Understanding "Importance" Questions

Importance questions are the second format in SJT. Instead of rating actions, you rate considerations — factors that should (or should not) influence a decision. These questions test a different skill: the ability to evaluate how much weight a factor deserves when making a professional judgement.

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The Four-Point Scale for Importance

Rating	Shorthand	What it means
Very important	VI	This consideration is essential. Ignoring it would be negligent, dangerous, or unprofessional
Important	I	This consideration is significant and should be factored in, but it is not the most critical element
Of minor importance	MI	This consideration has some relevance but should not heavily influence the decision
Not important at all	NI	This consideration is irrelevant to the decision and should not factor in

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How Importance Questions Differ from Appropriateness Questions