Get Tired of the STAR method? Try CARL!

March 19, 2025(Last edited on: March 20, 2025)

When someone mentions behavioral questions, the first word that pops into your mind may be the START method.

It's a great method, but it focuses on the situation and task while, to some degree, ignoring candidates' accomplishments.

If you also want to focus on achievements, try the CARL method!

CARL = C(context) + A(action) + R(result) + L(learnings)

• Context: summarize the background and goal of the task;
• Action: explain what method you use to solve the specific question;
• Result: using data and facts to show your achievements;
• Learning: share what you learned from this experience and how it impacts your future career.

Compared with STAR, CARL combines situations and tasks into context, helping you to focus on the achievements you made.

Next time, when you face behavioral questions, try the CARL method!