Hi there,
I am currently a first year law student, I currently have completed a few watson glaser and situational judgement tests for numerous law firms and have received offers back.
Just wondering whether watson glaser is harder or easier than situational judgement tests. I would just like to know that and whether I should hold back from or apply to firms that do the watson glaser test. As well as that, how are assessment centres at firms for when you're applying to vacation schemes or training contracts.
Hey!
It's great to hear that you have already had some success with online tests - it is an area a lot of people struggle with, so it's good that you have had a strong start!
I don't think either the Watson Glaser or situational judgement tests are necessarily "easier" or "harder, as they assess different things and some people prefer each. In my experience, I found that the Watson Glaser test can be a bit easier to learn and improve at over time, because it is testing structured critical thinking (e.g. assumptions, inferences, etc), so practice can help you get familiar with the patterns. SJTs are slightly different in that you can prepare to an extent, but it is more about judgement and alignment with the firm, so there is less of a clear 'technique' beyond practising questions and understanding what firms are looking for. Anecdotally, I have only ever completed two WG tests in my time applying and I spent a bit of time preparing for each (+ managed to pass them both). On the other hand, I have completed quite a few SJT tests and found that I've had mixed results, no matter how much I prepare.
Because of that, I wouldn't avoid firms that use Watson Glaser at all - it is very common, and it is one of the more "trainable" tests once you get used to it and know what they are looking for.
For assessment centres, they do vary quite a lot from firm to firm, so I'd definitely do some research online! However, for VS/TC, you will usually see a mix of a case study or written exercise, an interview (motivations, competencies, commercial awareness), and sometimes a group task. At that stage, they're really looking at your performance a bit more holistically - they can tell from your application + online tests that you are capable of the role, and want to see how you think, communicate, and approach problems.
I would focus on getting comfortable with both types of tests, rather than trying to avoid one - it'll give you a lot more flexibility and confidence as you apply! There are plenty of free practice resources for the Watson Glaser (+ SJT) online, so it is worth checking them out.
I hope that helps, and best of luck with your applications!
