Watson Glaser Inference Section Overview
The Inference section of the Watson Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal assesses how well you can evaluate whether a conclusion logically follows from a given statement. This part of the test focuses on weighing evidence and making a judgment based on probability and logic, not certainty or belief.
You’ll be asked to decide whether a conclusion is:
- True
- Probably true
- Insufficient data to decide
- Probably false
- False
It’s one of the most nuanced sections, and mastering it means you can interpret complex situations, assess facts, and respond with logical reasoning — exactly what top-tier employers want.
How the Inference Section Works – Question Format Explained
Each question gives you:
- A short passage or factual statement
- One or more proposed inferences
Your task: Decide the degree of truth or falsity of each inference based only on the information provided.
You're not being asked to verify whether the inference is definitely true or false — but whether it's likely, unlikely, or undecidable given the text.
Common Challenges in the Inference Section
- Overreaching beyond the text
Letting general knowledge or assumptions fill in gaps the passage doesn’t cover. - Misunderstanding probability
Struggling to differentiate between “probably true” and “insufficient data.” - Confusing correlation with causation
Just because two things happen together doesn’t mean one causes the other. - Ignoring qualifying words
Words like may, some, occasionally, or rarely carry a lot of weight.
Sample Question for Watson Glaser Inference Section
Statement: A recent study found that people who sleep fewer than six hours per night are more likely to experience anxiety.
- Inference A: Anxiety is caused by lack of sleep.
❌ False – the statement only shows correlation, not causation. - Inference B: People who sleep six or more hours are less likely to experience anxiety.
❓ Insufficient Data – the statement doesn’t cover this group. - Inference C: Some people who sleep fewer than six hours do not experience anxiety.
✅ Probably true – “more likely” implies some do not.
Top Tips for the Watson Glaser Inference Section
Try our Free Watson Glaser Inference Questions for a better understanding of how to pass these types of questions.
You’ll get 4 simple tips, each with a practice question and a clear explanation. Finish the quiz, and you’ll unlock all the answers with detailed explanations.
Free Watson Glaser Inference Questions: 4 Tips & Detailed Explanation
8 pages • No time limit
Give our Free Watson Glaser Inference Questions a try—built around four easy-to-remember tips.
You’ll work through one question per tip, see the correct answer, and read a clear, straightforward explanation. Once you’ve completed them all, you’ll unlock full answer walkthroughs so you know exactly how each solution comes together.
If you’d like to practise the full Watson Glaser test, rather than only the Inference section, please see our related article on free Watson Glaser practice questions.
Watson Glaser Inference Hacks to Save Time and Avoid Mistakes
- Eliminate extremes
Strong claims (“always,” “never”) are often incorrect. Start by testing them. - Default to ‘Insufficient Data’ when unsure
If the statement is neutral and lacks specific proof, don't guess — mark it as insufficient. - Visualise relationships
Draw simple diagrams or note cause-effect flows. This helps when evaluating probabilities. - Separate fact from interpretation
An inference is not a restatement — it’s a step beyond. Ask: does this conclusion go too far? - Use AI-powered practice
Platforms like TestRocket.ai adapt to your thinking style, showing exactly where your reasoning needs adjustment.
Final Thoughts: Think Critically, Not Emotionally
The Inference section tests subtle thinking. It rewards those who can resist the urge to assume or overinterpret. It’s about making decisions when information is limited — a crucial skill for decision-makers.
TestRocket.ai helps you sharpen that judgment with real-time feedback, test-simulated environments, and personalised strategy tracking.
Start training your inference skills today — and take your Watson Glaser score to the next level.
FAQs: Watson Glaser Recognition of Assumptions Section
How can I tell if an assumption is “Made”?
Use the reverse test: If the assumption were false, would the argument still make sense? If not, the assumption is being made.
What is an assumption in the Watson Glaser test?
The unstated belief or idea that must be true for the argument to make sense, even though it isn’t directly stated.
Do I need to decide whether the assumption is true or false?
No. Truth isn’t the focus — you’re only evaluating whether the assumption is required for the argument to work.
What’s the difference between an assumption and a fact?
A fact supports an argument explicitly. An assumption is missing — but the argument can’t work without it.
How can I practise effectively for Assumption section?
Use tools like TestRocket.ai that offer assumption-specific drills with clear explanations. Repetition and feedback are key to improvement.
Why is the Recognition of Assumptions section so tricky?
Because our brains are wired to “fill in the gaps.” We naturally accept hidden beliefs as facts without even realising it.
The Watson Glaser test challenges you to slow down and ask: “What is actually stated, and what am I assuming?”
Practising with guided examples on TestRocket.ai helps you retrain your thinking so you can spot assumptions instantly.
Do I need prior knowledge to answer assumption questions?
Not at all. Every assumption question must be answered only based on the statement given.
That’s why employers use it — it reveals how you handle logic without outside bias.
On TestRocket.ai, practice drills remind you to strip away personal knowledge and focus only on the text.
How can I avoid confusing assumptions with opinions?
How can I avoid confusing assumptions with opinions?- An assumption is an unstated belief that must be true for the argument to work.
- An opinion is someone’s personal view, which may or may not matter to the logic.
Tip: If the statement falls apart without the assumption, then it’s “assumption made.”
You’ll find plenty of step-by-step breakdowns of this on TestRocket.ai’s practice platform.
Are some assumptions “hidden” on purpose in the Watson Glaser test?
Yes — in fact, that’s the entire design.
Many assumptions are buried subtly inside the phrasing, so your job is to spot them. The more you practise, the easier it becomes to catch them in seconds.
That’s why TestRocket.ai offers targeted practice just for this section.
How many Recognition of Assumptions questions are on the Watson Glaser Test?
In most versions of the Watson Glaser III, you’ll face around 12 questions in this section.
That’s nearly a third of your test score — so mastering assumptions can give you a serious advantage.
Free sample questions on TestRocket.ai will help you sharpen this skill.
What’s the best strategy for answering assumption questions quickly?
A proven method is the “reverse test”:
- Flip the proposed assumption around.
- If the argument collapses without it → assumption made.
- If the argument still stands → assumption not made.
You can practise this exact technique with timed drills on TestRocket.ai.
Do employers look closely at the assumptions section of the Watson Glaser Test?
Yes. Especially in law and consulting, spotting hidden assumptions is a core skill.
It shows you can detect weaknesses in arguments and question what others take for granted.
This is one reason TestRocket.ai emphasises practice for this section — it’s often where candidates separate themselves from the competition.
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