Master the STAR Method for Behavioral Interviews
Learn how to structure compelling answers to behavioral interview questions
What is the STAR Method?
The STAR method is a structured approach to answering behavioral interview questions. It helps you provide complete, concise, and compelling answers by breaking them down into four components:
Situation
Describe the context or background of the situation (20% of your answer)
Task
Explain your responsibility or the goal in that situation (10% of your answer)
Action
Describe the specific actions you took to address the situation (60% of your answer)
Result
Share the outcomes of your actions and what you learned (10% of your answer)
STAR Method Example
Question: "Tell me about a time when you demonstrated leadership."
Situation
"When I was a junior in high school, there were several students in my math class who were struggling with some of the more difficult concepts."
Task
"With an upcoming national exam, I was asked by my math teacher to start an after school session to assist the other students."
Action
"I stayed after school twice a week to review class materials and homework. I created a comprehensive study guide. I demonstrated the best methods for solving difficult problems, explained strategies that worked for me, and developed new problems to help them practice."
Result
"Our class average for the national exam was the highest it had been in over ten years, and overall the students I helped were able to develop a better understanding and appreciation for math."
Practice with STAR Method
Select a behavioral question and practice structuring your answer using the STAR method:
Tips for Effective STAR Responses
Be Specific
Provide concrete details rather than general statements
Focus on Your Role
Use "I" statements rather than "we" to highlight your contributions
Quantify Results
Whenever possible, use numbers to demonstrate impact
Show Learning
Highlight what you learned from the experience