FBI Phase 2 Test: Written Assessment Guide and Prep Tips

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The FBI Phase 2 Test is a major step in the FBI Special Agent selection process.

After passing the FBI Phase 1 Test and continuing through the Special Agent selection process, candidates may be invited to complete Phase II, which evaluates written communication, analytical reasoning, judgment, and core competencies through a written assessment and structured interview.

The FBI Phase 2 assessment commonly includes:

Phase II (a): Written Assessment
Phase II (b): Structured Interview

This stage is different from Phase 1.

Phase 1 focuses on logic, figural reasoning, personality, preferences, and situational judgment. Phase 2 focuses more directly on your ability to analyze information, communicate clearly in writing, and explain specific examples from your past performance in a structured interview.

The practice questions and sample prompts on this page are not official FBI, DOJ, USAJOBS, OPM, or federal agency questions. They are practice-style examples designed to help you understand common FBI Phase 2 assessment skills.

The practice questions and guidance on this page are original educational materials. They are not official U.S. government, agency, USAJOBS, OPM, or assessment-vendor questions, and they do not reproduce a confidential exam, scoring key, or live test interface. Always follow your official job announcement and candidate invitation.

What Is the FBI Phase 2 Test?

The FBI Phase 2 Test is the second major assessment stage in the FBI Special Agent selection process.

It is usually divided into two parts:

Phase II (a) - Written Assessment
Phase II (b) - Interview

The written assessment evaluates your ability to analyze information and communicate a clear, logical written response.

The interview evaluates whether your past actions and experiences demonstrate the competencies expected of an FBI Special Agent.

Both parts matter.

You should not treat Phase 2 as a casual writing exercise or an ordinary job interview. It is a structured federal assessment stage.

FBI Phase 2 vs FBI Phase 1

The FBI Phase 1 and Phase 2 tests measure different skills.

FBI Phase 1

The FBI Phase 1 Test commonly includes:

Logic-Based Reasoning;
Figural Reasoning;
Personality Assessment;
Preferences and Interests;
Situational Judgment.

Phase 1 evaluates cognitive skills, behavioral tendencies, judgment, and work fit.

FBI Phase 2

The FBI Phase 2 Test focuses on:

written communication;
information analysis;
logical organization;
evidence-based conclusions;
performance-based interview answers;
specific examples from your experience;
FBI Special Agent core competencies;
communication under pressure.

Phase 2 is more personal and performance-based than Phase 1.

You need to show how you think, write, organize information, and explain your own actions.

Where FBI Phase 2 Fits in the Special Agent Hiring Process

The FBI Special Agent selection process can vary, but a simplified path may include:

Submit the Special Agent application.
Complete initial screening.
Pass the FBI Phase 1 Test.
Complete Meet and Greet or related candidate steps where applicable.
Complete the Physical Fitness Test requirements.
Complete Phase II (a) - Written Assessment.
Complete Phase II (b) - Structured Interview.
Receive a Conditional Appointment Offer if selected to continue.
Complete background investigation.
Complete polygraph examination.
Complete drug test.
Complete medical review.
Complete final suitability and hiring review.
Attend Basic Field Training Course if hired.

The exact process, timing, and requirements can change.

Always follow FBIJOBS, your candidate portal, and your official FBI communications.

Phase II (a): FBI Written Assessment

The FBI Phase 2 Written Assessment is a computerized writing assessment taken in a proctored environment at a testing center.

It is designed to evaluate how well you can:

read provided information;
identify relevant facts;
separate important facts from distractions;
organize information logically;
draw a reasonable conclusion;
support your conclusion with facts;
write clearly and professionally;
use correct grammar, spelling, punctuation, and sentence structure;
complete the task under time pressure.

The official FBI Testing Overview describes Phase II (a) as approximately two and a half hours.

The key challenge is not simply writing a long response.

The key challenge is writing a clear, objective, organized, fact-supported response.

What the FBI Written Assessment Measures

The written assessment may measure:

analytical reasoning;
written communication;
organization;
clarity;
grammar;
spelling;
punctuation;
judgment;
ability to identify relevant facts;
ability to explain a conclusion;
ability to write under pressure.

A strong written response should be:

clear;
concise;
organized;
objective;
fact-based;
logically structured;
grammatically correct;
professional in tone.

A weak written response may be:

vague;
emotional;
unsupported;
disorganized;
too long;
too informal;
full of assumptions;
inconsistent with the facts provided.

Phase II (b): FBI Structured Interview

The FBI Phase 2 Interview is a structured, performance-based interview.

FBI materials describe it as a one-hour interview administered by a panel of three Special Agents.

The panel may ask questions designed to evaluate your past behavior, decision-making, communication, teamwork, leadership, integrity, judgment, and ability to handle challenging situations.

This is not a casual conversation.

It is a structured assessment.

You should be prepared to describe:

a specific situation or task;
the actions you personally took;
the reasoning behind your actions;
the outcome;
what you learned.

The panel does not need a general description of your personality.

They need specific examples that demonstrate competencies.

FBI Phase 2 Written Assessment Practice

The following practice questions are not official FBI questions.

They are designed to help you practice the type of thinking required for a written assessment: identifying relevant facts, organizing information, and supporting conclusions.

Written Assessment Scenario 1: Field Office Assignment

You are given the following information:

A field office needs to assign one agent to lead a short-term public corruption inquiry. The assignment will last eight weeks and requires reviewing financial records, interviewing local officials, coordinating with an Assistant U.S. Attorney, and producing a clear written summary every Friday.

Three agents are available:

Agent A

Has strong financial analysis experience.
Has written several high-quality case summaries.
Has limited interview experience.
Is available for the full eight weeks.

Agent B

Has extensive interview experience.
Has limited financial analysis experience.
Is already assigned to another major case for the first three weeks.
Has strong local contacts.

Agent C

Has moderate financial analysis experience.
Has moderate interview experience.
Has missed two recent report deadlines.
Is available immediately.

The assignment requires immediate availability, strong financial analysis, reliable written reporting, and coordination with prosecutors.

Question 1

Which agent is the strongest recommendation based only on the information provided?

A. Agent A B. Agent B C. Agent C D. None of the agents can be considered

Correct answer: A

Explanation: Agent A best matches the stated requirements: financial analysis, written summaries, and full availability. Agent B has strong interview experience but is unavailable for the first three weeks and has limited financial analysis experience. Agent C is available but has recent report deadline issues.

Question 2

Which fact most directly supports recommending Agent A?

A. Agent A has limited interview experience. B. Agent A is available for the full eight weeks and has strong financial analysis experience. C. Agent B has strong local contacts. D. Agent C has moderate interview experience.

Correct answer: B

Explanation: The assignment emphasizes availability and financial analysis. Agent A meets both requirements strongly.

Question 3

Which concern should be mentioned if recommending Agent A?

A. Agent A is unavailable. B. Agent A has limited interview experience. C. Agent A missed report deadlines. D. Agent A lacks financial analysis experience.

Correct answer: B

Explanation: A balanced written response should acknowledge relevant limitations. Agent A’s limited interview experience is the main concern.

Question 4

Which statement would be weakest in a written response?

A. “Agent A is the strongest match because the assignment requires financial analysis and weekly written summaries.” B. “Agent A should be selected, but the office may need to support interview planning because Agent A has limited interview experience.” C. “Agent A is obviously the best because Agent B is probably unreliable.” D. “Agent B has useful local contacts, but availability is a major concern.”

Correct answer: C

Explanation: C uses unsupported language. The facts do not state that Agent B is unreliable. Strong written responses avoid assumptions and emotional wording.

Sample Written Response for Scenario 1

Agent A is the strongest recommendation for the eight-week public corruption inquiry. The assignment requires immediate availability, strong financial analysis, reliable written reporting, and coordination with prosecutors. Agent A is available for the full eight weeks, has strong financial analysis experience, and has written several high-quality case summaries. These qualifications align closely with the assignment’s most important requirements.

Agent B has extensive interview experience and strong local contacts, but Agent B is already assigned to another major case for the first three weeks and has limited financial analysis experience. This creates a significant availability issue for an assignment requiring immediate support. Agent C is available and has moderate experience in both analysis and interviews, but the two recent missed report deadlines are a concern because the assignment requires weekly written summaries.

The main limitation for Agent A is limited interview experience. If Agent A is selected, the office may consider providing support for interview planning or pairing Agent A with another agent for early interviews. Based on the stated requirements, Agent A is still the best overall choice.

Why This Written Response Works

This response works because it:

gives a clear recommendation;
uses only the facts provided;
explains why the recommendation fits the requirements;
compares the alternatives fairly;
acknowledges a limitation;
avoids unsupported assumptions;
uses professional tone;
organizes information logically.

Written Assessment Scenario 2: Investigative Lead Priority

You are given the following information:

A team has three leads in a fraud investigation. Due to limited staffing, only one lead can be assigned for immediate follow-up today.

Lead 1

A bank employee reports unusual account activity.
The activity occurred within the last 24 hours.
The reporting employee has supporting transaction records.
The account owner cannot be reached.

Lead 2

A caller reports hearing a rumor that a local business may be involved in fraud.
The caller does not know the source of the rumor.
No documents or names are available.
The alleged activity may have occurred last year.

Lead 3

A business owner reports receiving a suspicious email.
The email asks for payment information.
No payment was made.
The email has been preserved.

Question 5

Which lead should receive immediate follow-up?

A. Lead 1 B. Lead 2 C. Lead 3 D. All leads are equally urgent

Correct answer: A

Explanation: Lead 1 has recent activity, supporting records, and an unreachable account owner. It has stronger immediacy and evidence than the other leads.

Question 6

Which lead is weakest based on the information provided?

A. Lead 1 B. Lead 2 C. Lead 3 D. None of the leads

Correct answer: B

Explanation: Lead 2 is based on an unsupported rumor, lacks documents or names, and concerns possible activity from last year.

Question 7

Which detail makes Lead 3 less urgent than Lead 1?

A. The email was preserved. B. No payment was made. C. The business owner made a report. D. The email asked for payment information.

Correct answer: B

Explanation: Lead 3 may still be relevant, but no loss occurred. Lead 1 involves recent unusual account activity and supporting records.

Question 8

Which sentence would be strongest in a written response?

A. “Lead 1 should be prioritized because it involves recent unusual account activity supported by transaction records.” B. “Lead 2 should be prioritized because rumors are always true.” C. “Lead 3 should be ignored because suspicious emails never matter.” D. “The team should pick randomly because all leads are identical.”

Correct answer: A

Explanation: A is fact-based and directly tied to the scenario.

Sample Written Response for Scenario 2

Lead 1 should receive immediate follow-up. It involves unusual account activity within the last 24 hours, supporting transaction records, and an account owner who cannot be reached. These facts create a stronger need for immediate action than the other leads.

Lead 2 is the weakest lead because it is based on an unsupported rumor. The caller does not know the source of the rumor, no documents or names are available, and the alleged activity may have occurred last year. Lead 3 is more concrete than Lead 2 because the suspicious email was preserved, but no payment was made, making it less urgent than the recent account activity in Lead 1.

The team should prioritize Lead 1 today while documenting Leads 2 and 3 for later review according to office procedure.

Written Assessment Scenario 3: Resource Allocation

You are given the following information:

A unit must decide which training issue to address first.

Issue A

Several agents reported confusion about a new digital evidence form.
Three reports were delayed last month because the form was completed incorrectly.
A 30-minute briefing could address the issue.

Issue B

One agent requested advanced training on a rarely used software tool.
No current case delays are connected to the software.
Training would require two full days.

Issue C

A supervisor suggested a general refresher on office etiquette.
No specific incidents were reported.
The training would take one hour.

Question 9

Which issue should be addressed first?

A. Issue A B. Issue B C. Issue C D. None of the issues

Correct answer: A

Explanation: Issue A affects multiple agents, has caused report delays, and can be addressed quickly.

Question 10

Which fact most supports prioritizing Issue A?

A. Several agents are confused, and three reports were delayed. B. One agent requested advanced software training. C. Office etiquette is always the top priority. D. Issue B requires two days.

Correct answer: A

Explanation: Issue A has demonstrated operational impact.

Question 11

Which conclusion would be unsupported?

A. Issue A should be addressed first. B. Issue B may be considered later if resources allow. C. Issue C may not be urgent because no incidents were reported. D. Issue B caused three report delays last month.

Correct answer: D

Explanation: The three report delays are connected to Issue A, not Issue B.

Question 12

Which written response strategy is strongest?

A. Recommend Issue A and explain the evidence. B. Recommend Issue B because it sounds more advanced. C. Recommend Issue C because it is the shortest. D. Avoid making any recommendation.

Correct answer: A

Explanation: A strong response makes a clear recommendation supported by facts.

Sample Written Response for Scenario 3

Issue A should be addressed first. Several agents have reported confusion about the new digital evidence form, and three reports were delayed last month because the form was completed incorrectly. The problem has already affected work output, and a 30-minute briefing could address it efficiently.

Issue B may be useful for future development, but only one agent requested the advanced software training, and no current case delays are connected to that software. Issue C may also be useful, but no specific etiquette incidents were reported. Based on the facts provided, Issue A has the strongest operational need and the most efficient solution.

FBI Phase 2 Written Skills Practice

Question 13

Choose the sentence that is most professional.

A. The interview was useless and everyone wasted time. B. The interview did not resolve the issue, so a follow-up meeting was scheduled. C. The whole thing was bad and confusing. D. Nobody knew anything.

Correct answer: B

Explanation: B is objective, professional, and specific.

Question 14

Choose the sentence with correct grammar.

A. The agents was assigned to the case. B. The agents were assigned to the case. C. The agents is assigned to the case. D. The agents be assigned to the case.

Correct answer: B

Explanation: “Agents” is plural, so the correct verb is “were.”

Question 15

Choose the clearest sentence.

A. The report because missing details needed correction. B. The report needed correction because several details were missing. C. Missing details correction report because. D. The correction was report because missing.

Correct answer: B

Explanation: B is clear, complete, and grammatically correct.

Question 16

Choose the best correction.

The witness placed there signature on the statement.

A. Change “witness” to “witnesses” B. Change “there” to “their” C. Change “signature” to “signatures” D. No correction is needed

Correct answer: B

Explanation: “Their” is the possessive form. “There” refers to a place.

Question 17

Choose the sentence that avoids unsupported assumptions.

A. “Agent B is lazy because the scenario says he is assigned to another case.” B. “Agent B may be less suitable for immediate assignment because he is unavailable for the first three weeks.” C. “Agent B should never receive important work.” D. “Agent B probably caused the scheduling problem.”

Correct answer: B

Explanation: B uses the fact provided without adding assumptions about character or blame.

Question 18

Which sentence best supports a conclusion with facts?

A. “Lead 1 is probably important because it sounds serious.” B. “Lead 1 should be prioritized because it involves recent account activity and supporting transaction records.” C. “Lead 1 is better because I like bank cases.” D. “Lead 1 should be ignored because no case is perfect.”

Correct answer: B

Explanation: B connects the recommendation to specific facts from the scenario.

Question 19

Which sentence is most concise?

A. Due to the fact that the report was incomplete, it was returned for correction. B. Because the report was incomplete, it was returned for correction. C. The report, due to the fact of incompleteness, correction returned. D. The correction because incomplete report was due.

Correct answer: B

Explanation: B is clear and concise.

Question 20

Which paragraph structure is strongest for the written assessment?

A. Recommendation, supporting facts, comparison of alternatives, conclusion. B. Random details, opinion, unrelated story, conclusion. C. Long introduction, unsupported claim, no recommendation. D. Emotional reaction, speculation, personal preference.

Correct answer: A

Explanation: A clear structure helps the reader understand your conclusion and reasoning.

FBI Phase 2 Interview Practice Questions

The following questions are practice-style examples.

They are not official FBI interview questions.

Use them to prepare structured examples from your own experience.

Question 21: Leadership

Tell us about a time you took the lead in a difficult situation.

Strong Answer Structure

A strong answer should explain:

the situation;
why leadership was needed;
what your specific role was;
what action you personally took;
how you communicated;
how you handled obstacles;
the result.

Sample Answer

“In a previous role, our team had to complete a compliance review before a deadline, but the work was behind schedule. I volunteered to organize the remaining tasks, created a shared checklist, and asked each team member to confirm which sections they could complete. I also identified two unclear items and brought them to the supervisor for clarification. We completed the review on time, and the supervisor later used the checklist format for future reviews.”

Why This Answer Works

This answer works because it is specific and shows:

initiative;
organization;
communication;
personal contribution;
respect for supervision;
measurable result.

Question 22: Integrity

Tell us about a time you had to do the right thing even though it was inconvenient.

Strong Answer Structure

A strong answer should explain:

what the issue was;
why it was inconvenient;
what standard or rule mattered;
what you did;
what happened.

Sample Answer

“At a previous job, I noticed that a document had been submitted with an incorrect date. The deadline was close, and it would have been easier to ignore it, but the date affected the accuracy of the record. I notified my supervisor, explained the issue, and helped prepare the corrected version. It took extra time, but the final document was accurate.”

Why This Answer Works

This answer shows:

honesty;
attention to detail;
accountability;
procedure-following;
willingness to correct errors.

Question 23: Teamwork

Tell us about a time you worked with others to solve a problem.

Strong Answer Structure

A strong answer should explain:

the team goal;
your role;
how you communicated;
what action you took;
how conflict or obstacles were handled;
the result.

Sample Answer

“In a volunteer project, our team had to coordinate a community event with limited time. I was responsible for logistics. When two volunteers disagreed about the setup, I asked each person to explain the concern, then suggested a layout that met the safety requirement and kept the registration area accessible. We completed setup on time, and the event ran smoothly.”

Why This Answer Works

This answer shows teamwork without losing your personal contribution.

Question 24: Adaptability

Tell us about a time you had to adapt quickly to a change.

Strong Answer Structure

A strong answer should explain:

what changed;
why it mattered;
how you adjusted;
what you communicated;
what the outcome was.

Sample Answer

“At my previous job, a system outage prevented us from using the normal tracking tool. I quickly reviewed the backup procedure, created a temporary manual log, and confirmed with my supervisor that the format met our documentation needs. Once the system returned, I helped enter the records accurately. We avoided losing information during the outage.”

Why This Answer Works

This answer shows:

calm response;
procedure-based action;
communication;
accuracy;
adaptability.

Question 25: Problem Solving

Tell us about a time you solved a complex problem.

Strong Answer Structure

A strong answer should explain:

the problem;
why it was complex;
what information you gathered;
how you evaluated options;
what action you took;
the result.

Sample Answer

“In an administrative role, we noticed repeated delays in processing a certain type of request. I reviewed the workflow and found that requests were being sent to two different inboxes, causing duplicate checks and missed messages. I proposed a single intake log, confirmed the change with the supervisor, and helped train the team. Processing delays decreased because the team could track each request in one place.”

Why This Answer Works

This answer shows analysis, practical action, and measurable improvement.

Question 26: Communication

Tell us about a time you had to explain a difficult or sensitive issue.

Strong Answer Structure

A strong answer should explain:

who needed the explanation;
what made the issue difficult;
how you communicated clearly;
how you stayed professional;
the outcome.

Sample Answer

“In a customer service position, I had to explain that a request could not be approved because required documentation was missing. The person was frustrated, so I listened first, then explained exactly what was missing and what steps they could take next. I avoided blaming language and stayed focused on the process. The person calmed down and submitted the missing documentation later that day.”

Why This Answer Works

This answer shows clear communication, professionalism, and problem resolution.

Question 27: Handling Pressure

Tell us about a time you performed under pressure.

Strong Answer Structure

A strong answer should explain:

what created pressure;
how you prioritized;
how you stayed focused;
what action you took;
the result.

Sample Answer

“During a busy period at work, several urgent requests arrived at the same time. I listed the deadlines, confirmed the top priority with my supervisor, and worked through the tasks in order. I also updated the team so they knew which items were completed. We met the most urgent deadline and avoided duplicate work.”

Why This Answer Works

This answer shows prioritization, communication, and calm execution.

Question 28: Conflict

Tell us about a time you had a disagreement with a coworker.

Strong Answer Structure

A strong answer should explain:

what the disagreement was;
how you handled it professionally;
how you communicated;
what solution was reached;
what you learned.

Sample Answer

“A coworker and I disagreed about how to divide tasks during a high-volume shift. Instead of arguing, I asked to review the task list and deadlines. We agreed that I would handle the time-sensitive items while the coworker completed the longer administrative task. The shift went more smoothly, and we agreed to check in earlier during future busy periods.”

Why This Answer Works

This answer shows cooperation, maturity, and practical resolution.

Question 29: Attention to Detail

Tell us about a time your attention to detail prevented a mistake.

Strong Answer Structure

A strong answer should explain:

what you noticed;
why it mattered;
what action you took;
what happened.

Sample Answer

“While reviewing a file, I noticed that a name was spelled differently in two sections. Before submitting it, I checked the original document and confirmed the correct spelling. I corrected the file and noted the change according to procedure. This prevented the record from being submitted with inconsistent identifying information.”

Why This Answer Works

This answer shows careful review and accurate follow-through.

Question 30: Learning from Feedback

Tell us about a time you received constructive feedback.

Strong Answer Structure

A strong answer should explain:

what feedback you received;
how you responded;
what you changed;
what result followed.

Sample Answer

“In a previous role, my supervisor told me that my written updates were accurate but too long. I asked for an example of the preferred format and began using shorter summaries with key points first. My supervisor later said the updates were easier to review, and I used that format for future reports.”

Why This Answer Works

This answer shows coachability, self-improvement, and communication.

FBI Phase 2 Practice Answer Key

Questions 21-30 are interview practice prompts. They should not be scored by memorizing the sample answers. Instead, evaluate whether your answer is specific, honest, structured, relevant, and supported by your own actions.

How to Score Your FBI Phase 2 Practice

For the written practice questions:

18-20 correct: Strong baseline. Move toward full timed written assessment practice.
15-17 correct: Good readiness. Review organization, evidence use, and grammar.
11-14 correct: Moderate readiness. Practice written scenarios separately.
7-10 correct: Needs improvement. Build accuracy before strict time pressure.
6 or fewer correct: Start with untimed writing analysis and explanations.

For interview practice, score each answer using this checklist:

Did you describe a specific situation?
Did you explain your role clearly?
Did you focus on your own actions?
Did you explain why you acted that way?
Did you give a clear result?
Did the example show a relevant competency?
Did you avoid exaggeration?
Did you avoid blaming others?
Did you speak clearly and professionally?
Did you stay within the question?

This scoring is for practice only.

It is not an official FBI score, Phase II score, interview score, written assessment score, eligibility decision, or hiring result.

How to Prepare for FBI Phase 2

1. Read the Official FBI Phase II Guide

Start with the official FBI Phase II preparation guide and Testing Overview.

Use official sources to understand:

where Phase II fits in the process;
what Phase II (a) and Phase II (b) are;
scheduling expectations;
testing rules;
interview format;
written assessment expectations;
what to bring;
what not to bring.

Third-party practice is useful, but official FBI instructions should control your actions.

For extra timed practice alongside official USAJOBS or agency materials, assessment test preparation may support familiarity with common reasoning formats used in federal screens. Third-party packs are not official employer or publisher materials; confirm the product matches your invitation before buying.

2. Practice Analytical Writing

The written assessment requires more than grammar.

Practice writing responses that:

make a clear recommendation;
identify the most important facts;
compare alternatives;
explain tradeoffs;
avoid unsupported assumptions;
use professional tone;
organize information logically;
conclude clearly.

Do not write like you are giving a personal opinion.

Write like you are documenting a fact-based recommendation.

For ranked-response or work-style sections, cognitive ability test preparation may also be useful when you need extra drills under time pressure.

3. Use a Simple Written Assessment Structure

A strong structure is:

Recommendation or conclusion
Main supporting facts
Comparison of alternatives
Limitations or concerns
Final conclusion

This structure keeps your writing organized under time pressure.

4. Practice Writing Under Time Pressure

The written assessment is approximately two and a half hours.

That may sound like a long time, but it can pass quickly if you spend too much time reading, outlining, or rewriting.

Practice this timing method:

Read all materials carefully.
Highlight or list key facts.
Identify the decision or conclusion required.
Build a short outline.
Write the response.
Proofread for grammar, clarity, and missing facts.

Do not leave proofreading until the last few seconds.

5. Avoid Unsupported Conclusions

Every conclusion should be supported by facts in the scenario.

Avoid phrases like:

“obviously”;
“probably”;
“must be lazy”;
“seems suspicious”;
“I just feel that”;
“everyone knows.”

Use neutral, evidence-based language.

6. Prepare Interview Stories Before the Interview

The structured interview is performance-based.

Prepare examples before test day.

Strong examples may involve:

leadership;
teamwork;
integrity;
adaptability;
communication;
conflict;
problem-solving;
attention to detail;
working under pressure;
learning from feedback.

Do not memorize scripts word for word.

Know your examples well enough to adapt them to different questions.

7. Use the SAR or STAR Method

For interview answers, use either:

SAR: Situation, Action, Result
STAR: Situation, Task, Action, Result

Both approaches work because they keep your answer specific.

The most important part is the Action section.

The panel needs to know what you personally did.

8. Focus on Your Own Actions

Avoid saying only:

“we handled it”;
“the team solved it”;
“my supervisor took care of it”;
“it worked out.”

Instead, explain:

what you did;
what you communicated;
what decision you made;
what responsibility you took;
what result followed.

Team examples are acceptable, but your individual contribution must be clear.

9. Practice Speaking Out Loud

The structured interview is not just about ideas.

It is also about communication.

Practice speaking answers out loud.

Focus on:

clear beginning;
specific example;
organized timeline;
concise details;
professional tone;
confident ending.

Record yourself if possible.

You may notice rambling, vague wording, or missing results.

10. Prepare for the Full Special Agent Process

Phase 2 is not the final step.

If you pass, you may continue toward a Conditional Appointment Offer and later steps such as:

background investigation;
polygraph;
drug test;
medical review;
security clearance process;
final hiring review;
academy training.

Continue preparing for the broader process.

Common FBI Phase 2 Mistakes

Mistake 1: Writing Without a Clear Conclusion

The written assessment should not be a list of facts.

State a clear recommendation or conclusion.

Then support it.

Mistake 2: Using Unsupported Assumptions

Do not add facts that are not in the scenario.

If the materials do not say someone is dishonest, lazy, or responsible for an issue, do not write that.

Mistake 3: Ignoring Weaknesses in Your Recommendation

Strong writing can acknowledge a limitation while explaining why the recommendation is still strongest.

This shows balanced analysis.

Mistake 4: Writing Too Casually

Avoid casual phrasing, slang, emotional language, or personal opinions.

Use professional, objective writing.

Mistake 5: Not Proofreading

Grammar, spelling, punctuation, and clarity matter.

Leave time to proofread.

Mistake 6: Memorizing Interview Scripts

Memorized answers can sound unnatural and may not answer the question.

Prepare examples, not scripts.

Mistake 7: Giving Vague Interview Answers

Avoid saying:

“I am a leader.”
“I work well under pressure.”
“I am honest.”
“I communicate well.”

Show these traits with specific examples.

Mistake 8: Focusing on the Team Instead of Your Role

Team examples are fine, but the panel must understand your individual actions.

Use “I” when explaining what you personally did.

Mistake 9: Blaming Others in Interview Answers

Even when describing conflict, stay professional.

Focus on your actions and resolution.

Mistake 10: Assuming Passing Phase 2 Guarantees a Job

Passing Phase 2 does not guarantee final selection.

The FBI Special Agent process includes additional steps after Phase II.

FBI Phase 2 Study Plan

If You Have 30 Days

Week 1

Read the official Phase II and Testing Overview guides.
Learn the written assessment structure.
Choose 8-10 interview stories from your experience.

Week 2

Practice written scenarios.
Focus on fact selection, organization, and conclusions.

Week 3

Practice structured interview answers.
Use SAR or STAR.
Speak answers out loud.

Week 4

Complete timed written practice.
Complete mock interviews.
Review weak areas.
Prepare test-day logistics.

If You Have 14 Days

Days 1-2

Read official FBI instructions.
Review the written and interview formats.
Take a short written diagnostic.

Days 3-5

Practice written assessment scenarios.

Days 6-8

Prepare interview examples.

Days 9-10

Practice mock interview answers aloud.

Days 11-12

Take timed written practice.
Proofread and revise responses.

Day 13

Complete one mock interview and one written drill.

Day 14

Light review and test-day preparation.

If You Have 7 Days

Day 1

Review official guides.
Understand Phase II (a) and Phase II (b).

Day 2

Practice written scenarios.

Day 3

Practice more written scenarios under time pressure.

Day 4

Prepare interview examples.

Day 5

Practice interview answers aloud.

Day 6

Complete a timed written drill and mock interview.

Day 7

Light review and rest.

If You Have 24 Hours

If your FBI Phase 2 assessment is tomorrow:

Read your official instructions carefully.
Review the written assessment structure.
Practice one short written scenario.
Prepare 5-7 strong interview examples.
Practice answers aloud.
Confirm test location, time, ID, and allowed items.
Avoid heavy cramming.
Sleep as well as possible.

Free vs Paid FBI Phase 2 Prep

Free preparation is useful for:

understanding the Phase 2 format;
reading official FBI guidance;
practicing basic written scenarios;
preparing interview stories;
learning SAR or STAR structure;
identifying weak areas.

Paid preparation may be useful if:

the FBI Special Agent opportunity is important;
you need realistic written assessment practice;
you want sample written responses;
you need structured interview practice;
you struggle with organizing facts;
you struggle with concise professional writing;
you want detailed explanations;
you need to prepare quickly;
you failed before and are eligible to retest.

You may also find these useful:

Official FBI Special Agent Application and Evaluation Process

Official FBI Testing Overview Guide

Official FBI Phase II Preparation Guide

Official FBI Special Agent Overview

Official FBI Special Agent Documents and Downloads

FBI Phase 2 Test-Day Tips

Before the written assessment:

read the official FBI instructions;
confirm the test location and time;
bring required identification;
understand what is not allowed;
practice one warm-up writing outline;
arrive early if testing in person;
avoid starting tired or rushed.

During the written assessment:

read all facts carefully;
identify the decision or conclusion required;
separate required facts from distractions;
outline before writing;
support every conclusion with evidence;
use professional tone;
avoid unsupported assumptions;
proofread grammar, spelling, and punctuation;
manage time.

Before the interview:

review your interview examples;
dress professionally;
arrive early;
prepare to speak clearly;
review SAR or STAR structure;
avoid memorized scripts;
stay calm.

During the interview:

listen carefully to each question;
answer the question asked;
use a specific example;
focus on your own actions;
explain the result;
be honest;
do not exaggerate;
do not blame others;
communicate professionally.

After Phase 2:

follow FBI candidate instructions;
monitor your email;
prepare for next steps if invited;
continue physical fitness preparation;
keep documents organized.

FBI Phase 2 Preparation Checklist

Before your FBI Phase 2 assessment, make sure you can:

explain Phase II (a) and Phase II (b);
write a clear fact-based recommendation;
organize facts logically;
compare alternatives objectively;
support conclusions with evidence;
avoid unsupported assumptions;
proofread under time pressure;
prepare specific interview examples;
answer using SAR or STAR;
explain your personal actions clearly;
communicate professionally;
follow official FBI instructions.

You may also want to review:

FAQ

What is the FBI Phase 2 Test?

The FBI Phase 2 Test is a major assessment stage in the Special Agent selection process. It includes Phase II (a) Written Assessment and Phase II (b) Structured Interview.

What is on the FBI Phase 2 Written Assessment?

The written assessment evaluates your ability to analyze information, organize facts, draw a logical conclusion, and write clearly and professionally under time pressure.

How long is the FBI Phase 2 Written Assessment?

The official FBI Testing Overview describes Phase II (a) Written Assessment as approximately two and a half hours.

What is the FBI Phase 2 Interview?

The FBI Phase 2 Interview is a structured, performance-based interview conducted by a panel of three Special Agents. It evaluates your past actions and competencies through specific examples.

How long is the FBI Phase 2 Interview?

The official FBI Testing Overview describes Phase II (b) Interview as approximately one hour.

How should I answer FBI Phase 2 interview questions?

Use SAR or STAR: Situation, Action, Result, or Situation, Task, Action, Result. Focus on specific examples and your own actions.

Is FBI Phase 2 harder than Phase 1?

It is different. Phase 1 tests reasoning, figural patterns, personality, preferences, and judgment. Phase 2 tests written communication and performance-based interview skills.

Does passing FBI Phase 2 guarantee a job?

No. Passing Phase 2 does not guarantee employment. You may still need to complete conditional offer steps, background investigation, polygraph, drug test, medical review, and final selection.

What should I practice for FBI Phase 2?

Practice analytical writing, evidence-based conclusions, clear organization, grammar, proofreading, SAR or STAR interview answers, and examples demonstrating core competencies.

Are these official FBI Phase 2 questions?

No. The questions and sample prompts on this page are practice-style examples. They are not official FBI, DOJ, USAJOBS, OPM, or federal agency questions.