Casework Skills Test Question 35 – Applying new guidance to an undecided case
On this page
Practice focus: Current guidance, version control and clear reasons
Difficulty: Medium
Scenario
You began assessing a case last week. Revised guidance takes effect today and states that it applies to all cases not yet decided. The decision template still contains wording from the previous version. The revised rule changes how one category of expense is treated and could alter the outcome of this case. A technical adviser is available if the new wording is unclear.
Rate the actions
For each action, choose Counterproductive, Ineffective, Fairly Effective or Effective.
Action A
Apply the revised guidance, record the version used, check any genuine ambiguity with the technical adviser and update the decision reasoning rather than relying on the old template wording.
Rate this action:
Counterproductive Ineffective Fairly Effective Effective
Action B
Complete the case under the previous guidance because the assessment started before the revision took effect.
Rate this action:
Counterproductive Ineffective Fairly Effective Effective
Action C
Pause every case affected by the change until a new template is published.
Rate this action:
Counterproductive Ineffective Fairly Effective Effective
Action D
Use the revised rule to reach the outcome but leave the old template explanation in the notice because the result itself is correct.
Rate this action:
Counterproductive Ineffective Fairly Effective Effective
Click to reveal the answer
| Action | Correct rating |
|---|---|
| Action A | Effective |
| Action B | Counterproductive |
| Action C | Ineffective |
| Action D | Fairly Effective |
Members can unlock the full explanation for all four actions, including how evidence, fairness, confidentiality, customer impact and authority affect each rating.
Join our careers service to read more...
If everyone knew the best tricks and tips then they would no longer work! That is why the best guidance is for members only.
Subscribe to open the locked section on this page and get access to the full Civil Service Careers premium library.
Get help with applications, interviews, behaviours, personal statements, CVs, tests, workplace problems, promotions, and career decisions, all written for people who want a better result.
Already subscribed? Log in
