15+ Logical Questions for Interview: Know How to Answer

In today’s highly competitive job market, logical interview questions have become very popular in interviews. These questions assess a candidate’s cognitive abilities and problem-solving skills. These types of questions are designed to know a candidate’s logical reasoning, critical thinking, and decision-making abilities by presenting them with a complex problem or situation and asking them to use their reasoning skills to arrive at a solution.  

In this article, we will look at the most common logical questions for interviews, and the helpful tips for answering them effectively. 

What is a logical interview question?

A logical interview question is designed to assess one’s ability to think critically, solve problems, and demonstrate analytical reasoning skills. These questions often present a scenario that requires the use of logical thinking to arrive at a solution. They cover a wide range of topics including math, puzzles, patterns, hypothetical situations and many more.

Most-asked Logical Questions for Job Interviews  

Here is a rundown of a few types of logical questions asked in an interview with answers: 

Critical Thinking Interview Questions 

Here are some critical-thinking interview questions:  

1. Tell me about a moment when you had to persuade your boss or team. 

Once I was working on a new campaign for a product launch through advertising channels such as TV and print, but I thought about using social media channels as well. After many meetings, I was able to convince my team and boss. 

2. Tell me about a time when you had to make a rapid choice. 

In my last job, I had a customer who faced a technical issue with the product. But our technical team was not present at the moment. Despite not having the authority to do so, I escalated the issue to the high-authority support team. Lastly, the issue was resolved. 

3. Explain one of the most challenging workplace decisions you’ve had to make. 

One of the most challenging workplace decisions I had to make was when I had to choose between meeting a tight deadline or compromising the quality of the project. But, I decided to talk with my boss and team members, and we agreed on the quality of the project, even if it meant extending the deadline. 

Problem-solving Interview Questions  

Here are some problem-solving interview questions: 

1. Explain an instance when you had to address an issue without the help of team members.  

I once saw that a piece of equipment was not working, and the team leader was not present. I decided to consult the equipment manual and found the problem-solving section. After many attempts, I was able to find and fix the problem, and work resumed without delay.  

2. How do you know whether to handle an issue independently or seek help? 

When the problem is too complex or urgent, and I lack the skills or knowledge to solve it, I ask for help. However, when the problem is simple, and I have the knowledge and resources to solve it, then I attempt to solve it on my own. 

3. Your boss wants to buy new software to help him enhance the team’s productivity and has asked for your thoughts. How do you react? 

I would start by researching and comparing software options based on their features, cost, and user comments. Then, I would provide my boss with a detailed report of the top software options and suggest the one that aligns best with the team’s needs and budget.  

Brainteaser Interview Questions 

Here are some brainteaser interview questions: 

1. How many socks do you have to pick out blindly to ensure you have a matching pair if you have seven white socks and nine black socks in a drawer? 

Three socks, to be exact. If the first sock is one color and the second is another, the third sock will produce a matched pair to either of the pairs. 

2. Why are manhole covers shaped like this? 

Since round is the only form that cannot fall through itself, manhole covers are round. The cover will never fall through the hole by mistake.  

3. How do you measure out exactly 4 gallons if you have a 3-gallon jug and a 5-gallon jug? 

• First, I’ll fill the 5-gallon jug with water. 

• Then, pour the water from the 5-gallon jug into the 3-gallon jug, leaving 2 gallons of water in the 5-gallon jug. 

• Then, empty the 3-gallon jug. 

• Next, pour the 2 gallons of water from the 5-gallon jug into the 3-gallon jug. 

• Then, fill the 5-gallon jug with water again. 

• Next, pour the water from the 5-gallon jug into the 3-gallon jug until it is full, leaving 1 gallon of water in the 5-gallon jug. 

• I’ll now have 4 gallons of water in the 5-gallon jug. 

Situational Interview Questions 

Here are some situational interview questions: 

1. Tell me about a situation when you went above and beyond for your work. 

When the boss was abroad, we received an order for 300 more concrete vibrators. I led the team, and we focused on finishing them ahead of schedule. As a result, over the next five years, the consumer has signed a deal with us.  

2. Explain a case where you noticed a problem and acted to resolve it. 

I noticed that our team was repeatedly missing project deadlines due to poor communication. For this, I suggested we use a project management tool and hold weekly meetings to discuss progress and roadblocks. This resulted in a decrease in missed deadlines. 

3. Tell me about a situation when you had a lot on your plate. 

In my previous job, to handle the workload, I created a task list and used project management tools to track my progress. I also talked with my team members to divide the workload and ensure everyone was on the same page.  

Behavioural Interview Questions  

Here are some behavioural interview questions: 

1. Have you ever committed a mistake? How did you deal with it? 

Once, I miscalculated the cost of a certain type of membership at the club where I worked. My supervisor appreciated the fact that I went to that particular member and admitted my mistake. I learned that in the future, I should pay close attention to details. 

2. Please provide an example of how you create goals. 

When setting a goal, I start by identifying what I want to achieve and why it is important to me. Then, I break down the goal into smaller, measurable steps and create a timeline to achieve each step. Finally, I regularly track my progress and adjust my plan as needed to stay on track toward achieving my goal. 

3. What should you do if you disagree with someone at work? 

If I disagree with someone at work, I try to approach the situation with an open mind and listen to their perspective. I then share my thoughts and try to find a compromise or solution that works for everyone involved.  

Competency-based Interview Questions 

Here are some competency-based interview questions: 

1. Describe a time when you were in charge of a group. 

As the team leader, my role was to delegate tasks, ensure everyone was contributing, and keep everyone on track to meet the deadline. I held weekly meetings to discuss our progress, address any concerns, and brainstorm solutions. While it was challenging at times, ultimately, we were able to complete the project successfully. 

2. Tell me about a time when you demonstrated honesty and professionalism. 

Once, a client asked me to complete a task that was outside the scope of my expertise. Instead of attempting to do the task and potentially providing subpar work, I informed the client that I did not have the necessary skills to complete the task and recommended that they seek out someone who did.  

3. Tell me about a moment when you succeeded despite the odds stacked against you. 

Once, I was tasked with completing a complex project with a tight deadline and limited resources. Despite these challenges, I worked diligently and efficiently, leveraging my problem-solving skills and resourcefulness to overcome obstacles and deliver the project on time and within budget.  

Also Read: HR Interview Questions for Freshers (2023 Detailed Guide with Answers)

Importance of Logical Questions in Interviews   

Here are some reasons why logical interview questions are important: 

Demonstrating critical thinking skills 

Logical questions for interviews help demonstrate a candidate’s critical thinking skills by testing their ability to analyze and evaluate information to arrive at a sound conclusion. 

Evaluating problem-solving abilities  

By asking logical questions for interviews, interviewers can assess a candidate’s problem-solving abilities by evaluating how they approach complex problems and come up with effective solutions. 

Assessing effective decision-making 

 Logical questions for interviews help assess a candidate’s decision-making skills by evaluating their ability to weigh different options and make well-informed decisions. 

Enhancing cognitive abilities

Asking logical-based interview questions can also help enhance a candidate’s cognitive abilities by challenging them to think critically and logically. 

5 Tips for Answering Logical Questions in Interviews  

Here are some tips for answering logical questions for an interview: 

Listen carefully to the question 

It is essential to listen carefully to the question and understand what is being asked before answering. Paying close attention to the question ensures you provide an accurate and relevant response. 

Clarify any ambiguities in the question  

If you are unsure of the question or need clarification, don’t be afraid to ask for further clarification. This shows your attention to detail and your willingness to seek out additional information to answer the question correctly. 

Use logic and reason to solve the question  

It is essential to break down the question into smaller components, analyze the information provided, and use logic to solve the problem. 

Show your thought process and explain your reasoning 

When answering a logical interview question, it is essential to show your thought process and explain your reasoning. Walk the interviewer through your thought process, explaining how you arrived at your conclusion. 

Practice active listening skills 

Practice active listening by paraphrasing the question back to the interviewer and asking follow-up questions to ensure you fully understand what is being asked. 

Related: Ace Your Next Online Interview: Best Tips and Strategies

Elevate Your Interview Game: Handle Logical Questions with Confidence 

In conclusion, answering logical interview questions requires critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective decision-making skills. To answer these questions confidently, individuals should carefully analyze the information provided, evaluate different options, and make a logical conclusion.
  
Practising logical questions for interviews can help you enhance your cognitive abilities and feel more confident in your problem-solving skills. By following these tips, you can effectively answer logical questions in an interview and demonstrate your ability to think critically and solve complex problems.

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