STAR vs CARL: Choosing a Framework for Interview Success
- Rayaan Farah
- May 11
- 3 min read
When it comes to preparing for you interviews, having a structured approach can increase your chances of success. Two popular frameworks for answering the competency based questions are STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) and CARL (Context, Action, Result, Learning). Both provide a clear way to present your experience, but each has unique qualities. Let’s explore their strengths, limitations, and how to decide which one works best for you.
What Are STAR and CARL?
1.) The STAR Framework
Situation: Set the scene and provide context.
Task: Describe the task your performed or goal you wanted to achieve.
Action: Explain the steps you took to execute your task.
Result: Share the outcome of the action you took.
Reflection: Optional but some people will share what they learnt from the experience
2.) The CARL Framework
Context: Similar to Situation in STAR, this provides the background.
Action: Mentions what you did.
Result: Highlights the outcome of the action you took.
Learning: This is a reflective component where you mention where you did well and where you would improve further.
How To Apply STAR and CARL in Your Interviews
One common interview question I remember receiving was " Tell me about a team where you had to work as part of a team?". Using both frameworks, this would be the example answer I would provide if I was sitting an interview again:
1.) My STAR Answer
Situation: "During my university group project, we were tasked with designing a process to make X amount of this chemical."
Task: "We had a strict deadline to meet for this project and as a group, we wanted to produce our best work within this short timeframe. So, I took the role of leading the team throughout the duration of the project."
Action: "During one of our weekly group meetings, I opened up the conversation with each team member to understand their areas of strengths. After learning this, I split up the specific tasks amongst the team and received confirmation from them that they were happy with the allocation. If there were any issues, I made sure the team member's concerns were heard and acted accordingly whether that was re-allocating the workload or myself working alongside the concerned team member on the task."
Result: "The team environment improved and we delivered the project on time. Due to our exemplary work as a group, we received a First for the module."
2.) My CARL Answer
Context: "During my university group project, I led my group in completing our project designing a chemical process".
Action: "We encountered a major issue when certain team members were unavailable and unable to do their specific tasks. I suggested splitting up the outstanding tasks amongst the remaining members depending on their areas of strength".
Result: "Our team managed to maintain our project momentum by completing the outstanding tasks. As a result, we completed the project by the set deadline and achieved a First grade".
Learning: "I learned the importance of staying calm under pressure and that clear communication can keep a team functioning even without all members being present".
Pros and Cons of Each Framework
1.) STAR
Pros of STAR | Cons of STAR |
Straightforward and easy to recognise for interviewers | Your answer can lack depth if you do not emphasise on your reflection/learning |
Provides a complete narrative from start to finish | You run the risk of sounding rehearsed if overused |
Ideal for showing measurable results (e.g. I achieved a 10% increase in X) | Can be easy to confuse and not differentiate Situation and Task |
2.) CARL
Pros of CARL | Cons of CARL |
Focuses well on personal growth and continuous learning | Can be less familiar to interviewers |
Stands out in industries looking for reflective personalities | Can run the risk of overemphasising learning leaving little time to mention actions and results |
Encourages self-awareness and emotional intelligence | If you’re early in your career or not well versed in self-reflection, communicating meaningful learnings can be difficult |
Finding What Works For You
Both STAR and CARL are excellent tools for framing your answers in interviews:
If you value structure and getting straight to the point: STAR may be the way to go.
If you resonate with being self-reflective and showcasing your capacity to learn: CARL might resonate with you more.
Ultimately, the best framework is the one that aligns with your personal communication style and the job's requirements. To help you decide, practice with both frameworks to see which one you are more comfortable and allows you to communicate your experiences better. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach!
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