Do's and Don'ts Flashcards

What is the recommended approach to time management when taking the SHL OPQ?

Answer: Answer each question with a steady, considered pace without overthinking

The OPQ is not strictly timed, but you should respond at a steady, instinctive pace rather than agonizing over each item.

Should you try to give the same answer to questions that seem similar?

Answer: No, answer each item honestly on its own merits even if wording overlaps

Answer each item independently and honestly; deliberately forcing matching answers can distort your true profile.

What should you do if a statement does not perfectly describe you?

Answer: Pick the option that most closely reflects your typical behavior

Select the response closest to your genuine, typical behavior rather than leaving items blank or defaulting to neutral.

Is it advisable to research the target job before taking the OPQ?

Answer: Yes — to understand the role and reflect honestly on relevant traits

Understanding the role helps you reflect honestly on relevant strengths, but you should never fabricate a profile.

What is a key DON'T regarding the consistency/social desirability checks?

Answer: Don't present an unrealistically perfect or contradictory picture of yourself

The OPQ flags overly idealized or contradictory responses, so avoid portraying an unrealistically flawless self.

How should you handle the forced-choice 'most like me / least like me' format?

Answer: Genuinely identify which statement is most and least true for you

Honestly weigh which statement is genuinely most and least like you rather than choosing by impressiveness.

What should you do about your environment before starting the OPQ online?

Answer: Find a quiet, distraction-free space to focus

A quiet, distraction-free environment helps you give focused, honest responses.