> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.ibbe.services/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Application Question Design

> Crafting questions that evaluate thinking and judgment.

# SECTION 5: APPLICATION QUESTION DESIGN

Questions must focus on the way candidates think rather than testing memorized knowledge.

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### Design Strategy

* **Focus Areas**: Decision making, Leadership judgment, Systems thinking, Communication ability, Responsibility mindset.
* **Avoid technical theory**: When the role focuses on management or leadership, do not test technical theory directly.
* **Ask 'Why' and 'How'**: Instead of asking how a task is performed, ask why outcomes matter and how the candidate approaches responsibility.

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### Effective Questioning

| Less Effective                        | More Effective                                                           |
| :------------------------------------ | :----------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| How would you teach a specific topic. | What separates average performance from excellent performance in a team. |

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### Using Scenarios

Use scenarios to observe judgment.

**Example**:

> *A team member is well liked but results are inconsistent. How would you approach the situation.*

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### Question Length & Helper Text

#### Short Text Questions

* **Purpose**: Evaluate clarity of thought.
* **Length**: 25 to 40 words.

#### Long Text Questions

* **Purpose**: Evaluate reasoning and decision making.
* **Length**: 150 to 200 words.

#### Helper Text

Each question should include a short instruction indicating word limits and expectations.

* **Example**: *Maximum 150 words. Provide a structured response.*