The STAR method explained
STAR is the structure Civil Service assessors expect in behaviour statements and behaviour interviews. It keeps your evidence clear, comparable and markable.
Situation
Set the scene in two or three sentences. Include enough context for the stakes to make sense (team, users, deadline or risk) then move on.
Task
State your responsibility. Avoid describing the whole organisation's mission. One crisp sentence is ideal.
Action
This is where marks are won. Use "I". Show sequence, judgement, tools, people you involved and how you handled obstacles. Aim for roughly 50–60% of the word count.
Result
Close with what changed. Prefer numbers, time saved, error rates, feedback or a decision that followed. A short learning point can help at interview.
If you are over the limit, cut Situation first, then adjectives. Protect Action and Result.
Practise with the word counter and STAR generator.