finally, a weak answer might show an inability to adapt to new information or adjust their approach, suggesting that the candidate may struggle to work effectively in a dynamic or changing environment.

• 1. How do you break down the problem into smaller, more manageable parts?
• 2. What factors do you consider when evaluating potential solutions?
• 3. How do you prioritize and weigh different factors when making a decision?

How do you prioritize competing demands or conflicting goals when making decisions?

Would demonstrate the candidate's ability to use critical thinking to evaluate complex situations with conflicting demands or goals. The candidate should be able to articulate a clear approach to decision-making, including the factors they consider and how they weigh the importance of each factor. Additionally, a strong answer should showcase the candidate's ability to make data-driven decisions based on a thoughtful and strategic analysis of the situation.

• 1. What factors do you consider when evaluating competing demands or goals?
• 2. How do you weigh the importance of each factor?
• 3. Can you provide an example of a time when you had to make a decision with competing demands or goals? How did you arrive at a decision?

Can you walk me through a decision you made that involved weighing different options and their potential consequences?

Would showcase the candidate's ability to use critical thinking to evaluate complex situations and make data-driven decisions. The candidate should be able to articulate a clear approach to decision-making, including the factors they consider and how they weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks of each option. Additionally, a strong answer should demonstrate the candidate's ability to analyse outcomes and reflect on their decisions, including whether they feel they made the right choice and what they would do differently in the future.

Might lack structure or clarity. The candidate might struggle to articulate a clear approach to decision-making, or they may provide vague or generic examples that don't showcase their ability to think critically. Additionally, a weak answer might lack concrete details or evidence to support the candidate's claims, suggesting that they may not have a strong track record of using critical thinking to evaluate complex situations. Finally, a weak answer might show an inability to analyse outcomes or reflect on decisions, suggesting that the candidate may struggle to learn from past experiences and improve their decision-making skills over time.

• 1. What factors did you consider when evaluating each option?
• 2. How did you weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks of each option?
• 3. Can you discuss the outcome of the decision and whether you feel it was the right one?

How do you handle situations where there is no clear precedent or established process to follow?

Would demonstrate the candidate's ability to think critically and adapt to new and challenging situations. The candidate should be able to articulate a clear approach to problem-solving, including how they gather information, evaluate potential solutions, and make data-driven decisions. Additionally, a strong answer should showcase the candidate's ability to think creatively and outside the box, as critical thinking often involves finding new and innovative solutions to complex problems.

Might lack structure or clarity. The candidate might struggle to articulate a clear approach to problem-solving, or they may provide vague or generic examples that don't showcase their ability to think critically. Additionally, a weak answer might lack concrete details or evidence to support the candidate's claims, suggesting that they may not have a strong track record of adapting to new and challenging situations. Finally, a weak answer might show an inability to think creatively or outside the box, suggesting that the candidate may struggle to find new and innovative solutions to complex problems.

• 1. How do you go about gathering information and assessing the situation?
• 2. What factors do you consider when determining the best course of action?
• 3. Can you provide an example of a time when you had to make a decision without a clear precedent or established process? How did you approach the situation?

How do you ensure that your decision-making process is objective and data-driven?

Would demonstrate the candidate's ability to use critical thinking to make objective and data-driven decisions. The candidate should be able to articulate a clear approach to decision-making, including the sources of information they use and how they weigh conflicting data points. Additionally, a strong answer should showcase the candidate's ability to use data and analysis to inform their decision-making, rather than relying solely on intuition or personal biases.

Might lack structure or clarity. The candidate might struggle to articulate a clear approach to decision-making, or they may provide vague or generic examples that don't showcase their ability to think critically. Additionally, a weak answer might lack concrete details or evidence to support the candidate's claims, suggesting that they may not have a strong track record of using data and analysis to inform their decision-making. Finally, a weak answer might show an inability to weigh conflicting data points or make objective decisions, suggesting that the candidate may struggle to make effective decisions in a high-pressure or dynamic environment.

• 1. What sources of information do you use when making decisions?
• 2. How do you weigh conflicting information or data points?
• 3. Can you provide an example of a time when you made a decision based on data and analysis?

Limitations of interview questions for Critical Thinking

As a cognitive ability, critical thinking is sub-optimally measured using interviews. Many different factors can influence interview performance, many of which are behavioural and interpersonal in nature. Consequently, a skilled interviewee could easily convince an interviewer that they have strong critical thinking skills, but in reality, they are just charismatic. Instead, as with other aptitudes, cognitive ability tests should be used to assess critical thinking, providing a less biased and more reliable estimate of a candidate’s critical thinking.

Test Partnership's critical thinking test is the ideal assessment of critical thinking in the workplace. Research shows that aptitude tests, including critical thinking tests, rank among the most powerful predictors of performance known, making them invaluable recruitment tools. Our critical thinking test, in particular, allows you to capture this essential capability, without the need for extensive interviewing. For more information on our critical thinking test, please contact us directly or register for a free trial.

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