Remember the scene in James Bond Movie – Skyfall wherein Mr Bond has to undergo a Word Association Test before reclaiming is MI job. Word Association Test (WAT) is aimed at understanding psychology of a candidate by judging the reactions to different set of words under time stress. When time is less to respond, naturally the first thought which comes to mind is written down by the candidate. The chances of writing deliberate answers are less and this subconscious make up of the candidate can be understood by the psychologist in the SSB.
So, how should you approach the WAT. Simple rule is – “Do not try to negate the first thought which comes to you mind, just modify it slightly”. It is easier said than done. So follow undermentioned tips:-
- Quickly grasp your first thought.
- It is generally very short phrase like 2 or 3 words.
- Expand the phrase to make a sentence.
- Introduce a positive theme into it.
Illustration – if the word is Medal
- Associated Word may be – Bravery (Positive) or Death (Negative)
- Associated Thought – Brave actions gives medals or Most PVC medal winners are dead.
- Expand – Medals are earned by selfless brave actions (Positive) or Medal winners act bravely in death defying situation (Positive)
Some of the common words in WAT are:-
- Sacrifice
- Leader
- Alert
- Lie
- Vision
- Routine
- Soldier
- Responsibility
- Obedience
- Victory
- Command
- Suicide
- Discipline
- Trust
- Team
- Failure
- Glory
- Focus
- Initiative
- Drown
- Unity
- Success
- Lethargy
- Risk
- Lost
- Defence
- Survival
- Injury
- Dedication
- Wisdom
- Punctuality
- Pride
- Combat
- Willpower
- Weapon
- Morality
- Fortitude
- Ambition
- Judgment
- Endurance
- Courage
- Perseverance
- Training
- Initiative
- Trench
- Innovation
- Theft
- Mission
- Army
- Platoon
- Aggression
- Robbery
- Success
- Teamwork
- Hope
- Empathy
- Strategy
- Bravery
- Navy
- Quickness
- Respect
- Service
- Ethics
- Cheat
- Resilience
- Confidence
- Honesty
- Versatility
- Motivation
- Steal
- Loyalty
- Defence
- Zeal
- Glory
- Willpower
- Attack
- Alertness
- Control
- Foresight
- Strength
- Battle
- Leadership
- Regiment
- Calmness
- Sacrifice
- Honour
- Communication
- Fearless
- Character
- Goals
- Dedication
- Risk
- Justice
- Determination
- Perseverance
- Adaptability
- Strength
- Stamina
- Teamwork
- Unity