Form: Cognitive Style Index, CSI

In my experience, rational thought is the only realistic basis for making decisions.

To solve a problem, I have to study each part of it in detail.

I am most effective when my work involves a clear sequence of tasks to be performed.

I have difficulty working with people who “dive in at the deep end” without considering the finer aspects of the problem.

I am careful to follow rules and regulations at work.

I avoid taking a course of action if the odds are against its success.

I am inclined to scan through reports rather than read them in detail.

My understanding of a problem tends to come more from thorough analysis than flashes of insight.

I try to keep to a regular routine in my work.

The kind of work I like best is that which requires a logical, step-by-step approach.

I rarely make “off the top of the head” decisions.

I prefer chaotic action to orderly inaction.

Given enough time, I would consider every situation from all angles.

To be successful in my work, I find that it is important to avoid hurting other people's feelings.

The best way for me to understand a problem is to break it down into its constituent parts.

I find that to adopt a careful, analytical approach to making decisions takes too long.

I make most progress when I take calculated risks.

I find that it is possible to be too organised when performing certain kinds of task.

I always pay attention to detail before I reach a conclusion.

I make many of my decisions on the basis of intuition.

My philosophy is that it is better to be safe than risk being sorry.

When making a decision, I take my time and thoroughly consider all relevant factors.

I get on best with quiet, thoughtful people

I would rather that my life was unpredictable than that it followed a regular pattern.

Most people regard me as a logical thinker.

To fully understand the facts, I need a good theory

I work best with people who are spontaneous.

I find detailed, methodical work satisfying.

My approach to solving a problem is to focus on one part at a time.

I am constantly on the lookout for new experiences.

In meetings, I have more to say than most.

My “gut feeling” is just as good a basis for decision making as careful analysis.

I am the kind of person who casts caution to the wind.

I make decisions and get on with things rather than analyse every last detail.

I am always prepared to take a gamble.

Formal plans are more of a hindrance than a help in my work.

I am more at home with ideas rather than facts and figures.

I find that “too much analysis results in paralysis.”