How to Succeed in Police Situational Judgment Tests (SJTs)

5 Tips to Ace the Police Situational Judgment Test

The situational judgment test (SJT) is a crucial part of the police hiring process. It assesses your decision-making skills, ethical judgment, and ability to handle challenging scenarios. Success in the SJT depends on understanding what law enforcement agencies look for and preparing accordingly. Here are five tips to help you ace this important test.

1. Understand the Purpose of the SJT

The SJT is designed to evaluate how you would respond to real-life situations that police officers often face. These scenarios test your problem-solving abilities, ethics, and ability to remain calm under pressure. Knowing this can help you approach the test with the right mindset.

Tip: Review your department’s mission and values to better understand the qualities they prioritize, such as integrity, fairness, and teamwork.

2. Prioritize Safety and Ethics

In law enforcement, public safety and ethical behavior are always the top priorities. When evaluating options during the test, consider how your choices impact safety, fairness, and professionalism.

Tip: Ask yourself, “Does this action ensure safety and align with ethical standards?” before selecting your answer.

3. Think Like a Team Player

Many SJT scenarios involve teamwork and collaboration. Police work relies on effective communication and cooperation, so be sure to choose responses that demonstrate your ability to work well with others.

Tip: Look for answers that show respect for colleagues and a willingness to collaborate on solutions.

4. Practice Scenario-Based Questions

Preparing for the SJT requires practice. Many online resources provide sample questions that mimic the style and complexity of the test. Familiarizing yourself with these scenarios will help you think critically and efficiently.

Tip: Set aside time each day to practice sample SJT questions, focusing on analyzing each scenario and justifying your choices.

5. Stay Calm and Logical

The SJT often presents high-pressure situations designed to test your ability to stay composed. Take a moment to read and understand each scenario fully before selecting your answer. Avoid rushing, as this can lead to overlooking critical details.

Tip: Practice deep breathing or grounding techniques before the test to ensure you remain calm and focused.

The police situational judgment test is your opportunity to demonstrate the qualities that make a great officer—calm judgment, ethical decision-making, and teamwork. By preparing thoughtfully and practicing regularly, you’ll be ready to excel.

For more tips on succeeding in police recruitment, visit www.armoganct.com.

Best,
Barbara
Armogan Training Team