Analogy Reasoning

Types of Analogy Reasoning Questions in Competitive Exams

Analogy reasoning questions show up in different formats, mostly to check how well you can spot patterns, understand relationship in a logical way, and connect the dots. If you know the types of analogy reasoning questions for SSC, banking, and MBA exams, you tend to solve them faster and more accurately.

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.

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.

Best Books for Analogy Reasoning Preparation

Here is a well organized table of the most recommended books, to master analogy reasoning questions, patterns and logical relationship for competitive exams.

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.

Important Rules and Patterns for Analogy Reasoning (Quick Revision Table)

Analogy reasoning doesn’t work with fixed formulas like quantitative aptitude does, it leans on standard patterns and logical rules, instead. Here a quick reference chart to help you practice analogy reasoning questions for competitive exams:

Key Takeaways

• Focus on identifying the exact relationship first
• Do not assume beyond the given pattern
• Practice different types to improve speed
• Use elimination when unsure

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 attempting analogy reasoning questions, students often misread the relation or just rush through the options that seem alike. This is how accuracy drops in exams like SSC, Banking, and Railway, especially in the reasoning portion. Below are a few of the most seen mistakes that candidates should keep an eye on, because they happen again and again.

Misunderstanding the exact relationship between words, numbers, or even figures

One of the biggest blunders in analogy reasoning is not catching the real connection between words, numbers, or the given figures. A lot of students mix up cause effect type links with resemblance ideas, or they simply miss the tucked away patterns that appear in number analogy reasoning.

Confusing the options that look similar in analogy MCQs

In competitive exams, analogy MCQs usually contain choices that look near-identical. So students end up picking the wrong pair, because they only stare at surface level resemblance instead of checking the logical ties required in analogy reasoning.

Forgetting the direction of the analogy relationship

Another common mistake in analogy or similarity reasoning is ignoring direction completely. Like, if the analogy is “parent to child,” then trying to flip it into “child to parent” will naturally give incorrect answers.

Rushing through visual analogy questions

Figure or visual analogy reasoning needs calm observation of shapes, arrangements, and symmetry. But many candidates rush through these, in SSC, banking, and railway exams, which then causes those small silly errors, that are easy to avoid.

Overlooking negative statements and contrast hints

Sometimes these analogy questions include negative forms such as “opposite meaning” or “different from.” If you ignore such negative statements, the whole meaning gets misunderstood, and then wrong answers follow in analogy reasoning.

Tips and Tricks to Solve Analogy Questions Quickly (like, for real)

Analogy reasoning questions can be tackled quicker with the right approach, plus a few smart moves. A lot of competitive exams, for example SSC CGL, IBPS PO and Railway exams, check verbal and non verbal analogy patterns too. Here are some useful hints and techniques that can help in this part, without making it too confusing.

Trying to decode the analogy bond step by step

First, figure out the precise relationship between the first pair of words, numbers, or figures. If you break the analogy reasoning down step by step, you’ll get less confusion and the answer becomes way more steady. It’s like zooming in, you know.

Elimination when options feel weird or confusing

When the analogy reasoning MCQs start looking tricky, use the elimination method. Just strike out the clearly incorrect options so the remaining choices get smaller, and your accuracy improves in exams like SSC CGL, IBPS PO, and CAT. Sometimes this feels faster than “thinking forever.”

Do more practice with previous year questions

Previous year analogy questions show what kinds of analogy structures show up in competitive exams. Practicing them consistently helps build speed, plus confidence, and you start spotting patterns earlier.

Manage time for analogy reasoning section

Time pressure can make people rush, and rushing often ruins the logic part. Decide a fixed time per question, and don’t overthink it. Smart time management helps you attempt more analogy reasoning MCQs, with better accuracy at the end.

Non verbal reasoning areas you can’t ignore

Non verbal reasoning is a major chunk in exams like SSC, RRB, NDA and banking tests. In these, candidates handle problem solving without relying on language. The questions typically use figures, patterns, cubes, dice, and visual layouts, so you need quick observation and clean logical thinking. Below are the main non verbal reasoning topics students should prepare for better accuracy.