The reasoning trait measures how people reason, their ability to quickly analyze, understand, and deal with situations or complex problems. The trait has two opposite poles namely Concrete and Abstract. Let’s look into both poles to better understand how we assess the reasoning trait.

Concrete: People who are engaged in concrete thinking tend to adapt well in situations where problems are straightforward by emphasizing tangible, immediate factors over abstract concepts. They prioritize factual information, physical objects, and literal definitions, focusing on the here and now rather than abstract ideas or complex theories.

Abstract: People who think in an abstract way and focus on the broader significance of ideas and information rather than the concrete details. They excel in analytical thinking as they are interested in the deeper meaning of things and are able to grasp abstract relationships to reach quick conclusions, hence they are great problem solvers, capable of tackling complex issues by synthesizing abstract concepts and patterns.

In accordance with research findings, Bryq assessment provides an evidence-based way to assess the reasoning trait in order to provide you with insights that can assist in making informed decisions about the suitability of the candidates based on candidates' scores on this specific trait.

The interview questions listed below can draw revealing answers and get you on your way to finding whether employees tend to think in a more abstract or concrete way to resolve problems.

Note: There is no right or wrong answer, the answer you are seeking is based on what best fits the role and your company culture.

1. Describe a situation at work in which you did not have all the facts available in order to make a decision. How did you go about making a decision?

Abstract: Individuals who score closer towards the abstract end of the scale are most likely to answer that they tried to work with the facts that were available to them, think of the relationships between them and figure out the remaining missing information and make associate leaps while abductively reaching the best possible conclusion.

Concrete: Individuals who score closer towards the concrete end of the scale are most likely to answer that it was challenging to fill out the missing information and they couldn’t reach reliable conclusions.

2. Describe a situation in which you were faced with a complex problem at work or in a project. How did you approach analyzing the problem, and what steps did you take to break it down into manageable components? Walk me through your thought process as you worked towards a solution.

Abstract: Individuals who score closer towards the abstract end of the scale are most likely to answer that they demonstrated a systematic approach to problem-solving, critical thinking skills, and the ability to effectively analyze complex situations.

Concrete: Individuals who score closer towards the concrete end of the scale are most likely to answer that it was challenging for them to break it down into manageable components. Their problem-solving approach and creativity may be more focused on practical, hands-on knowledge rather than abstract information. As a result, their approach may lack strong analytical skills when it comes to analyzing complex situations.

3. Give me an example of a situation where you needed to pay attention to small but important details? When was this? How did it turn out?

4. Tell me how you manage your daily work schedule.

5. Tell me about a task that was tedious or boring to you—but had to be done. How did you approach and tackle the task?

6. Think about the most exciting and energizing aspect of your current or most recent position. What did you specifically enjoy about it? Why?