Analogy Reasoning

Types of Analogy Reasoning

The following are the types of questions asked from the analogy concept -

1. Word Analogy

2. Letter Analogy

3. Set-Based Analogy

4. Number Pair-Based Analogy

5. Number and Letter-Based Analogy or Mixed Analogy

Now let's understand all types of analogy in detail:

1- Word-Based Analogy

A word-based analogy is an analogy where a pair of words is given and an aspirant has to find out the similar pair or the related word of the incomplete pair in the question.
The similarity in this type of analogy can be based on Antonyms - Synonyms, Country - State, Country - Currency, Animals - Animals young one etc.

Example:
Gujarat : Gandhinagar :: Tamil Nadu : ?

(a) Dispur (b) Chennai (c) Salem (d) Coimbatore

Solution:
Analogy - The second term is the capital and the first term is the name of its state.
Here, Gujarat : Gandhinagar

Gandhinagar is the capital of Gujarat.
Similarly, Tamil Nadu : ?
Chennai is the capital of Tamil Nadu.

Therefore, Chennai is related to Tamil Nadu. Hence, the second option is correct.

2- Letter-Based Analogy

A letter-based analogy is a type of analogy where a pair of letters/letter clusters is given and aspirants have to find out the similar pair or related letters of an incomplete pair in the question.
Similarity in this analogy can be based on opposite letters, addition or subtraction in the place values of letters, shuffling the position of letters etc.

Example:
PQ : KJ :: AB : ?

(a) ZK (b) XP (c) ZY (d) XY
Solution:
Analogy - The letters given in the second term are the opposite letters given in the first term –
Here, PQ : KJ

K is the opposite letter of P and J is the opposite letter of Q.
Similarly, AB : ?

Z is the opposite letter of A and Y is the opposite letter of B.

Therefore, ZY is related to AB. Hence, the third option is correct.

3- Set-Based Analogy

Set-based analogy is a type of analogy where the set of numbers is given and an aspirant needs to find a similar set of numbers, that shares the same relation with the given set.
The similarity in this type of analogy can be based on the sum of the digits, by applying arithmetic operations, square or cube of the numbers, square root or cube root of the numbers, Pythagoras triplets etc.

Example:
Given Set: (4, 3, 25)
(a) (2, 3, 5) (b) (5, 6, 70) (c) (7, 5, 74) (d) (8, 9, 77)
Solution:

Analogy - The third number is the sum of the squares of the first and the second numbers.
Here, (4, 3, 25)
42 + 32 = 16 + 9 = 25
Similarly, (7, 5, 74)
72 + 52 = 49 + 25 = 74
Therefore, (7, 5, 74) follows the same relation as given in the question. Hence, the third option is correct.

4- Number Pair-Based Analogy

A number-based analogy is a type of analogy where a pair of numbers is given and aspirants need to find a pair of numbers that shares the same relation as the given number pair in the question.
The similarity in this type of analogy can be based on the sum of the digits, square or cube of the numbers, square root or cube root of the numbers, etc.
Example:
8 : 64 :: 7 : ?
(a) 67 (b) 48 (c) 49 (d) 81
Solution:

Analogy - The second number is the square of the first number.
Here, 8 : 64
82 = 64
Similarly, 7 : ?
72 = 49

Therefore, 7 is related to 49. Hence, the third option is correct.

5- Mix Analogy

A mix analogy is a type of analogy where the given pairs are a combination of letters and numbers. Here, aspirants need to find a pair of numbers and letters that share the same relation as the given pair in the question.
The similarity in this type of analogy can be based on the sum of the digits, by applying arithmetic operations, square or cube of the numbers, square root or cube root of the numbers etc. and opposite letters, addition or subtraction in the place value of letters, shuffling the position of letters etc.
Example:
A2 : C4 :: G3 : ?
(a) B9 (b) I8 (c) I9 (d) H26

Solution:
Analogy - Add 2 in the place value of the letter and determine the square of the number of the first term, to get the second term.

Here, A2 : C4
A + 2 = C; 22 = 4
Similarly, G3 : ?
G + 2 = I; 32 = 9

Therefore, I9 is related to G3. Hence, the third option is correct.

How to Deal With the Analogy Reasoning Questions?

To solve analogy-based questions, an aspirant must have basic knowledge of the following subjects -

1. English Language: Place values of the letters, opposite letters, parts of the speech, antonyms, synonyms etc.

2. General Awareness: Country, state, currency, animals, name of baby animals, Books and author etc.

3. Mathematics: Use of BODMAS, squares and square roots, cubes and cube roots, Pythagoras triplets etc.

Practice Resources for Analogy Reasoning

Following are the recommended sources for the practice of the questions of analogy -

a) A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal

b) Analytical Reasoning by M.K. Pandey

c) Logical and Analytical Reasoning by A.K. Gupta

d) Test of Reasoning by Edgar Thorpe

Weightage of Analogy in Competitive Exams

The number of questions based on analogy varies from exam to exam -

1) Analogy questions asked in SSC exams i.e. SSC MTS, SSC CGL, SSC CHSL, SSC CPO, Steno - 5 to 6 questions.

2) Analogy questions asked in the Railways exam i.e. Group D, NTPC, JE, ALP etc - 3 to 4 questions.

3) Analogy questions asked in CUET, NPAT and other college entrance exams - 2 to 3 questions.

Sometimes questions based on analogy can be seen in CSAT and IB exams as well.

Verbal Reasoning Topics

The candidates who are preparing for the upcoming entrance and Government exams can also refer to the links given below and master the reasoning ability section:

Practice Questions For Word Analogy/ Semantic Analogy Reasoning

1. Directions: Select the word pair that represents exactly the relation expressed in the given word pair.
(The words should be treated as meaningful words and should not be related based on the number of letters/consonants/vowels in the word.)
Hansini : Swan

Hints: Think about the male-female relationship.

Solution -

Given:
Hansini : Swan (Hansini is a feminine form of the word Hans, which means swan in Hindi. So, Hansini specifically refers to a female swan.)
Let's check the options –
First option: Adult : Infant; An Adult is a mature individual, and an Infant is a young, very young child.
Second option: Witch : Wizard; Witch is a female magic practitioner, and a Wizard is a male magic practitioner.
Third option: Banyan : Tree; Banyan is a type of Tree.
Fourth option: Pig : Piglet; A Pig is the adult version, and a Piglet is a young pig or pig offspring.
So, only the second option follows the same pattern as followed by the given pair. Hence, the second option is correct.

2. Directions: Words given on the left side of (::) are related to each other by some Logic/Rule/Relation. Select the missing word/word pair on the right side of (::) from the given alternatives based on the same Logic/Rule/Relation.

Square : Four :: ? : ?

1) Six : Hexagon

2) Triangle : Five

3) Rectangle : Four (correct)

4) Five : Pentagon

Hints: The given words show the relation between the geometrical shape and the number of sides.

Solution -

Given:

Square : Four (This depicts the name of the figure with the number of sides in the figure.)

Let's check the options –

First option: Six : Hexagon→Hexagon has six sides but the words are not in the correct order.

Second option: Triangle : Five→Triangle has three sides, not five.

Third option: Rectangle : Four→Rectangle has four sides.

Fourth option: Five : Pentagon→Pentagon has five sides but the words are not in the correct order.

So, only the third option follows the same pattern as followed by the given pair. Hence, the third option is correct.

3. Directions: Words given on the left side of (::) are related to each other by some Logic/Rule/Relation. Select the missing word/word pair on the right side of (::) from the given alternatives based on the same Logic/Rule/Relation.

Arena : Wrestling :: Pitch : ?

1) Hockey

2) Chess

3) Skating

4) Cricket (correct)

Hints: The ground or field name of sports with the sport name is paired.

Solution -

Given:

Arena : Wrestling :: Pitch : ?

Like, Wrestling is played in Arena.

Similarly, Cricket is played on Pitch.

So, Pitch is related to Cricket in the same way as Arena is related to Wrestling. Hence, the fourth option is correct.

4. Directions: Nymph is related to Cockroach in the same way as Tadpole is related to ____.

1) Insect

2) Cow

3) Bird

4) Frog (correct)

Hints: Think of an amphibian whose early stage is referred to as a tadpole.

Solution -

Given:

Nymph is related to Cockroach.

Like, Nymph is the early stage of the lifecycle of a cockroach.

Similarly, Tadpole is the early stage of the lifecycle of a Frog.

Hence, the fourth option is correct.

5. Directions: Select the word pair that best represents a similar relationship to the one expressed in the pair of words given below. (The words must be considered meaningful English words and must not be related to each other based on the number of letters/ number of consonants/ vowels in the word.)
Lend : Borrow

Hints: Identify the word pair from the options that are antonyms of each other.

Solution

Given:
Lend : Borrow (The antonym of Lend is Borrow.)
Let's check the given options –
First option: Happy : Joyous; Happy means feeling or showing pleasure and Joyous is the synonym of happy.
Second option: Stern : Strict; Stern means very serious and strict is the synonym of stern.
Third option: Exciting : Boring; Exciting means causing strong feelings of pleasure and interest and boring is the antonym of exciting.
Fourth option: Sharp : Edged; Sharp means having a very thin but strong edge or point and edged is the synonym of sharp.
Only the third option depicts the same relation as the given word pair. Hence, the third option is correct.

Practice Questions For Letter Based Analogy Reasoning

1. Directions: In the following question, select the related letters from the given alternatives.

OQ : PT :: WZ : ?

1) ZW

2) XC (correct)

3) ID

4) WC

Hints: Determine the code by adding 1 and 3 to the place values of the first and the second letters of the given letter cluster to obtain the required code.

Solution -

Given:

OQ : PT :: WZ : ?

Add 1 and 3 to the place values of the first and the second letters of OQ to get the code –

O + 1 = P; Q + 3 = T

Thus, OQ is coded as PT.

Similarly, follow the same pattern for WZ –

W + 1 = X; Z + 3 = C

Thus, WZ is coded as XC. Hence, the second option is correct.

2. Directions: Select the option that is related to the fifth letter cluster in the same way as the second letter cluster is related to the first letter cluster and the fourth letter cluster is related to the third letter cluster.
MAKE : KEMA :: CAMP : MPCA :: STAY : ?

Hints: Reverse the letters of the given words and then check the position to which it is being shuffled.

Solution -
Given:
MAKE : KEMA :: CAMP : MPCA :: STAY : ?
Like, MAKE : KEMA –
Reverse the letters of the word MAKE→EKAM
Now, shuffle the position of the reversed letters following a certain pattern as shown below –

Thus, MAKE is coded as KEMA.CAMP : MPCA –

Reverse the letters of the word CAMP→PMAC
Now, shuffle the position of the reversed letters following a certain pattern as shown below –

Thus, CAMP is coded as MPCA.Similarly, follow the same pattern for STAY : ? –

Reverse the letters of the word STAY→YATS
Now, shuffle the position of the reversed letters following a certain pattern as shown below –

So, STAY is related to AYST in the same way as the second letter cluster is related to the first letter cluster and the fourth letter cluster is related to the third letter cluster. Hence, the first option is correct.

3. Directions: In the following question, select the related letter cluster from the given alternatives.

NR : OT :: PS : ?

1) QO

2) XU

3) NU

4) QU (correct)

Hints: Check the difference between the place values of the letters of the given letter clusters and their codes to get the required codes.

Solution -

Given:

NR : OT :: PS : ?

Add 1 and 2 to the place values of the first and second letters respectively of NR to get the related letter cluster –

N + 1 = O; R + 2 = T

Thus, NR is related to OT.

Similarly, follow the same pattern for PS –

P + 1 = Q; S + 2 = U

So, PS is related to QU. Hence, the fourth option is correct.

4. Directions: In the following question, select the related letters from the given alternatives.

EI : DF :: HM : ?

1) ZJ

2) GJ (correct)

3) ST

4) LT

Hints: Determine the required term by subtracting 1 and 3 alternately from the place value of each letter of the given term.

Solution -

Given:

EI : DF :: HM : ?

Subtract 1 and 3 alternately from the place value of each letter of the given term to obtain the required term –

E – 1 = D; I – 3 = F

Thus, EI is coded as DF.

Similarly, follow the same pattern for HM –

H – 1 = G; M – 3 = J

Thus, HM is coded as GJ. Hence, the second option is correct.

5. Directions: Select the option that is related to the fourth term in the same way as the first term is related to the second term and the fifth term is related to the sixth term.

AJM : KHY :: ? : TBC :: PKS : QIN

1) EDU

2) FDV

3) EDV (correct)

4) FCU

Hints: Subtract two from the place value of the letters to get the code.

Solution

Given:

AJM : KHY :: ? : TBC :: PKS : QIN

Like, AJM : KHY→

On reversing the order of the letters of KHY, we get YHK.

Now, on adding 2 we get→Y + 2 = A; H + 2 = J; K + 2 = M

And, PKS : QIN→

On reversing the order of the letters of QIN, we get NIQ.

Now, on adding 2 we get→N + 2 = P; I + 2 = K; Q + 2 = S

Similarly, for (?) : TBC→

On reversing the order of the letters of TBC, we get CBT.

Now, on adding 2 we get→C + 2 = E; B + 2 = D; T + 2 = V

So, EDV is related to TBC. Hence, the third option is correct.

Practice Questions For Set-Based Analogy Reasoning

1. Directions: Select the set in which the numbers are related in the same way as the numbers of the following sets.

(NOTE: Operations should be performed on the whole numbers, without breaking down the numbers into their constituent digits. E.g. 13 – Operations on 13 such as adding/subtracting/multiplying etc. to 13 can be performed. Breaking down 13 into 1 and 3 and then performing mathematical operations on 1 and 3 is NOT allowed.)

(11, 13, 143)

(17, 11, 187)

1) (3, 4, 7)

2) (3, 4, 13)

3) (3, 4, 12) (correct)

4) (3, 4, 1)

Hints: Multiply the first and second numbers to get the third number.

Solution -

Given:

(11, 13, 143), (17, 11, 187)

Here, (11, 13, 143)→11 × 13 = 143

(17, 11, 187)→17 × 11 = 187

Let's check the given options –

First option: (3, 4, 7)→3 × 4 = 12 ≠ 7

Second option: (3, 4, 13)→3 × 4 = 12 ≠ 13

Third option: (3, 4, 12)→3 × 4 = 12

Fourth option: (3, 4, 1)→3 × 4 = 12 ≠ 1

So, only the third option follows the same pattern as followed by the given set of numbers. Hence, the third option is correct.

2. Directions: Select the option in which the numbers share the same relationship in the set as that shared by the numbers in the given set.

(NOTE: Operations should be performed on the whole numbers, without breaking down the numbers into their constituent digits. E.g. 13 – Operations on 13 such as adding/subtracting/multiplying etc. to 13 can be performed. Breaking down 13 into 1 and 3 and then performing mathematical operations on 1 and 3 is not allowed.)

(28, 53, 78); (34, 49, 64)

1) (46, 69, 71)

2) (22, 54, 66)

3) (38, 40, 42) (correct)

4) (54, 55, 27)

Hints: Divide the sum of the first and third numbers by 2 to get the second number.

Solution -

Given:

(28, 53, 78); (34, 49, 64)

Here, (28, 53, 78)→(28 + 78) ÷ 2 = 106 ÷ 2 = 53

(34, 49, 64)→(34 + 64) ÷ 2 = 98 ÷ 2 = 49

Let's check the options –

First option: (46, 69, 71)→(46 + 71) ÷ 2 = 117 ÷ 2 = 58.5 ≠ 69

Second option: (22, 54, 66)→(22 + 66) ÷ 2 = 88 ÷ 2 = 44 ≠ 54

Third option: (38, 40, 42)→(38 + 42) ÷ 2 = 80 ÷ 2 = 40

Fourth option: (54, 55, 27)→(54 + 27) ÷ 2 = 81 ÷2 = 40.5 ≠ 55

So, only the third option follows the same pattern as followed by the given set of numbers. Hence, the third option is correct.

3. Directions: Select the option in which the numbers share the same relationship in the set as that shared by the numbers in the given set.

(NOTE: Operations should be performed on the whole numbers, without breaking down the numbers into their constituent digits. E.g.13 – Operations on 13 such as adding/subtracting/multiplying etc. to 13 can be performed. Breaking down 13 into 1 and 3 and then performing mathematical operations on 1 and 3 is not allowed.)

(14, 55, 41); (36, 99, 63)

1) (76, 153, 67)

2) (128, 949, 821) (correct)

3) (28, 120, 82)

4) (34, 107, 43)

Hints: Add the first and third numbers to get the second number.

Solution -

Given:

(14, 55, 41); (36, 99, 63)

Here, (14, 55, 41)→14 + 41 = 55

(36, 99, 63)→36 + 63 = 99

Let's check the options –

First option: (76, 153, 67)→76 + 67 = 143 ≠ 153

Second option: (128, 949, 821)→128 + 821 = 949

Third option: (28, 120, 82)→28 + 82 = 110 ≠ 120

Fourth option: (34, 107, 43)→34 + 43 = 77 ≠ 107

So, only the second option follows the same pattern as followed by the given set of numbers. Hence, the second option is correct.

4. Directions: Select the option in which the numbers share the same relationship in the set as that shared by the numbers in the given set.

(NOTE: Operations should be performed on the whole numbers, without breaking down the numbers into their constituent digits. E.g.13 – Operations on 13 such as adding/subtracting/multiplying etc. to 13 can be performed. Breaking down 13 into 1 and 3 and then performing mathematical operations on 1 and 3 is not allowed.)

(6, 12, 24); (28, 14, 7)

1) (32, 14, 1)

2) (36, 16, 9)

3) (25, 18, 16)

4) (25, 10, 4) (correct)

Hints: Divide the square of the second number by the first number to get the third number.

Solution -

Given:

(6, 12, 24); (28, 14, 7)

Here, (6, 12, 24)→(12)2 ÷ 6 = 144 ÷ 6 = 24

(28, 14, 7)→(14)2 ÷ 28 = 196 ÷ 28 = 7

Let's check the options –

First option: (32, 14, 1)→(14)2 ÷ 32 = 196 ÷ 32 = 6.125 ≠ 1

Second option: (36, 16, 9)→(16)2 ÷ 36 = 256 ÷ 36 = 7.11 ≠ 9

Third option: (25, 18, 16)→(18)2 ÷ 25 = 324 ÷ 25 = 12.96 ≠ 16

Fourth option: (25, 10, 4)→(10)2 ÷ 25 = 100 ÷ 25 = 4

So, only the fourth follows the same pattern as followed by the given set of numbers. Hence, the fourth option is correct.

5. Directions: Select the option in which the numbers share the same relationship in the set as that shared by the numbers in the given set.

(NOTE: Operations should be performed on the whole numbers without breaking down the numbers into their constituent digits. E.g.13 – Operations on 13 such as adding/subtracting/multiplying etc. to 13 can be performed. Breaking down 13 into 1 and 3 and then performing mathematical operations on 1 and 3 is not allowed.)

(66, 13, 20)

(298, 80, 69)

1) (356, 111, 67) (correct)

2) (219, 39, 180)

3) (38, 12, 18)

4) (56, 16, 42)

Hints: Multiply the sum of the second and third numbers by 2 to get the first number.

Solution -

Given:

(66, 13, 20); (298, 80, 69)

Here, (66, 13, 20)→(13 + 20) × 2 = 33 × 2 = 66

(298, 80, 69)→(80 + 69) × 2 = 149 × 2 = 298

Let's check the options –

First option: (356, 111, 67)→(111 + 67) × 2 = 178 × 2 = 356

Second option: (219, 39, 180)→(39 + 180) × 2 = 219 × 2 = 438 ≠ 219

Third option: (38, 12, 18)→(12 + 18) × 2 = 30 × 2 = 60 ≠ 38

Fourth option: (56, 16, 42)→(16 + 42) × 2 = 58 × 2 = 116 ≠ 56

So, only the first option follows the same pattern as the given set of numbers. Hence, the first option is correct.

Practice Questions For Number Analogy Reasoning

1. Directions: Select the option that is related to the fifth number in the same way as the second number is related to the first number and the fourth number is related to the third number.

10 : 45 :: 6 : 25 :: 9 : ?

1) 38

2) 36

3) 42

4) 40 (correct)

Hints: For each pair, multiply the first number by 5 and then subtract 5 from the resultant to get the second number.

Solution -

Given:

10 : 45 :: 6 : 25 :: 9 : ?

Like, 10 : 45→(10 × 5) – 5 = 50 – 5 = 45

6 : 25→(6 × 5) – 5 = 30 – 5 = 25

Similarly, follow the same pattern for 9 : ?→(9 × 5) – 5 = 45 – 5 = 40

So, 40 is the required answer. Hence, the fourth option is correct.

2. Directions: Select the option that is related to the fifth number in the same way as the first number is related to the second number and the third number is related to the fourth number.

7 : 512 :: 11 : 1728 :: 10 : ?

1) 1331 (correct)

2) 2197

3) 1397

4) 1133

Hints: Add 1 to the first number and then find the cube of the resultant.

Solution -

Given:

7 : 512 :: 11 : 1728 :: 10 : ?

The pattern is as follows –

7 : 512→7 + 1 = 8; (8)³ = 512

11 : 1728→11 + 1 = 12; (12)³ = 1728

Similarly, follow the same pattern for 10 : ?→10+1=11; (11)3 = 1331

So, 1331 is related to 10. Hence, the first option is correct.

3. Directions: Select the option that is related to the fifth number in the same way as the second number is related to the first number and the fourth number is related to the third number.

9 : 30 :: 11 : 36 :: 13 : ?

1) 42 (correct)

2) 45

3) 48

4) 39

Hints: Multiply the first number by 3 and then add 3 to the resultant to get the second number.

Solution -

Given:

9 : 30 :: 11 : 36 :: 13 : ?

Like, 9 : 30→(9 × 3) + 3 = 27 + 3 = 30

And, 11 : 36→(11 × 3) + 3 = 33 + 3 = 36

Similarly, follow the same pattern for 13 : ?→(13 × 3) + 3 = 39 + 3 = 42

So, 42 is related to 13. Hence, the first option is correct.

4. Directions: Select the option that is related to the fourth number in the same way as the first number is related to the second number and the fifth number is related to the sixth number.

22 : 132 :: ? : 72 :: 24 : 144

1) 12 (correct)

2) 8

3) 18

4) 36

Hints: For each pair, divide the second number by 6 to get the first number.

Solution -

Given:

22 : 132 :: ? : 72 :: 24 : 144

Like, 22 : 132→132 ÷ 6 = 22

24 : 144→144 ÷ 6 = 24

Similarly, follow the same pattern for 72 : ?→72 ÷ 6 = 12

So, 12 is the required answer. Hence, the first option is correct.

5. Directions: Select the option that is related to the fifth number in the same way as the second number is related to the first number and the fourth number is related to the third number.

12 : 100 :: 10 : 64 :: 14 : ?

1) 140

2) 144 (correct)

3) 124

4) 134

Hints: Subtract 2 from the first number and then find the square of the resultant to obtain the second number.

Solution -

Given:

12 : 100 :: 10 : 64 :: 14 : ?

Like, 12 : 100→(12 – 2)2 = 102 = 100

And, 10 : 64→(10 – 2)2 = 82 = 64

Similarly, follow the same pattern for 14 : ?→(14 – 2)2 = 122 = 144

So, 144 is related to 14. Hence, the second option is correct.

Practice Questions For Mixed Analogy Reasoning

1. Directions: Select the option that is related to the fifth term in the same way as the second term is related to the first term and the fourth term is related to the third term.

FAN2 : ICO8 :: NAP5 : QCQ125 :: GUN8 : ?

1. JWO64

2) JWO512 (correct)

3) JWO484

4) JVO512

Hints: Add 3, 2 and 1 to the place value of the first, second and third letters and find the cube of the number.

Solution -

Given:

FAN2 : ICO8 :: NAP5 : QCQ125 :: GUN8 : ?

Like, FAN2 : ICO8 – F + 3 = I; A + 2 = C; N + 1 = O; (2)3 = 8
And, NAP5 : QCQ125 – N + 3 = Q; A + 2 = C; P + 1 = Q; (5)3 = 125

Similarly, for GUN8 – G + 3 = J; U + 2 = W; N + 1 = O; (8)3 = 512

So, JWO512 is related to GUN8. Hence, the second option is correct.

2. Directions: Select the option that is related to the fifth term in the same way as the second term is related to the first term and the fourth term is related to the third term.

E25I : A5E :: Z49T : V7P :: P144K : ?

1) L12H

2) L12G (correct)

3) L14G

4) L13G

Hints: Subtract 4 from the place value of the first and third letters and determine the square root of the number.

Solution -

Given:

E25I : A5E :: Z49T : V7P :: P144K : ?

Like, E25I : A5E→E(5) – 4 = A; √25 = 5; I(9) – 4 = E

And, Z49T : V7P→Z(26) – 4 = V; √49 = 7; T(20) – 4 = P

Similarly, follow the same pattern for P144K : ?→P(16) – 4 = L; √144 = 12; K(11) – 4 = G

So, L12G is related to P144K. Hence, the second option is correct.

3. Directions: Select the option that is related to the fifth term in the same way as the second term is related to the first term and the fourth term is related to the third term.

AR37 : DW44 :: PQ43 : SV50 :: GF31 : ?

1) JJ38

2) KK38

3) JK38 (correct)

4) KM38

Hints: Determine the difference between given terms.

Solution -

Given:

AR37 : DW44 :: PQ43 : SV50 :: GF31 :?

Like, AR37 : DW44→A(1) + 3 = D; R(18) + 5 = W; 37 + 7 = 44

And, PQ43 : SV50→P(16) + 3 = S; Q(17) + 5 = V; 43 + 7 = 50

Similarly, by following the same pattern for GF31 : ?→G(7) + 3 = J; F(6) + 5 = K; 31 + 7 = 38

So, the required missing term is JK38. Hence, the third option is correct.

4. Directions: Select the option that is related to the fifth term in the same way as the second term is related to the first term and the fourth term is related to the third term.

K4N : P9N :: A5Z : B11D :: P6R : ?

1) T13S (correct)

2) S13T

3) R13S
4) R13T

Hints: Add 3 and 2 to the place value of the first and third letters and interchange their positions. Multiply the given number by 2 and add 1 to it.

Solution -

Given:

K4N : P9N :: A5Z : B11D :: P6R : ?

Like, K4N : P9N –

And, A5Z : B11D –

Similarly, follow the same pattern for P6R –

Thus, P6R is coded as T13S. Hence, the first option is correct.

5. Directions: Select the option that is related to the fifth term in the same way as the second term is related to the first term and the fourth term is related to the third term.

TR4 : XC64 :: AC3 : EN27 :: FP6 : ?

1) JA216 (correct)

2) JB125

3) JAl25

4) JB216

Hints: Add 4 and 11 to the place value of the first and second letters and determine the cube of the number.

Solution -

Given:

TR4 : XC64 :: AC3 : EN27 :: FP6 : ?

Like, TR4 : XC64→T(20) + 4 = X; R(18) + 11 = C; (4)3 = 64

And, AC3 : EN27→A(1) + 4 = E; C(3) + 11 = N; (3)3 = 27

Similarly, follow the same pattern for FP6 : ?→F(6) + 4 = J; P(16) + 11 = A; (6)3 = 216

So, JA216 is related to FP6. Hence, the first option is correct.

Analogy Reasoning Questions for BITSAT/ CUET

1. Directions: Select the option that is related to the fifth number in the same way as the second number is related to the first number and the fourth number is related to the third number.

183 : 6 :: 164 : 4 :: 122 : ?

1) 2

2) 8

3) 4

4) 6

Solution -

Divide the first number into two parts, and then divide the first two digits of the first number by the third digit of the first number, to obtain the second number –

Here, 183 : 6→18 ÷ 3 = 6

And, 164 : 4→16 ÷ 4 = 4

Similarly, follow the same pattern for 122 : ?→12 ÷ 2 = 6

So, 6 is the missing number in the given set of numbers. Hence, the fourth option is correct.

2. Directions: In the following question, select the related letters from the given alternatives.

NA : SF :: OB : ?

1) IJ

2) TG

3) RG

4) TH

Solution -

Add 5 to the place value of each letter of the given term, to obtain the required term –

Like, NA : SF→N + 5 = S; A + 5 = F
Thus, NA is coded as SF.

Similarly, follow the same pattern for OB : ? –

O + 5 = T; B + 5 = G

Thus, OB is coded as TG. Hence, the second option is correct.

3. Directions: Select the option that is related to the third term on the same basis as the second term is related to the first term.

Mirror : Reflection of light :: Prism : ?

1) Scattering of light

2) Reflection of light

3) Dispersion of light

4) Inversion of light

Solution -

Like, Mirror : Reflection of light →Reflection of light is one of the properties of a mirror.

Similarly, follow the same pattern for a Prism : ?→Prism disperses the lights passing through it.

So, the dispersion of light is related to the prism in the same way as a mirror is related to the reflection of light. Hence, the third option is correct.

Analogy Reasoning Questions for SSC/ RRB exams

1. Directions: Words given on the left side of (::) are related to each other by some Logic/Rule/Relation. Select the missing word/word pair on the right side of (::) from the given alternatives based on the same Logic/Rule/Relation.

Car : Steering :: Fan : ?

1) Three

2) Electricity

3) Tyre

4) Blade

Solution -

Like, a Car is controlled or operated by using its steering wheel.

Similarly, for Fan, its operation is facilitated by its blades.

Hence, the fourth option is correct.

2. Directions: Three of the four groups of words are alike in some manner. Select the odd group of words.

1. (Igloo, Nun, Sty)

2. (Web, Cottage, Palace)

3. (Stable, Monastery, Hive)

4. (Den, Byre, Barn)

1) (Igloo, Nun, Sty)

2) (Web, Cottage, Palace)

3) (Stable, Monastery, Hive)

4) (Den, Byre, Barn)

Solution -

Each group contains words related to dwellings or places of habitation.

Let's check the given options –

First Option: (Igoo, Nun, Sty); Nun is not a type of dwelling.

Second Option: (Web, Cottage, Palace); All are types of dwelling.

Third Option: (Stable, Monastery, Hive); All are types of dwelling.

Fourth Option: (Den, Byre, Barn); All are types of dwelling.

So, only the first option doesn't follow the logic. Hence, the first option is correct.

3. Directions: Select the option in which the numbers share the same relationship in the set as that shared by the numbers in the given set. (NOTE: Operations should be performed on the whole numbers, without breaking down the numbers into their constituent digits. E.g.13 – operations on 13 such as adding/subtracting/multiplying etc. to 13 can be performed. Breaking down 13 into 1 and 3 and then performing mathematical operations on 1 and 3 is not allowed)

(32, 24, 8)

(48, 42, 6)

1) (64, 62, 8)

2) (56, 50, 6)

3) (16, 14, 4)

4) (18, 12, 4)

Solution -

The third number of the triad is the difference between the first and the second number.

The pattern is –

(32, 24, 8)→32 – 24 = 8
(48, 42, 6)→48 – 42 = 6

Let's check each option –

First option: (64, 62, 8) = 64 – 62 = 2 ≠ 8

Second option: (56, 50, 6) = 56 – 50 = 6

Third option: (16, 14, 4) = 16 – 14 = 2 ≠ 4

Fourth option: (18, 12, 4) = 18 – 12 = 6 ≠ 4

So, only the second option follows the same pattern as the given sets. Hence, the second option is correct.

Analogy Reasoning Questions for LIC/ NIACL exams

1. Directions: Words given on the left side of (::) are related by some Logic/Rule/Relation. Select the missing word/word pair on the right side of (::) from the given alternatives based on the same Logic/Rule/Relation.

Soldiers : Army :: ?

1) Singers : Gang

2) Cattle : Herd

3) Class : Pupils

4) Team : Players

Solution -

Given:

Soldiers : Army (This depicts the relation that a group of soldiers is known as an army).

Let's check the options –

First option: Singers : Gang; A group of singers is called a choir, not a gang.

Second option: Cattle : Herd; A group of cattle is called a herd.

Third option: Class : Pupils; A group of students is called pupils.

Fourth option: Team : Players; A group of players is called a team, but the order is incorrect.

So, only the second option follows the pattern as followed by the given pair. Hence, the second option is correct.

2. Directions: Words given on the left side of (::) are related by some Logic/Rule/Relation. Select the missing word/word pair on the right side of (::) from the given alternatives based on the same Logic/Rule/Relation.

Turtle : Reptile :: ?

1) Snake : Rodent

2) Mammal : Man

3) Lizard : Reptile

4) Mammal : Frog

Solution -

Given:

Turtle : Reptile :: ? (This depicts the relation between animal/person and the category that they belong to.)

Like, Turtle is a reptile.

Let's check the options –

First option: Snake : Rodent; Snake is a reptile, not a rodent.

Second option: Mammal : Man; Man is a mammal, but here the order is not correct.

Third option: Lizard : Reptile; Lizard is a reptile.

Fourth option: Mammal : Frog; Frog is an amphibian, not a mammal.

So, only the third option follows the same pattern as followed by the given pair of words. Hence, the third option is correct.

Common Mistakes in Analogy Reasoning

While solving analogy reasoning questions, students often misinterpret the relationship or rush through similar-looking options. Such mistakes can lower accuracy in exams like SSC, Banking, and Railway reasoning sections. Below are some of the most frequent mistakes candidates should avoid.

Misunderstanding the Relationship Between Words or Numbers

One of the biggest mistakes in analogy reasoning questions is failing to identify the correct relationship between words, numbers, or figures. Many candidates confuse cause-effect with similarity or overlook hidden patterns in number analogy reasoning.

Confusing Similar-Looking Options in Analogy MCQs

In competitive exams, analogy MCQs often include options that look almost identical. Students end up choosing the wrong pair because they focus only on surface similarity rather than logical connections in analogy reasoning.

Ignoring the Direction of Analogy Relationship

A common error in analogy or similarity reasoning is ignoring the direction of the relationship. For example, if the analogy is based on "parent to child," reversing it as "child to parent" leads to incorrect answers.

Rushing Through Visual Analogy Questions

Figure analogy reasoning requires careful observation of shapes, patterns, and symmetry. Many candidates rush through these questions in SSC, banking, and railway exams, leading to silly mistakes.

Overlooking Negative Statements

Sometimes analogy reasoning questions involve negative patterns like “opposite meaning” or “different from.” Ignoring these negative statements can cause misinterpretation and wrong answers in analogy reasoning.

Tips and Tricks to Solve Analogy Questions Quickly

Analogy reasoning questions can be solved faster with the right approach and smart strategies. Many competitive exams like SSC CGL, IBPS PO, and Railway exams test candidates on both verbal and non-verbal analogy patterns. Below are some useful tips and techniques to improve speed and accuracy in this section.

Breaking Down the Analogy Relationship Step by Step

Start by clearly identifying the exact relationship between the first pair of words, numbers, or figures. Breaking down analogy reasoning step by step avoids confusion and ensures accurate answers.

Using Elimination Method for Confusing Analogy Options

When analogy reasoning MCQs look tricky, use the elimination method. Remove obviously wrong options to narrow down choices and improve your accuracy in exams like SSC CGL, IBPS PO, and CAT.

Practice with Previous Year Analogy Questions

Previous year analogy reasoning questions give insight into the types of analogy in reasoning asked in competitive exams. Practicing these regularly improves both speed and confidence.

Time Management for Analogy Reasoning Section

Time pressure often leads to rushing through analogy MCQs. Allocate a fixed time per question and avoid overthinking. Smart time management ensures you attempt more analogy reasoning questions with better accuracy.

Non-Verbal Reasoning Topics

Non-verbal reasoning is an important part of competitive exams like SSC, RRB, NDA, and banking tests, where candidates are tested on problem-solving skills without the use of language. These questions usually involve figures, patterns, cubes, dice, and visual arrangements that require quick observation and logical thinking. Below are the key non-verbal reasoning topics that students must prepare for better accuracy and speed in exams.

About the Faculty
Tanu Gupta, with over a decade of experience as a reasoning faculty, specializes in preparing students for various entrance examinations and career development. Her extensive work with multiple educational platforms and institutions has honed her expertise in logical and analytical thinking. Her dedication to innovative teaching methods ensures these articles provide practical insights and expert guidance.