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Self-Directed Search® (SDS®)

SDS

The fifth edition of the Self-Directed Search® (SDS®) is designed to help people learn about themselves and their career options. Whether they are college students choosing a major, veterans entering the civilian job market, or adults pursuing a career change, clients can use the SDS® to learn more about occupations that match their interests, abilities, and personalities.

Like its predecessors, the SDS® 5th Edition is based on John Holland’s theory that both people and work environments can be classified according to six basic types: Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional. These personality types are known collectively as the Holland RIASEC model.

This easy-to-use, comprehensive career exploration tool asks questions about the individual’s aspirations, activities, competencies, occupations, and other self-estimates. The resulting three-letter Summary Code, which designates the three personality types an individual most closely resembles, can then be used to help the individual find his or her occupational match.

Fifth edition test components:

  • The Assessment Booklet is the basis of the test. It includes sections for clients to rate the activities and occupations that interest them; it also allows clients to rate their own abilities and competencies. The booklet provides guidance for interpreting the Summary Code, as well as resources and next steps for the user.

  • The Occupations Finder is an index of Summary Codes for occupations in the O*NET database. O*NET codes are included for each occupation, making it easy for clients to learn more about the occupations that correspond to their code.

  • The You and Your Career booklet explains Holland’s RIASEC model in more detail; it provides strategies for making career decisions and resources for further career exploration.