STAR statement template
A fill-in-the-blanks template for writing 250-word Civil Service behaviour statements using the STAR method. Copy the structure below or download it as a guide.
Most departments ask for 250 words per behaviour. That is roughly four short paragraphs — about half a page. Some roles ask for 500 or 750 words. Always check the job advert.
The 250-word structure
Follow this structure to keep your statement balanced and within the word limit.
| Section | Word count | What to include |
|---|---|---|
| Situation | 30–40 words | Set the scene. One or two sentences. Where were you? What was happening? |
| Task | 15–25 words | Your specific responsibility. What did you need to achieve? |
| Action | 140–160 words | What you did, step by step. Use "I" not "we". Be specific. |
| Result | 30–40 words | What changed? Include a number if you can. What was the outcome? |
The template
Copy this template and fill in the blanks with your own example.
[S] I was working as a [your role] when [describe the situation in one or two sentences].
[T] I needed to [state your specific task or responsibility].
[A] I [describe what you did first]. I then [describe the next step]. I also [describe any additional actions]. I [explain how you communicated with others or managed stakeholders]. I [describe how you monitored progress or quality].
[R] As a result, [describe the outcome with a number if possible]. [Mention any recognition, feedback, or wider impact].
Example: filled-in template
Here is the template filled in for a Seeing the Big Picture statement at HEO level.
[S] I was working as a customer service supervisor in a retail chain when I noticed our store was receiving an unusually high number of complaints about a new returns policy.
[T] I needed to understand whether this was a local issue or part of a wider pattern, and ensure the feedback reached the right people.
[A] I reviewed complaint logs from the past three months and cross-referenced them with two nearby stores in the same region. I found that all three stores showed a 40% increase in returns-related complaints since the policy change. I compiled this data into a concise report, including customer verbatim quotes, and sent it to our regional manager with a recommendation to review the policy at the next quarterly meeting. I also briefed my team on how to handle returns empathetically in the meantime.
[R] The regional manager presented the data at the quarterly review. The policy was revised within six weeks, and returns-related complaints across the region dropped by 55% in the following quarter. My store manager commended me for spotting the wider issue rather than treating it as a local problem.
Checklist for every statement
- Is the example specific and real?
- Do I use "I" not "we" in the Action section?
- Is the word count within the limit?
- Does the Result include a number or measurable outcome?
- Have I focused on the behaviour being assessed?
- Have I removed filler words like "I felt it was important to"?
- Is every sentence adding value — no repetition?
- Have I checked spelling and grammar?
Writing "I worked with my team to..." instead of "I..." The assessor wants to know what you did. If the team did something, say what your specific contribution was.