Ben Stone
By Anna Glaze-Krayer, Careers Adviser
A situational judgement test (SJT) is one form of psychometric test. Many large and some smaller organisations use psychometric tests as part of the recruitment process.
A situational judgement test usually presents a hypothetical scenario related to the workplace, and requires candidates to select the most appropriate option in response to that scenario. They are designed to give the employer an insight into how you might approach your decision-making at their organisation, and if your problem-solving, communication, and planning skills align with their requirements.
Like all psychometric tests, the best way to prepare for a situational judgement test is to try practice tests. This will help familiarise you with the format, which may otherwise be quite different from other tests you have come across. We asked Ben Stone to talk about his experience further insight and top tips!
I encountered a number of psychometric tests when applying for both first year law insight schemes and when applying for vacation schemes at law firms. These ranged from traditional Watson Glaser style questions to scenario based situational judgment tests.
Applying to Linklaters
I applied for Linklaters First Year Pathfinder Scheme and I was required to complete both a Watson Glaser and situational judgment test.
In terms of preparing for these tests, I researched the core competences that the firm was looking for. With Linklaters having an agile mindset framework was important and they highlighted a number of specific skills that successful candidates display. This was useful for then answering the scenario-based questions as I was able to ascertain what specific skill they were looking to be demonstrated and how best this could be shown.
In terms of the Watson Glaser element of the test, I did additional preparation by utilising free online practice tests as a mock test. I then looked at the questions I got wrong and looked at the methodology for how to find the right answer.
Vacation schemes and SJTs at Allen & Overy
Similar tips apply to vacation scheme applications I have done that use psychometric testing.
When I applied to Allen & Overy I had to complete a SJT. I again recommend looking at the qualities the firm lists as being desirable as this information will be useful in determining what answers are better than others.
Additionally, I would recommend having a strong grasp of the type of work the firm does and how the lawyers operate within that as this provides a foundational knowledge that is useful for context and deciding what is the common answer the firm is looking for. I found that watching YouTube videos of law influencers who are working in corporate law firms was very useful for providing this insight.
If you are asked to undertake a psychometric tests as part of the selection process, visit our webpage for top tips and practice resources. We also have information on game-based assessments.
Posted on Thursday 18th September 2025