Shortcuts in Reasoning (Verbal, Non-Verbal & Analytical) For Competitive Exams PDF

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DISHA PUBLICATION
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ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
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Index
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VERBAL REASONING
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1. Analogy & Classification 1-7
2. Series 8-12
3. Alphabet & Number Test 13-19
4. Coding-Decoding 20-23
5. Blood Relations 24-28
6. Direction and Distance 29-32
7. Time Sequence, Number & Ranking Test 33-34
8. Logical Sequence of Words 35
9. Number Puzzles 36
10. Venn Diagram 37-39
11. Mathematical Operation Arithmetical Reasoning 40-41
12. Coded Inequalities 42-47
13. Problem Solving 48-57
14. Input and Output 58-68
15. Syllogism 69-78
16. Cube & Dice 79-84
17. Analytical Decision Making 85-90

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NON-VERBAL REASONING
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18. Series 91-95
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19. Mirror & Water Images 96-99
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20. Paper Cutting and Folding 100-101
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21. Completion of Figure 102
22. Hidden / Embedded Figures 103
23. Figure Formation and Analysis 104-105
24. Visual Reasoning 106-110
ANALYTICAL REASONING
25. Evaluating Inferences 111-114
26. Statement & Arguments 115-126
27. Statement & Assumptions 127-131
28. Statement & Conclusions 132-133
29. Courses of Action 134-140
30. Critical Reasoning` 141-152

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Shortcuts in Quantitative Aptitude with EBooks is
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an attempt of Disha Publication to provide Quality
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Material to aspirants. The book will help in learning
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the various tips and tricks of Quantitative Aptitude.
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The book emphasizes on the short cut methods
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through which one can solve any problem before
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time. Each chapter covers basic theory followed by
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shortcut approaches and formula.
The book is supported by ample practice material
through E-books which covers:
(a) Chapter-wise Solved Examples
(b) Chapter-wise Practice Exercises with Hints and Solutions
(c) Chapter-wise Tests
(d) Past Solved Papers (IBPS PO/Clerk, SBI PO/Clerk, SSC, CDS exams etc.)
Disha’s Tips and Techniques in English (with 3

eBooks) for all Competitive Exams is a short book
designed to cater to every student appearing
for competitive exams. The chapters also
include Spotting errors, Sentence Correction,
Choose the Correct Sentence, Synonyms and
Antonyms, Sentence Completion, Active and
Passive voices, Direct and Indirect speech and
Common Errors in English and so on. In short, it
focuses on all those scientific yet student-friendly
approaches to crack all competitive exams.
The practice exercises, solved papers and tests are given in the form of
e-books. The book is supported by 3 eBooks:
1. Chapter-wise Practice Exercise
2. Chapter Tests
3. Solved Papers of various exams
The Current Affairs Roundup is the most cost

effective quality book ever built for Competitive
Exams. The book is empowered with 30+ Online
MCQ Tests and 2 eBooks - GK2017 and Current
Affairs Update July - December 2016.
The book has been designed to capture the day-
to-day happenings in and around our country. The
book has been divided into 4 parts - Events, Issues,
Ideas and People. Further each of the 4 parts is
divided month-wise.
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General Competition Books At A Glance
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General Competition Guides At A Glance
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Disha’s General Knowledge At A Glance
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VERBAL REASONING
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Chapter
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Analogy &
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Classification
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ANALOGY EXAMPLE
The meaning of analogy is ‘similar Scissors : Cloth
properties’ or similarity. If an object or 2. Synonym Based Analogy
word or digit or activity shows any
In such type of analogy two words
similarity with another object or word or have similar meaning.
digit or activity in terms of properties,
EXAMPLE
type, shape, size, trait etc., then the
particular similarity will be called analogy. Huge : Gigantic
The relationship of analogy can be 3. Worker & Tool Based
established in two ways : Analogy
This establishes a relationship
(i) A : B :: C : D between a particular tool and the
person of that particular profession
who uses that tool.
(ii) A : B : : C : D EXAMPLE
Writer : Pen
Word Analogy 4. Worker & Product Based
Letter Analogy Analogy
Types of
Analogy Number Analogy This type of analogy gives a
relationship between a person of
Mixed Analogy
particular profession and his/her
creations.
WORD ANALOGY EXAMPLE
In word analogy, candidates have to find Writer : Book
the relationship between given words in 5. Causes & Effect Based
a pair. Analogy
Remember In such type of analogy 1st word
acts and the 2nd word is the effect
1. Tool & Object Based Analogy of that action.
This establishes a relationship
EXAMPLE
between a tool and the object in
which it works. Work : Tiredness
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2 Analogy & Classification
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6. Opposite Relationship 11. Finished Product & Raw
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(Antonym) Based Analogy Material Based Analogy
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In such type of analogy the two In such type of analogy the 1st word
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words of the question pair are is the raw material and 2nd word is
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opposite in meaning. the end product of that raw material
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and vice-versa.
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EXAMPLE
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Poor : Rich EXAMPLE
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Yarn : Fabric
7. Gender Based Analogy
In such type of analogy, one word 12. Utility Based Analogy
is masculine and another word is In such type of analogy the 2nd
feminine of it or It is a ‘male and word shows the purpose of the 1st
female’ or ‘sex’ relationship. word or vice-versa.
EXAMPLE EXAMPLE
Man : Woman Pen : Writing
8. Classification Based Analogy 13. Symbolic Relationship

Based Analogy
This type of analogy is based on
biological, physical, chemical or any In such type of analogy, the 1st word
other classification. In such is the symbol of the 2nd word and
problems the 1 st word may be vice-versa.
classified by the 2nd word and vice- EXAMPLE
versa.
White : Peace
EXAMPLE
14. Adult & Young One Based
Oxygen : Gas
Analogy
9. Function Based Analogy
In such type of analogy, the 1st word
In such type of analogy, 2nd word is the adult one and 2nd word is the
describes the function of the 1st young one of the 1st word or vice-
word. versa.
EXAMPLE EXAMPLE
Singer : Sings
Cow : Calf
10. Quantity and Unit Based
15. Subject & Specialist Based
Analogy
Analogy
In such type of analogy 2nd word is
In such type of analogy the 2nd
the unit of the first word and vice-
word is the specialist of 1st word
versa.
(subject) or vice-versa.
EXAMPLE
EXAMPLE
Distance : Mile
Heart : Cardiologist
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Analogy & Classification 3
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16. Habit Based Analogy 21. Analogy Based on Worker
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In this type of analogy 2nd word is and Working Place
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the habit of 1st and vice-versa. In this type of analogy the 1st word
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represents a person of particular
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EXAMPLE profession and 2nd word represents
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the working place of that person (1st
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Cat : Omnivorous
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word) and vice-versa.
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17. Instrument and
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Measurement Based EXAMPLE
Analogy Doctor : Hospital
We see in this type of analogy, the 22. Analogy Based on Topic
1st word is the instrument to measure Study
the 2nd word and vice-versa:
1st word is the study of the 2nd word
EXAMPLE (or vice-versa) in the analogy like
Hygrometer: Humidity this.
EXAMPLE
18. Individual & Group Based
Analogy Birds : Ornithology
Second word is the group of 1st
word (or vice-versa) in such type LETTER ANALOGY
of analogy. In this, candidate has to find out the
relationship between given letters or
EXAMPLE
group of letters.
Cow : Herd Analogy Based on Letters (or
19. State & Capital Based Meaningless Words)
Analogy Case I : Forward alphabetical sequence
1st word is the state and 2nd word is
EXAMPLE
the capital of that state (1st word)
(or vice-versa) in the analogy like CD : FG : : PQ : UV
Here, CD and FG are in the natural
this.
alphabetical sequence. Similarly, PQ &
EXAMPLE UV are in the natural alphabetical
Bihar : Patna sequence.
Case II: Backward or Opposite
20. Analogy Based on Individual alphabetical sequence
& Dwelling Place
EXAMPLE
In such type of analogy 1st word is
the individual & 2nd word is the DC : GF : : QP : VU
dwelling place of that individual (1st In fact this case is opposite of case I
Case III: Vowel – Consonant relation
word) and vice-versa.
EXAMPLE EXAMPLE
Horse : Stable ATL : EVX : : IPR : ORS
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Here, the 1st two words start with the 1st between IJK & NOP two letters skip and
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two vowels A & E and the next two words they are L & M.
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start with the next two vowels I & O. Case V: Jumbled letters relation
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Last two letter of every word are
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EXAMPLE
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consonants. (i) LAIN : NAIL : : EVOL : LOVE
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Case IV: Skip letter relation
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Here, the 1st term gets reveresed to
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EXAMPLE produce the 2nd term and similar
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ABC : FGH : : IJK : NOP relation is shown in between 3rd and
Here, between ABC & FGH two letters 4th term.
skip and they are D & E. Similarly,
q Shortcut Approach
I: While solving the problems based on alphabet, you must have in your mind
the exact positions of every letters of alphabet in forward order as well as in
backward or reverse order as given below:
Letters positions in forward alphabetical order:
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24
M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26
Letters positions in backward or reverse alphabetical order:
Z Y X W V U T S R Q P O N M L K J I
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18
K J I H G F E D C B A
5 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26
II: Just keep in mind, the following positions of the letters in the English alphabet
(forward order).
(i) E J O T Y
5 10 15 20 25
EJOTY Remember this word

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(ii) C F I L O R U X
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3 6 9 12 15 18 21 24
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CFILORUX Remember
(iii) D H L P T X
4 8 12 16 20 24
DHLPTX Remember
NUMBER ANALOGY EXAMPLE 3 : 21 : : 5 : 35
In this, candidate has to find out the (Here, 3 × 7 = 21 and 5 × 7 = 35)

relationship the number or group of • Squares & Cubes of numbers
numbers. EXAMPLE 4 : 16 : : 8 : 64
(here, 42 = 16 and 82 = 64)
Remember
• Even and Odd numbers MIXED ANALOGY
EXAMPLE 84 : 51 : : 72 : 37
In this, candidate has to find out the
(Here, 84 & 72 are even and 51 & 37 relationship between the given group of
are odd numbers respectively) letters and a number on one side.
• Addition and subtraction of
EXAMPLE AB : 12 : : CD : : 34
numbers.
(Here, A B C D
EXAMPLE 234 : 9 : : 136 : 10
¯ ¯ and ¯ ¯
(Here, 2 + 3 + 4 = 9 and 1 + 3 + 6 = 10) 1 2 3 4
• Multiplication and Division of (positional (positional
numbers value) vlaue)
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CLASSIFICATION
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(b) U V W X Y
In classification we take out an element
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out of some given elements and the 2 letter gap
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(c) D E F G H
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the rest of the elements in terms of
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common properties, shapes, sizes, types, 2 letter gap
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nature, colours, traits etc. In this way,
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the rest of the elements form a group and (d) I J K L M N
the element that has been taken out is
not the member of that group as this 3 letter gap
single element does not possesses the
common quality to be possessed by rest (e) F G H I J
of the elements.
2 letter gap
Types of Classification 2. Meaningful Words Based
(1) Letter/meaningless word based Classification
classification In such type of classification we
have to take odd word out of the
(2) Mean ingful word based
given group of meaningful words.
classification
EXAMPLE
(3) Digit based classification
(a) Slim (b) Trims
(4) General knowledge based (c) Greets (d) Grid
classification (e) Fight
1. Letter/Meaningless Word Sl i m Tr i ms
Sol. (a) Here, (b)
Based Classification 1 vowel 1 vowel
Such classifications are based on Gr ee ts Gr i d
letters of English alphabet. So many (c) (d)
groups of letters are given in the 2 vowels 1 vowel
question in which one group is F i ght
different from remaining groups and (e)
hence the different group will be our 1 vowel
answer. 3. Digit Based Classification
EXAMPLE In such type of classifications digits
(a) PQT (b) UVY or numbers are given to find out one
(c) DEH (d) IJN number that is not a part of the
(e) FGJ group of remaining numbers.
EXAMPLE
Sol. (a) Here, P Q R S T
(a) 122 (b) 128
2 letter gap (c) 199 (d) 200
(e) 388
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Sol. 199 is an odd number while all the Sol. Octopus is the only animal out of
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other options are even numbers. given options which is a water
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animal. Rest of the options are land
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4. General Knowledge Based
animals.
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Classification
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q Shortcut Approach
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Such classification is done on the
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basis of our general knowledge. No Step I : See all the given options with a
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doubts that this is a word based
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serious eye.
classification but without having
Step II : Try to make relation of similarity
general knowledge this type of among the given options.
questions can not be solved.
Step III :Find out the one word not
EXAMPLE
having the common similarity like other
(a) Cat (b) Dog four options and that one word will be
(c) Tiger (d) Octopus your answer.
(e) Lion
ebooks Reference Page No.
Practice Exercises with Hints & Solutions – P-1-7
Chapter Test – C-1- 2

Past Solved Papers
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8 Series
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Chapter
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Series
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INT RODUCTION
A series is a sequence of numbers/alphabetical letters or both which follow a
particular rule. Each element of series is called ‘term’. We have to analyse the
pattern and find the missing term or next term to continue the pattern.
Types of series are explained in the following chart:
SERIES
Number Alphabet Alpha-numeric Mixed Continuous Pattern Correspondence

series series series series series series
A series that is A series that is A series in A series which A series of letters, A series consists of
made by only made by only which both is created by which follow a three sequence with
alphabets and the combination certain pattern, is three different
number or digit alphabetic letters of two or more
numbers are given with four / elements (for ex.
than two series five times blank capital letters,
used
1. Ascending series spaces in between. numbers and small
2. Descending series The order of letters). An element
missing letters of each sequence is
3. Oscillating series correspond to the
is correct answer.
element of other
sequence on the
basis of the similarity
in position.
NUMBER SERIES · Cube and cube roots of a numbers.

Number series is a form of numbers in · Addition
a certain sequence, where some Arithmetic Subtraction
numbers are mistakenly put into the Operations Division
series of numbers and some number is Multiplication
missing in that series, we need to
observe first and then find the accurate Types of Number Series
number to that series of numbers.
1. Perfect Square Series
Remember This type of serics are based on
square of a number which is in
· Even and odd numbers.
same order and one square number
· Prime and composite numbers. is missing in that given series.
· Square and square roots of a
EXAMPLE 841, ?, 2401, 3481, 4761
numbers.
Sol. 292, 392, 452, 592, 692
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Series 9
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2. Perfect Cube series
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EXAMPLE 2, 3, 5, 7, 11, 13, __ , 19
Perfect Cube series is a
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arrangement of numbers is a Sol. Here, the terms of the series are the
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certain order, where some number prime numbers in order. The prime
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which is in same order and one number, after 13 is 17. So, the
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cube is missing in that given
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answer to this question is 17.
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series.
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6. Alternate Primes
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EXAMPLE 4096, 4913, 5832, ?, 8000
It can be explained by below
Sol. 163, 173, 183, 193, 203 example.
3. Mixed number series
Mixed number series is a EXAMPLE 2, 11, 17, 13, __, 41
arrangement of numbers in a
Sol. Here, the series is framed by taking
certain order. This type of series
are more than are different order the alternative prime numbers.
which arranged in alternatively in After 23, the prime numbers are 29
single series or created according and 31. So, the answer is 31.
to any non conventional rule.
7. The difference of any term
EXAMPLE 6, ?, 33, 69, 141, 285 from its succeding term is
Sol. × 2 + 3, × 2 + 3, × 2 + 3, × 2 + 3, constant (either increasing
× 2 + 3, × 2 + 3 series or decreasing series):
4. Geometric Series
EXAMPLE 4, 7, 10, 13, 16, 19, __, 25
Geometric Number series is a
arrangement of numbers in a Sol. Here, the differnce of any term
certain order, where some numbers from its succeding term is 3.
are this type of series are based on 7–4=3
ascending or descending order of
numbers and each continues 10 – 7 = 3
number is obtain by multiplication So, the answer is 19 + 3 = 22
or division of the previous number
with a static number.
8. The difference between two
consecutive terms will be
In geometric series number is a
combination of number arranged. either increasing or decreasing
by a constant number:
EXAMPLE 21, 84, 336, ?, 5376
Sol. 21 × 4 = 84
EXAMPLE 2, 10, 26, 50, 82, __
84 × 4 = 336 Sol. Here, the difference between two
336 × 4 = 1344 consecutive terms are
1344 × 4 = 5376 10 – 2 = 8
26 – 10 = 16
5. Prime series
50 – 26 = 24
When numbers are a series of
prime numbers. 82 – 50 = 32
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10 Series
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Here, the difference is increased 12. Every third number can be the
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by 8 (or you can say the multiples product of the preceeding two
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of 8). So the next difference will be numbers :
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40 (32 + 8). So, the answer is 82 +
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40 = 122 EXAMPLE 1, 2, 2, 4, 8, 32. __
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9. The difference between two Sol. Here, starting from the third number
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numbers can be multiplied by
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1×2=2
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a constant number: 2×2=4
EXAMPLE 15, 16, 19, 28, 55, __ 2×4=8
Sol. Here, the differences between two 4 × 8 = 32
numbers are So, the answer is 8 × 32 = 256
16 – 15 = 1 13. Every succeeding term is got by
19 – 16 = 3 multiplying the previous term
28 – 19 = 9 by a constant number or
55 – 28 = 27
numbers which follow a
Here, the difference is multiplied
by 3. So, the next difference will be
special pattern.
81. So, the answer is 55 + 81 = 136 EXAMPLE 5, 15, 45, 135, __
10. The difference can be
Sol. Here,
multiples by number which
will be increasing by a constant 5 × 3 = 15
number: 15 × 3 = 45
45 × 3 = 135
EXAMPLE 2, 3, 5, 11, 35, __
So, the answer is 135 × 3 = 405
Sol. The difference between two
number are 14. In certain series the terms are
3–2=1 formed by various rule
5–3=2 (miscellaneous rules). By keen
11 – 5 = 6 observation you have to find
35 – 11 = 24 out the rule and the
11. Every third number can be the appropriate answer.
sum of the preceding two
numbers : EXAMPLE 4, 11, 31, 90, __
Sol. Terms are,
EXAMPLE 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, __
4 × 3 – 1 = 11
Sol. Here, starting from third number
3+5=8 11 × 3 – 2 = 31
5 + 8 = 13 31 × 3 – 3 = 90
8 + 13 = 21 So, the answer will be 90 × 3 – 4
So, the answer is 13 + 21 = 34 = 266
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Series 11
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q Shortcut Approach
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×4 ×3 ×4 ×3 ×4
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· First check the direct formulas.
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(B) 1 3 12 60 ?
· If all the numbers are even, odd or
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1 3 12 60 360
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prime.
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×3 ×4 ×5 ×6
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· If all the number are perfect squares
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(ii) If numbers are in descending
or cubes.
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order in the number series,
· If all the numbers have a particular · Numbers may be subtracted or
divisibility. divided by certain numbers from
· If all the numbers are succeeding the first number.
by some additions or subtraction (A) 34 18 10 6 4 ?
or multiplications or divisions by a 34 18 10 6 4 3
particular number or addition of –16 –8 –4 –2 –1
their cubes and squares.
(B) 720 120 24 6 2 1 ?
720 120 24 6 2 1 1
Remember
/6 /5 /4 /3 /2
· When the difference between the
consecutive numbers is same/ (iii) If numbers are in mixing order
constant or the number series is in (increasing and decreasing) in
arithmetic progression. the number series.
· Numbers may be in addition,
a, a + d, a + 2d, ..., a + ( n – 1) d. subtraction, multiplication and
Where 'a' is first term, d is the division in the alternate numbers.
common difference. 200 165 148 117 104 ?
200 165 148 117 104 77
· When any number series is in the (14) 2+4 (13) 2–4 (12) 2+4 (11) 2–4 (10) 2+4 (9) 2–4
form a, a + (a + 1), a + (a + 1) + (a + 2),
... , n th term of the series be Step 1: Check whether it is ascending,
é n(n + 1) ù descending or mixed order.
ê 2 ú Step 2: It is in mixing order. So it may
ë û be in addition, subtraction, division
and multiplication, squares and cubes.
q Shortcut Approach Step 3: In above series it is mixing of
square, addition and subtraction.
(i) If numbers are in ascending order
(14)2 = 196 + 4 = 200
in the number series.
(13)2 = 169. By adding 4 it gives 173.
· Numbers may be added or Try subtraction.
multiplied by certain numbers 169 – 4 = 165
from the first number.
Here we found it is in order of squaring
(A) 19 23 26 30 33 ? a number, adding by 4 and subtracting
19 23 26 30 33 37 by 4.
Hence, the answer for above series is 77.
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12 Series
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200 165 148 117 104 ? EXAMPLE K 1, M 3, P 5, T 7, ?
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Sol. Alphabets follow the sequence
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–35 –17 –31 –13
K M P T Y
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+18 –14 –18 –14
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\ = – 13 – 14 = – 27 +2
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+3 +4 +5
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? = 104 – 27 = 77 And numbers are increasing by 2.
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(B)
14 17 31 48 ? 127 MIXED SERIES
14 17 31 48 79 127
EXAMPLE Z, L, X, J, V, H, T, F, __, __
14+17=31 17+31=48 31+48=79
Sol. The given sequence consists of
two series
ALPHABET SERIES (i) Z, X, V, T, __
(ii) L, J, H, F, __. Both consisting
A series that is made by only alphabetic of alternate letters in the reverse
letters. order.
EXAMPLE G, H, J, M, ? \ Next term of (i) series = R, and
Next term of (ii) series = D
Sol. G H J M Q
+1 +2 +3 +4
CONTINUOUS PATTERN
SERIES
q Shortcut Approach It is a series of small/capital letters that
· Remember all the alphabets and follow a certain pattern like repetition of
their place number. letters.
· Intervals like : EXAMPLE b a a b – a b a – b b a – –
E J O T Y , C F I L O R U X
Sol. b a a b b a / b a a b b a / b a
5 10 15 20 25 3 6 9 12 15 18 21 24 q Shortcut Approach
ALPHA NUMERIC SERIES · Firstly, count the number of blanks
and given letters.
These kind of problems used both
mathematical operation and position of · Divide the whole sum of blanks and
letters in the alphabet in forward, letters by a multiple.
backward order. · Note down the pattern common to
all groups separately.

Practice Exercise with Hints & Solutions – P-8-14
Chapter Test – C-3-4

Solved Papers
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Chapter
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Alphabet &
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Number Test
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INTRODUCTION Here, we have solved this problem
with a general method. But this type
As we know that English alphabet is a
group of English letters, hence the of problem can also be approached
problems based on alphabet are the through quicker method that will
problems based on English letters. help you save some extra consumed
time.
Types of Problems
(1) General series of alphabet q Shortcut Approach
(2) Random series of alphabet (a) If both the directions are same then
(3) Problems of word formation subtraction of numbers takes
(4) Problems of letter gap place.
(5) Finding Digits after rearrangement. (b) If the directions are opposite then
addition of numbers takes place.
1. GENERAL SERIES OF
SHORTCUT METHOD FOR ABOVE
ALPHABET
EXAMPLE :
EXAMPLE 1. Which of the following Now, for solving the example we apply
this rule. As we want to find out the 7th
options is seventh to the right of the 13th
letter from the left in a forward Alphabet letter to the right of the 13th letter from
series? the left, the directions are opposite and
Sol. 1st of all we will write the forward thus shortcut (b) will be applied here.
alphabet series as given below: Hence, we add 7 + 13 = 20. Therefore, the
answer will be 20th from left. Also, 20th
A B C D E F G H I J K L M
from left less mean 26 – 20 + 1 = 7th from
13th letter from left right. We can easily see,
\ 20th letter from left = T
N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Also 7th letter from right = T
7th letter After solving the example, you must
From the above series it is clear that have noticed that the above mentioned
M is the 13th letter from left and to trick is to calculate the actual position
the right of M (13th letter from left), of the required letter before going to
T is the 7th letter. search for it.
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14 Alphabet & Number Test
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Remember
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mth element to be counted from left to right of a series of x characters is equal to
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(x + 1 – m)th element to be counted from right to left of that series. This rule can be
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better illustrated by an example which is given below:
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Let us take the forward order alphabet series,
s
s
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A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
o
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26
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As we know that English alphabet has 26 characters, hence, we have x = 26.
Now suppose, we have to find out the position of K in the above given series
counting from right to left.
Position of ‘K’ in the English alphabet from left to right is 11. Thus m = 11
\ Position of K in the above given series from right to left would be (26 + 1 – 11) = 16
How to solve problems when letters are dropped or deleted at regular
intervals?
EXAMPLE 2. If every 3rd letter from left to right of English alphabet is deleted,
then what would be the 6th letter from left in the new series obtained?
Sol. General method:
AB C DEF G H I J K L M N O
P Q RS T U V W X Y Z
Here, deleted letters have been encircled and we find the new series as given
below:
A B D D E EG GH H J J KK M M NN PP Q Q S ST TV V W W Y ZY Z
1 21 32 34 45 5 6 6 7 7 88 99 10 10 1111 1212131314 14
15 15
16 17
16 18
17 18
It is clear, that 6th letter from left in the new series is H.
q Shortcut Approach
No doubt, above general method gives the correct answer. But we need to save
extra consumed time and this is the reason we go for a quicker approach.
As per the example, every third letter is deleted in the original series. It does
mean that we are left of two letters after every deletion. Here, ‘2’ is the key digit for
us and we have to find out 6th letter from the left in the new obtained series.
Therefore, we have to find a digit which is just less than 6 but divisible by 2. For
this question the digit just less than 6 and divisible by 2 is 4. Now, we follow the
operation given below:
4
6th letter from the left in the new series = 6 +
2
= 8th letter from the left in the original series, which is it.
In the same manners, we can find out any letter at a particular position in the
new obtained series.
14
\ 16th letter from the left in the new obtained series = 16 +
2
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Alphabet & Number Test 15
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= 23rd letter from the left in the original series which is W.
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18th letter from the left in the new obtained series
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16
p
= 18 +
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2
s
s
= 26th letter from the left in the original series which is Z.
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The sample example can be asked in following way also.
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“If every third letter from left to right in English alphabet is dropped (or deleted),
then find out the 13th letter from right in the new obtained series”.
To solve this, we find first of all the number of letters in the new obtained series.
As every third letter is dropped, hence we have
æ 26 ö
çè 26 – ÷ø = 26 – 8 = 18 letters in the new series.
3
Point to be noted here that we divide 26 by 2 as every 3rd letter is dropped and
26
after division we take approximate value of in round figure (approximate value
3
26
of will be 8).
3
As per the example we have to find out 13th letter from right in the newly
obtained series. This loss mean (18 + 1 – 13) = 6th letter from left which is H.
Note that : This shortcut approach can also be applied to the dropping of every 4th,
5th, 6th, 7th..... and so on letters from left to right at regular intervals.
How to solve problems based on the backward (reversed) alphabet

series?
While solving problems based on general series of alphabet, we come across
the various cases. In some cases we see that whole alphabet series is reversed but
in some other cases 1st half of the series is reversed, or second half of the series is
reversed or many segments of the alphabet series are reversed.
Let us take a case when a forward order alphabet series get reversed in three
segments. In 1st segment 8 letters get reversed; in 2nd segment the next 8 letters get
reversed and in the 3rd segment the remaining 10 letters get reversed. Just see the
presentation given below:
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Get reversed Get reversed Get reversed
H G F E D C B A P O N M L K J I Z Y X W V U T S R Q
(8 letters) (8 letters) (10 letters)

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Now if you are asked to find out the 4th
letter from left in the new obtained
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series, then through general method, we simply do counting from left in the new
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series and find out our required answer as ‘E’ because ‘E’ is at 4th position from left
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in the new obtained series. But while solving such type of problems, we have to do
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some time consuming formalities like (a) writing the original series (b) writing and
s
reversing the letters of original series as per the question says and (c) counting
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them to get the required answer. Such time consuming processes can be avoided if
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we go through “Remember” and solve the question with shortcut approach.
q Shortcut Approach
It is clear that 4th letter from left in the new obtained series falls into first segment
which has 8 letters. Hence, 4th letter in the new obtained series = (8 + 1 – 4) = 5th letter
from the left in the original series. As we know that exact position of 5th letter from left
in the original alphabet series is the position of E. Hence, E is our required answer.
If we have to find out 18th letter from left in the new obtained series, then that will
be 16 + (10 + 1 – 2) = 25th letter from left in the original alphabet series (why?) which is Y.
In fact, while finding out 18th letter, we can easily see that 18th letter is the 2nd
letter of 3rd segment and hence it will be not affected by 1st two segments having 8
letters each. In other words to find out 18th letter in the new obtained series, we have
to find out the 2nd letter in the 3rd segment. This is the reason we find out the 2nd letter
in the 3rd segment and then add the 16 letters of 1st two segment to get the 18th letter
in the new obtained series. From this, we find that 18th letter from left in the new
obtained series is the 25th letter from left in the original series. As 25th letter from left
in the original series is Y. So, (Y) will be our required answer.
Readers are advised to practice such type of problems as you much as possible
and after a certain time will notice that you have got a skill to solve such problems
in a few seconds and that too, without the use of pen and paper.
How to solve if positions of letters are interchanged?
There is no any rule for such type of problems. Only the hard practice can given you
a skill to solve such questions in a quick time.
EXAMPLE 3. If A and C interchange their places, B and D interchange their
places, F and H interchange their places and so on, then which letter will be 5th to
the left of Q?
Sol. As per the question the interchanges take place as follows:
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P
Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Here we can see that Q interchanges with S. Then to left of Q, the 5th letter
would be P because P interchanges with N.
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How to find the Middle Letter?
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Note : In case I and case II (m + n) must
be divisible by 2.
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q Shortcut Approach
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Case I : Remember that if mth and nth
p
q Shortcut Approach
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letter from the left in the English
s
alphabet are given then Case III :Remember that if the mth letter
s
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from the left and the nth letter from the
æ m + nö
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Middle letter = çè ÷ th letter from right are given then middle letter
m
2 ø
the left. é (m – n) + 27 ù
=ê úû th letter from the
ë 2
EXAMPLE 4. Which letter will be
left in the alphabet.
midway between 8th letter from the left
and 16th letter from the left in the EXAMPLE 6. Which letter will be
English alphabet?
midway between 8th letter from the left
Sol . Here, m = 8 and n = 16 and 15th letter from the right?
8 + 16 24 Sol. Here, m = 8 and n = 15
then middle letter = =
2 2 (8 – 15) + 27 ù
= 12th letter from left in the alphabet Then middle letter = é
êë 2 úû
=L
é 20 ù
q Shortcut Approach = ê ú = 10th
ë2û
Case II: Remember that if mth and nth letter from left in the English
letter from the right in the English alphabet = J.
alphabet are given then
Middle letter Note : In case III (m – n) + 27 must be
divisible by 2.
æ m + nö
=ç th letter from right
è 2 ÷ø
2. RANDOM SERIES OF
é æ m + nö ù é æ m + nö ù ALPHABET
= ê 26 + 1 – ç ÷ø ú = ê 27 – çè ÷ th
ë è 2 û ë 2 ø úû This series is not in the proper
letter from the left in the English alphabet. sequence and letters take their
position in the series in jumbled
EXAMPLE 5. Which letter will be
manner. Further, there is also a
midway between 8th letter from the right possibility that all the 26 letters of
and 16th letter from the right in the English alphabet are not available
English alphabet. in the series. Even same letters may
é æ 8 + 16 ö ù be repeated in the series.
Sol. Middle letter = ê 27 – ç th
ë è 2 ÷ø úû EXAMPLE 7. How many letters in the
letter from left in the alphabet. following series are immediately
or middle letter = (27 – 12) = 15th preceded by B but not immediately
letter from left = 0 followed by D?
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R S P Q B A H M A C F B A D N O P B A C D.
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× ×
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Sol. R S P Q B A H M A C F B A D N O P B A C D
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ü ü
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\ Only the two times A fulfill the
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Sol. Here, we are asked to solve problem
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given condition and those A have according to English alphabet. In
been marked with the correct sign this case we have to count both
(ü). Those not fulfilling the condition ways. It does mean that we have to
have been marked with the cross count from left to right and from right
sign (×). \ Required answer is 2. to left. Let us see the following
3. PROBLEMS ON WORD presentation:
FORMATION
In such problems, a word is given D R E A M L A N D
and you have to find out the number
of words to be formed out of some
letters drawn from that particular The above presentation makes it
word. clear that the required pairs of letters
are 4. (Pairs: DA, EA, ML and LN)
EXAMPLE 8. How many meaningful
Case II:
words can be formed from the 3rd, 4th, 6th
and 8 th letter of the word EXAMPLE 10. How many pairs of
‘CONTROVERSIAL’?
Sol. letters are there in the word
‘DREAMLAND’ which have the same
C O N T R O V E R S I A L number of letters between them as in
rd
the English alphabet in the same
3 4th 6th 8th
sequence.
Now, from letters N, T, O and E, Sol. Here, we are asked to solve problems
two words ‘NOTE’ and ‘TONE’ can according to the alphabetical
be formed. sequence. It does mean that we
4. PROBLEMS OF LETTER have to do counting only from left
GAP to right. Let us, see the following
presentation:
Case II:
D R E A M L A N D
EXAMPLE 9. How many pairs of letters
are there in the word ‘DREAMLAND’ The above presentation makes it
which have as many letters between them clear that the required pair of letters
as in the English alphabet? is only 1 (Pair: LN)
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5. FINDING DIGITS AFTER 13. If all the three digits are arranged
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REARRANGEMENT in ascending order (from left to
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right) within the number, in each
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In this type of problems, a specified of these numbers, then which of
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order or pattern is used to rearrange these will be second lowest ?
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the positions of digits of the Sol. According to the question,
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number. Then, either the number of Original number : 7 1 3 3 6 1 4 5 8 9 3 2 7 2 4
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those digits is found out whose
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New arrangement : 1 3 7 1 3 6 4 5 8 2 3 9 2 4 7
positions remain unchanged after So, the second lowest number will
rearrangement or the digit at be 137.
particular place from left or right of 14. If the positions of the second and
the number is to be found out. the third digits are interchanged
EXAMPLE : (Direction (Qs. 11-15) in each of these numbers, then
which of these will be exactly
Following questions are based on the divisibly by 2 ?
five three-digit numbers given below: Sol. According to the question,
713 361 458 932 724
Original Numbers : 7 1 3 3 6 1 4 5 8 9 3 2 7 2 4
11. If the positions of the first and the
third digits are interchanged in New Arrangement : 7 3 1 3 1 6 4 8 5 9 2 3 7 4 2
each of these numbers, then which So, two numbers will be exactly
of these will be an even number. divisible by 2, i.e., 316 and 742.
Sol. According to the question, 15. If the following numbers are
Original Numbers : 7 1 3 3 6 1 4 5 8 9 3 2 7 2 4 arranged in descending order, then
what will be the square of the digits
New Arrangement : 3 1 7 1 6 3 8 5 4 2 3 9 4 2 7 sum of the third number from the
So, here only one number is even right end of the new arrangement ?
i.e., 854. Sol. According to the question,
12. What is the difference between the Original Numbers : 7 1 3 3 6 1 4 5 8 9 3 2 7 2 4
sum of the three digits of the
New Arrangement : 9 3 2 7 2 4 7 1 3 4 5 8 3 6 1
highest and that of the second
highest number? 3rd from the right end
Sol. Highest number = 932 Now, digits sum of the 3rd number
Second highest number = 724 from the right
So, the required difference = 7 + 1 + 3 = 11
= (9 + 3 + 2) – (7 + 2 + 4) \ Square of the digits sum = (11)2 =
= 14 – 13 = 1 121.

Past Solved Papers

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Coding-Decoding
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INTRODUCTION Pattern 2:
In this segment of commonsense Coding in backward sequence.
reasoning, secret messages or words EXAMPLE 2. If ‘NAME’ is coded as
have to be decoded. They are coded as ‘MZLD’, then how will code 'SAME'?
per a definite pattern/ rule which should Sol. Here, every letter of the word
be identified first. Then the same is ‘MZLD’ moves one place in
applied to decode another coded word. backward alphabet sequence. Let us
see:
TYPE-1 CODING BY LETTER N A M E
SHIFTING –1 –1 –1 –1
Pattern 1: M Z L D
Similarly, every letter of the word
Coding in forward sequence ‘SAME’ will move one place in
backward alphabet sequence. Let us
EXAMPLE 1. If ‘GOOD’ is coded as see :
‘HPPE’, then how will you code ‘BOLD’? S A M E
Sol. Here,every letter of the word –1 –1 –1 –1
‘GOOD’ shifts one place in forward
alphabetical sequence. R Z L D
\ Code for ‘SAME’ will be ‘RZLD’.
G O O D
Pattern 3:
+1 +1 +1 +1
Coding based on skipped sequence.
H P P E
EXAMPLE 3. If the word ‘FACT’ is
Similarly, every letter in the word
‘BOLD’ will move one place in coded as ‘IDFW’; then how will you code
‘DEEP’?
forward alphabetical sequence as
Sol. Here, every letter of the word shifts
given below:
three place in forward alphabetical
B O L D order.
+1 +1 +1 +1 F A C T
C P M E +3 +3 +3 +3
\ Code for ‘BOLD’ will be ‘CPME’. I D F W

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Coding-Decoding 21
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Similarly, ‘DEEP’ can be coded. Let
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EXAMPLE 5. If ‘TEMPERATURE’ is
us see :
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coded as ‘ERUTAREPMET’, then how
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D E E P will you code ‘EDUCATION’ following
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+3 +3 +3 +3 the same scheme.
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Sol. Here, the word ‘TEMPERATURE’
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G H H S has been reversed. Hence, the code for
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\ Code for ‘DEEP’ will be ‘GHHS’.
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‘EDUCATION’ will be ‘NOITACUDE’.
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q Shortcut Approach TYPE 4 : CODING IN FICTION
• Observe alphabets given in the LANGUAGE
code carefully.
In some cases of coding-decoding,
• Find the sequence it follows
fictions language is used to code some
whether it is ascending/descending words. In such questions, the codes for
• Detect the rule in which the a group of words is given. In such types
alphabets follow. of problems, codes for each word can be
• Fill the appropriate letter in the found by eliminating the common words.
blank given.
EXAMPLE 6. In a certain code
TYPE-2 : CODING BY language ‘over and above’ is written as
SUBSTITUTION ‘da pa ta’ and ‘old and beautiful’ is written
as ‘Sa na pa’. How is ‘over’ written in
In this coding, some words are replaced that code language?
by some substituted words and on the
basis of substituted word the code is Sol. Over and above ® da Pa ta
derived.
Old and beautiful ® Sa na Pa
EXAMPLE 4. If 'cages' are called
Clearly, ‘and’ is common in both and
'rockets', 'rockets' are called 'traps', a common code is ‘Pa’.
'traps' are called 'planets', 'planets' are \ Code for ‘and’ must be ‘Pa’.
called 'aeroplanes', 'aeroplanes' are Code for ‘over’ = ‘da’ or ‘ta’.
called 'cycles' are cycles' are called Code for above = ‘da’ or ‘ta’.
'cars', what is Earth Code for old = ‘Sa’ or ‘na’
(a) Cycles (b) Rockets Code for beautiful = ‘Sa’ or ‘na’
(c) Planet (d) Aeroplanes \ We can’t certainly say what will
(e) Cars be exact code for ‘over’. But it is
Sol. Earth is a planet and here planets sure that code for ‘over’ must be
are called aeroplanes. So, earth will either ‘da’ or ‘ta’.
be called aeroplanes.
q Shortcut Approach
TYPE-3 : CODING BY
• Firstly, write the words and their
REVERSING LETTERS codes as given in the question in
In this coding, all letters of a word has straight line with an arrow in
been reversed. middle.
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22 Coding-Decoding
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•
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Now, find the common words and EXAMPLE 8. In a certain code 3 is
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their corresponding codes. coded as ‘R’, 4 is coded as ‘D’, 5 is coded
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• Encircle each pair with the same as ‘N’, 6 is coded as ‘P’, then find the
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code for ‘53446’.
shape.
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Sol. As per the given condition
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•
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Finally, we have each word and
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its corresponding code. 3 4 5 6
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R D N P
TYPE-5 : CODING BASED
5 3 4 4 6
ON NUMBERS Now,
N R D D P
Pattern 1:
\ Code for 53446 = NRDDP.
When numerical values are given to words.
TYPE-6 : MATHEMATICAL
EXAMPLE 7. If in a certain language OPERATIONS WITH THE
A is coded as 1, B is coded as 2. C is POSITION NUMBERS OF
coded as 3 and so on, then find the code LETTERS
for AEECD.
Sol. As given the letters are coded as EXAMPLE 9. In a certain code, if
below: ‘TALE’ is written as 38, then how will
you code ‘CAME’ using the same coding
A B C D E F G H I scheme?
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Sol. Look at the numbered alphabet
and write down the number
corresponding to the letters of the
A E E C D
word ‘TALE’.
Now, 1 5 5 3 4
T A L E
\ Code for AEECD = 15534 20 1 12 5
The fact that the code for ‘TALE’ is
q Shortcut Approach
38, gives you a clue that the code is
• First you have to observe the probably obtained by performing an
number code. arithmatical operations of the
• Now, n otice the position of numbers of each other. Let us see :
number. 20 + 1 + 12 + 5 = 38
• Search the common pattern. Thus, the code for ‘CAME’ is
Pattern 2: C A M E
3 + 1 + 13 + 5 = 22
When alphabetical code value are given
for numbers. \ Code for ‘CAME’ = 22
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Coding-Decoding 23
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Remember Matrix I
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•
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If the letters in the code look the 0 1 2 3 4
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same as in the original text, it will be 0 I A U E O
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a scramble type coding. 1 E U O A I
s
2 O A I E U
• If more than one codes are given
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3 E U A O I
then likely the required code can be
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4 E I O A U
drived from the question itself and
you will not need to solve it Matrix II
mathematically. 5 6 7 8 9
• If the code for a word is a one digit 5 K R L M N
number then likely the position of 6 M R K N L
the letters are added and the digits 7 K N M L R
are summed up until the one digit 8 M L K R N
number is arrived at. 9 N R L K M
1. MONK
TYPE-7 : MATRIX CODING
(a) 58, 33, 67, 98
In this type of questions two matrices (b) 65, 02, 59, 67
are given. In each matrix there are 25 cells (c) 65, 04, 89, 75
and these cells contain two classes of (d) 65, 20, 89, 68
alphabets. The columns and rows of Sol.
matrix I are numbered from 0 to 4 and
A ® 01, 13, 21, 32, 43
that of matrix II from 5 to 9. A letter from
E ® 03, 10, 23, 30, 40
these matrices can be represented first
by its row number and next by its column I ® 00, 14, 22, 34, 41
number. For example. ‘A’ Can be O ® 04, 12, 20, 33, 42
represented by 32 or 43. U ® 02, 11, 24, 31, 44
K ® 55, 67, 75, 87, 98
EXAMPLE 10. L ® 57, 69, 78, 86, 97
Directions: In each of the following M ® 58, 65, 77, 85, 99
questions find out the correct set of N ® 59, 68, 76, 89, 95
number pairs for the given word from the R ® 56, 66, 79, 88, 96
two matrices given above. So, 65, 04, 89, 75 is correct

Past Solved Papers

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Blood Relations
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INTRODUCTION (a) Past generations of father : Great
grandfather, great grandmother,
Blood relation does mean biological grandfather, grandmother etc.
relation. Remember a wife and husband (b) Parallel generations of father:
are met biologically related but they are Uncles (Brothers of father), Aunts
biological parents of their own children. (sisters of father) etc.
Similarly, brother, sister, paternal (c) Future generations of father:
grandfather, paternal grandmother Sons, daughters, grandsons,
maternal grandfather, maternal granddaughters etc.
grandmother, grandson, granddaughter, (ii) Blood relation from
niece, cousin etc. are our blood relatives. maternal side:
This type of blood relations can
TYPES OF BLOOD also be subdivided into three
RELATIONS types:
There are mainly two types of blood (a) Past generations of mother:
relatives: Maternal great grandfather,
(i) Blood relation from paternal side maternal great grandmother,
(ii) Blood relation from maternal side maternal grandfather, maternal
grandmother etc.
(i) Blood relation from paternal (b) Parallel generations of mother:
side: Maternal uncles, maternal aunts etc.
This type of blood relation can be (c) Future generations of mother:
further subdivided into thr ee Sons, daughters, grandsons,
types: granddaughters etc.
Table of Blood Relations
1 Son of father or mother Brother
2 Daughter of father or mother Sister
3 Brother of father Uncle
4 Brother of mother Maternal uncle
5 Sister of father Aunt
6 Sister of mother Aunt
7 Father of father Grandfather
8 Father of father's father Great grand father
9 Father of grandfather Great grandfather
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Blood Relations 25
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10 Mother of father Grandmother
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11 Mother of father's mother Great grandmother
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12 Mother of grandmother Great grandmother
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13 Father of mother Maternal grandfather
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14 Father of mother's father Great maternal grand father
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15 Father of maternal grandfather Great maternal grandfather
16 Mother of mother Maternal grandmother

17 Mother of mother, mother Great maternal grandmother
18 Mother of maternal grandmother Great maternal grandmother
19 Wife of father Mother
20 Husband of mother Father
21 Wife of Grandfather Grandmother
22 Husband of Grandmother Grandfather
23 Wife of son Daughter-in-law
24 Husband of daughter Son-in-law
25 Brother of Husband Brother-in-law
26 Brother of wife Brother-in-law
27 Sister of Husband Sister-in-law
28 Sister of wife Sister-in-law
29 Son of brother Nephew
30 Daughter of brother Niece
31 Wife of brother Sister-in-law
32 Husband of sister Brother-in-law
33 Son of sister Nephew
34 Daughter of sister Niece
35 Wife of uncle Aunt
36 Wife of maternal uncle Aunt
37 Son/daughter of uncle/Aunt Cousin
38 Son/daughter of maternal
Cousin
uncle/maternal aunt
39 Son/daughter of sister of Fathar Cousin
40 Son/daughter of sister of Mother Cousin

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26 Blood Relations
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41 Only son of grandfather Father
o
42 Only daughter of maternal Mother
rd
grandfather
p
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43 Daughter of grandfather Aunt
s
s
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44 Sons of grandfather other Uncle
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than father
m
45 Son of maternal grandfather Maternal Uncle.
/maternal grand mother
46 Only daughter in law of Mother
grandfather/ grandmother
47 Daughters in law of Aunt other than mother
grandfather/ grandmother
48 Daughters-in-law of Aunt maternal
maternal grandfather/ grandmother
49 Neither brother nor sister Self
Some Important Information the Hindu Community ‘Suman’ is

about Blood Relation the name of both male and female.
A. Without the information of gender, q Shortcut Approach
no relationship can be established
between two people. For example, • While solving blood relation
If given that R is the child of P & based question, first of all find out
Q, then we can only say that P & that two persons between whom
Q are the parents of R. But we can a relationship has to be
not find out: established.
(i) R is the son of P & Q or R is • Next, try to find out middle relation.
the daughter of P & Q. • Finally, find out the relationship
(ii) Who is mother of R and who between two persons to be
is father of R. identified for this purpose.
But if we have given that P is a
male, Q is a female and R is male,
TYPES OF PROBLEMS
then we can easily say that R is (1) General Problems on Blood Relation
the son of P and Q. Further we can (2) Blood Relation based on Family
also say that P is father of R and Q Tree
is mother of R. (3) Coded Blood Relation
B. Gender can not be decided on the (1) General Problem on Blood
basis of name. For example, in Sikh Relation
community the names like Manjit,
Sukhvinder etc. are the names of EXAMPLE 1. Pointing towards a
both male and female. Similarly, in photograph, Mr. Sharma said, “She is the
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Blood Relations 27
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only daughter of mother of my brother’s Family tree :
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sister.” How is Mr. Sharma related to the
o
– +
A+
rd
lady in the photograph? C Q
p
Sol. Here, we have to find relationship
re
s
between Mr. Sharma & the lady in
s
.c
the photograph.
o
Mother of my brother’s sister does
m
mean my (Mr. Sharma’s) mother. R+ D–
Only daughter of Mr. Sharma’s
As per the question Q is the brother of C
mother does mean “sister of Mr. and C is the sister of Q. Hence, relation
Sharma”. between C & Q has been presented as
q Shortcut Approach (C –
— Q+ ) where ‘–’ sign above C
• Read the statement from right to makes it clear that C is a female and ‘+’
left to develop the relation by sign above ‘Q’ makes it clear that Q is a
using blood relation table. male. Similarly, for R and D. The
(2) Blood Relation based on æ+ ö
presentation ç R — D- ÷ has been
Family Tree è ø
EXAMPLE 2. Q is the brother of C and made. Further according to the question,
C is the sister of Q. R and D are brother A and C are having a husband and wife
and sister. R is the son of A while A & C relationship and hence this has been
are wife and husband. How is Q related
æ+ ö
with D. presented as ç A Û C - ÷ . As it is already
è ø
Sol. For such type of question a family
tree is made in which some given that C is the sister of Q and A and
symbols are used as below: C are wife and husband, this becomes
clear that A is the male member of the
‘ Û’ is used for husband & wife.
family and this is the reason A has ‘+’ as
‘___’ is used for brother & sister
its gender sign. Lastly, the vertical line
‘ | ’ is used for parents (father or gives father and son relationship and has
mother). Parents are put on top
while children are put at the æ A+ ö
bottom. been presented as çç | + ÷÷ . Now from this
èR ø
‘–’ or minus sign is used for female
family tree it becomes clear that C is the
‘+’ or plus sign is used for male.
mother of R and D and as Q is the brother
Now, adopting and using the of C, then Q will definitely be the maternal
above given symbols we can make uncle of R & D. Hence, we can say that
a family tree and solve the given Q is the maternal uncle of D and this is
problem, let us see the family tree : the required answer for our question.
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28 Blood Relations
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q Shorcut Approach relate every statement to
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'yourself'. The starting name of
•
o
Follow the symbols for male (+)
the statement could be assumed
rd
and (–) female. as your name or you.
p
•
re
Remember the generations and • When the statement is very long,
s
relations.
s
it can get confusing. So, break
.c
Note : In solving family tree based down every statement in the
o
m
relations make sure that your diagram question into sub statements and
is in correct representation. solve the question.
(3) Codded Blood Relations – • Do not assume the gender of any
person in the question just based
EXAMPLE 3. If P + Q means P is on the names given in the
husband of Q, P/Q means P is the sister question.
of Q, P*Q means P is the son of Q. flow • Draw a family tree where people
is D related to A in D*B + C/A ? of the same generation are placed
Sol. C/A – C is sister of A. at the same level and the entire
B + C/A – B is brother-in-law of A diagram is in the form of a
(Sister's husband – broter-in-law)
hierarchy.
D*B + C/A – D is nephew of A
(Sister's husband's son means Remember
sister's son i.e., nephew)
So, D is nephew to A. • Concentrate on points which give
Shortcut Method : maximum definite information.
By using symbols and generation • Read the questions carefully and
relations : try identifying the persons
between whom relationship is to
Couple Sister be established. Possibly put
B C A
(+) (–) yourself in given character so that
it becomes easy for you to
w
Son phe understand.
Ne
• Whilst concluding the relationship
D between two people be careful
(+)
about the gender of the person
So, it is clearly shown that D is being talked about as it is possible
nephew to A. to commit mistake by assuming the
gender of the person which is not
q Shortcut Approach
given in the data or which can't be
• The best way to solve blood extracted from the data/
relation questions, you try and information given.

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INTRODUCTION Direction Map
This part of reasoning comes under the North
category of common sense reasoning.
North-West North-East
In fact, this segment gauges the sense
of direction of a candidate.
West East
CONCEPT OF DIRECTION
In our day to day life, we make our
concept of direction after seeing the
South-West South-East
position of sun. In fact, this is a truth
that sun rises in the East and goes down South
in the West. Thus when we stand facing
sunrise, then our front is called East while q Shortcut Approach
our back is called West. At this position To remember four main
our left hand is in the Northward and the directions, always remember the
word 'NEWS.'
right hand is in the Southward. Let us
see the following direction map that will Note: On paper North is always on top
make your concept more clear. be while South is always in bottom.
CONCEPT OF DEGREE
Let us see the following picture:
360º 360º
0º 0º
315º
Anti clockwise (ACW)
45º 45º 315º

Clockwise (CW)
270º 90º 90º 270º
225º 135º 135º 225º

180º 180º
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30 Direction and Distance
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Remember
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B 2 km A
•
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Angle between two consecutive
rd
main directions is always 90°. 4 km
p
• Angle between two consecutive
re
1 km
s
subdirections is always 90°. D
s
C 2 km E
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• Angle between a main direction
o
and a subdirection is always 90°.
m
Remember
CONCEPT OF TURN
• If our face is towards North, than
Right turn = Clockwise turn
after left turn our face will be towards
Left turn = Anticlockwise turn
Let us understand it through West while after right turn, it will be
pictorial representation: towards East.
• If our face is towards South, then
Right turn Left turn after left turn our face will be towards
East and after right turn it will be
Right turn
Left turn
towards West.
Right turn
Left turn
• If our face is towards East, then after

left turn our face will be forwards
Right turn Left turn North and after right turn it will be
(i) (ii) towards South.
• If our face is towards West, then
after left turn our face will be towards
South and after right turn it will be
Right turn Left turn
towards North.
• If our face is towards North-West,
then after left turn our face will be
(iv) towards South-West and after right
(iii)
turn it will be towards North-East.
• If our face is towards South-West,
EXAMPLE 1. Raman walked 2 km then after left turn our face will be
towards South-East and after right
West from his office and then turned
turn it will be towards North-West.
South covering 4 km. Finally, he waked
3 km towards East and again move 1 km • If our face is towards South-East,
West. How far is Raman from his initial then after left turn our face will be
position. towards North-East and after right
Sol. Raman starts from his office A, turn it will be towards South-West.
moves 2 km West upto B, then 4 • If our face is towards North-East,
km to the South upto C, 3 km East
then after left turn our face will be
upto D and finally 1 km West upto
E, Thus his distance from the initial towards North-West and after right-
position AE = BC = 4 km. turn it will be towards South-East.
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Direction and Distance 31
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CONCEPT OF MINIMUM \ Rashmi’s distance from starting
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DISTANCE point A
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A
Minimum distance between = AD = AC 2 +CD 2 = 4 2 + 32
p
initial and last point
re
s
= 16 + 9 = 25 = 5km.
s
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h2 = b2 + P2
o
From figure, D is to the North-East
m
P h
of A.
where,
h = Hypotenuse SHADOW CASE

b = Base B b C In Morning/Sunrise Time
P = Perpendicular (a) If a person facing towards Sun, the
shadow will be towards his back
Remember this important rule is
or in West.
known as ‘Pythogoras Theorem’
(b) If a person facing towards South,
EXAMPLE 2. Rashmi walks 10 km the shadow will be towards his
towards North. She walks 6 km towards right.
South then. From here she moves 3 km (c) If a person facing towards West,
towards East. How far and in which the shadow will be towards his
direction is she with reference to her front.
starting point? (d) If a person facing towards North,
Sol. It is clear, Rashmi moves from A 10 the shadow will be towards his left.
km Northwards upto B, then
moves 6 km Southwards upto C, In Evening/Sunset Time
then turns towards East and walks (a) If a person facing towards Sun, the
3 km upto D. shadow will be towards his back
Then, AC = (AB – BC) = 10 – 6 = 4
or in East.
km
CD = 3km. (b) If a person facing towards North,
the shadow will be towards his
B right.
6 km (c) If a person facing towards East,
3 km the shadow will be towards his
D
C front.
(e) If a person facing towards South,
10 km the shadow will be towards his left.
Note : At 12:00 noon there is no

shadow because the rays of the sun
A are vertically downward.
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32 Direction and Distance
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q Shortcut Approach
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EXAMPLE 3. Early morning after
o
sunrise, Rajesh was standing infront of • Draw four lines and write all
rd
his house in such a way that his shadow
p
as falling exactly behind him. He starts directions on each edge of it
re
walking straight and walks 5 m. He same.
s
s
turns to his left and walks 3 m and again • Think the 'you' are standing at all
.c
o
turning to his left walks 2m. Now in arrow head facing outward from
m
which direction is he from his starting centre.
point?
Sol. The shadow of Rajesh was falling • Read the statement line by line.
exactly behind him. So, he was facing • Move yourself as per statement
towards East. Diagram clearly shows asked and prepare a diagram as
that Rajesh was in North-East with per line by line statement.
reference to the starting point.
• Show, check and verify the
2m
direction and distance of you
from starting point.
int
g po
2m
tin
r
Sta
5m

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Time Sequence, Number
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& Ranking Test
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TIME SEQUENCE
o
Ordinary year
m
In time sequence, we have to defect exact • An ordinary year has 12 months.
time from the given time sequence. • An ordinary year has 365 days.
To solve problems related to time • An ordinary year has 52 weeks
sequence, let us gather first the and 1 day. Therefore, an ordinary
following informations : year has 1 odd day.
1 Minute = 60 seconds
1 Hour = 60 minutes CENTURY (100 YEARS)
1 Day = 24 hours
1 Week = 7 days • A century has 76 ordinary years
1 Month = 4 weeks and 24 leap years.
1 Year = 12 months • A century has 5 odd days.
1 Ordinary year = 365 days Odd days
1 Leap year =366 days
1 Century = 100 years Odd days in an ordinary year = 1
Odd days in a leap year = 2
Remember Odd days in 100 years = 5
• A day is the period of the earth’s Odd days in 200 years = (5 × 2)
revolution on its axis. = 1 week + 3 days = 3
• A ‘Solar year’ is the time taken the Odd days in 300 years = (5 × 3)
earth to travel round the sun. It is = 2 weeks + 1 day = 1
equal to 365 days, 5 hours, 48 Odd days in 400 years = (5 × 4 + 1)
1 = 21 days
minutes and 47 seconds nearly.. = 3 weeks + 0 day = 0
2
Similarly, each 800, 1600, 2000, 2004, etc.
• A ‘Lunar month’ is the time taken has 0 odd days.
by the moon to travel round the
earth. It is equal to nearly 28 days. EXAMPLE 1. Neena returned home
Leap Year after 3 days earlier than the time she

had told her mother. Neena’s sister
• If the number of a given year is Veena reached five days later than the
divisible by 4, it is a leap year. day Neena was supposed to return. If
Hence, the years like 1996, 2008,
Neena returned on Thursday, on what
2012 are leap years. But years like
day did Veena return ?
1997, 1991, 2005, 2007 are not
divisible by 4 and therefore, such Sol. Neena returned home on Thursday.
years are not leap years. Neena was supposed to return 3
• In a leap year, February has 29 days. days later, i.e., on Sunday.
• A leap year has 52 weeks and 2 days. Veena returned five days later from
Therefore, a leap year has 2 odd days. Sunday. i.e., on Friday.
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34 Time Sequence, Number & Ranking Test
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NUMBER TEST Note : The above formulas are only for
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In such test, generally you are given a a single person's position
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long series of numbers. The candidate
EXAMPLE
p
is required to find out how many times a
re
number satifying the conditions
s
specified in the question occurs.
s
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EXAMPLE 2. How many 8s are there
m
in the following number sequence which
1 2 3 4 5
are immediately preceded by 5 but not
immediately followed by 3? |
38584583988588893 3rd from left
Sol. Let use see the following : 3rd from right
3 8 8 4 5 8 3 9 88 5 8 Total = 3 + 3 – 1
8 8 93
Clearly, two such 8s are there.
q Shortcut Approach
Remember
Same for Vertical &
There is no rule as how to attempt these
questions but we can practice these Horizontal
questions : (1) Total + 1 = Top + Bottom
Left < > Right
(2) Top = Total + 1 – Bottom
A B C (3) Botom = Total + 1 – Top
(4) Total = Top + Bottom
A is preceding B C is the following B
EXAMPLE 3. In a row of 40 students,
RANKING TEST
A is 13th from the left end, find the
In such problems, the ranks of a person rank from right end.
both from the top and from the bottom Sol. Total = 40
are given and on the basis of this the total
number of persons is asked. Sometimes
question is twisted also and position
of a particular person is asked.
A
q Shortcut Approach 13L
Formulas to determine the positioning A's rank from right side
of a person = Total + 1 – left
(1) Left + Right = Total + 1
= 40 – 13 + 1
(2) Left = Total + 1 – Right
(3) Right = 1 + 1 – left = 27 + 1
(4) Total = left + Right = 28

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Chapter Logical Sequence
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INTRODUCTION Sol. Member ® Family ®
Community® Locality®
In this particular type of problems, Country
certain inter-related words are given and
(iii) Sequence in Ascending or
numbered, followed by various
Descending order
sequences of the numbers denoting
them, as alternatives. EXAMPLE 1. Furniture
2. Forest
TYPES OF SEQUENCE 3. Wood
4. Country
(i) Sequence of occurence of
events or various stages in a 5. Trees
process. Sol. Country ® Forest ® Trees®
Wood ® Furniture.
EXAMPLE 1. Consultation (iv) Sequential order of words
2. Illness According to Dictionary
3. Doctor
4. Treatment EXAMPLE 1. Direct
5. Recovery 2. Divide
Sol. Clearly illness occurs first. One 3. Divest
then goes to a doctor and after 4. Devine
consultation with him, 5. Divisons
undergoes treatment to finally Sol. Devine ® Direct ® Divest ®
attain recovery. Divide ® Divisons.
(ii) Sequence of objects in a q Shortcut Approach
class or group
• Remember all English alphabets
EXAMPLE 1. Member in forward and reverse order
2. Country • Knowledge of our nature or
3. Community surroundings
4. Family
5. Locality

Past Solved Papers

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INTRODUCTION
82 25
In this, the questions are based on
different number. This type of problem 80 67
having figure which follows a particular 99 ?
rule for their different number. We have
then asked to find a missing number by
103
using same rule. 97
TYPES OF NUMBER PUZZLE (ii) (iii)
PATTERN 1 : SINGLE FIGURE Here, a series of figure is given. Checking
PATTERN the pattern in the first two figures, we
4 have to find missing number in the third.
416 10 If we observe the first two figure
685 33 properly, we get an idea of the pattern.
? As, 110 + 30 – 75 = 65, 97 + 82 – 80 = 99
Here, a clockwise pattern is being So, 103 + 25 – 67 = 61.
followed. If we move clockwise we can
see that numbers are increasing. If we q Shortcut Approach
observe it more closely, we can crack the • The first step is to observe the
pattern which is figure and check if there is any
As, 4 × 2 + 2 = 10, 10 × 3 + 3 = 33 familiar pattern in the given
So, 33 × 4 + 4 = 136 question.
PATTERN 2 : MULTIPLE FIGURE
PATTERN • The second step is finding out the
pattern.
110
75 • Ther is no need to memorize any
65 pattern.
• All you need is to understand the
30 concept and decipher the pattern.
(i)

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Venn Diagram 37
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Chapter
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Venn Diagram
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INT RODUCTION EXAMPLE
Venn diagrams are pictorial way of
represent the set of article. There are
different regions which needs proper 2
understanding for solving problems 1
3
based on given Venn diagrams.
– represents student passed
TYPES OF VENN DIAGRAM in English
– represents student passed
in Reasoning.
Analysis Based Identification of Relation 1 – represents student passed in
Venn Diagram Based Venn Diagram English only
2 – represents student passed in
(i) ANALYSIS BASED VENN Reasoning only
DIAGRAM - 3 – represents student passed in
In this type, generally a venn both English Reasoning both.
diagram comprising of different q Shortcut Approach
geometrical figures is given. Each
geometrical figure in the diagram Case: - II Three articles
represents a certain class. P Q
q Shortcut Approach 1 5 2
Case - I:
Two articles: 7
6 4
P Q
3
IA IIAB IB R
1 – represents P only
2 – represents Q only
3 – represents R only
Here, IA represents only P 4 – represents Q and R (not P)
IB represents only Q 5 – represents P and Q (not R)
6 – represents P and R (not Q)
IIAB represents P and Q
7 – represents P, Q and R
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38 Venn Diagram
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EXAMPLE EXAMPLE
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I – Mango
o
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Engineer Doctor II – Fruit
p
Here, all mango are fruit.
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1 2
s
5
q Shortcut Approach
s
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7 If two classes of item are completely
m
6 4
different from each other but they all
3 are completely included in third class
then the relationship is represent of the
Farmer diagram.
1 ® Engineer III
2 ® Doctor I II
3 ® Farmer
4 ® Doctor who is farmer also
5 ® Engineer who is doctor also EXAMPLE
6 ® Engineer who is farmer also I – represent potato

7 ® Person who is Engineer, II – represent onion
doctor and farmer. III – represent vegetable
(ii) Identification of Relation Based q Shortcut Approach
Venn Diagram -
• If two group of items having some
In this type, some standard common relationship and both of
representations for groups of them are all included in third
three items with different cases class then the relationship is
of venn diagrams are given. represented by the diagram.
q Shortcut Approach III
When one class of items is completely II
I
included in the another class of item
then it is represented by the given
diagram
EXAMPLE Brother, Father, Male.
II I ® Brother
II ® Father
I III ® Male
Some Brother may be Father and
all are male.
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Venn Diagram 39
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q Shortcut Approach EXAMPLE
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Graduate, Engineer and Doctor
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When one class of item is completely
rd
Graduate may be Engineer and
included in another group while third
p
Doctor.
is not related to both of them then such
re
q Shortcut Approach
s
condition are diagrammati-cally
s
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represented by When two group of items are
o
completely unrelated to each other
m
II while they are partly related with third
group of item
I
I II III
III
EXAMPLE Cloth, Red, Flowers.
Some cloth are Red and also some
EXAMPLE
Flowers are red.
Cricketer, player and farmer
I – Cricketer q Shortcut Approach
II – Player
When group of items are completely
III – Farmer different from each other
All cricketers are players but
farmers not.
I II
q Shortcut Approach
If three group of things are related to
each other
III
I II
EXAMPLE
Red, Yellow, Black

III
These are all different colour.

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40 Mathematical Operation Arithmetical Reasoning
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Chapter
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Mathematical Operation
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Arithmetical Reasoning
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INT RODUCTION EXAMPLE 1. If ‘+’ stands for division,
In this type of problem, usually ‘×’ stands for addition, ‘–’ stands for
mathematical symbol are converted into multiplication, and ‘¸’ stands for
another form by either interchanging the subtraction, then which of the following
symbol or using different symbol in equation is correct?
place of usual symbol and then calculate (a) 36 × 6 + 7 ¸ 2 – 6 = 20
the equation according to the given (b) 36 + 6 – 3 × 5 ¸ 3 = 24
(c) 36 ¸ 6 + 3 × 5 – 3 = 45
condition.
(d) 36 – 6 + 3 × 5 ¸ 3 = 74
Remember Sol. 36 × 6 ¸ 3 + 5 – 3
Þ 36 × 2 + 5 – 3 = 74
While simplifying a mathematical
(ii) INTERCHANGE OF SIGNS &
problem follow 'VBODMAS' rule
NUMBERS
V - Viniculum bracket
In this, the given equation
B - Bracket
becomes correct and fully balanced
O - Of when either two signs of the equation or
D - Division both the numbers and the signs of the
M - Multiplication equations are interchanged.
A - Addition EXAMPLE 2. Given interchange :
S - Subtraction sign ‘+’ and ‘–’and numbers 5 and 8.
Which of the following is correct?
TYPES OF MATHEMATICAL (a) 82 – 35 + 55 = 2
OPERATION (b) 82 – 35 + 55 = 102
(c) 85 – 38 + 85 = 132
(i) SYMBOL SUBSTITUTION (d) 52 – 35 + 55 = 72
In this, various mathematical Sol. 52 + 38 – 88 = 2
symbols, followed by a question (iii) BALANCINGTHE EQUATION
involving calculation of an expression. In this, the signs given in one of
It is required to put in the real signs in the alternatives are required to full up
the given equation and then solve the the blank spaces for the signs in order
question. to balance the given equation.
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Mathematical Operation Arithmetical Reasoning 41
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EXAMPLE 3. Select corr ect problems require basic mathematical
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combination of mathematical sign to skills like addition, subtraction,
o
replace ‘*’ sign to balance the equation. multiplication, division etc. The tests
rd
include operations with whole numbers,
p
9 * 4 * 22 * 14
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(a) × = – rational numbers, average ratio and
s
proportion, interest and percentage, and
s
(b) × – =
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(c) = – × measurement. Arithmetical reasoning is
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(d) – × = one factor that helps characterize
Sol. 9 * 4 * 22 * 14 mathematics comprehension, and it also
9 × 4 – 22 = 14 assesses logical thinking.
EXAMPLE 4 : The total of the ages of
q Shortcut Approach
Amar, Akbar and Anthony is 80 years.
• Begin with replacin g coded What was the total of their ages three
operators with their meanings. years ago ?
Write the entire expressions with
Sol. Here, required sum = (80 – 3 x 3)
correct operators and operand.
• When sowing always remember years = (80 – 9) years
VBODMAS. = 71 years.
• If any interchnages are suggested,
apply then before you start soling. q Shortcut Approach
If ages of n persons in a group are x1,
ARITHMETICAL REASONING x2, x3 ... , xn yr, then average age of the
Arithmetical Reasoning tests the ability group
to solve basic arithmetic problems
x1 + x 2 + x 3 + ... + x n
encountered in everyday life. These =
n

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INT RODUCTION Sometimes we come across two numbers
As we know, where, we do not know the exact state of
inequality between them.
3×3=9
Let us see :
Now, we can say that the result of
multiplication between 3 and 3 is equal m ³ n means m is either greater than or
equal to n.
to 9. Therefore, 3 × 3 = 9 is a case of
equality. But when we multiply 3 × 4, we m £ n means n is either less or equal to
m.
get 12 as a result of this multiplication. It
does mean that Hence, we can summarise the signs to
be used in inequalities as below:
3× 4¹9
As 3 × 4, is not equal to 9, it is a case of ‘=’ denots equal to
inequality. ‘>’ denots greater than
When, we come to know that one thing ‘³’ denots greater than or equal to
‘<’ denots less than
is not equal to another; there can be only
‘£’ denots less than or equal to
two possibilities:-
(i) One thing is greater than another
thing. CHAIN OF INEQUALITIES
or Sometimes two or more inequalities are
(ii) One thing is less than the another combined together to create a single
thing. inequality having three or more terms.
When, we denote (i) and (ii) mathematically, Such combination is called chain of
then we will write. inequalities.
(i) One thing > another thing. Note : If you see the given problem
or format (Example). You will find that
(ii) One thing < another thing. your primarily task is to combine two
where ‘>’ denotes ‘greater than’. or more inequalities to create a single
and ‘<’ denotes ‘less than’ inequality.
Hence, you can write,
Conditions for Combining
3×4>9
Two Inequalities
4×1<9
( 3 × 4 > 9) means ‘Product of 3 and 4 is Condition I: Two inequalities will be
greater than 9’. combined if and only if
(4 × 1 < 9) means ‘Product of 4 and 1 is they have a common
less than 9’. term.
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Coded Inequalities 43
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Condition II: Two inequalities will be Clearly, (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv) can not be
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combined if and only if combined as they do not have any
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the common term is common term and therefore, they do not
p
greater than (or ‘greater’ follow condition I and condition II.
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than or equal to’) one and
s
How to Derive Conclusions
s
less than (or ‘less than or
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from a Combined Inequalities?
o
equal to’) the other.
m
EXAMPLE 14 > 13, 13 > 12 can be
To derive conclusion from a combined
inequality, you have to eliminate the
easily combined as ‘14 > 13 > 12’.
common term.
Coded Inequalities For example,
Here, (a) If we have
14 > 13 > 12 m>l>n
then, our conclusion is
Common term
m>n
Clearly, 14 > 13 and 13 > 12 have common
term 13 and this common term is greater (b) When, we have
than 12 and less than 14. Hence, 14 > 13 m<l<n
and 13 > 12 have been combined into
then, our conclusion is
14 > 13 > 12 as per the conditions I and II.
EXAMPLE 17 < 19, and 19 < 20 can be m<n
easily combined as 17 < 19 < 20.
(c) When, we have ‘³’ signs in the
Here,
combined inequalities then you
17 < 19 < 20 have to think a little bit more. Let
us consider the combined
Common term inequality given below:
m³l>n
Clearly, 17 < 19 and 19 < 20 have common
term 19 and this common term is greater Here, m is either greater than l or
than 17 and less than 20. Hence, 17 < 19 equal to l.
and 19 < 20 have been combined into 17 Hence, the minimum value for m is
< 19 < 20 as per the conditions I and II. equal to l. But l is always greater
Now, let us see some examples of than n. Therefore, m is always
inequalities which can not be combined. greater than n.
Some such examples are given below:
i. 14 > 12, 19 > 18 \ Our conclusion is m>n
ii. 18 < 20, 22 < 25 (d) When, we have the following
iii. 100 > 99, 80 > 77 inequalities:-
iv. 100 < 115, 118 < 119 m> l³n
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In this case, m is always greater Remember
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than l and l is either greater than
• If m > n, then n < m must be true.
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n or equal to it. When l is greater
rd
than n; m will obviously be greater
• If m < n, then n > m must be true.
p
• If m ³ n, then n £ m must be true.
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than n. Even when l is equal to n;
• If m £ n, then n ³ m must be true.
s
m will be greater than n as m is
s
.c
always greater than l. EITHER CHOICE RULES
o
m
\ Our conclusion is m>n I. When your derived conclusion is
of the type m ³ n (or m £ n) then
(e) When, we have combine inequality check if the two conclusions are
m³l³n m > n and m = n (or, m < n and
m = n). If yes, choice “either
Here, m is either greater than l or
follows” is true.
equal to l.
II. If neither of the given conclusions
When m is greater than l; we have m > l seems correct. Then try to check if
³ n, which gives the conclusion. the given conclusions form a
complementary pair. Given
m>n — (A) conclusions form a complementary
When m is equal to l; we have pair in the 4 cases given below:-
(i) m ³ n and m < n
m = l ³ n, which gives the conclusion
(ii) m > n and m £ n
m ³ n — (B) (iii) m £ n and m > n
(iv) m < n and m ³ n
Combining (A) and (B), we have the final In such case, the choice “either follows”
conclusion as is correct.
m ³ n q Shortcut Approach
From (a), (b), (c), (d) and (e), we get a Steps for Solving Problems
rule for deriving conclusions from a Step I: Decode the given symbols like
combined inequality, we may say it @, $, d, #, *, etc.
‘Golden Rule’. Step II: Take one conclusion at a time
and make an idea that which
GOLDEN RULE statements are relevant for
evaluating it.
Step III: Use conditions I and II and the
The conclusion inequality ‘Golden Rule’ to combine the
will have an '³' sign or a '£' relevant statements and derive
sign if and only if both the a conclusion from it. They are:
signs in the combined Condition I: There must be a common
inequality are '³' or '£' sign term.
Condition II: The common term must
Clearly, in (a), (b), (c), (d) and (e) only be less than or equal to
one inequality (e) (m ³ l ³ n) has ‘³’ as one term and greater than
its both the sign. or equal to another.
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GOLDEN RULE: Now in each of following questions,
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assuming the given statements to be
o
The conclusion — inequality is
rd
true, find which of the two conclusions I
obtained by letting the common term
p
and II given below them is/are definitely
be eliminated and it has a ‘³’ or a ‘£’
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true.
s
sign if and only if both the inequalities
s
Give answer :
.c
in 2nd step had a ‘³’ or a ‘£’ sign. In all
o
other cases, there will be a ‘>’ or a ‘<’ (a) if only conclusion I is true;
m
sign in the conclusion. (b) if only conclusion II is true;
After performing the above mentioned (c) if either I or II is true;
three steps, if a conclusion is established (d) if neither I nor II is true.
and verified, it is well and good. But if (e) if both I and II are true.
does not happen so, then you have to Statements : P © T, M $ K, T = K
perform 4 more new steps given below: Conclusions : I. T © M II. T = M
New Step I: Check if the given Sol. Given statements :
conclusion directly P > T, M £ K, T = K.
follows from anyone T = K, K ³ M Þ T ³ M
single statement. Þ T > M or T = M Complementary
New Step II: Check if the conclusion Þ T © M or T = M pair
— inequality you get is So, either I or II is true.
essentially as same as the
given conclusion but DIRECT INEQUALITY
written differently.
New Step III: Check if the derived In this type of questions, direct relation
between two or more than two elements
conclusion follows
are given in a meaningful inequality.
‘Either choice Rule I’.
Candidates are required to establish the
New Step IV: If neither of the
relation between elements with the help
conclusions has been
of used signs between the elements.
proved correct till now,
then check ‘Either choice EXAMPLE 2 : Which of the following
Rule II’. symbols should replace the question
mark in the given expression in order to
EXAMPLE 1 : In the following question,
make the expressions. ‘I > L’ as well as
the symbols ©, @, =,* and $ are ‘M ³ K’ definitely true?
used with the following meanings : I>J³K?L£N=M
P © Q means ‘P is greater than Q’; (a) > (b) <
P @ Q means ‘P is greater than or (c) £ (d) =
equal to Q’; (e) Either < or £
P = Q means ‘P is equal to Q’;
Sol. On putting sign (=) in place of
P * Q means ‘P is smaller than Q’;
question mark (?)
P $ Q means ‘P is either smaller
I> J³K=L£N=M
than or equal to Q’.
Þ means I > L and M ³ K
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Remember
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EXAMPLE
Inequality depends upon combining
o
If A ³ B £ C then
rd
more than two element with a common
A £ C = False, C ³ A = False
p
term. Now observe the below diagram
re
thoroughly But
s
s
Accordance to this diagram If A ³ B ³ C then
.c
A ³ C = True, C £ A = True.
o
Definite Conclusion
m
· >= ®> · <=®< Statement: B ³ D £ A ³ F ³ C
· ³=®³ · £=®£ Conclusions :
· ³>®> · £<®< I. A ³ C ® True
· <=£®< · >=³®> II. B £ F ® False
Indefinite Conclusion
III. D ³ C ® False
· > < ® No relation · ³ £ ® No relation
· > £ ® No relation · ³ < ® No relation
q Shortcut Approach
q Shortcut Approach Case 3. Sets Priority
Case 1. < OR > 1st Priority : < or >
Two signs opposite to each other will 2nd Priority: £ or ³
make the conclusion wrong But again 3rd Priority: =
if the signs are in same manner that will Statement: P ³ R > Q = T ³ S
not make it wrong. Conclusions :
I. P ³ Q ® False
EXAMPLE
II. P > Q ® True
If A > B < C > D then A < C = False, III. Q ³ S ® True
C > A = False .
But Case 4.
If E > F > G > H then E > G = True , F > When it occurs to you that the statement
H = True , E > H = True. of order is opposite just change the
Statement: A < D > C < E > B sign into similar opposite direction.
Conclusions: Then change the sign into similar
• C > B ® False opposite /corresponding / alternative
• A < E ® False direction.
• D > B ® False If A > B > F > C < D < E
In simple way, whenever these two sign
comes in opposite direction the answer than F < A ® True
will be false.
EXAMPLE
q Shortcut Approach
[Q A > B > F = F < B < A]
Case 2. £ OR ³ Statements : A > B > F > C; D > E > C
Two signs opposite to each other will Conclusions:
make the conclusion wrong But again I. C < A ® True
if the signs are same then it will be true. II. C > A ® False
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q Shortcut Approach
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Case 5. > or < and ³ or £ conclusions are wrong then if it is there
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Whenever there is two conclusions then check whether the two variables
p
which are false then check for these are same. If It happens then write it as
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'Either or' but after checking their
s
two symbols (> or < and ³ or £). In
s
symbols.
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most of case where two conclusions
o
are false and these two similar signs Rules:
m
are not there respectively then that 1. Both conclusion should False
statement can call it as either or but 2. Should have same Predicate or
should check there variable it should Variable
same. 3. Check the symbols
If above conditionsare satisfied then
(A) Either Or : write it as 'Either Or' Other wise leave it.
Note : First thing need to check whether Note : If Rule 3 is satisfied than the
in conclusion any two or mor e conclusions are called 'Either Or'.
Step 2. Both
conclusions
Statement : W<X£Y>Z are false
Conclusion :
I. W < Z ×
Either Or
II. W ³ Z ×
Step 3. Check symbols
like
Step 1. Check both variable a) '<&=' or '> & =' together
should be same
b) '< & ³ 'or '> & £' together
EXAMPLE Rules:
1. Both conclusion should False
Statement : H= W£R>F 2. Check the symbols
Conclusion : I.R = H If both the rules are satisfied then write
II.R > H Either Or
it as " Neither Nor' other wise leave it.
Statement : H> L= E < T
Conclusion : I.H £ T EXAMPLE
II.H > T Either Or
Statement : P > Q ³ S = R
Statement : S< T³R³M Conclusion : I. P ³ R
Conclusion : I.M < T II. R > Q Neither nor
II.M = T Either Or
Statement : L = T £ J ³ K
Statement : I ³H=T>S£R Conclusion : I. L > K
Conclusion: I.I > T Neither nor
Either Or II. T £ K
II.I = T Statement : V < L ³ J £ T
B. Neither Nor : Conclusion : I. V < J Neither nor
First thing you need to check whether in II. L = T
your conclusion any 2 or more conclusions Statement : G £ K £ F < M
are wrong then write it as 'Neither Nor' Conclusion: I. G > F
II. K £ M Neither nor
but before checking their symbols.

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INTRODUCTION anything exactly but it gives a
In this chapter you will see some typical chance to eliminate a possibility.
problems in which you would be given a
TYPES OF PROBLEMS
series of interlinked information and on
the basis of those informations you 1. Simple problems (based on
would be expected to reach certain categorisation)
conclusions. 2. Problems based on arrangement
(Linear, circular, rectangular/
TYPES OF INFORMATIONS square).
IN A GIVEN PROBLEM 3. Problems based on comparison.
4. Problems based on blood
1. Basic Informations relations.
(Useful secondary informations): 5. Blood relations and profession
It is given in fi r st couple of based problems.
sentences of given data are such 6. Problems based on conditional
that they give you some basic selection.
information that is essential to
1. SIMPLE PROBLEMS BASED
give you general idea of the
situation. ON CATEGORISATION
2. Actual Informations Tips to Solve Problems
Whatever remains after the basic These type of problems can easily be
informations are known as actual solved by construction of table.
information.
EXAMPLE 1 Directions : Read the
While trying to solve a problem
one should begin with actual following information carefully
information and useful secondary and answer the question that
information should be solve by follows:
mind. 1. There are six cities L, M, N, O, P
and Q.
3. Negative Informations
2. L is not a hill station.
Actual informations having 3. M and P are not historical places.
negative sentences are called
4. O is not an industrial city.
negative information. A negative
5. L and O are not historical cities.
information does not inform us
6. L and M are not alike.
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Problem Solving 49
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Q. Which two cities are industrial centres ?
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Sol. It can be solved by preparing a table in the manner given below:
o
rd
p
L M N O P Q
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Historical
s
s
place
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o
Industrial
m
city
Hill station
(2), (3), (4), (5) are negative informations. Therefore as per such informations.
We put ‘X’ (not) mark wherever applicable. As a result the table looks like the
one below.
L M N O P Q
Historical
× × × ×
place
Industrial
×
city
Hill station ×
As above table gives definite informations about L, O. L is neither a historical

place nor a hill station. So, it must be an industrial city. In the same manner O
is neither a historical nor an industrial city. So, O must be a hill station. Hence,
we put ‘P’ mark at the appropriate place which give the table following look:-
L M N O P Q
Historical × × × ×
place
Industrial P ×
city
Hill station × P
Now, as per the condition (6) (L and M are not alike), M can not be an Industrial
city. Also M is not a historical place either. Therefore, it is very obvious that M
is a hill station.
Again, in the given problem there is no negative information about N. Hence,
we can assume that N is a hill station as well as a historical place and an
industrial city. Combining if these aspects, the following table will be prepared
finally.
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50 Problem Solving
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L M N O P Q
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Historical × × P × × P
p
place
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Industrial P × P × P P
s
s
city
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Hill × P P P P P
m
station
Now, after analysing the given question we get the answer:-

So, P and Q are two industrial centres.
2. PROBLEMS BASED ON ARRANGEMENT

In such problems a group of people, objects, etc, may have to be is arranged
in a row, or in a circle or any other way.
Linear Arrangement
one row sequence
(A) When direction of face is not clear, then we take ourself as base and then the
diagram will be as follows
Face Face Face Face Face
Left Right
A B C D E
Middle
From the above diagram, it is clear that
(i) B, C, D, E are right of A but only B is the immediate right of A.
(ii) D, C, B, A are left of E but only D is the immediate left of E.
(B) When direction of face is towards you, then the diagram will be as follows
A B C D E
Right Left
Face Face Face Face Face

From the above diagram, it is clear that
(i) B is immediate left of A, C is immediate left of B; D is immediate left of
C and E is immediate left of D.
(ii) D is immediate right of E; C is immediate right of D; B is immediate
right of C; and A is immediate right of B.
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Problem Solving 51
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two rows sequence and select the possibilities
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Let us see 6 persons seating in two rows which does not violate any
o
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P Q R condition.
Right Left
p
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EXAMPLE 2. Directions : Just read
s
s
the following information
.c
carefully to answer the questions
o
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Left Right given below it:
S T U
From the above diagram, it is clear that Five friends P, Q, R, S, and T are
(i) P is sitting opposite S. sitting on a bench.
(ii) Q is sitting opposite T. (1) P is sitting next to Q.
(iii) R is sitting opposite U. (2) R is sitting next to S.
(iv) P and U are sitting at diagonally (3) S is not sitting with T.
opposite positions. (4) T is on the last end of the bench.
(v) S and R are sitting diagonally (5) R is on the 2nd position from the
opposite positions. right.
Note: Point to be noted that in (6) P is on the right of Q and T.
arrangement problems, the actual (7) P and R are sitting together.
information can be classified into 2 Q. All what position is P sitting?
categories:- Sol.
(a) Definite information Her e, 4th and 5th sentences
A definite information is one when constitute definite information:
the place of object/man is Comparative informations are: 1st,
definitely mentioned. 2nd, 6th and 7th sentences while 3rd
(b) Comparative information is a negative information.
In such information the place of Now, start with definite information,
object/man is not mentioned sketch the following arrangement:-
definitely but only a comparative T __ __ R __
position is given. In other words Now, this is the time to look for the
the positions of objects/men are comparative informations that tell
given in comparision to another about T and R. Such informations
objects/men. are 2nd, 6th and 7th sentences. Take
the 7th and the 1st sentence. If P
q Shortcut Approach and R are together and also Q and
Step I. Sketch a diagram of P are together, then P must be
empty places between Q and R. Now the
Step II. Fill up as many empty arrangement take the form as:-
places as possible using all
T Q P R ____
the definite informations.
By the virtue of the 2nd sentence:
Step III. With the help of
comparative information TQP RS
consider all possibilities So, P is sitting between Q and R.
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52 Problem Solving
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Circular Arrangement
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Circle is the most important case from the exam point of view. Most of the times
o
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Circle kind of statements are there in exams.
p
From the exam point of view, in most cases they give 8 persons sitting in the circle.
re
But before solving the important thing is their ' Sitting Position '.
s
s
Step 1. Knowing NEWS! N= North , E= East , W=West , S= South
.c
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N
m
W E
S
To remember this just remember combination ' North - South ' & ' West - East ' which
comes together to each other respectively.
Step 2 : Picking Left & Right .
• Facing Center • Facing Outside
Clock wise = Left Anti - Clock wise = Right
N N
NW NE NW NE
W E W E
SW SE SW SE
S S
If it is mention in the statement that all is

facing outside then just do opposite of Right
Left
above like this:
Clock wise = Right & Anti-clock wise • Imagine yourself at the position
= Left shown by the box.
Step 3 : Solving step wise the statement • Now your left hand is the left side
or Following the statement. and right hand is the right side.
q Shortcut Approach • Now, if in question it is given, P is
second to the right of Q, approach
• Imagine yourself as one of the as follows.
persons given in the question. ® Imagine yourself as Q.
• Count how many people are
mentioned in the question. Then
draw a circle with those many Left Right
lines.
Q
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Problem Solving 53
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® Now, P is second to right of 3. PROBLEMS BASED ON
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Q. The right of Q is your right side. COMPARISON
o
rd
So, place P two places from Q
In such problems comparison of
p
towards its right.
re
different objects or persons has to
s
be made. Such comparisions are
s
.c
P done on the basis of marks, ages
o
heights, etc.
m
Left Right
Q Method to Solve
If you give a serious look to the problem
EXAMPLE 3. Directions Study the you will find that such problems are as
following information carefully and same as the arrangement problems.
answer the question given below. Therefore, we have to go like
arrangement problem while solving
Bunty, Dev, Manav, Kavya, Payal,
problems based on comparison.
Qasturba, Wasir and Himmat are sitting
around a circle facing at the centre. EXAMPLE 4. Directions : Read the
Manav is to the immediate right of Bunty informations given below to
who is 4th to the right of Kavya. Payal answer the given question:
is 2nd to the left of Bunty and is 4th to (1) 7 students A, B, C, D, E, F and
the right of Wasir. Qasturba is 2nd to G take a series of tests.
the right of Dev who is 2nd to the right (2) No two students obtain the
of Himmat. same marks.
(3) G always scores more than A.
Q. Who is 3rd to the right of Bunty?
(4) A always scores more than B.
Sol.
(5) Each time either C scores the
highest and E gets the least,
or alternatively D scores the
highest and F or B scores the
Wasir least.
Himmat Manav Q. If D is ranked 6th and B is ranked
5th, which of the following can be
Seating
Bunty true?
Kavya Arrangement
Sol.
Dev Qasturba In this case, we see there is no definite
information. Sentence 5 gives a definite
Payal information but it is conditional. Still, we
draw all the possibilities based on
sentence 5.
Now, look at the given question and (1) C __ __ __ __ __ __ E
check that you get the answer. or, (2) D __ __ __ __ __ __ F
So, Himmat is 3rd to the right of Bunty. or, (3) D __ __ __ __ __ __ B
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54 Problem Solving
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We see that the two additional or
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informations (3) and (4) are inadequate +
o
to reach a definite conclusion. Hence, A B
–
rd
keeping these in mind. We move on to
p
the given questions.
re
D is ranked 6th and B is 5th. This
s
s
does mean that possibilities (2) and
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(3) are violated. Hence, possibility +
o
–
D E
m
(1) must be true. Thus, we have:
C ______ B D E –
G F
+
Also by virtue of (3) and (4) we can
have only one arrangement for G, or
A and B which is GAB. Accordingly, + –
there are two possibilities: A B
C G FAB D E
or, C G AF B D E
So, if D is ranked 6th and B is ranked
5th, then f is ranked 3rd or 4th. + –
D E
4. PROBLEMS BASED ON
BLOOD RELATION G
–
F+
Such problems involves analysis The above diagrams tells us:-
of certain blood relations. (a) A and B are couple; A is the
q Shortcut Approach husband while B is the wife.
(i) Vertical/diagonal lines to (b) D is son of A and B while E
represent parent-child is daughter of A and B.
relationships. (c) D is the brother of E and E is
(ii) Single/double horizontal line the sister of D.
like ( « / Û) to represent (d) D has a son F
marriages. (e) F and G are couple; F is the
(iii) A dashed line (—) for brother husband and G is the wife.
and sister relationship. (f) F is the grandson of A and
(iv) ‘+’ sign for male and ‘–’ sign B.
for female (g) G is the daughter in law of
For example. D.
+
A B
–
(h) E is the aunt (Bua) of F
(i) There are 3 males (A, D and
F) and 3 females (B, E, G)
+ –
D E EXAMPLE 5. Directions : Read the
following information carefully
and answer the question given
– +
G F below:
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Problem Solving 55
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There are 6 members in a family. M
(–) (+)
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O
They are M, N, O, P, Q, R are
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travelling together. N is the son of
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O but O is not the mother of N. M
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and O are a married couple. Q is (–)
P N
(+)
s
the brother O. P is the daughter of
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M. R is the brother of N. Now, we add the two sentences
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Q. How many male members are there
m
‘Q is the brother of O’ and ‘R is the
in the family? brother of N’ and we get the final
Sol. Here, all the sentences are actual diagram as below:-
information except the first out of (–)
these the 2nd and the fifth M (+)
O Q
(+)
sentences give information on

parent child relationship. We can
begin with either of the two. Let (–)
us begin with the 6th sentence. Our P R
(+)
N
(+)
diagram will be as So, there are 4 male members in the

M family.
(?)
BLOOD RELATIONS
P
(–) AND PROFESSION
As, we do not want to make many Such problems are very much
diagrams and instead we would similar to the problems related to
prefer to only add to the existing blood relation. What makes it
diagsams. Therefore, we should different is the addition of new
look for sentences that talk of M data:- the professions of family
or P. The 3rd sentence talks about members. You will get the more
M. Hence, we add this clear idea about this type of
information, that M and O are problem.
married couple in our diagram.
EXAMPLE 6. Directions : Read the
M O following information carefully
(?) (?)
and answer the question given
below it:
(–)
P (1) A, B, C, D, E and P are
Now, the 2ndsentence talks about members of a family.
O. It says that N is the son of O (2) There are two married
but O is not the mother of N. couples.
Obviously, O must be the father of
(3) B is an engineer and the father
N. This means O is a male and
of E
hence M must be a female. Now
our diagram takes the form as (4) P is the grandfather of C and
following:- is a lawyer.
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56 Problem Solving
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(5) D is the grandmother of E and Now, the 4th sentence has the
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is a housewife. remaining information and diagram
o
(6) There is one engineer, one for it is given below:-
rd
lawyer, one teacher, one
p
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housewife and two students (+, Lawyer)
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in the family.
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Q. Who is the husband of A? P is a lawyer and
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(?)
m
Sol. Here, (1), (2), and (6) are useful grandfather of C
secondary informations. While
(3), (4) and (5) are the actual
informations. We start with the 3rd C
sentence because it mentions a (? ?)
parent. Child relationship its Now, we see that we have ended
diagram can be made as the up with two different component.
following:- Then how to resolve this deadlock?
B The answer is simple: - to resolve
(+, Eng)
it, we make use of the given useful
secondary information (USI).
B is an Engineer “There are two married couple in
and father of E the family.” Clearly, the two
possible pairs are of grandfather,
grandmother and father, mother.
E Therefore, we combine the two
(? ?)
diagrams into the following way.
Now, we move on to another
sentence that involves either B or P D
E. You see that the 5th sentence
(+, Lawyer) (–, Housewife)
gives some information about E. It
says that D is the grandmother E.
Point to be noted that if D is the
grandmother of E, then the son of
D must be father of E and hence B B A
is the son of D. Now, the diagram (+, Eng) (– ?)
takes the following form.
D
(–, Housewife)
E C
(? ?) (? ?)
B D is a housewife Point to be noted that the

(+, Eng) and grandmother E professions of A, E and C are
yet unknown . However, with
reasonable justification, we may
E assume that the mother (A) should
(?, ?) be the teacher and the two children
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Problem Solving 57
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E and C should be students. But Q. If there be 5 boys in the team, then
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this conclusion can be challenged the lone girl member is ------
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Sol. Make the group of all the pairs that
rd
and has no reason at all.
have to be together on one side
p
Apart from that the sexes of E and
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C can not be determined. So, B is and the pairs that must not be
s
together on the other side. Next,
s
husband of A.
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read each of the questions and
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treat that as an additional
m
information. Finally, analyse the
CONDITIONAL SELECTION possibilities and choose the
In this type of problems, a group possibilities that satisfies all the
of objects/persons has to be conditions. Let us see the process
below:-
selected from a given larger group,
Firstly, we can summarise the
as per the given restrictions. You
conditions in the following way:-
will get the better idea of such type
of problem from the problem given J, M S,T
below:- (+ )(+ ) (-)(-)
® Group
EXAMPLE 7. Directions : Study the K, R L, Q 'must be together '.
following information carefully (+ )(-) (+ )(-)
and answer the question given L, S, K, N, M, P
below:- (+) (–) (+) (+) (+) (–1) ® Group never
From, amongst 6 boys J, K, L, M, be together’
Here, number of boys are 5. We
N, and O and 5 girls P, Q, R, S and
see than K and N can never be
T, a team of 6 is to be selected
together. Therefore, there are only
under the following conditions:-
two ways of selecting 5 boys:-
(i) J and M have to be together.
JKLMO and JNLMO. But the
(ii) L can not go with S.
possiblity is not possible because
(iii) S and T have to be together.
if K would go then R should also
(iv) K can not be teamed with N. go, and if L goes than Q should
(v) M cannot go with P. also go. Hence, JNLMO is the only
(vi) K and R have to be together. possibility in which L’s friend Q
(vii) L and Q have to be together. would be the lone girl member.

Past Solved Papers

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Input and Output
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INT RODUCTION PROBLEM OF SHIFTING
Problems related to input-output are We know that in such type of problems,
frequently asked questions in various a word/number processing machine
graduate level competitive examinations. generate output th rough shiftin g.
They are not very tough stuff but take a Shifting does mean an operation in which
good deal of time to be solved or words or numbers of a given input give
sometimes students do not take attempt outputs in different steps through
to solve them because of time consuming shifting their place to different place as
impression of such type of questions. per a fixed pattern.
But proper understanding of the subject
Note : In shifting problems, the previous
makes you believe that such problems
step of any step can possibly be
are not as tough and time consuming as
determined, so we can move in backward
they seem.
or reverse order which is not possible
in some of the other type of problems.
CONCEPT OF INPUT-
OUTPUT PROBLEMS Methods to Solve
In such problems: Lets take an example
(a) It is imagined that there is some Input : Blue Cat Good Other Have Cake
kind of computer/word processing Step 1 : Blue Other Good Cat Have Cake
machine. Step 2 : Blue Other Have Cat Good Cake
(b) An input is given to the computer/ Step 3 : Cake Other Have Cat Good Blue
word processing machine Step 4 : Cake Cat Have Other Good Blue
(c) The computer/word processing Step 5 : Cake Cat Good Other Have Blue
machine performs repeated Step 6 : Blue Cat Good Other Have Cake
operations as per a certain pattern Shifting of element can easily be
to give different output in different understood by making them equivalent
steps. to number like
Blue = 1, Cat = 2, Good = 3, Other = 4,
TYPES OF PROBLEMS Have = 5, Cake = 6
Input can be written as
(i) Problems of shifting 1 2 3 4 5 6
(ii) Problems of arrangement Blue Cat Good Other Have Cake
(iii) Problems of mathematical Step-1 : 2 and 4 interchanged
operation Step-2 : 3 and 5 interchanged
Step-3 : 1 and 6 interchanged
(iv) Miscellaneous. Step-4 : 1, 2 and 3 are repeated again.
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Input and Output 59
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Input : 1 2 3 4 5 6 Step-3 : 6 4 5 2 3 1
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) Step-4 :
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Step-1 : 6 2 5 4 3 1
1 4 3 2 5 6
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Step-5 : 6 2 3 4 5 1
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Step-2 : 1 4 3 2 5 6 Step-6 : 1 2 3 4 5 6
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PROBLEMS ON ARRANGEMENTS
1. Word Arrangement from Left Side:
EXAMPLE :
Input : mango tango orange banana pear
Step I: banana mango tango orange pear
Step II: banana mango orange tango pear
Step III: banana mango orange pear tango
Here, we start arrangement from the word that comes 1st in the dictionary;
then comes the word coming 2nd in the dictionary, then comes the word
coming 3rd in the dictionary and so on. In this case, the arrangement start from
left side. This is the reason in step I banana comes 1st as it comes 1st in the
dictionary. In the 2nd step, orange comes at 3rd place because after the
arrangement of step I the next word coming in the dictionary is mango but it
get arranged automatically and hence there is no need to arrange it in step II.
This is the reason after arranging banana in step I, we directly come to the
word orange (coming 3rd in the dictionary) in step II. In the 3rd step, we
arrange the word ‘pear’ (coming 4th in the dictionary) and the word tango get
arranged automatically.
2. Word Arrangement from Right:
EXAMPLE :
Input: Name Fame Game Shame Jam

Step I: Name Game Shame Jam Fame
Step II: Name Shame Jame Game Fame
Step III: Shame Name Jam Game Fame
In this case, the arrangement starts from right side. The word coming 1st in the
dictionary comes at the 1st position from right. At the 2nd position from right
comes the word coming 2nd in the dictionary and the process goes on till the
arrangement gets completed. In the above given example, ‘Fame’ is the 1st
word coming in the dictionary and hence it comes at the 1st position from right
in the step I. In the step II, the 2nd word coming in the dictionary (Game)
comes at the 2nd position from right. Point to be noted that the word coming
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60 Input and Output
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third in the dictionary will come at the 3rd position from right and this word is
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‘Jam’. But ‘Jam’ automatically get arranged as per the given pattern when we
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arrange the word ‘Game’ in II step. This is the reason why we don’t arrange
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‘Jam’ in the third step and jump directly to arrange the word. ‘Name’ that
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comes 4th in the dictionary. ‘Name’ occupies 4th position from right and the
s
word ‘Shame’ automatically get arranged in the 3rd step. Hence, the word
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‘Shame’ does not need to get arranged.
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3. Word Arrangement from the Left-Right Alternate:
EXAMPLE :
Input: Sachin is a great cricket player

Step I: a Sachin is great cricket player
Step II: a is great cricket player Sachin
Step III: a cricket is great player Sachin
Step IV: a cricket great is player Sachin
Here, the arrangement is made by putting the first word at 1st place, then
alphabetically last word at last place, then alphabetically second word at second
place from left and the further arrangements goes on in the same manner. In
the other words, are positioned from the left and from the right alternately. In
the step I the word coming 1st in the dictionary is ‘a’ and it takes 1st position
from left. In the step II, the last word coming alphabetically is Sachin and it
takes last position (1st from right). In step III, the word coming 2nd in dictionary
is ‘cricket’ that comes at 2nd position from left. In step IV, the word coming 3rd
last in the dictionary takes the 3rd position from right. After the step IV, all the
words get arranged in alphabetical order. Point to be noted that after step IV,
there is no need to arrange the word ‘great’ as it get arranged automatically is
step IV.
4. Arrangement in Increasing or Decreasing Order:
EXAMPLE :
Input: 25 17 18 58 100 35
Step I: 17 25 18 58 100 35
Step II: 17 18 25 58 100 35
Step III: 17 18 25 35 58 100
This arrangement gives a clear idea of arrangement of numbers in increasing
order. In step I, the smallest number (17) comes at the 1st position from left
pushing the remaining to the right. In step II, the 2nd smallest number (18)
comes at 2nd position from left pushing the remaining number to the right. In
step III, the 4th smallest number (35) takes 4th position from left and the other
two numbers 58 and 100 get arranged automatically.
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Input and Output 61
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Now, let us see decreasing order arrangement:
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Input: 25 17 18 58 100 35
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Step I: 100 25 17 18 58 35
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Step II: 100 58 25 17 18 35
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Step III: 100 58 35 25 17 18
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Step IV: 100 58 35 25 18 17
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The same arrangement can take place from right side (or in the reverse order)
as follow:
Input: 25 17 18 58 100 35
Step I: 25 18 58 100 35 17
Step II: 25 58 100 35 18 17
Step III: 58 100 35 25 18 17
Step IV: 100 58 35 25 18 17
5. Number Arrangment from Left-Right Alternate:

Like words left-right alternate arrangement, number arrangement also takes
place. The process of this arrangement is exactly the same as the arrangement
takes place in case of words. Just see the following cases:
Case I :
Input: 100 125 26 10 15 35
Step I: 10 100 125 26 15 35
Step II: 10 100 26 15 35 125
Step III: 10 15 100 26 35 125
Step IV: 10 15 26 35 100 125
Here, the smallest number (10) takes 1st position from left in step I. In step II
the largest number takes the last (1st from right) position. Again in step III the
2nd smallest number (15) comes at the 2nd position from left. In the step IV, the
2nd largest number (100) comes at the 2nd position from right and the remaining
number (26 and 35) get arranged automatically.
Case II :
Input: 100 125 26 10 15 35
Step I: 100 26 10 15 35 125
Step II: 10 100 26 15 35 125
Step III: 10 26 15 35 100 125
Step IV: 10 15 26 35 100 125
In case II, the arrangements take place in the same way as the arrangements
take place in case I. But the difference here is that case I is a left-right
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62 Input and Output
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arrangement and case II is the right-left arrangement. In case II, the arrangement
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starts with the largest number (125) coming at the 1st position from right and
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this is step I. In step II, the smallest number (10) comes at the 1st position from
p
left. In step III the 2nd largest number (100) comes at the 2nd position from
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right. In step III, the third largest number (35) automatically comes at the 3rd
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position from right. In 4th step, the 2nd smallest number (15) comes at the 2nd
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position from left and 26 get arranged automatically coming at 3rd position
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from left.
Note: Left-right (or right-left) arrangement of numbers also take place in the
same manner when numbers are arranged in decreasing order.
6. Arrangement of Words and Numbers Simultaneously:

Just see the following outputs produced by a word and number machine.
Case I
Input: 50 32 Vandana Prerna Aradhna 100
Step I: 32 50 Vandana Prerna Aradhna 100
Step II: 32 Aradhna 50 Vandana Prerna 100
Step III: 32 Aradhna 50 Prerna Vandana 100
Step IV: 32 Aradhna 50 Prerna 100 Vandana
In such case, numbers and words get arranged alternately. In step I, the smallest
number (32) comes at the 1st position from left pushing the remaining members
of input towards right. In the step II, the word coming 1st alphabetically (that
is the word ‘Aradhna’) takes the 2nd position from left pushing the remaining
member rightward. Point to be noted that the 2nd smallest number automatically
comes at the third position from left while arranging the word ‘Aradhna’ and
hence, there is no need to arrange the 2nd smallest number ‘50’. In step III, the
word (Prerna) coming 2nd alphabetically comes at the 4th position from left
pushing the other members to the right. In step IV, the largest number (100)
occupies the 5th position from left and the word (Vandana) coming last
alphabetically comes at last position automatically finishing the complete
arrangement.
Let us see some other cases of this type:
Case II:
Step I: 100 50 32 Vandana Prerna Aradhna
Step II: 100 Vandana 50 32 Prerna Aradhna
Step III: 100 Vandana 50 Prerna 32 Aradhan
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Input and Output 63
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In this case, largest number and the word coming last alphabetically get
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arranged alternately. Then the 2nd longest number and the word coming 2nd
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last alphabetically get arranged alternately and the process goes on till the
p
arrangements of all the numbers and words get completed. In this case,
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arrangement completes in step III.
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Case III:
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Step I: Aradhna 50 32 Vandana Prerna 100
Step II: Aradhna 32 50 Vandana Prerna 100
Step III: Aradhna 32 Prerna 50 Vandana 100
In this case, arrangement starts with the word coming 1st alphabetically and
such word is ‘Aradhna’ that comes at the 1st position from left is step I. In step
II, the smallest number (32) comes at the 2nd position from left. Then, in step
III, the word coming 2nd alphabetically comes at the 3rd position from left and
all the other members get arranged automatically.
Case IV:
Step I: Vandana 50 32 Prerna Aradhna 100
Step II: Vandana 100 50 32 Prerna Aradhna
Step III: Vandana 100 Prerna 50 32 Aradhna
Step IV: Vandana 100 Prerna 50 Aradhna 32
In this case, word coming last alphabetically comes 1st from left in step I and
such word is ‘Vandana’. In step II, the largest number (100) comes at the 2nd
position from left. In step III, the word coming 2nd last alphabetically occupies
the 3rd position from left, and such word is ‘Prerna’. As the 2nd largest number
(50) automatically get arranged as per the pattern going on and hence this is
not needed to arranged in step IV. In step VI, the word coming Ist alphabetically
comes at the 5th position from left and such word is ‘Aradhna’. The smallest
number (32) get arranged automatically coming at the last position from left in
step IV. Thus, it is clear that in this case the word coming lst alphabetically and
the greatest number get arranged alternately in 1st two steps; then 2nd last
word alphabetically and 2nd largest number get arranged alternately finishing
the whole arrangement in step IV.
Case V:
Step I: 32 50 Vandana Prerna Aradhna 100
Step II: 32 Vandana 50 Prerna Aradhna 100
Step III: 32 Vandana 50 Prerna 100 Aradhna
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In this case, the smallest number comes at the 1st position from left in step I
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and such number is 32. In step II, the word (Vandana) coming last alphabetically
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occupies the 2nd place from left. In the 2nd step, the 2nd smallest number (50)
p
takes the 3rd position from left automatically and also the word coming 2nd
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last alphabatically takes the 4th position from left automatically. Hence, there
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is no need to arrange ‘50’ and ‘Prerna’. In the III step, the largest number (100)
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occupies the 5th position from left completing the whole arrangement.
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Case VI:
Step I: 100 50 32 Vandana Prerna Aradhna
Step II: 100 Aradhna 50 32 Vandana Prerna
Step III: 100 Aradhna 50 Prerna 32 Vandana
In this case, the logic is that the greatest number (100) comes at the 1st position
from left in step I. In step II the word coming 1st alphabetically takes the 2nd
position from left and the 2nd largest number (50) gets arranged automatically.
Hence, in step III, we direct arrange the word coming 2nd last alphabetically
(that word is ‘Prerna’) occupies the 4th position from left and the other two
members (32 and ‘Vandana’) get arranged automatically finishing the whole
arrangement.
7. Arrangement Based on the Number of Letters in Words:

Just have a look at the following patterns:
Case I :
Input: let pattern love fried be mature
Step I: be let pattern love fried mature
Step II: be let love pattern fried mature
Step III: be let love fried pattern mature
Step IV: be let love fried mature pattern
Here, the words get arranged as per increasing number of letters. In other
words, the word having least number of letters comes 1st from left in step I and
such word is ‘be’. The word ‘let’ is bigger than ‘be’ and smaller than other
words letterwise and hence, it takes 2nd position from left but it gets arranged
automatically when the word ‘be’ is arranged in step I. In 2nd step, the word
‘love’ comes at the 3rd position from left as it is bigger than word ‘let’ letterwise.
In step III, the letterwise bigger word (fried) than love comes at the fourth
position from left. Similarly, mature comes at the 5th position from left and
pattern comes at the last position automatically while arranging the word
‘mature’.
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Input and Output 65
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Case II :
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Input: let pattern love fried be mature
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Step I: pattern let love fried be mature
p
Step II: pattern mature let love fried be
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Step III: pattern mature fried let love be
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Step IV: pattern mature fried love let be
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In this case, the words get arranged in decreasing order in terms of letters. In
other words, the word having the largest number of letters comes 1st from left,
then comes the word having 2nd largest number of letters, then comes the
word having 3rd largest number of letters and the process goes on till the
word having the least number of letters occupies the last position from left.
Case III:
Input: let pattern gate a set be hope
Step I: a let pattern gate set be hope
Step II: a be let pattern gate set hope
Step III: a be let set pattern gate hope
Step IV: a be let set gate pattern hope
Step V: a be let set gate hope pattern
Have you noticed something here? Here, the words get arranged in increasing
order of litters. But when it comes to the case of two or more words having
equal number of letters the priority is given alphabetically. It does mean that
the word coming 1st as per the alphabet will be put before the word coming
2nd. Similarly, the word coming 2nd alphabetically will be put before the word
coming third. This is the reason why ‘let’ has been put before ‘set’ and ‘gate’
has been put before ‘hope’.
Case IV:
Input: let pattern gate a set be hope
Step I: pattern let gate a set be hope
Step II: pattern hope let gate a set be
Step III: pattern hope gate let a set be
Step IV: pattern hope gate set let a be
Step V: pattern hope gate set let be a
In this case, the words get arranged in decreasing order of letters. But when it
comes to the case of two or more words having equal number of letters the
priority is given to the word that comes later alphabetically. It does mean that
the word coming 1st alphabetically will be put after the word coming 2nd and
the word coming 2nd will be put after the word coming 3rd. This is the reason
why ‘hope’ has been put before ‘gate’ and ‘set’ has been put before ‘let’.
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66 Input and Output
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Important Note: The case of arrangement discussed so far are the cases of push. In
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all the cases a new word jumps from its place in every step, occupies its new and
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due place and gives the remaining words and push either towards left or right as
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per the requirement of the pattern. But in some cases of arrangement interchange
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does take place and that format is given below:
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8. Arrangement with Interchange:
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EXAMPLE
Input: the most beautiful girl is Vandana
Step I: beautiful most the girl is Vandana
Step II: beautiful girl the most is Vandana
Step III: beautiful girl is most the Vandana
In this case, the word (beautiful) coming 1st in alphabetical order comes at the
1st position from left interchanging its place with the word ‘the’ and this is
step I. In step II, the word (girl) coming 2nd in alphabetical order occupies the
2nd position from left interchanging with the word ‘most’. In step III, the word
coming 3rd (is) comes at the third position from left interchanging with the
word ‘the’ and finishing the complete arrangement in alphabetical order.
This type of cases can also be seen in number arrangements and in the
arrangements of numbers and words simultaneously. The examples of these
type of arrangements are given below:
EXAMPLE (Increasing order number arrangement)

Input: 25 11 50 20 35
Step I: 11 25 50 20 35
Step II: 11 20 50 25 35
Step III: 11 20 25 50 35
Step IV: 11 20 25 35 50
Presentation :
Step I: 11 25 50 20 35
Step II: 11 20 50 25 35
Step III: 11 20 25 50 35
Step IV: 11 20 25 35 50
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Input and Output 67
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The presentation gives you the clear idea of how interchange takes place in
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every step.
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EXAMPLE (Decreasing order number arrangement)
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Input: 25 11 50 20 35
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Step I: 50 11 25 20 35
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Step II: 50 35 25 20 11
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Presentation:
Step I: 50 11 25 20 35
Step II: 50 35 25 20 11
PROBLEMS OF MATHEMATICAL OPERATION—

In this type of problems, the input has some numbers. Different steps are obtained
by taking the numbers of the input and different arithmetic operations are performed
after that.
EXAMPLE
Input : 44 35 18 67 22 28 36
Step I : 36 27 10 59 14 20 28
Step II : 16 15 8 42 4 16 18
Step III : 132 105 54 201 66 84 108
Step IV : 50 41 24 73 28 34 42
Step V : 8 8 9 4 4 1 9
Step VI : 64 64 81 169 16 100 81
Step VII : 20 19 12 46 8 20 22
In this case, in step I (each number of the input – 8). In step II, product of the
digits of each number of the input. In step III, each number of the input is
multiplied by 3. In step IV, each number of the input is added by 6. In step V,
keep adding the digits of each number of the input till they are converted into
single digit. In step VI, (digit sum of each number of input)2. In step VII, each
number of step II is added by 4.
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68 Input and Output
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MISCELLANEOUS PROBLEMS
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In this type of problems, there is no fixed pattern of questions coming under this
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category. Infact, questions under this category comes before you as a real surprise.
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EXAMPLE
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Input : every now and then same
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Step I : every ow nd hen ame
Step II : ever no an the sam
Step III : vry nw nd thn sm
Step IV : ee o a e ae
Step V : ery w d en me
In this case, in step I, first letter disappear. In step II, last letter disappear. In
step III, vowels disappear. In step IV, consonants disappear. In step V, first two
letters disappear.
q Shortcut Approach
1. First of all, observe the given input line of words or numbers and the last step
of rearrangement, so that candidate may get an idea about the changes effected
in various steps of rearrangement.
2. In order to know what changes have been made in each step, observe two
consecutive steps carefully.
3. Now, correlate the input, the last step and anyone of the middle steps. This
will enable you to identify the rule of arrangement.
4. In shifting problems, it is possible to determine the previous/earlier steps
including input. We can proceed/move backward or in reverse direction in
shifting problems.
5. In shifting problems for convenience, we assign numeric value to given words.

Past Solved Papers
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Syllogism 69
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Chapter
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15 Syllogism
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INTRODUCTION All the sentences mentioned above give
a relation between subject and predicate.
Syllogism is a Greek word that does mean
Here, it is clear from the sentences that a
‘inference’ or ‘deduction’. The problems subject is the part of a sentence
of syllogism are based on two parts : something is said about, while a predicate
1. Proposition / Propositions is the term in a sentence which is related
2. Conclusion / Conclusions drawn from to the subject.
given proposition/ propositions Now, let us define the proposition :
A proposition is a sentence that makes a
PROPOSITION statement giving a relation between two
Just consider the sentences given below: terms. It has three parts :
(a) The subject
(b) The predicate
(i) “All lions are pigs ”
(c) The relation between subject and
predicate
Subject Predicate
CATEGORICAL PROPOSITION
Let us see the sentences given below :
(ii) “No cat is rat ” “All M are P”
“No M are P”
Subject Predicate “Some M are P”
“Some M are not P”
What we notice in all above-Mentioned
(iii) “Some girls are beautiful ” sentences that they are condition free.
These type of sentences are called
Categorical Propositions. In other
Subject Predicate
words a categorical proposition has no
condition attached with it and it makes
direct assertion. It is different from non-
(iv) “Some kites are not birds ” categorical proposition which is in the
format
Subject Predicate “If M then P”
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70 Syllogism
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TYPES OF CATEGORICAL PROPOSITION:
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Categorical proposition
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Universal Particular
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Positive Negative Positive Negative
All M are P No M are P Some M are P Some M are not P

(A type) (E type) (I type) (O type)
Therefore, it is clear, that universal

propositions either completely include P
the subject (A type) or completely
exclude it (E type). On the other hand, Some M are P (I type):
particular propositions either only partly Either:
include the subject (I type) or only partly
exclude the subject (O type).
Now, we can summarise the four types M P
of propositions to be used while solving
the problems of syllogism :
Some M are P
Format Type
[Some M are not P]
All M are P A
Or :
No M are P E
Some M are P I M
Some M are not P O
P
q Shortcut Approach
All M are P (A type): Some M are P
[All P are M]
P Some M are not P (O type):
and M, P Either:
M
[Possibility] M P
No M are P (E type):
Some M are not P
M [Some M are P]
Or:
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Syllogism 71
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EXAMPLE
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P No one (student) is studious.
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M [No student is studious]
p
(i) A negative sen tence with a
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Some M are not P particular person as its subject is
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[All P are M] E type propoistion.
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HIDDEN PROPOSITIONS He does not deserve Bharat Ratna
(A) A type: Subject Predicate
Apart from ‘all’ it starts with every, Amitabh Bacchan is not a great actor.
each and any.
Subject Predicate
EXAMPLE (ii) Sentences in following formats are
Every girl is beautiful. E type :
[All girls are beautiful.] “No student except
(i) A positive sen tence with a definite exception
particular person as its subject is
A type. Reena has failed”
He should be amended Bharat Ratna “Is there any truth left in the
world”
[No truth is left in the world.]
Subject Predicate (C) I type:
Amitabh Bacchan is a great actor. Apart from some it also starts with
words such as often, frequently,
almost, generally, mostly, a few,
Subject Predicate most etc.
(ii) A sentence in with a definite
EXAMPLE
exception is A type :
(i) Almost all the girls are beautiful.
definite exception [Some girls are beautiful].
(ii) Most of the garments are
“All girls except Reeta are healthy.” handmade.
[Some of the garments are
handmade].
(B) E type:
It is clear from the above examples
Apart from ‘no’ this type of that negative sentences begining
propositions starts from ‘no one’, with words like ‘few’, ‘rarely’,
‘seldom’, etc. (Also ‘hardly’,
‘none’, ‘not a single’ etc. ‘scarcely’, ‘little’ etc.) are to be
reduced to I type.
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72 Syllogism
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Just see the other formates given below Also, see the following formates :
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Not a definite exception as name of
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No definite exception as name of
girls are not given.
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girls are not given.
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All girls except a few are beautiful.
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No girls except three are beautiful.
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[Some girls are beautiful]
[Some girls are not beautiful.]
Not a definite exception as name of
girls are not given. No definite exception as name of
women are not given.
All girls except 5 have passed

No women except a few are housewife.
[Some girls have passed]
Therefore, a positive proposition with Therefore, a negative proposition with
an indefinite exception is reduced to I
an indefinite exception, is reduced to O
type.
type.
(D) O type :
Apart from “Some ....... not’ this EXCLUSIVE PROPOSITIONS
type of statements start with words
Such propositions start with ‘only’,
like ‘all’, ‘every’, ‘any’, ‘each’, etc.
‘alone’, ‘none else but’, ‘none but’ etc.
EXAMPLE and they can be reduced to either A or E
(i) All girls are not beautiful. or I format.
[Some girls are not beautiful] EXAMPLE
(ii) Poor are usually not healthy.
[Some poor are not healthy] Only graduates are Probationary
Now, it is clear from the above mentioned Officers.
examples that negative propositions with Þ No graduate is Probationary
words such as ‘almost’, ‘frequently’, Officer (E type)
‘most’, ‘mostly’, ‘a few’, generally, etc. Þ All Probationary Officers are
ar e to be reduced to th e O–type graduates. (A type)
propositions. Þ Some graduates are Probationary
Again, positive propositions starting Officers (I type)
with words like ‘few’, ‘scarcely’, ‘rarely’, General format of sentences given in the
‘little’, ‘seldom’ etc. are said to be O– examinations :
type. All M are P (A type)
EXAMPLE No M are P (E type)
Seldom are women jealous. Some M are P (I type)
[Some women are not jealous] Some M are not P (O type)
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Syllogism 73
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Note : General format given above are After conversion it becomes
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frequently asked formats in the
Subject Predicate
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examinations. But students must be
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ready for other hidden formates of A,
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E, I and O types of propositions as “Some P are M ” (I type)
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problems in hidden formates can also
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Therefore, I gets converted into I.
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be given in question papers.
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(iv) Conversion of O type :
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CONVERSION OF
O type of proposition can’t be
PROPOSITIONS converted.
Before solving the problems of syllogism Note : In each conversion, subject
it is must to know the conversion rules of becomes predicate and predicate
all A, E, O, and I types of propositions : becomes subject.
(i) Conversion of A type : In fact, conversion is an immediate
inference that is drawn from a single
Subject Predicate proposition while inference drawn from
two propositions are called mediate
“All M are P ” (A type) inference.
After conversion it becomes. q Shortcut Approach
Subject Predicate Table of conversion :
Type of Ge t conve rte d into
“Some P are M ” (I type) proposition
Therefore, it is clear that A type of A I

propositions get converted into I type. E E
(ii) Conversion of E type : I I
Subject Predicate O Never get converted
Rule to draw conclusion :
“No M are P ”(E type) After knowing con version of
propositions, we must learn the rules
After conversion it becomes to draw conclusions. In problems of
Subject Predicate syllogism, conclusions are drawn either
from single propositions or from two
“ No P are M ” (E type) proposition or from both. But a
conclusion from single proposition is
Therefore, E gets converted into E. just a conversion of that proposition
(iii) Conversion of I type : while to get conclusion from two
propositions a certain table is used that
tells us what type of conclusion (in form
Subject Predicate
of proposition) we get out of two
propositions. To understand it, let us
“Some M are P ” (I type) see the following conclusion table :
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74 Syllogism
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Conclusion Table
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I Proposition II Proposition Conclusion
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A A A
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A E E
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E A (O)R
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E I (O)R
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I A I
I E O
Note : EXAMPLE
(a) Apart from above 6 pairs of Statements :
propositions, no other pair will
give any conclusion. I. No pen is chair..
(b) The conclusion drawn out of two
propositions is itself a proposition II. Some tables are pen .
and its subject is the subject of
the Ist statement while its EXAMPLE
predicate is the predicate of the
Statements :
2nd statement. The common term
get disappeared. I. Some women are men .
(c) (O) R does mean that the
conclusion is O type but is in II. No men is chair..
reverse order. In this case, the
subject of the inference or In all the above mentioned example, we
conclusion is the predicate of the notice that in two statements of every
2nd proposition and the predicate example, there is a common term. In
of the conclusion is the subject of example 1 the word ‘girl’ is common; in
the Ist sentence or statement. example 2 the word ‘pen’ is common
(d) The conclusion table gives while in example 3 the word ‘men’ is
correct conclusions or inference common.
if and only if the two propositions
Now, the aligning of the two statements
are aligned properly.
(propositions) does mean that the pair
WHAT IS ALIGNING ? of statements must be written in such a
way that the common term is the
Let us see the following examples :
predicate of the 1st sentence and the
EXAMPLE subject of the 2nd.
Statements : Just think over the following examples :
Statements :
I. All girls are beautiful.
I. Some girls are cute .
II. Some girls are Indian. II. All cute are tall.
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Syllogism 75
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Here, the common term cute is the METHODS:
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predicate of the I statement and subject (1) By Analytical Method
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of the 2nd statement. Therefore, the two (2) By Venn Diagram
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statements (I & II) are properly aligned. (1) Analytical method :
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But see another example. This method has two main steps:
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Statements : (a) Aligning the pair of sentences.
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(b) Using conclusion table to
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I. Some bats are chairs.
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draw conclusion.
II. Some cats are bats .
EXAMPLE Statements :
Here, the sentences are not aligned as
the predicate of the 1st statement is not I. All rats are cats.
the subject of the 2nd. II. All rats are men.
Then how to align it ? In such type of When aligned it takes the form as
cases we change the order of sentences. I. Some cats are rats [I type]
In another words we put I sentence in
place of II and II in place of I : II. All rats are men [A type]
II. Some cats are bats . Now we use the conclusion table
given in this chapter that says
I. Some bats are chairs. I + A = I type of conclusion.
Therefore, as per the requirement and Therefore, the drawn conclusion
nature of the sentence the alignment is must be
done. “Some cats are men”
(i) only by changing the order It is clear that the conclusion drawn
of sentences. “Some cats are men” is a mediate
or inference as it is the result of two
(ii) only by converting of the propositions. But in actual problem
sentences. immediate inferences are also given in
or conclusion part and that format is given
below :
(iii) By changing the order of the
statements and then EXAMPLE : Statements:
converting on e of the I. All rats are cats.
sentences. II. All rats are men.
IEA Rule Conclusion:
(i) Some cats are men.
Alignment must be done in IEA order. It (ii) Some men are cats.
does mean that if the two statements are (iii) Some rats are cats.
I & E then the conversion must be done (iv) Some cats are rats.
for I and for E & I it will be done for E. (v) Some rats are men.
After discussing all the minute things (vi) Some men are rats.
about this chapter, now we have come Here, all the options are correct.
at the position of solving the problems conclusion (i) follows because it is the
of syllogism. mediate inference of statements I & II.
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76 Syllogism
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Conclusion (ii) is the conversion of METHOD TO SOLVE
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conclusion (i) conclusion (iii) is the (a) 1st step is sketching all possible
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immediate inference (conversion) of pictorial representation for the
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statement I while conclusion (iv) is the statements separately.
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conversion of conclusion (iii). (b) 2nd step is combining possible
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Conclusion (v) is the immediate inference pairs of these representations of
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(conversion) of statement II while all the statements into one.
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conclusion (vi) is the conversion of (c) 3rd and final step is making
conclusion (v). interpretation of this combined
Further, in some problems figure.
complementary pairs are also seen in th Conclusions are true if they are
e conclusion part in the forms of sentence supported by all the combined
figures in 2nd step.
given below:
(a) (i) Some cats are rats. EXAMPLE
(ii) Some cats are not rats I - O pair
Statements :
(b) (i) All cats are rats.
(ii) Some cats are not rats. A- O pair A. All chairs are books.
(c) (i) Some cats are rats. B. All books are ties.
(ii) No cats are rats. I- E pair Conclusions :
Apart from I - O, A - O and I - E pair the I. Some ties are books.
two sentences must have some subject II. Some ties are chairs.
and predicates as are the above 1st Step :
mentioned pairs. for these pairs we write
the form 'Either (i) or (ii) follows.
METHOD TO SOLVE b c t b
(a) First step is aligning the
sentences.
(b) Second step is using conclusion 1A 1B
table.
(c) Third step is checking immediate
inferences.
(d) Fourth step is checking through c, b b, t
the conversion of immediate
inferences & immediate inferences.
(e) First step is checking the 2A
2B
complementary pairs. Here, 1A and 2A are representations for
(2) Venn diagram method for solving statement A while 1B and 2B are
problems : representations for statement B. In these
Students will have to adopt three representations
steps to solve the syllogism b = books
problems through Venn diagram c = chairs
method : t = ties
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Syllogism 77
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2nd step : POSSIBILITY
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Let us combine all the possible pairs of
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this pictorial representations : Possibility is a concept of inconsistency
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for an event which is not yet verified but
p
if true would explain certain facts or
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s
b c
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Generally, the meaning of possibility is
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probability, viz. possibility exists where
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(1A + 1B) nothing is certain between the objects.
In general language determination of
possibility exist easily in that condition
b c t when between two objects have no
certainty or the truth facts accordingly.
Let's understand below table in which
(1A + 2B) possibility exists where no definite
relation occurs between the objects and
t c, b definite or proper relation between the
objects eliminate existance of any
possibility. In simple way given
condition eliminates the possibility and
(2A + 1B)
improper condition favours the
possibility. Here, we can go through with
c, b t an example which will also clear the term
possibility.
Condition Possibility
(2A + 2B) Given facts cannot be determined
3rd step :
When we interpret the pictures in step Imaginary facts can be determined
II, we find that all the pictures support
EXAMPLE
both the conclusions. Therefore,
conclusion I : Statements Some boxes are trees
“Some ties are books” and Some trees are hens.
conclusion II. Conclusions
“Some ties are chairs” I. Some boxes being hens is a
both are true. possibility
Note : In the Venn diagram method, II. All trees being hens is a
any conclusion given with any possibility
problem will be true if and only if it is
supported by all the combined
pictorial representations through 2nd Boxes Trees
step. If any pictorial representation
contradicts the given conclusion, it Hens
will be put in the category of incorrect Hens
or wrong conclusion.
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78 Syllogism
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In Conclusion I, before deciding the possibility between boxes and hens, we
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must notice the relation between both, we find that there is no relation between
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boxes and hens, so possibility favours the condition and the conclusion I is true
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for possibility and in Conclusion II we must notice the relation between trees
p
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and hens. We find that both have some type of relation between them so the
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possibility of ‘All between trees and hens is true. Hence, both the Conclusions
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I and II follow.
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q Shortcut Approach
Desired
Given Exclusive Proposition Possibility
Proposition
All All ´
Some Some ´
No No ´
No Some not ´
Some All ü
No proper relation Some All ü
Note: Improper relation between two objects favours the possibility (In above
example Conclusion I)
SPECIAL CASES OF EXCLUSIVE PROPOSITION
Meaningful
If the statement is of Conversion Illustration
Conversion
Much, more, many, Some Most A are B. Some A and B.
very, A few X are Y. Some X or Y.
a few, most, almost
Atleast Some Atleast some A are B. Some A and B.
Definitely No use Some A are definitely B. Some A are B.

Some X are definitely not Y. Some X are not Y.
Only Only A are B. All B are A.
1% to 99% Some 38% A are B. Some A are B.
98% X are Y. Some X are Y.

Past Solved Papers

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Cube & Dice 79
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Chapter
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16 Cube & Dice
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CUBE • Faces of the cube are ABCD,
EFGH, CDGH, BCHE, ABEF and
INTRODUCTION ADFG.
A cube is three dimensional figure whose When a cube is painted on all of
length, breadth and height are equal and its faces with any colour and
any two adjacent faces are inclined to
further divided into various
each other at 90°. It has 6 faces, 8 corners
and 12 edges. smaller cubes of equal size, we
get following results :
G H (i) Smaller cubes with no face painted
will present inside faces of the
D C undivided cube.
(ii) Smaller cubes with one face
E painted will present on the faces
F
of the undivided cube.
A B (iii) Smaller cubes with two faces
painted will present on the edges
• Corners of the cube are A, B, C, D, of undivided cube.
E, F, G and H. (iv) Smaller cubes with three faces
• Edges of the cube are AB, BE, EF, painted will present on the corners
AF, AD, CD, BC, EH, CH, GH, DG of the undivided cube.
and FG.
Cube with Cube with

two sides three sides
painted painted
Cube with
one side
painted
The above figure may be analysed by dividing it into three horizontal layers :
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80 Cube & Dice
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Layer I or top layer :
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The central cube has only one face coloured, four cubes at the corner have
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three faces coloured and the remaining 4 cubes have two faces coloured.
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Top layer
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Bottom unpainted
Layer II or middle layer :
The central cube has no face coloured, the four cubes at the corner have two
faces coloured and the remaining 4 cubes have only face coloured.
Middle layer Top unpainted
Unpainted cube
Bottom unpainted
Layer III or bottom layer :

The central cube has only one face coloured, four cubes at the corner have
three faces coloured and the remaining 4 cubes have two faces coloured.
Bottom layer
Bottom unpainted
Also, if n = no. of divisions on the faces of cube

Length of the edge of undivided cube
= .
Length of the edge of one smaller cube
q Shortcut Approach
Æ Number of smaller cubes with no face painted = (n – 2)3

Æ Number of smaller cubes with one face painted = (n – 2)3 × 6
Æ Number of smaller cubes with two faces painted = (n – 2) × 12
Æ Number of smaller cubes with three faces painted = 8
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Cube & Dice 81
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EXAMPLE 1. A cube is painted blue Form 2:
1 2
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on all faces is cut into 125 cubes of 3
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equal size. Now, answer the following
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question : 4
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How many cubes are not painted on any 5 6
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face?
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Number 1 is opposite to 6.
Sol. Since, there are 25 smaller cubes
of equal size, therefore, n = number
of divisions on the face of
undivided cube = 5. Form 3:
1
Number of cubes with no face
painted = (n – 2)3 2
= (5 – 2)3 = 27 3 4
5
DICE
6
INTRODUCTION
A dice is three-dimensional figure with Number 2 is opposite to 5.
6 surfaces. It may be in the form of a Number 4 is opposite to 6.
cube or a cuboid. After observing these Form 4:
1
figures, we have to find the different side
(opposite or adjacent sides) of the dice. 2 3
4
Dice Formation
5 6
A Dice is formed by folding a sheet of
paper. These forms may be Number 1 is opposite to 4.
Form 1: Number 3 is opposite to 5.
1
2 3 4 Form 5:
1
5 2 3
6 4 5
6
Number 2 is opposite to 4. Number 1 is opposite to 4.
Number 3 is opposite to 6. Number 2 is opposite to 5.
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TYPES OF DICE
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ORDINARY STANDARD
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DICE DICE
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1. Ordinary Dice :
In this type of dice, the sum of opposite sides is not 7 but the sum of two
adjacent sides are seven.
3
5
4
Ordinary Dice
4+3 = 7
2. Standard Dice:
In such type of dice, the sum of opposite sides is 7 or sum of adjacent side is
not 7.
Here,
3 1 1+4 =5
5 4 4+5=9
4 5 1+5=6
Ordinary Dice Opposite of 1 ........6 (since 1+6 =7)

Opposite of 5 ........2 (since 5+2 =7)
Opposite of 3 ........4 (since 3+4 =7)
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Cube & Dice 83
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IMPORTANT RULES
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Rule- 1 :
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If two sides of cubes are common( has same numbers or symbols), then the
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remaining two will be opposites of each other.
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3 1
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5 4
4 5
In above shown two dices, number 4 and 5 are

common in both dices, hence, 3 and 1
will be apposite to each other.
Rule 2: If one side of dices is common
If one side of given dices are common then list these sides (numbers on them)
either in clock-wise or anti-clockwise. Comparing the numbers obtained from both
dices will give you the opposite numbers.
2 3
1 6
4 2
In this figure, number 2 is common in both dices. Now, writing the remaining no,
in clock-wise direction, we get:
2.............1...............4 (dice 1)
2.............3...............6 (dice 2)
Through the above observed data, we can say that:
1 is opposite to 3
4 is opposite to 6
2 is opposite to 5
Rule 3 : If one side is common and it's place is same in both

dices.
If one side is common in both cubes and it's place is same in both of these dices,
then the remaining two sides of respective dices which appear in figure will be the
opposite of each other.
2 2
6 1
4 3
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84 Cube & Dice
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As you can see, number 2 is common in
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both of these dices and it appears in the 1 1
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same face in both these dices. In such 2 6
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case, the remaining two sides in both 3 5
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dices will be opposite to each other. In
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this figure, the opposite sides are : (i) (ii)
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4 is opposite to 3 (as the position of 4 and (a) 1 (b) 2
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3 are same on two dices) (c) 5 (d) 6
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6 is opposite to 1 (as the position of 6 and Sol. From the two figures it is clear that
1 are same on two dices) the numbers 2, 3, 5 and 6 cannot
2 is opposite to 5 (we already know the appear opposite 1. So, 4 appears
position of 1, 6, 3, 4 and 2. The only one opposite 1. Therefore, when 4 is at
remaining is 5) the bottom, 1 will be on the top.
EXAMPLE 2. Two positions of a dice
are shown, when 4 is at the bottom, what
number will be on the top?

Past Solved Papers
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Analytical Decision Making 85
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INTRODUCTION qualifications of the candidates are also
mentioned. The decision about each
Analytical Decision Making is based on
candidate is to be made from amongst
a set of relationships laid out, generally
arbitrarily, from which new information the five answer choices given.
can be deduced. This involves two
steps-first of analysis and second of FORMAT OF THE QUESTION
reasoning. Analytical decision making
Example (Directions): Read carefuly the
deals with questions in which you have
informations given below and answer the
to decide upon the course of action
questions based on it:
taken upon a candidate who has applied
The following are the given conditions
for a post or membership to an institution
for the recruitment of a candidate as a
keeping in mind the essential requisites
family member in a computer institute:
and the data given for the candidate.
(i) The candidate must be in the age
range of 23 years to 28 years as on
CATEGORIES OF
1st November, 2013.
ANALYTICAL DECISION (ii) The candidate must have work
MAKING experience as a teacher or
Category I programming experience of at least
2 years.
In this type a vacancy is being (iii) The candidate must have a PG
declared. The necessary qualifications degree in computer application,
required by the recruiting agencies are [MCA, M.Tech. or M.Sc.
given with certain exceptions. The (computer science)] with not less
qualifications and the merits of the than 60% marks.
candidates are mentioned. The decision (iv) Out of total 50 marks in the
about each candidate has to be made interview, the candidate must
from amongst the five choices given, obtain 50%. In the case when a
which state the courses of action to be candidate
taken as per the candidate's potential. (v) Fulfils the above conditions, he/
Category II she shall be appointed as senior
teacher.
Here, the eligibility conditions for joining
(vi) Has less than 60% but more than
a course or availing certain benefits etc
50% marks in his/her PG degree in
are given as against the vacancies
computer application, he/she will
mentioned in the former category. The
be appointed as junior teacher.
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86 Analytical Decision Making
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(vii) Is of age more than 28 years but (2) Some conditions have been given
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November, 2013, the case may be
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get selected for a particular job/
reffered to the GM of the institute.
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post. In case of the given format,
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On the basis of the above mentioned
four conditions have been given.
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conditions and information about each
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of the candidates in the question below, (3) When a candidate fulfils all the
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you have to decide which of the criteria except some, then different
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following courses of action should be course of action has to be taken
than against each candidate. Point to be for him.
noted that nothing extra will be assumed
except the given information. The Some more things to
decision must be based only on the data understand
provided. Basic conditions: In the given question
Mark your answer: format, there are four basic conditions
(a) If the candidate is to be selected — (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv). They are called
as a Junior teacher basic conditions because they are the
(b) If the candidate is to be selected original conditions.
as a Senior teacher Additional conditions: In the given
(c) If the case will be reffered to the question format, there are two more
GM of the institute. conditions apart from the basic
(d) If the data are inadequate conditions and they are (vi) and (vii).
(e) If the candidate is not to be point to be noted that (v) will not be on
selected. additional condition as it does not talk
of exceptions. In fact (v) is only a
QUESTIONS: totality of the four basic or original
1. Mukesh Verma was born on 31st conditions given in the question
July, 1985. He is an M.Tech. in format.
computer engineering with 70% What is data inadequacy?
marks. He has been working in an
institution as a programmer for the As one of the answer is given as ‘data
last 7 years. inadequate’ we must be clear about what
2. Karishma Tiwari is MCA with exactly does data inadequacy mean?
72% marks. Her date of birth is 14th When details given about any candidate
August, 1990. She has worked as
provide no information as required by
a computer teacher for 4 years. She
the basic conditions/additional
has got 35 marks in interview.
conditions then this would be the case
What You See in the given of data inadequacy, For example, let us
Question Format? see the first question given in the format.
In the given format you can see the No information is given about what
following things: marks have been obtained by Mukesh
(1) Informations about some Verma in the interview. Hence, the data
candidates have been provided. is inadequate here.
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How to solve a given question format with serious eye, we find
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Let us consider the questions given in
i + ii + iii + iv ® 2 [Senior teacher]
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the format and start one stepwise
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process. vii + ii + iii + iv ® 3 [Case will be
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STEP I reffered to GM]
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Write the name of the candidates in the i + ii + vi + iv ® 1 [Junior teacher]
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left side and then write the symbols (i, ii, When we have decided the above three
iii, iv) of the basic conditions to the top combination giving answer choices
right. Now, put the symbols of the remain and the answer choice (a), (b) and
additional conditions (vi and vii) below (c), two answer choices remains and they
the symbols of that basic condition with are answer choice (d) and answer choice
which these might be related. For (e). The answer choice (e), which says
example, (vi) is a condition about that the candidate is not to be selected,
educational qualification and so, it is an should be chosen when any one or more
exception of (iii). Hence (vi) should be of the given conditions is violated. The
written below (iii). Similarly, (vii) should answer choice (d), which tells that the
be written below (i). Now, after the data are inadequate, should be chosen
completion of step I, the following format when no information is given about any
will be prepared:
one or more conditions.
i ii iii iv How to examine data?
(vii) (vi) After step II you are required to read
Mukesh all the statements carefully. Just take
1 each question one by one and compare
Verma
Karishma then with the given conditions. Examinees
2 are suggested to use following
Tiwari
symbols while doing this comparision:
Brijesh
3 I If a basic condition is fulfilled mark
Shankar ‘ü’ sign below it.
Mansi II If a basic condition is violated and
4
Ranjan it is not attached with an
Subodh additional condition then mark ‘X’
5 sign below it.
Saxena
III If a basic condition is violated but
NOTE : To differentiate between basic it is attached with an additional
conditions and additional conditions. condition, then
The additional conditions have been (A) Mark a ‘×’ sign below it if additional
condition is also violated.
encircled.
(B) Mark a ‘ü ’ sign below it if
STEP II additional condition is fulfilled.
At the 2nd step just see the given answer IV In case of unavailability of any
choices carefully and decide which information about any condition,
combination of the conditions leads to a mark '?' Will be put below that
which conclusion. If we see the given condition.
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To understand point (i) to point (iv) let does mean that one necessary
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us see the presentation given below: requirement is not being fulfilled.
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Hence, we reach at a conclusion
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Question that the selection is not possible
I II/V III/VI IV
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No.
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even it other conditions are
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1 ü ü ü × fulfilled.
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2 ü ü ü ü
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STEP IV
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3 ü (ü) (ü) ü Now, this is the time to select your
4 ü ü (×) ü answer choices on the pattern
5 ü ? ü ü given below:
(i) If find a ‘×’ or (×) below any
Now just see the explanation of above condition, go for the answer choice
table: “not to be selected”
(1) I, II, III and IV are basic conditions (ii) If you find no cross mark but there
while (V) and (VI) are two is a question mark below any
additional conditions. (V) is condition, your answer choice
attached to II and (VI) is attached would be “data are inadequate”.
to III. (iii) If you find neither any cross
(2) In question (1), I, II and III are mark nor any question mark, than
satisfied while VI is violated compare the combination with
(3) In question (2), all the basic the three answer combinations
conditions I, II, III and IV are obtained in step II and select the
satisfied answer choice accordingly.
STEP III After understanding the above
(i) One by one, read the questions steps, now we are at a position
very carefully and compare the of solving the question given in
facts given with the various the question format. Let us see
condition. the solution:
(ii) Mark the appropriate sign or ‘ü’ Solution:
or ‘×’ (ü) or (×)? As required Question No. (i) / (vii) (ii) (iii)/ (vi) (iv)
(iii) When a ‘×’ or a (×) sign is obtained, 1 Mukesh (ü) ü ü ?
then stop examining further and Verma
without any hesitation select the 2 Karishma ü ü ü ü
answer choice “not to be selected” Tiwari
for that particular question. In 3 Brijesh (×) ü (ü) ü
another words whenever you get Shankar
‘×’ or (×) sign, do not take any 4 Mansi ü ü (ü) ×
botheration to examine the Ranjan
remaining condition, select your 5 Subodh ü ü (ü) ü
answer as “not to be selected and Saxena
quickly move on to th e next Condition (V) is attached to II while the
question. It so happens because, additional condition is VI attached with
if a condition as well as its the basic condition III.
additional condition is violated, it
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STEP WISE EXPLANATION a mental calculation that on 31st
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OF ABOVE TABLE: July, 2013 he turned 28 . This is
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the reason that on 1st November
Step I
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2013, he is more than 28 years.
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At the step I level, we read the
Therefore, (i) is violated, but the
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question carefully and find out
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additional condition of (i) is (vii)
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that there are four, basic conditions
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(i), (ii), (iii) and (iv) and two which is fulfilled and we write (ü)
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additional conditions (vii) and (vi). mark here. Further, Mukesh Verma
further, it is clear that ‘(vii)’ is an is having a programming
exception of ‘(i)’ and ‘(vi)’ is an experience of 7 years (more than 2
exception of ‘(iii)’. Now we write years). So we mark (ü) below (ii).
the name of the candidates in Lastly, there is no information
extreme left and then put the basic about marks of Mukesh in the
conditions (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv) at interview. Thus the sign of
the top-right of the candidate in question mark ‘?’ is put below d.
question 1. Next, we write Karishma Tiwari
additional condition ‘(vii)’ below Karishma is an MCA with 72%
‘o’ and additional condition ‘(vi)’ marks. This fulfills (iii), so we put
below ‘(iii)’. the mark ‘ü’ below (iii). Her date
Step II of birth is 14th August, 1990, So on
At the 2nd level, we look at the 1st November, 2013, she is more
answer choices and prepare one than 23 years. This fulfills ‘(i)’ and
answer combinations accordingly. hence we put a (ü) mark below ‘(i)’.
This will be: She is a computer teacher from last
i + ii + iii + iv Þ b 4 years. This fulfils (ii) and we put
vii + ii + iii + iv Þ c (ü) mark below (ii), lastly, she has
i + ii + vi + iv Þ a obtained 35 marks in the interview.
Step III This marks is more than the
At the step III level, we read every required 50% (25 marks out of 50
question carefully and compare the marks), therefore (iv) is also fulfilled
facts given in it with the various
and we put (ü) mark below (iv).
conditions.
Step IV
Let us see the detailed analysis of
At 4th level we select the answer
every candidate question wise.
choices.
Mukesh Verma
Sol. 1. No cross mark. But a question
He is an M.Tech in computer
mark is available. Hence, data is
engineering with 70% marks. This
inadequate.
fulfills condition C. Hence we write
Sol. 2. i + ii + iii + iv Þ b [step II]
‘ü’ mark below C. Next, his date of
So, the candidate is to be selected
birth is 31st July, 1985. Here, we do
as a senior teacher.
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q Shortcut Approach • Once the symbol ×/(×) is put in
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the table, there is no need to check
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• For selection all basic conditions
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further conditions as person is
must be fulfilled.
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declared rejected at this stage
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• For rejection atleast one
only.
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independent basic condition must
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be violated/basic '+' additional
• If for one basic condition, the data
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is not given while all other basic
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condition must be violated.
• If a basic condition is violated but conditions are fulfilled, it means
data is inadequate.
an additional condition attached
with it is fulfilled and all other • If any information is not given
remaining basic conditions are and answer choices don't have
fulfilled, then the case will be data inadequate option, then
referred to the person given in the condition related to that particular
questions. information is supposed to be
violated.

Past Solved Papers

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NON-VERBAL REASONING
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Series
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INT RODUCTION · Positions of Elements –
Th e word “series” is defined as Top or Up middle
anything that follows or forms a specific element
pattern or is in continuation of a given Central
pattern or sequence. element
Upper left Upper right
A B C
In this type of non-verbal test, two sets element element
of figures pose the problem. The sets Middle left H I D Middle right
are called Problem Figures and Answer element element
Lower left G F E Lower right
Figures. Each problem figure changes element element
in design from the preceding one. Bottom or Down
middle element
q Shortcut Approach · Movement of Elements Through
· Directions – There are eight Distance –
directions as follows :
Up
P Q R
N
NW NE
W S
Left W E Right
V U T
SW SE
S
Clockwise Movement
Down 1
· Rotational Directions – P®Q= arm/step
2
There are two rotational directions P ® R = 1 arm/step
as follows :
1
P®S=1 arm/step
2
P ® T = 2 arm/step
1
P®S=2 arm/step
2
Clockwise Anticlockwise P ® R = 3 arm/step
direction (CW) direction (ACW)
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92 Series
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P®Q=3 arm/step P®P=3 arm/step
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· Directional Movement of Elements –
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P Q R
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Q R
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P
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W S 45° 90°
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360° 135°
W S
315° 180°
V U T
270° 225°
V U T
Anti Clockwise Movement
1 Clockwise Movement
P®W= arm/step
2
P ® V = 1 arm/step
P Q R
1
P ® U = 1 arm/step 360° 315°
2 45° 270°
W S
1 90° 225°
P ® U = 2 arm/step
2 135° 180°
P ® V = 3 arm/step V U T
1
P®W=3 arm/step Anticlockwise Movement
2
TYPES OF SERIES
Type-I
A definite relationship between elements in given figures.
EXAMPLE 1.
Study the problem figures marked (A), (B) and (C) carefully and try to
establish the relationship between them. From the answer figures marked
a, b, c and d, pick out the figure which most appropriately completes the
series.
Problem Figures
(A) (B) (C)

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Series 93
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Answer Figures
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(a) (b) (c) (d)
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Sol. The direction of arrow which changes alternately. The dots are also changing
alternately. Hence, we are looking for a figure in which the arrow points down
and the dots and positioned as in figure (b).
TYPE II. Additions of Elements :
In these type of questions, each figure is obtained by either sustaining the
element of preceding figure as it is or adding a part of element or one element or
more than one element of the preceding figure in a systematic way.
EXAMPLE 2.
Problem Figures
(A) 2
(B) (C) (D)
Answer Figures
(a) (b) (c) (d)

Sol. Two line segments are added in A to obtain B and one line segment is added in
B to obtain C. This process is repeated again to obtain D. Hence, answer figure
(d) continues the series.
TYPE III. Increasing/Decreasing of Elements:
In these questions, the items in the diagrams either increase or decrease in number.
EXAMPLE 3.
Problem Figures
(A) (B) (C)

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94 Series
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Answer Figures
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(a) (b) (c) (d)
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Sol. The small circles are decreasing consecutively and the black dots are
increasing. So, figure (c) continues the series.
TYPE IV Deletion of Elements :
In these type of questions, each figure is obtained by either sustaining
the element of preceding figure as it is or deleting a part of an element or
one element or more than one element of the preceding figure in a
systematic way.
EXAMPLE 4.
Problem Figures
(A) (B) (C) (D) (E)

Answer Figures
(a) (b) (c) (d)

Sol. The qualitative characteristic of various elements in the diagrams change
to complete the series. So, figure (a) continues the series.
TYPE V Rotation Type :
The various elements in the diagrams move in a specific manner. They
may rotate in clockwise or anti-clockwise direction.
EXAMPLE 5.
Problem Figures
+ +
+
(A) (B) (C)
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Series 95
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Answer Figures
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(a) (b) (c) (d)
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Sol. The sign of plus is rotating clockwise. The pin changes direction alternately.
So, figure (d) coninues the series.
TYPE VI Replacement of Elements :
In these type of questions, each figure is obtained by either sustaining
the element of preceding figure as it is or replacing a part of element or
one element or more than one element by a new element of the preceding
figure in a systematic way.
EXAMPLE 6.
Problem Figures
? * X D *
= X ? *
? X = * ? C D
2
(A) (B) (C) (D) (E)
Answer figures
* # C # * C
D D D D
# *
(a) (b) ( c) (d)
Sol. The elements positioned at north-east (NE) corners disappear from the odd-
numbered figures. The elements positioned at the south-west (SW) corners
disappear from the even-numbered figures. Therefore * should not appear in
the answer figure. Hence (a), (b) and (d) cannot be the answers. Also new
elements are introduced at the NE corners in even-numbered figures. Therefore,
answer figure (c) continues the given series.

Past Solved Papers
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96 Mirror & Water Images
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Mirror Images
INTRODUCTION
In this category, questions are based on
the criteria that a few figures are given
and you have to find out which one is
the exact image of the given figure in a Image
Object
mirror placed in front of it. This image
formation is based on the principle of 3. The line joining the object point
‘lateral inversion’ which implies that size with its image is normal to the
reflecting surface.
of the image is equal to the size of the
object but both sides are interchanged. 4. The size of the image is the same
The left portion of the object is seen on as that of the object.
the right side and right portion of the I. Mirror Images of Capital Letters
object is seen on the left side. For
example, mirror image of ABC =
A N
Note : There are ‘11’ letters in English
Alphabet which have identical mirror B O
images: A, H, I, M, O, T, U, V, W, X, Y. C P
D Q
Characteristics of Reflection by plane
mirror E R
1. Perpendicular distance of object F S
from mirror = Perpendicular G T
distance of image from mirror. H U
2. The image is laterally inverted.
I V
J W
K X
L Y
M Z
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Mirror & Water Images 97
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II. Mirror Images of Small Letters q Shortcut Approach
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Whenever you have to solve a mirror
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a n
image question, imagine a mirror placed
p
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in front of the object and then try to
c p
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find its inverted image. The portion of
s
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d q the object that is near the mirror will
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now be the portion of the image near
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f to the mirror in the inverted form.
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By looking in a mirror, it appears
i v that it is 6 : 30 in the clock. What is
j w the real time ?
k x Sol. As,
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III. Mirror Images of Numbers Time = 6 : 30
0 6
1 7 (Fig A)
2 8
3 9
4 10 Time = 5 : 30
5
IV. Mirror Images of Clock:
(Fig B)
There are certain questions in
Clearly, fig (A) shows the time
which the position of the hour- (6 : 30) in the clock as it appears in
hand and the minute-hand of a a mirror. Then its mirror-image i.e.
clock as seen in a mirror are given. Fig (B) shows the actual time in the
On the basis of the time indicated clock i.e. 5 : 30. You can solve it
by the mirror-image of the clock quickly if you remember that the
sum of actual time and image time
we have to detect the actual time
is always 12 hours.
in the clock. In the solution of
such questions we use the fact Water Images
that if an object A is the mirror- The reflection of an object as seen in
water is called its water image. It is the
image of another object B then B
inverted image obtained by turning the
is the mirror-image of A. object upside down.
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98 Mirror & Water Images
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Water-images of Capital Letters
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Letters A B C D E F G H I J K L M
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Water-image
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Letters N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
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Water-image
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Water-images of Small Letters
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Letters a b c d e f g h i j k l m
Water-image
Letters n o p q r s t u v w x y z
Water-image
Water-images of Numbers
Letters 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Water-image
Note :
1. The letters whose water-images are identical to the letter itself are : C, D, E, H,
I, K, O, X
2. Certain words which have water-images identical to the word itself are :
KICK, KID, CHIDE, HIKE, CODE, CHICK
q Shortcut Approach
Whenever we have to analyze the water image of an object, imagine a mirror or a
surface that forms an image just under the given object. The portion of the object
that is near the water surface will be inverted but will be near the water surface in
the image as well.
EXAMPLE 2.
Find the correct option for the water images below:
STORE
water surface
?
Sol. In case of water image, the water reflection will usually be formed under the
object / word.
In this case, the water image of the word will be an outcome of the water
images of each of the letters like, the water images of S is , T is , O is ,
R is and E is . Thus, the water image of the word ‘STORE’ is ‘ .’
STORE
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Mirror & Water Images 99
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q Shortcut Approach
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(i) While solving a question, try eliminating some options and solving the
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questions will become easier. To eliminate options, keep in mind the pattern
p
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used in the object (given diagram whose image is to be formed) as well as the
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position of mirror or water such that the portion of the object near to the
s
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mirror / water will produce the same portion near the mirror / water in an
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inverted form.
(ii) Images are images, be it water or mirror, in both the cases an inverted image of
the alphabets / numerals / clocks / any other object are formed by inverting the
object. Inverting of the object solely depends upon the position of mirror or
water surface w.r.t. the object.

Past Solved Papers
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100 Paper Cutting and Folding
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Chapter
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INTRODUCTION
In this section, a sheet of paper is folded in given manner and cuts are made on it. A
cut may be of verying designs. We have to analyze how this sheet of paper will look
when paper is unfolded.
Note that when a cut is made on folded paper, the designs of the cut will appear on
each fold.
EXAMPLE 1.
Directions In the following example, figures A and B show a sequence of folding a

square sheet. Figure C shows the manner in which folded paper has been cut. You
have to select the appropriate figure from alternatives which would appear when sheet
is opened.
(A) (B) (C )
(a) (b) (c) (d)

Sol. Step I-When sheet C is unfolded once, it will appear as follows
Step II -
Clearly, the circle will appear in each of the triangular quarters of the
paper. So, figure (c) would appear when sheet is opened.
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Paper Cutting and Folding 101
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q Shortcut Approach
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EXAMPLE 2.
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· Consider a mirror placed on the
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dotted line facing the portion/part
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which is to be folded and the
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mirror image thus obtained is
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(A) (B) (C)
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superimposed on the design of
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the other side to get the folded
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pattern.
(a) (b) (c) (d) · When more than one fold is made
before punching then virtually try
Sol. Here, a circular cut is made on the to unfold each fold one by one
quarter circle. Hence, this sheet, and predict the complete unfolded
when completely unfolded, will pattern.
contain small circle on each quarter
and will appear as option (d).

Past Solved Papers

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INTRODUCTION
In this section, an incomplete figure is (c) (d)
given, in which some part is missing. We
have to choose the segment, given in Sol.
choices, that exactly fits into the blank In this question, half shaded leaf
portion of figure so that the main figure is moved clockwise. So, option (b)
is completed. is right one.
Note : If you observe carefully, you
notice that the missing portion may
be the mirror image of any one of the
quarters.
EXAMPLE 1.
Select from alternatives the figure
(X) that exactly fits in the main
q Shortcut Approach
figure to complete its original · If answer figures contain similar
pattern. figure but in rotated forms, then
the correct answer figure is that
figure which can be substituted
at the missing part with least
change in orientation.
? · The correct option for the missing
figure can be given in any rotated
(X) from, so student can rotate the
figures to check the correctness
(a) (b) of option.

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INTRODUCTION Sol. Clearly, fig. (X) is embedded fig. (b)
A figure (X) is said to be embedded in a as shown below :
figure Y, if figure Y contains figure (X) as
its part. Thus problems on embedded
figures contain a figure (X) followed by
four complex figures in such a way that
fig (X) is embedded in one of these. The
figure containing the figure (X) is your
answer. Hence, the answer is (b)
EXAMPLE 1. q Shortcut Approach
Directions : In each of the following ex-
· There may be some questions in
amples, fig (X) is embedded in any one
which the question figure is not
of the four alternative figures (a), (b), (c)
directly embedded in any of the
or (d). Find the alternative which con-
answer figure. In these type of
tains fig. (X) as its part.
questions, change the orientation
of question figure to find the
correct answer figure.
· In some questions, the question
figure embedded in two or more
(X)
answer figures, then the most
appropriate answer is that in
which the question figure is
embedded with least change in its
orientation.
(a) (b) (c) (d)

Past Solved Papers
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Figure Formation and
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Analysis
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INTRODUCTION Sol. If figures A, B and E are fitted
In this topic, a question is one of the together, the resultant figure will
following types : be a triangle.
I. Formation of triangles/square/
rectangle etc. either by joining of
three figures after choosing them
from the given five figures or by B
joining any other pieces after A E
selecting them from given alternatives.
II. Making up a figure from given TYPE-II : Making up a figure from
components. given components
III. Making up a three dimensional
EXAMPLE 2.
figure by paper folding.
IV. Rearrangement of the parts of given Find out which of the alternatives
figure. (a), (b), (c) and (d) can be formed
V. Fragmentation of key figure into from the pieces given in box ‘X’.
simple pieces.
TYPE-I : Formation of triangles/
square/rectangle etc. either by joining
of three figures after choosing them from
the given five figures or by joining any
other pieces after selecting them from
given alternatives. (X)
EXAMPLE 1.
A set of five figures (A), (B), (C),
(D) and (E) are followed by four
combinations as the alternatives.
Select the combination of figures (a) (b) (c) (d)
which if fitted together, will form a
complete triangle. Sol.
Figure (b) can be formed from the pieces

(A) (B) (C) (D) (E) the given in box 'X'.
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Figure Formation and Analysis 105
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figure by paper folding. In this type, we
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have to analyze when a paper folded
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along the lines, how a three dimensional
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(a) (b) (c) (d)
figure look like. Sometimes, a key figure
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Sol. Figure (a) is the rearrangement of
is given which is made by folding one of
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the parts of the given figure 'X'.
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the four figures given in alternatives. We
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TYPE-V : Fragmentation of key figure
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have to determine which figure can be
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used to create the key figure. into simple pieces.
This type is opposite to TYPE-II. In this
EXAMPLE 3.
type, a key figure is given and every
A figure ‘X’ is given. You have to alternatives has different pieces. We
choose the correct figure, given in have to select the set of pieces that can
the alternatives, when folded make the given key figure.
along the lines, will produce the
given figure ‘X’. EXAMPLE 5.
Find out which of the alternatives
will exactly make up the key figure
(X)
(X)
(X)
(a) (b) (c) (d)

Sol. Figure (a) will produce the given
figure 'X' (a) (b) (c) (d)
TYPE-IV : Rearrangement of the parts Sol. Figure (a) will exactly make up the
of given figure. key figure 'X'
In this type of questions, a key figure is
given. We have to identify the figure from q Shortcut Approach
alternatives that is a rearrangement of · The number of elements given to
parts of key figure. form a figure must be equal to the
EXAMPLE 4. elements present in the answer
Which figure is the rearrangement figure. This will help you to easily
of the parts of the given figure. eliminate some of the option figures.
· The size of pieces of figures in
the question figure and the size
of pieces used to form a figure may
vary but their shapes must have
(X) to be similar.
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INTRODUCTION EXAMPLE 1.
Visual intelligence measures the ability Directions : In the following question,
to process visual material and to employ a group of five figures is given. Out of
both physical and mental images in which four figures are similar to each
thinking. As a result people with a high other in a certain way and one is different
from other. Find the odd figure out.
visualization find it easier to comprehend
information and communicate it to
others. Your visualization skills
determine how well you perceive visual (a) (b) (c) (d) (e)
patterns and extract information for Sol. After examining the above figure, it
further use. Visualization also facilitates is found that except (d) all figures
the ability to form associations between can easily be obtained by clockwise
pieces of information something which and anti-clockwise movement or
each other.
helps improve long term memory.
2. Number of Elements or Lines
Types of Visual Reasoning A group of figure may be classified
(A) Odd-Man Out Type on the basis of number of elements
or the number of lines present in
(B) Counting of Figures
figures. The figures can also be
(A) ODD-MAN OUT TYPE classified on even or odd number
of lines or elements present in
1. Rotation of same Figure figures. Classification can also be
This is the most common type of done on the ratio of number of lines
classification. The similar figures and elements.
are actually the rotated forms of EXAMPLE 2
the same figure in clockwise or
Directions : In the following question, a
anti-clockwise direction. The group of five figures is given. Out of
figure which comes out to be which four figures are similar to each
different from other is that figure other in a certain way and one is different
which cannot be obtained by from other. Find the odd figure out.
rotation of either of the other
figures,
(a) (b) (c) (d) (e)
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Visual Reasoning 107
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Sol. All except figure (c) contains odd 5. Relation between Elements of
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number of arrows. Figure
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3. Division of Figures In this type of classification, the
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This type of classification is done elements of the figure bears a
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on the equal or inequal division of certain relationship between them
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figures or divisioin of figure in in which the odd figure does not
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some specified ratio or parts. posses. This relation can be based
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on shape of elements presents,
EXAMPLE 3.
inversion of elements etc.
group of five figures is given. Out of EXAMPLE 5.
which four figures are similar to each Directions : In the following question, a
other in a certain way and one is different group of five figures is given. Out of
from other. Find the odd figure out. which four figures are similar to each
other in a certain way and one is different
(a) (b) (c) (d) (e)

Sol. Except figure (a) all figures are
divided into two equal parts. (a) (b) (c) (d) (e)
4. Similarity of Figures Sol. Except figure (c) in all the figures,
Classification on the basis of both the inside and outside figures
similarity of figure is done when are similar but differ in size.
orientation, shape, measure of 6. Interior-Exterior Consideration of
angle or method of presentation Elements
of group is same except for the odd A figure can be formed from two
figure. or more elements, it is likely that
EXAMPLE 4. some elements may lie in interior
of other elements while some may
lie in the exterior of the other
group of five figures is given. Out of
elements. This consideration can
which four figures are similar to each
be used for classification of
other in a certain way and one is different
elements from a group.
EXAMPLE 6.
group of five figures is given. Out of
(a) (b) (c) (d) (e) which four figures are similar to each
Sol. Let us consider the two adjacent other in a certain way and one is different
bent lines as a pair. Then, in each from other. Find the odd figure out.
figure except (d) there are two
straight lines between the bent pair
and the remaining bent line when
the direction of bent is considered. (a) (b) (c) (d) (e)
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Sol. Only figure (d) does not contain (b) Triangle –
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any element present in the interior It is a closed figure bounded by
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of the closed figure.
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three side.
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(B) COUNTING OF FIGURES TYPE
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A
Type-1 : Counting of Straight Lines
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and Triangles
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(a) Straight lines
B C
A. Horizontal line A B
A
q Shortcut Approach
B. Vertical line
· Smallest triangles are counted
B
first.
A A · Now, counted those triangles
C. Slant line which are formed with the two
B B triangles and further counting
goes on in the same way.
q Shortcut Approach · Largest triangle is counted in the
· Consider a line (AB) given last.
C
A B EXAMPLE 2.
· Then, on counting, it will be How many triangles are there in the
counted as one line, i.e., AB and figure ?
not as a two straight lines AC and
CB.
EXAMPLE 1.
How many straight lines are there
Sol. A
in the figure ?
B C
Sol. A R B Smallest triangle = BOC = 1
Largest triangle = ABC = 1
O \ Total triangle = 1 + 1 = 2
P Q
Type-2 : Counting of Quadrilaterals
D S C and Polygons
Horizontal lines = AB + PQ + DC = 3 (a) Square
Vertical lines = AD + RS + BC = 3 It has four equal sides, equal
Slant lines = 0 diagonals, and each of the four
\ Total lines = 3 + 3 + 0 = 6 angles equal to 90°.
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Visual Reasoning 109
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q Shortcut Approach (b) Rectangle
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It has four sides, and opposite
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· Count smallest squares first. sides are equal. It has equal
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· Now, count squares which are diagonals and each of the four
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formed with two squares and angles is equal to 90°.
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further counting goes on in the
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same way. EXAMPLE 4.
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· Largest square is counted in the last.
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How many rectangles are there in
the figure?
EXAMPLE 3.
How many square are there in the
figure ?
Sol. A B C D
Sol. A G B H G F E
Smallest rectangles = ABGH +
O F BCFG + CDEF = 3
E
Rectangles formed with two rect-
D H C angles = ACFH + BDEG = 2
Smallest squares Largest rectangles = ADEH = 1
= AGOE + GBFO + EOHD + OFCH \ Total rectangles = 3 + 2 +1 = 6
=4 Formula for Counting of
Square formed with four squares
Rectangles and Parallelograms
= ABCD = 1
\ Total squares = 4 + 1 = 5 Let r be the number of rows and c be
the number of columns.Now, total
Formula for Counting Squares number of rectangles or parallelograms
Let r be the number of rows and c be = [(r + (r – 1) + (r – 2) + ..... +1]
the number of columns. × [c + (c – 1) + (c – 2) + ...... + 1]
Now, total number of squares
= (r × c) + {(r – 1) × (c – 1)
+ (r – 2) × (c – 2) + ......
The terms are continued upto the term
which is equal to zero (0). This method
is applicable only to the figure. where
each row and column is divided into
squares of equal sections.
The method is applicable only to the

figure, where each row and column is
divided into rectangle of equal
sections.
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Type-3 : Circle
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q Shortcut Approach
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· Keep writing numbers one by one
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inside the circles starting from 1 Sol. Here, we start counting of circles
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i.e., for 1st circle put 1, for 2nd and mark them, as 1, 2 and so on
circle put 2, for 3rd circle put 3 and finally we end on getting 5
and so on. number of circles as shown below:
· The number which is put for the
last circle is the required number
of circles. 1 2 3
EXAMPLE 5.
How many circles are there in the 4 5
figure ?

Past Solved Papers

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ANALYTICAL REASONING
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INT RODUCTION (e) If the inference is ‘definitely false’
This chapter makes you aware about a i.e., it cannot possibly be drawn
from the facts given or it
special type of question pattern which
contradicts the given facts.
has become a regular trend of almost all PASSAGE
type of competitive examination. An In its most ambitions bid ever to house
inference is a logical conclusion on 6 crore slum dwellers and realise the vision
evidence. A valid inference is believable of a slum-free India, the government is
and realistic. As per the pattern, a rolling out a massive plan to build 50 lakh
passage is given followed by some dwelling units in five years across 400
inferences (conclusions) and the towns and cities. The programme could
examinee is asked to decide whether a free up thousands of acres of valuable
given inference follows or not in the light government land across the country and
of the given passage. Let us see the generate crores worth of business for real
format below: estate developers. Proliferation of slums
What is the problem like? has had an adverse impact on the GDP
growth for years. Slum dwellers are
Problem Format/ Sample Problem:- characterised by low productivity and
Directions (Qs 1-5): Below is given a susceptibility to poor health conditions.
passage followed by several possible The government believes that better
inferences which can be drawn from the housing facilities will address social
facts stated in the passage. You have to issues and also have a multiplier effect
examine each inference separately in the and serve as an economic stimulus.
context of the passage and decide upon Q 1. Development of land occupied by
its degree of truth or falsity. slums in cities of India will not have
Mark answer: any effect on the common public.
(a) If the inference is definitely true i.e., Q 2. Majority of the slums in cities and
it properly follows from the towns in India are on prime private
statement of facts given. properties.
(b) If the inference is ‘probably true’ Q 3. Per capita income of slum dwellers
though not definitely true in the is significantly lower than that of
light of the facts given. those living in better housing
(c) If the ‘data are inadequate’ i.e. from facilities.
the facts given you can not say Q 4. Cities and towns of developed
whether the inference is likely to countries are free from slums.
be true or false. Q 5. Health and sanitary conditions in
(d) If the inference is ‘probably false’ slums are far below the acceptable
though not definitely false’ in the norms of human habitat in Indian
light of the facts given. cities and towns.
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112 Evaluating Inferences
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Before solving the sample problem, (A) Is the extra assumption an
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we must see the pattern of the universal truth?
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problem and find out what it puts (B) Can the extra assumption
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before the students to think. never be false?
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A minute look will make you clear If you find ‘yes’ for the question
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(A) and ‘no never’ for the
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that here the examiner has graded
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question (B), then accept it as
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the choices very closely. He/
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she has given two positive choices definitely true, otherwise pick
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instead of one. ‘Probably true’.
i. Definitely true 2. Definitely false or probably false
ii. Probably true If the given inference does not
Further, he/ she has also given two follow from the passage, it falls
negative choices instead of one:- under the category of definitely
i. Definitely false false. But confusion may arise when
ii. Probably false the given inference is not given
This pattern requires a deeper directly in the passage and seems
thinking as it leaves before you ‘almost’ definitely false. But as
related things are not mentioned
following areas of confusion:-
clearly in the passage, you think
1. Definitely true or probably
that ‘probably false’ may be correct.
true To get rid of this confusion try to
2. Definitely false or probably recheck your reasoning. If the
false opposite of the inference has not
3. Data inadequate or probably been mentioned in the passage,
true then you must assume something
4. Data inadequate or probably extra to reach your conclusion. Just
false ask the following questions to
1. Definitely true or probably true: yourself.
If the given inferences is a direct (A) Is this assumption an universal
consequences of something given truth?
in the passage, then it falls under (B) Can this assumption never be
the category of definitely true. But false?
the confusion may arise when the If you find ‘yes’ for question (A)
given inference is not directly and ‘no, never’ for question (B)
stated in the passage but it appears then select your answer as
‘almost’ definitely true to you. But definitely false, otherwise probably
as it is not clearly stated in the false will be your correct answer.
passage, you may think that even 3. Data inadequate or probably true
‘Probably true’ could be the answer. When an indirect inference is
To get rid of this confusion, you drawn from the passage, this
have to recheck your reasoning. If confusion may arise. As the given
the given inference has not been inference is not explicitly
mentioned directly in the passage, mentioned, you think that data are
then you must have assumed inadequate and that sufficient
something ‘extra’ to draw this information has not been given to
draw a conclusion. However, the
conclusion. Now, ask the following
given inference appears to be in
questions from yourself.
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Evaluating Inferences 113
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sync with the general 'tone' of the if you can not find any acceptable
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passage In such case you may go assumption which, combined with
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for ‘Probably true’. what is said in the passage, may
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To get rid of this confusion, lead to some definite conclusion.
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recheck your general mental ability. In such case, you can not get
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You can declare the given convin ced whether the given
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inference as probably true, if with inference is likely to be true or false.
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Now, lets try to apply the above
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the help of some extra assumption,
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the given inference seems likely to rules in the passage given above
be true. Thus, you can some how and try to solve the sample
convince yourself that the problems.
inference is likely to be true. On Solution to sample problems:
the other hand, you can declare 1. (c) As we have no information
that data are inadequate if no about how the freed up land
definite conclusion can be drawn will benefit the common
from the passage even with the public, hence data inadequate’
help of some extra assumption. will be our correct answer
Hence, in such case you can get choice. The passage do not
convinced that the inference is suggest us any related
likely to be true or false. assumption.
4. Data inadequate or probably false: 2. (e) The passage says to the
When the given inference is drawn contrary getting rid of slums
indirectly from the passage, such would “Free up ..... valuable
confusion may arise. As it is not government land”. The
explicitly said in the passage, you inference does not follow
come to the conclusion that data from the passage.
are inadequate because sufficient 3. (b) The extra assumption that
information has not been provided makes this option probably
true is : Low productivity is
to draw a definite conclusion.
likely to lead to low income.
However, the given inference
The passage does not
appears to you in contradiction with
directly talk about per capita
the general ‘tone’ of the passage. income.
Therefore, you are tempted to pick 4. (b) As slums have led to a lower
up ‘probably false’ as your answer. GDP growth in India. The
To get rid of this confusion recheck statement is in sync with the
your general mental ability. You can 'tone' of the passage. The
declare an inference probably false. extra assumption here can be
Only if you are able to find out a that as countries develop
reasonable assumption, combining they need to deploy things
which with what is said in the given that improves their GDP. So
passage the inference appears it can be probably true that
likely to be false. all slums vahish.
Thus, somehow, you can convince 5. (a) The passage says that the
yourself that the given inference slums dwellers are susceptible
is likely to be false. On the other “to poor health conditions”.
hand, you should pick up the This is directly mentioned in
choice ‘data are inadequate’ only the passage.
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114 Evaluating Inferences
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Yes The inference No
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is given in
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passage
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Yes Is it 100% Yes Is it in the No
DT true in context context of the DF
(Definitely of passage passage (Definitely
True) False)
No
Can it be
proved 100%
Contradicts Chance that it is true using some
the passage not 100% true in universally accepted
the context of assumption
passage
Yes Chance that Yes No
it is not 100% PT
DF false in the (Probably
(Definitely passage True) Data not
Yes May or may not Negates Not false
False) available to be true the passage definitely
|
prove the trueness | | |
PF DT
(Probably (Definitely PT DF PF
False) DI True) (Probably (Definitely (Probably
(Data Inadequate) True) False) False)

Past Solved Papers

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Statement &
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Arguments
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INT RODUCTION Part I: “Mr. Sharma bought a large
In this chapter, we are going to study quantity of sweets.”
arguments. In fact, this is the study what Part II: “He must have celebrated some
we call the basics of all logic. Do you occasion.
know what do we do in logic? In logic,
Here, ‘Part II’ is the conclusion part of
we advocate certain point of view with
the given argument. How has this
the help of some evidences and certain
conclusion (part II) been arrived at? In
assumptions and that is called
fact, this conclusion has come out with
argumentation. This is a fact that almost
the help of supporting evidence or
all segments of analytical reasoning are
premise that is part I of the argument.
someway associated with argumentation
Did you notice that in this argument part
and this is the reason why study of
I and part II (Premise and conclusion)
argumentation is so important for the
are connected by a hidden premise
examinees preparing for various
which is not explicitly stated. That
competitive examinations.
hidden premise is “a large quantity of
Concept of Argument sweets is bought only on occasions”
A sequence of two or more sentences and this premise may be called an
(or statements)/ phrases/clauses that assumption. Hence, in reality the given
includes a conclusion (or claims), is called argument has three parts.
an argument. This conclusion of the
Part I: (Premise) Mr. Sharma bought a
argument is based on one or more than
large quantity of sweets.
one statement and these statements may
be called premises (propositions). Apart Part II: (Assumption or hidden premise)
from this, arguments may also have some a large quantity of sweets is bought only
hidden premises. which may be called on occasions.
assumptions. Let us see the following Part III: (Conclusion) He must have
example: celebrated some occasion.
Example: Point to be noted is that part II is an
Mr. Sharma bought a large quantity of assumption (a hidden premise) that
sweets, he must have celebrated some connects part I (premise) and part III
occasion. (conclusion) and hence, it is a missing
Explanation: The foregoing example link between part I and part III of the
has two parts: given argument.
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116 Statement & Arguments
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No doubt that above mentioned example (ii) Explanation for question: Just
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brings to us the basic characteristics of consider the argument given as
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“Vandana is tall. She is slim and has
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argumentation but it also leaves some
beautiful eyes. She has long hair and
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questions before us like:
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charming face as well. So, Vandana
(i) Is the assumption or hidden premise
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is a beautiful girl.”
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always present in an argument?
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Here,
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(ii) Is the number of premise only one in 1st premise: Vandana is tall.
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an argument? 2nd premise: She is slim and has
Our answer for both the questions beautiful eyes.
will be a big ‘No’. Why so? Let us 3rd premise: She has long hair and
see the explanations for both the charming face as well.
questions given below: Conclusion: So, Vandana is a
(i) Explanation for question: Just beautiful girl.
This proves that an argument can
consider an argument given as “Mr.
have more than one premises.
Sharma bought a large quantity of Further this explanation is also a
sweets. A large quantity of sweets reply for question (i) as the given
is bought on occasions only. Hence, argument has no missing link. This
he must have celebrated an argument is complete in itself and
occasion”. hence, it is free of hidden premise or
Here, we see that this argument has assumption.
no assumption (hidden premise) Ways of Argumentation: So far, you must
because the premise or supporting have understood the basic concept of
evidence (Mr. Sharma bought a large argumentation and come to the
conclusion that an argument is usually
quantity of sweets) and conclusion
made to make strong a particular point
(Hence, he must have celebrated an of view in order to convince someone
occasion) are connected by an about something.
explicit statement (A large quantity (i) Argument based on Analogy:
of sweets is bought on occasions Analogy based arguments are often
only). Remember, an assumption is a used to make strong a particular
hidden premise. It does mean point of view. In fact analogy is an
assumption is a missing link in the infer ence drawn out of a
chain of logic. Therefore, if an resemblance between particular
argument is complete in itself and things, occasion or events (that are
known) to a further (unknown)
does not have any missing link, then
resemblance. For example, if we find
it will not have any assumption. In
a fat-woman eating very much and
the given argument, the explicit meet in another woman who is also
statement (A large quantity of sweets fat then, by analogy, we expect that
is bought on occasions only) the other fat woman would also be
connects premise or supporting eating very much. We can say it in
evidence and conclusion to make the another way that if x, y, z, q are any
argument assumptionless. entities and u, v, w are any attributes
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Statement & Arguments 117
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x, y, z, q all have the attributes ‘u and v’ of example (2) we can say that India may
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x, y, z have the attribute ‘w’ or may not defeat Australia and England
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\ q probably has the attribute ‘w’ in the game of cricket only because India
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has defeated both the countries in two
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EXAMPLE 1. Sachin scored a
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century in the 1st test against Australia different games (Football and Hockey).
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and so did Dhoni; Sachin scored more Hence, the argument given in example
than 150 runs in the 2nd test against (2) also seems to be a weak argument.
Australia and so did Dhoni; Sachin has Final comment: Analogy based
scored a double century in the 3rd test arguments are weak arguments.
against Australia. So, Dhoni will also hit (ii) Argument based on cause: Such
a double century in this 3rd test match arguments relate a cause with a
against Australia. result. Let us see the examples given
EXAMPLE 2. Australia and England below:
have both lost to India in football and EXAMPLE 1. India will win the world
hockey. So, India should defeat both the cup 2011 because it is the most balanced
countries in cricket. one day team in the world in present day
Findings: cricket.
In Example 1, Sachin and Dhoni EXAMPLE 2. He came back home late
performed very well in the 1st two night. He must have gone to watch a
matches against Australia. In fact, it movie.
seems that Dhoni did the same thing
Findings: We see in the foregoing
what Sachin did in the 1st and 2nd test.
examples that effects have been related
As Sachin has played a great inning
with causes. In example (1), the cause
scoring a double century in the 3rd test
(the most balanced one day team) well
match, hence on the basis of similar
supports the effect (India will win the
situation the conclusion has been made
world cup) and hence, it is a good
that Dhoni will also make a double
argument. But in Example (2) it is argued
century.
that since the effect (coming home late
We also know that performing good or night) has taken place, the cause
bad is a matter of chance. It is also a (watching movie) must have occurred.
matter of chance that two players But the point to be noted that effect may
(Sachin and Dhoni) performed equally occur (he may come home late night)
good in the last two test matches. because of the other reason as well.
Therefore, we cannot say definitely that Hence, the argument given in the Example
Dhoni will make a double century because (2) is not a good argument or it may be
Sachin has done so. In fact, we can say called a weak argument.
that he may or may not hit a double
Final Comment: Arguments based on
century. It can also be said that future
causes may be strong or weak or
performances can not be predicted on
fallacious.
the basis of past performances. Thus, it
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(iii) Argument based on example: product. He speaks of the advantages
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Sometimes an argument is given by and the benefits of his product.
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premise/ premises. Let us see the where a conclusion comes out
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EXAMPLE 1. We should use X brand types of arguments are very common
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of cold cream because X brand is used in day to day life.
by ‘Madhuri Dixit”, the famous EXAMPLE 1. Exercise is good for
bollywood actress. health and students need good health
EXAMPLE 2. We must like Roses to put hard labour in their studies. This
because Chacha Nehru loved Roses. is the reason why every educational
Findings: In example (1) we have institution must have a gym.
arrived at the conclusion (we should use
EXAMPLE 2. There should be a ban
X brand of cold cream) by using the
on strikes as they disrupt the normal life
premise as example (X brand is used by
of the common people.
Madhuri Dixit). In example (2) the
Findings: In example-1, the conclusion
conclusion (we must like roses) has come
is that every educational institution must
out by using the premise as example
have a gym because exercise is good for
(because Chacha Nehru loved it). Here,
health and students need good health.
we can say in case of Example-1 that
No doubt the good health ensures good
using certain brand by a particular
mind but it is not practically feasible for
actress, does not mean that X brand will
every educational institution to have a
be liked by all people as likes and dislikes
gym. Hence, Example-1 will be a weak
are the personal choices. In example (2),
argument. In example-2, ban on strikes is
the case is also the same. Everyone
being demanded and this demand is
cannot like the roses only because
reasonable as argument has negative
Chacha Nehru loved roses.
feature of strike. Hence, example-2 is a
Final comment: Example based strong argument.
arguments are either weak or fallacious. Final comment: Such arguments can
Note: In Example-1 and 2, conclusion part be both weak or strong.
is the start of the arguments. Sometimes
(v) Argument based on chronology:
you can also see that conclusion is given
Very often we see that a conclusion
in the middle. It does mean that
is drawn only on the basis of
conclusion part is not always in the last.
But it depends on the style of writing of chronological order of some events.
different writers/authors. Let us see the examples given below:
(iv) Argument based on blind advocacy: EXAMPLE 1. Computer was invented
Such argument is like a salesman’s later than television. Therefore, television
argument who argues only for the has a technology inferior to that of a
purpose of selling a particular computer.
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EXAMPLE 2. Song ‘B’ was released keywords/phrases are absent, then
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two months earlier than song ‘C’. So the apply your common sense and take out
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the sentences that can follow one of
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former could not be the copy of the latter.
these keywords/ phrases and that
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Findings: In example-1, it is assumed that
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a technologically inferior object always sentence will be your conclusion.
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may be true most of the time but this is can easily move on to the problems of
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not true in 100% cases. Hence, the reasoning which are asked in various
conclusion given in example 1 is exams wherein examinee is required to
questionable making the given argument evaluate the forcefulness of the
a weak one. In 2nd case, it is the arguments. On the basis of a statement,
possibility that song ‘C’ was recorded arguments are given in the questions
earlier although released later than the and the candidate is required to find out:
song ‘B’. Hence, in such a situation the (a) Which argument is strong.
possibility of copying can not be denied
and this makes argument given in (b) Which argument is weak.
Example-2 a weak argument. We know that “strong” arguments are
Final comment: This type of arguments those which are both important and
are usually weak and unconvincing. directly related to the question. “Weak”
By now, all the standard ways of arguments are those which are of minor
argumentation have been discussed in importance and also may not be directly
detail. We will now take a look at the key related to the question or may be related
words so that you could easily take out to a trivial aspect of the question. To find
the conclusion part from the given out if a given argument is strong or not
argument. The keywords are given we will move according to the solution
below: steps given below:
So, Hence, Solution steps
Therefore, Consequently Step I: Do the preliminary screening
Thus, of the given arguments.
Apart from above given keywords, the Step II: Fin d out if the given
conclusion part can also be identified by arguments really follow or
the certain phrases given below: not.
As a result Step III: Fin d out if the given
It can be inferred that arguments are really desirable
Which means that (in case of positive argument)
Which suggests that / harmful (in case of negative
Which proves that arguments)
Which shows that Step IV: Find out if the argument and
It follows that suggested course of action
are properly related.
If you find one of these keywords/
phrases before any sentence then take Now, we will discuss all the steps one by
that sentence as your conclusion. If the one.
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Step I: Preliminary screening of the and confusing impression on our mind
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given arguments making the given argument very weak.
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At the very 1st level we test how weak (ii) Useless/ superfluous arguments:
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an argument is. If at the very 1st level we Such arguments do not do a deep
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need to go for further steps. In many
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clearly visible and we do not need to category of weak arguments.
think much before arriving at the EXAMPLE 2.
conclusion that they are weak. Such type
of arguments come under the following Statement: Cricket must be banned in
category: India.
Argument: Yes, it has no use.
(i) Doubtful/Ambiguous arguments:
These arguments do not make it clear Comment: Here, the argument does not
that how they are related to a course go deep down into the matter making
of action. They also do not give the itself a weak argument.
clear idea about what exactly the (iii) Arguments in the form of question:
author or writer wants to say. Such arguments are very weak in
nature as the arguments given in the
EXAMPLE 1. question form are without any
Statement: One should enjoy every substance and have no technique
second of one’s life because everyone of argumentation. In fact, in such
has to die one day. arguments arguers throw back the
Argument: No, because one must think question.
about fulfilling one’s ambition in life and EXAMPLE 3.
should not think about death as one’s Statement: Should import be banned in
goal. India?
Comment: Here, statement and argument Argument: Yes, why not?
are not properly related. Statement Comment: Here, statement is given in
suggests to enjoy every second of life. the form of question and arguer throws
Enjoying life does not mean that one back the question without giving any
should not follow the path of fulfilling convincing statement in the form of
one’s ambition. In fact a person can argument. Hence, the given argument is
enjoy his/ her life in the course of very weak.
fulfilling his/her ambition. In fact, we can (iv) Very simple arguments: Such
say without enjoying work of our own arguments are very simple in nature.
choice, we can not fulfill our ambition. They are given in small sentences
Further the given statement does not but do not get any support by facts
give any indication that one should see or established notions. Further, such
death as one’s goal. Hence, in this case arguments are not ambiguous and
statement and argument leave doubtful they are properly related with the
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statement but because of their simple Argument: Yes, living separate will give
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nature they come under the category married people a greater freedom.
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EXAMPLE 4.
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EXAMPLE 4. Statement: Should smoking be promoted?
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Statement: Enjoying life should be the Argument: No, smoking is injurious to
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health.
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principle of our life.
Comment: In the above examples, all the
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Argument: No this thinking hardly
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enable us to do anything. given arguments are expected to follow
Comment: Here, the given argument is as they all are established facts.
Therefore, all the arguments presented
only a simple assertion which contains
can be said to pass the test of step II.
no substance. Here, it will come under
the category of weak arguments. NOTE : Point to be noted that arguments
given under Example 1, Example 2,
Step II: Finding out if the given Example 3 & Example 4 have passed
arguments really follow or not. the step II only so far but it has not yet
If the arguments are rejected at the been determined whether these
preliminary step then we do not need to arguments are forceful or not (strong
test them further. But, if the preliminary or not). They will be called strong only
step has been cleared, then we move on when they will pass step III and step IV.
to step II. (ii) Prediction on the basis of
Case I: When the result follows experience: Such arguments are
At the step II, the result will follow in the very near to established facts type
cases given below: of arguments. But, in reality, they are
(i) Established fact: An established fact not established facts as they are not
does mean that it must be universally yet so universally acknowledged as
acknowledged/ scientifically to be treated as established fact. In
established. A result will follow a fact, such arguments are given on
course of action if it is an established the basis of experiences. Just see the
fact that this particular result follows following example:
this particular course of action. EXAMPLE 5.
EXAMPLE 1. Statement: Captains should not have
Statement: Should drinking be avoided? given their say in selection of national
Argument: Yes, it contributes to bad sports teams.
health. Argument: Yes, it discourages favouritism
EXAMPLE 2.
towards some particular players.
Comment:The result or consequences
Statement: Should Tendulkar be selected given in this example will be a probable
in the team even after 10 years from now? result as our experiences suggest this.
Argument: Yes, Tendulkar is one of the Hence, this will go for further test.
greatest cricketers in the world. (iii) Logically given arguments: Such
EXAMPLE 3. arguments are given on the basis of
Statement: Married people should live logic. It does mean that the emphasis
separate from their parents. here is on the logic and not on the
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established fact or experience. If we a sin. As, the given argument is likely to
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see such type of arguments we can be strong it will go for next step test.
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occurred in practice. But when we argument will be rejected).
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proper logic and reasoning then we not follow and arguments are rejected at
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arrive at the conclusion that such 2nd level test in step II only.
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an argument may be true. Let us see (i) Established fact: If it is an
the example given below: established fact that a particular
EXAMPLE 6. result will not follow a particular
course of action, then the argument
Statement: World leaders must try for will be rejected at step II. Let us see
complete disarmament. the example given below:
Argument: Yes, complete disarmament
EXAMPLE 8.
will make a war free world.
Statement: Should smoking be
Comment: The example gives an
discouraged in the country?
argument that is logically convincing:
Argument: No, it give relaxation when
The argument is probable as the logic
behind it is that if there will be armless one gets tired and this way contributes
world then there will be a war free world. to health.
Hence, the argument passes the step II Comment: It is an established fact that
test and will go for further test. smoking is injurious to health and thus,
(iv) Notions of truth: Such arguments are we can say that this argument is incorrect
unquestionable truth because of the and weak enough to be rejected at step II.
simple reason of universal (ii) Prediction on the basis of
acceptance. It does mean that they experiences: If the experiences say
are the ideas or thoughts already that the result will not follow then
acknowledged by society. This is the the given argument will be rejected
reason why they are very similar to at the step II. Let us see the example
established facts in many ways. The given below:
following example illustrates this Statement: Should cricketer A be
point: appointed the next captain of the Indian
EXAMPLE 7.
cricket team?
Argument: Yes, it will end the favouritism
Statement: Should marriages between in selection of team as cricketer A has
blood relatives be promoted?
made allegations of favouritism against
Argument: No, it will promote incest the current captain.
which is a sin. Comment: In this example, the argument
Comment: No, doubt, the given suggests that cricketer A should be
argument seems strong as it is based on appointed captain of the Indian cricket
prevailing notion of truth that our society team because it will end the favouritism
does not allow marriages between blood in the team selection. This suggestion
relatives and consider such marriages as has been given on the basis that A has
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the current captain. But the experiences accepted truth (or universally accepted
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when people did the things what they relatives are considered to be a sin as it
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opposed. Hence, saying one thing and promotes incest. The given argument
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doing other is very common. This is the violates this prevailing notion of truth and
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reason why it can not be made sure that is weak enough to be rejected in step II.
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A will not do favouritism in team selection (v) Arguments based on examples/
only because he has criticised the current analogies: Very often it is seen that
captain for this. It is clear that the given an example or a precedent is made
argument is weak enough to be rejected the basis of an argument. But point
in step II. to be noted that analogy or example
based arguments come under the
Note : This is the exactly opposite to
category of bad arguments. It must
point (ii) in step II (Case I).
be cleared that just because
(iii) Argument with faulty logic: This is someone did something in the past,
exactly opposite to the point (iii) in the same can not be said as
step II (case I). Let us see the pursuable. Let us see the example
following example: given below:
Statement: Should the culprits behind Statement: Should ever yone be
the fodder scam in Bihar be punished? optimistic in Life?
Argument: No, a political vaccum will Argument: Yes, Indira Gandhi was
be created if the culprits get punishment. optimistic and this is the reason why she
Comment: As per the logic, punishing became the prime minister of India.
culprits behind the fodder scam in Bihar Comment: Here, the example of Indira
would please the public and improve the Gandhi is given that makes the argument
very weak. Thus, such type of arguments
image of the Bihar government. How can
are rejected in step II.
it create a political vaccum? This argument
(vi) Arguments based on individual
has been given with a faulty logic and
perceptions (or assumptions): In
hence will be rejected in step II only.
some cases it is seen that an
(iv) Argument violating prevailing assumption or view of the author is
notions of truth: Argument that the substance of an argument. Such
violates unquestionable notions arguments neither have proper logic
(Ideas that are universally accepted nor substance of established fact.
and acknowledged by society) will These arguments are called bad
be rejected in step II. Let us see the arguments and they can be rejected
example given below: in step II.
Statement: Should marriage in blood Statement: Should India be declared a
relations be promoted in India? Hindu Rashtra?
Argument: Yes, if the two mature blood Argument: No, it will lead to chaos.
relatives are willing to do so, then they Comment: What message author gives
can not be prohibited from doing it. through the argument is view of the
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Rashtra may or may not lead to the result separating from parents does mean
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assertion made by argument may or may Hence, argument given in example 3 is
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not follow in actual practice and if the not desirable and is weak enough to be
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it is his/ her individual perception or
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EXAMPLE 4. As smoking is injurious
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assumption which makes the argument
weak enough to be rejected in step II. to health, its promotion is harmful. This
Step III: Given arguments are really reason makes the argument strong
desirable/ harmful enough to pass the step III test.
In step II, we come to the conclusion EXAMPLE 5. It is true that favouritism
that Examples 1-7, have passed the 2nd takes place on the part of captains at
level test and qualified for the step III times, but that does not mean that they
(3rd level test). Hence, we will take the should not be given their say while
examples to be qualified for step III one selecting team. In fact, captains are
by one: expected to bring positive and desired
EXAMPLE 1. Here, the argument is result if given their say in team selection.
positive and therefore, we have to check Further, giving their say in team selection
the desirability. As, it is a established fact makes the captains more responsible for
that drinking contributes to bad health the bad performance of the team and this
and thus it is desirable to avoid it. It is inspires the captain to draw best out of
clear row that Example 1 passed the 3rd the players in the team. Hence, the result
level test. is not desirable and the given argument
EXAMPLE 2. No doubt that at present
proves to be weak enough to be rejected
in step III.
Tendulkar is one of the greatest
cricketers in the world. He will also remain EXAMPLE 6. If it is possible to make
in the list of great ones in the history of
world free of wars through complete
the game of cricket. But it is also a truth
disarmament, it is well and good. But,
that he has spent more than 20 years in
complete disarmament does not assure
this game and is a retired cricketer. This
th at there would be no an tisocial
is the reason that after 10 years he will
definitely not be in team as his selection elements like murderers, looters, terrorists
is impossible. Hence, despite being an and the likes. To tackle these kind of anti-
established fact the argument is not social elements, police and different
desirable and is rejected in step III. security forces are needed. How do
(Example 2 is a weak argument) police and other security forces function
without arms? No, doubt, it is impossible
EXAMPLE 3. Here, it is true that living
for such security providing bodies to
separately from parents gives married
work without arms. Hence, the argument
people more freedom but at the same time
given in Example 6 is weak and will be
getting freedom at cost of separation
rejected in step III.
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EXAMPLE 7. Marriages in blood argument “No smoking is injurious to
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relatives promote incest which is a sin health” is a strong argument and this is
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the final conclusion.
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and hence harmful for the established
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norm of society. On the basis of this EXAMPLE 3. Marriages in blood
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logic, argument given in Example 7 is relatives and promotion of incest is
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strong enough to pass the 3rd level test
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directly and properly related. Hence, the
step III.
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given argument “No, it will promote
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Now, we have, incest which is a sin” is a strong
Examples qualified for step IV test: argument and this is the final conclusion.
Example-1, 4 and 7. Rejected examples in Now, we have come to the end of
step III: Example- 2, 3, 5 and 6. this chapter. For the understanding of
Note : How to decide a positive students, below is given a question
argument which is really desirable or a format the for the examination. The
negative argument which is really question format has been made with the
harmful, is only the matter of common Example 4 given in this chapter.
sense. Just apply your common sense, Question format:
think over the argument, try to go by Direction: Each question given below
proper logic and general norms of is followed by two arguments numbered
society. I and II. You have to decide which one of
Step IV: Finding proper relation the arguments is a ‘strong’ argument and
between argument and suggested which is a 'weak' argument.
course of action. Give answer (a) If only argument I is
strong.
What does proper relation between
statement and argument mean? In fact, it (b) If only argument II is strong.
does mean that argument must be (c) If either I or II is strong.
pinpointed on the main issue involved (d) If neither I nor II is strong.
and it should not focus on any irrelevant,
(e) If both I and II strong.
insignificant or minor issues. Now, we
move on to step IV or final test. As Statement: Should smoking be
Example-1, 4 and 7 have qualified for this promoted?
test, let us check the three examples one Argument: I: No, smoking is injurious
by one: to health.
II: Yes, why not?
EXAMPLE 1. Drinking and bad health
are properly and directly related. Hence, Solution:
the given argument “Yes, it contributes I will follow (the reason already given
to bad health” is a strong argument and see Example 4)
this is the final conclusion. II will not follow as it is a question back
EXAMPLE 2. Smoking and bad health
type of argument and such type of
arguments are very weak.
(injurious to health) are directly and
properly related. Hence, the given Hence, option (A) is the correct answer.
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Step I: Preliminary Screening of argument
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Passes Fails — Weak Argument
Step II: The argument follows the statement
Step III: The argument is desirable (for positive statements)

/ harmful (for negative statements)
Step IV: The argument is properly related to the statement.
Strong Argument

Past Solved Papers
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Chapter
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Statement &
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Assumptions
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INTRODUCTION Statement: “A” television — the largest
selling name with the largest range” —
Assumptions are essential part of an advertisement.
analytical reasoning. This is the reason Assumptions:
why in various competitive examinations, I. There is a demand for televisions in
examinees ar e asked to iden tify the market.
assumptions. In this chapter, we will see II. ‘A’ television is the only one with
how to identify assumptions. Before we wide variations.
go ahead, we must have a look at a The given statement in the problem
common format of the problem as it will format is an advertisement. This is
give you a clear idea of the questions to the one form of statement. But the
statement may be in different forms
be asked in the examination.
like it can be in the form of a passage;
in the form of a single line; in the
PROBLEM FORMAT
form of a notice; in the form of an
(SAMPLE PROBLEM) appeal; in any other different forms.
Directions: In every question given
below a statement (or a passage) is WHAT DOES AN
followed by two assumptions number I ASSUMPTION MEAN?
& II. An assumption is something Assumption is the hidden part of an
supposed or taken for granted. You have argument. It does mean that an
to consider the statement and the assumption is something which is
following assumptions and then decide assumed, supposed and taken for
which of the assumptions is implicit in granted. In fact, when a person says
the statement. something, he does not put everything
into words and leaves some part unsaid
Mark answer:
as why does he ? so?
(a) If only assumption I is implicit.
He does so because he takes this unsaid
(b) If only assumption II is implicit.
part for granted. In other words he thinks
(c) If eith er assumption I or this unsaid part will be understood
assumption II is implicit. without saying and hence there is no
(d) If neither of the assumption is need to put this (unsaid part) into words.
implicit It does mean this unsaid part is hidden
(e) If both the assumptions are in the given statement and this hidden
implicit. part is called assumption. Let us
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128 Statement & Assumptions
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understand it in another way. Just
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EXAMPLE 1.
remember your childhood days when
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you used to solve the given arithmetic Statement: Of all the mobile sets
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problem without leaving any single step. manufactured in India 'M' brand has the
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But what you do today? Today your largest sale.
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approach is totally different. Today you Assumption: The sale of all the mobile
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leave easier steps as you assume that sets manufactured in India is known.
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Comment: The given assumption is
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the person who see your solution, is
very much aware of these elementary valid. Here the statement makes a claim
operations. Therefore, this is an example that of all the mobile sets manufactured
of assumption. in India, 'M' brand has the largest sale.
To get the concept of assumption more In fact, without knowing sale figures may
clearly just suppose a thrilling one day be rough data of all mobile brands
international cricket match is going on manufactured in India, no such claim
between India and Australia. The about M brand could be made. Hence, it
Australian team has scored 300 runs but must have been implicitly assumed in the
while chasing the score India has made given statement that sale figure of all
280 runs in 48 overs and now, the brands is known.
situation is India has to score 21 runs to EXAMPLE 2.
win the match in remaining two overs. Statement: Virat is in great form and
As Yuvraj Singh is batting, you tell your therefore, India is going to beat New
friend - “No need to worry as Yuvraj is a Zealand in upcoming test series.
big hitter. India will definitely win the Assumption:
match”. What do you find in this I. Virat will give a good performance in
statement. In fact this statement has two upcoming series against New
parts:- Zealand.
(i) No need to worry as Yuvraj is a big II. Virat will score a triple century in the
hitter. upcoming series against New
(ii) India will win the match. Zealand.
Now, this is the time to think over these Comment: Assumption I is valid as the
two parts. How do you relate them? statement says that Virat is in great form
Obviously, by assuming that a big hitter and therefore, India is going to beat New
may score 21 runs in the remaining two Zealand in the upcoming test series. It
overs. Therefore, this is another example does mean that it is assumed in the
of assumption. The above statement can statement that Virat will perform well in
be written in three parts as follows:- the upcoming test series against New
(i) No need to worry as Yuvraj is a big Zealand and on the basis of that good
hitter. performance India will beat New Zealand.
(ii) A big hitter may score 21 runs in 2 But II is invalid because if Virat is in great
overs (Hidden part/Assumption) form, that does not mean he will surely
(iii) So, India will win the match. hit a triple century. He may or may not
Let’s get more ideas about assumption do so. Hence, assumption II is not hidden
with some simple examples given below:- in the statement.
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EXAMPLE 3.
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EXAMPLE 5.
Statement: The next meeting of the
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Statement: The crisis of onion has
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governing body of the society X will be worsened and the government should
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held after one year.
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make every effort to boost import of onion.
Assumption: Institute X will remain in
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Assumption:
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function after one year.
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I. Import is the best solution to avert
Comment: The given assumption is valid
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the onion crisis.
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as we know that the common practice is
II. Import is a reasonably good solution
to hold meetings of only those bodies
to the onion crisis.
that are functional. Hence, it does mean
III. Import is the only solution to
that the announcer must be assuming
overcome the onion crisis.
that the society will remain functional
after one year. IV. The onion crisis will definitely be
averted by boosting import of onion.
EXAMPLE 4.
V. The onion crisis will probably be
Statement: The student is too clever to averted by boosting import of onion.
fail in the examination. Comment: In the above mentioned
Assumption: Very clever students do not example, the assumption II and V are
fail in the examination. valid. But I, III and IV are not valid. The
Comment: This is a valid assumption. As reason is that there is use of definitive
per the given statement the student will words (best, only and definitely) in case
not fail (This is an effect) as he / she is of I, III and IV. The given statement
very clever (This is a cause). Clearly, it mentions a fact that crisis of onion has
has been assumed in the statement that worsened and then makes a suggestion
very clever students do not fail. that imports of onion should be boosted.
In fact the statement assumes that import
HOW DOES A SINGLE should help to overcome onion crisis or
WORD OR PHRASE MAKE A that import is a good/ reasonably good
DIFFERENCE? solution to the onion crisis. But, there is
no hint that import is the only solution/
A. Definitive Words Cases: best solution/a definitely effective
Just consider the words like ‘all’, solution.
‘only’, ‘best’, ‘strongest’, ‘certainly’, Therefore, the example given above
‘definitely’, etc. These are some illustrates how a definitive word may give
words that put a greater degree of a different ‘tone’ to a sentence.
emphasis or more weight on the
sentence than some others. In fact, B. Cases of Conjunctions:
these words impart a kind of The words like ‘because’,
exclusiveness to the sentence and ‘therefore’, ‘in spite of’, ‘despite’,
thereby reduce the scope / range of ‘so’, ‘after’, ‘even’, ‘although’ ‘as’,
the sentence. In fact, some kind of ‘as a result of’ are some significant
certainty is associated with all these conjunctions. When a statement has
words. Let us consider the following two clauses and the clauses are
examples: connected by a conjunction, then
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the nature of conjunction helps in EXAMPLE 9.
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detecting the assumption that the Statement: There was no outbreak of any
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author suggests in his statement.
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epidemic even after the continuous
Suppose ‘x’ is one clause of a
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sentence that mention an event (or Valid Assumption: Deposition of rain
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fact/suggestion) and ‘y’ is the
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water usually leads to epidemic.
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another clause of the same sentence
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C. Cases of Connotive Phrases:
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which mentions another event (or
fact/suggestion), than depending Sometimes words used by th e
upon the conjunction, we can author are slightly indirect or
conclude the following assumption. unconventional. This is the reason
(i) x because/ as a result of y Þ It is you may miss the thing which the
assumed that ‘y’ leads to x. author wants to say. Such indirect
EXAMPLE 6. or unconventional words are called
Statement: You will find improvement in connotative or connotive phrases.
your English after taking classes in For example “It is true that ....” can
institute M. be put / written as:
Valid Assumption: An institute may (i) It can be claimed with reasonable
help in improving English. degree of truth that...
(ii) x therefore/ hence y Þ It is (ii) It would be correct to say that...
assumed that ‘x’ leads to ‘y’. (iii) Even the most sceptic of men
EXAMPLE 7. would agree that....
Statement: Sachin Tendulkar has become Similarly, “It is false” is put / written by
the 1st man to score 50th test century, the author as :
therefore all Indians must be feeling very (i) It is baseless to say that ...
proud on his achievement. (ii) It would be highly misleading
Valid Assumption: An achievement by a to say that....
fellow countryman makes other citizens (iii) Nothing could be farther from
proud. truth than...
(iii) x even after/ despite/ in spite of y Þ
It is assumed that usually x does not Note: The role of connotative phrases is
occurs when y occurs. very limited in the questions asked
because they are given so that they do
EXAMPLE 8. not escape your eyes whenever one
Statement: There was a theft in the city come across them.
mall last night inspite of the maximum
Conditions for Invalidity of Assumptions:
security arrangement made by the police.
Valid Assumption: Maximum security (a) Restatement
arrangement is usually sufficient to If the given assumption is a
prevent theft. restatement of the given statement,
(iv) Not ‘x’ even after/ in spite of/ despite then the given statement will be
‘y’ Þ It is assumed that usually x invalid. In fact, in such case, same
occurs when y does. thing is put in different words.
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EXAMPLE 10. sentence without changing its
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Statement: Of all the computer brands, meaning.
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manufactured in India, brand M has the EXAMPLE 12.
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largest sale.
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Statement: Beauty is lovable.
Invalid Assumption: No other brand of
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Invalid Assumptions :
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computer has as high a sale as brand M.
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I. Ugliness is not lovable
(b) Long-drawn Conclusion: If an
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II. Beauty is not hateable
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assumption makes too far fetched (d) Conversion : When you study the
logic or long drawn conclusion, then chapter of syllogism, you see that
it will be considered as invalid statements are converted to get
assumption. immediate inference. In fact, there
EXAMPLE 11. are three standard cases of
Statement: All teaching should be done conversion:
in religious spirit as religious instruction (i) All M are N, converted into
leads to a curiosity for knowledge. Some N are M.
Invalid Assumption: Curious persons are (ii) Some M are N, converted into
good persons. Some N are M.
(c) Observation : It is slightly different (iii) No M are N, converted into No
from the restatement case. In such N are M
case, two of the trio (Subject, verb, Points to be noted that given
predicate) are changed into negative assumptions will be invalid if they are
that changes the appearance of the conversions of the given statements.
q Shortcut Approach
Assumption will be implicit if Assumption will not be implicit if
· it is in context of passge · not in context of statement or passage
· it is not directly mentioned · it is directly mentioned in the
statement
· it is a mandatory factor condition for · it is not an accepted fact or cannot be
the statement to be correct. truly inferred
· there is use of definitive words
Note : The assumption must follow all · it is a restatement or a long-drawn
the above rules for it to be implicit. conclusion or negative rephrasing or
a converted syllogism form.

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INTRODUCTION EXAMPLE 2.
In this type of questions, a statement is Statement : Today, out of the world

given followed by two conclusions. We population of several thousand million,
have to find out which of these the majority of men have to live under
conclusions definitely follows from the government which refuses them personal
given statement. liberty and the right to dissent.
Conclusions :
WHAT IS A ‘CONCLUSION’? I. People are indifferent to personal
liberty and the right to dissent.
‘Conclusion’ means a fact that can be II. People desire personal liberty and
truly inferred from the contents of a given
the right to dissent.
sentence. Conclusion is the art of
Sol. (b) It is mentioned in the
judging or deciding, based on reasoning.
statement that most people
DIRECTIONS (for Examples 1 to 3) : In
are forced to live un der
each of the following questions, a
governments which refuse
statement is given followed by two
conclusions I and II. Give answer : them personal liberty and right
(a) if only conclusion I follows; to dissent. This means that
(b) if only conclusion II follows; they are not indifferent to
(c) if either I or II follows; these rights but have a desire
(d) if neither I nor II follows; for them. So, only II follows.
(e) if both I and II follows; EXAMPLE 3.
EXAMPLE 1. Statement : It has been decided by the
Statement : The oceans are a storehouse Government to withdraw 33% of the
of practically every mineral including subsidy on cooking gas from the
uranium. But like most other minerals, it beginning of next month—a spokesman
is found in extremely low concentration of the Government.
– about three gms per 1000 tonnes of Conclusions :
water. I. People no more desire or need such
Conclusions : subsidy from government as they
I. The oceans are a cheap source of can afford increased price of the
uranium. cooking gas.
II. The oceans harbour radiation hazards. II. The price of the cooking gas will
Sol. (d) I can not be concluded as most increase at least by 33% from the next
of the minerals are available in month.
similar concentration levels in Sol. (d) I does not follow because a
oceans. II is out of context of govt’s policy is not determined
the sentence. merely by people’s needs.
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II does not follow. Let the II. The government of country X seems
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present price be x to be serious in attracting tourists.
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\ Price if subsidy is removed Sol. (e) Clearly, the government has
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x taken the step to attract more
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= = 1.49x tourists. So, both I and II follow.
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0.67
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Hence increase in price will be
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q Shortcut Approach
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around 49%
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DIRECTIONS (for Examples 4 to 5) : In For a adhere conclusion to follow a
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each of the following questions, a statement must to the following
statement is given followed by two 4 GOLDEN RULES.
conclusions I and II. Give answer : 1. The conclusion must be in context
(a) if only conclusion I follows; of the statement. If out of context
(b) if only conclusion II follows; than it does not follow.
(c) if either I or II follows; 2. The conclusion must support the
(d) if both I and II follow. contents of the statement. If it
(e) if neithter I nor II follows; negates than it does not follow.
3. The conclusion must be truly
EXAMPLE 4.
inferred. If there is some doubt that
Statement : Interest rate will be fixed on it may or may not be correct or truly
the basis of our bank’s rate prevailing inferred, than it does not follow.
on the date of deposit and refixed every 4. The conclusion must not repeat or
quarter thereafter. rephrase the statement. If so, it does
Conclusions: not follow.
I. It is left to the depositors to guard Now let us apply these rules to the 5
their interest. examples solved above.
II. The bank’s interest rates are subject Ex. 1 I. Rule 2 applies as it negates the
to change on a day-to-day basis statement.
depending on market position. II. Rule 1 applies as it is out of
Sol. (b) I does not follow because the context.
statement is silent about the Ex. 2 I. Rule 2 applies as it negates the
depositors. II follows from the statement.
phrase “bank’s rate prevailing II. Fulfils all the conditions in Rule
on the date of deposit” which 1-4.
means the rates are subject to Ex. 3 I. Rule 1, 2 & 4 follow but 3 does
day-to-day changes. not as there can be various
reasons to withdraw subsidy.
EXAMPLE 5.
II. Rule 1, 2 & 4 follow but 3 does
Statement : The government of country not as the price increase is
X has recently announced several actually 49%
concessions and offered attractive Ex. 4 I. Rule I applies as it is out of
package tours for foreign visitors. context.
Conclusions : II. Follows all the 4 rules perfectly.
I. Now, more number of foreign Ex. 5 Both I & II follow all the 4 rules
tourists will visit the country. and hence follow the statement.
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INTRODUCTION NOTE : In the examinations more than
In many competitive examinations two courses of actions may also be given.
questions related to courses of action
are frequently asked. Types of Problems
The basic reason behind asking such (1) Problems based on problem and
questions is to test your ability to judge solution relationship.
a problem correctly in order to determine (2) Problems based on fact &
the root of the given problem and then improvement relationship.
finding out a proper course of action for
that particular problem. 1. Problems based on problem
and solution relationship
What is the format of the problem?
This is a case when the given
Directions: In the question given below
statement talks of a problem and the
is given a statement followed by two
suggested courses of action number I suggested course of action talks of
and II. A course of action is a step or a solution. It is very easy to find out
administrative decision to be taken for when a suggested course of action
improvement, follow up, or further action is acceptable and when it is not. In
in regard to the problem, policy etc. On fact, the suggested course of action
the basis of the information given in the will be acceptable if:
statement. Read the situation carefully (a) it solves/ reduces or minimises the
and then decide which of the given given problem
courses of action follow/ follows. (b) it gives a practical and wise solution.
Mark answers:
Now, what to do ? Just see the given
(a) If only I follows
(b) If only II follows problem with a serious eye; think over
(c) If either I or II follows that; apply your day to day experiences;
(d) If neither I nor II follows apply your common sense and use your
(e) If both I & II follow. general knowledge to judge whether a
Statement: The sale of a particular suggested course of action solves or
product ‘A’ has gone down considerably, reduces or minimises the problem given
causing great concern to company ‘X’. in the statement. After this step, the next
Courses of action : step is checking the practicality. Here,
I. Company ‘X’ should mark a proper
you have to check if the solution
study of the rival products in the
market. suggested by the given course of action
II. The price of product ‘A’ should be is wise enough and applicable in
reduced. practical way in day to day life.
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Infact (a) is the 1st step test and after Courses of action:
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passing the step I test, the given course I. The child should be sent to child
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of action will have to pass step II (which welfare society. (correct action)
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is (b)). If the given course of action II. The child should be put in jail and
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passes both the tests [step I and step II] severly beaten (wrong action)
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only then it will be called a correct action.
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Comment: In example I, I is rejected as it
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Step I test is an irrelevant action. It does not make
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To pass the step I test a suggested it clear how instructing population for
course of action must be not coming out of their houses will solve
(i) based on an established fact or or reduce the problem of spreading
(ii) based on logical prediction or malaria. But II is a proper course of action
(iii) based on experiences as it is an established biological fact that
(iv) based on prevailing notions of truth malaria can be prevented by using
Let us discuss all the conditions safeguards against mosquitoes. This is
mentioned above:- the reason that II will go for further test
(step II test) proving itself a proper course
(i) Action based on established
of action in 1st level test (step I test).
fact: -
In example 2, II is rejected on the basis
In some of the cases an action taken that it is totally illogical to beat a child
is an established fact which and put into jail as a child is not mature
suggests that the given problem can enough to decide what is right and what
be reduced or solved by this is wrong. Further, it is an established fact
particular solution. It does mean that (socially established fact) that child
the solution suggested by the given criminals must not be treated as
course of action is universally punishable wrong doer but they should
acknowledged to the given problem. be made to mend their ways and on the
Let us see the examples given below: basis of this I is the correct course of
EXAMPLE 1. action. Hence, I will qualify for the 2nd
Statement: Southern part of India has round test ( Step II test)
been coming rapidly into the grip of (ii) Action based on logical
malaria. prediction :
Courses of action: In such type of cases, solutions
I. The Southern Indian population provided for the given problems are
must be instructed not to come out neither an established fact nor they
of their houses. [wrong action] can be considered as proper action
II. Anti-mosquito liquids should be on the basis of our past experiences.
sprayed in the southern part of Hence, in such cases examinees are
India. [correct action] required to apply certain logic and
EXAMPLE 2. reasoning to find out if the given
Statement: A child was caught while course of action solves or reduces
stealing money of a respectable person or minimises the problem. Let us see
of society. the example given below:
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EXAMPLE 3. Course of action: Efforts should be made
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Statement: Jammu & Kashmir is that the Indians remain united for any
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eventuality. [correct action]
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experiencing, again, the rise of terrorism
Comment: Our past experiences say that
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and it is obvious that Pakistan is
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we (India) became a sufferer several times
encouraging it.
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because of the foreign powers and at
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Course of action: India must go to the
that time we lacked our unity. In another
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international bodies with all the proof of
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words, India has fallen victim to foreign
Pakistani involvement in Jammu &
powers only when our country (India)
Kashmir and demand that Pakistan must
has not remained united. Hence, on the
be declared a terrorist nation. [ correct
basis of our past experience, we can
action]
conclude that the given course of action
Comment : Here, the given course of
solves or reduces the problem making
action is the correct one at step I test. In
its entry for 2nd level (step II) test.
fact, it is a matter of simple logic of
diplomacy that in case of disturbances (iv) Action based on prevailing notions
created by a hostile nation within our of truth: In such type of cases
country, we put this issue before solutions provided for the given
international bodies so that the hostile problem is as per the social norms.
nation stands at disadvantage. Thus Ex. In other words, the given course of
3 will qualify for the next step test (step action suggests a solution that is
II or practicality test). prevailing notion of truth. In fact,
(iii) Action based on experiences: In they are the ideas that are universally
certain cases, while deciding if a accepted and acknowledged by the
given course of action solves or society and hence in many ways they
reduces or minimises the given are similar to established fact. Let us
problem, our experiences work. In see the following examples:
fact, in such cases the given problem EXAMPLE 5.
may be a relatively new one. It will Statement: Mr Sharma got angry and beat
not be totally new but it will not be his son mercilesely.
very old either. This is the reason Course of action : Mr.Sharma should be
that the solution can not be said as caned publicly [ wrong action]
an established fact. However, based
EXAMPLE 6.
on our past experiences, in the similar
kind of situation, we can reach the Statement : Most of manufacturing
conclusion that the given problem companies in India are running in losses.
can be solved/ reduced/ minimised Course of action: Prospects of
by this particular action. Let us see privatisation of these companies must
the example given below: be explored. [correct action]
Comment: In example 5, the given
EXAMPLE 4. solution is against the societal worm as
Statement: Several foreign powers public beating is not considered a good
having expansionist thinking are threat punishment. In other words, it is
to India. prevailing notion of truth that public
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beating is not good. Hence, on the basis EXAMPLES FOR (A)
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of this the given solution is rejected and
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will not go for 2nd level test (step II test). EXAMPLE 7.
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In example 6, the given course of action Statement : Lack of discipline is a good
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suggests privatisation for loss making reason for low productivity in India.
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manufacturing companies and no Course of action : Government must take
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doubts, it is a prevailing notion of truth step to make military traing compulsory
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that privatisation can reduce or minimise for all Indian citizens. [ wrong action]
their losses. There is also a chance that EXAMPLE 8.
privatisation can convert a loss making
Statement: As per the report of ‘WHO’
company into a profitable one. Hence,
(World Health Organisation) the life
we conclude the given solution is
expactancy of an average Indian is
correct one and will qualify for further
continuously declining.
test (2nd level test or step II test). Now,
Course of action : A serious effort must
we can move on to step II test.
be made to prevent children from making
Step II (Test of Practicality) noises. [wrong action]
This is the 2nd part of test. In the 1st Comment: In Example 7, the given course
part we just found out whether a of action is not a good solution for the
suggested action really solves/ reduces/ given problem. No, doubt that military
training wold be a solution for lack of
minimises the given problem. But an
discipline but is it a practical solution?
important part also remains to be checked
Your answer will be a big ‘No’ (why?). In
and that is the test of practicality. Point
reality, at the 1st step test the given
to be noted that a given course of action
course of action may seem true as it
may solve/ reduce/ minimise a particular
solves the given problem but when it
problem but if it is not practically
comes to the 2nd level test, it becomes
possible, it will be consider useless. This
clear that it is too severe solution for a
is the reason why this point too, needs
relatively small problem. Hence, on this
sound checking. For this you have to
basis the given course of action is
keep the following things in your mind:
rejected finally.
A. The problem and solution must be In example 8, the given course of
well matched and must be in action suggests that problem of
proportion. In other words, if declining life expectancy can be solved
solutions are too simple for too if children are prevented from making
severe problems, they will be noises. At one stage the given course of
useless. Conversly, we can say that action reduces the problem to some
too severe solutions are not good extent as it suggests that less noise will
solutions for too simple problems. increase the chances of low blood
B. Even after passing the step I test, pressure and this will result in less
the given solution is creating a new deaths. But when we think analytically,
problem, then the given solution we come to the conclusion that the
will not be a good solution and will problem is very serious and the given
fail in practicality test. solution is very simple for it. Hence on
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mosquito born diseases are imminent,
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EXAMPLE FOR (B)
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Such step is taken only because it is
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EXAMPLE 9.
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Statement: In recent years, people have practical. Here, the IInd course of action
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developed a tendency of tax evasion and given under example 1 passes both the
this is the reason it has increased at an test to be finally declared as proper and
alarming level. correct solution.
Course of action : Government must Step II test of Example 2 [Course of
make law to abolish taxes. [ wrong action] action I]:
Comment: Here, the given problem is Ist course of action given under example
about tax evasion. Tax evasion does 2 is “child should be sent to child welfare
mean showing less income to pay less society”. In step II, we need to check if it
tax. Why tax evasion is a problem? is a practical solution. In so many cases
Because tax evasion generates black we have seen that when a child does a
money. The given course of action crime like stealing and some other more
serious crime, then they are put under
suggests the abolition of taxes which
such atmosphere that they can
connot be a good solution as taxes are
understand the seriousness of their
taken to provide people certain indirect
crime and try to mend their ways. For
services like the facilities of roads, parks,
such children, child welfare societies and
police etc. Suppose if taxes are not
some other such kind of organisations
charged, how and where from money will are very helpful. Hence, this course of
come to provide such indirect services action passes its final test to be declared
to community. No doubts, the tax a correct course of action.
abolition will create a new problem. Step II test of Example 3 :
Hence on this basis the given course of The course of action given under
action will be rejected finally as it fails example 3 is “India must go to the
the 2nd level test (step II test) of international bodies with all the proof of
practicality. Pakistani involvement in Jammu &
Now after understanding what is a Kashmir and demand that Pakistan must
practical solution, we can test the be declared a terrorist nation” and this is
courses of action that have passed the a very practical solution. As we have
step I test and given under examples 1, seen in certain circumstances in past that
2, 3, 4 and 6. India has put such type of demand from
Step II test of Example 1 ( Course of UNO and even from some other nations
action II): on individual basis. No doubts, that on
IInd course of action given under example such demands India has got support to
1 is “Anti mosquito liquids should be some extent. Hence it is a very practical
sprayed in the southern part of India". solution and this given course of action
In step II, we need to check if it is a passes it practicality test to be declared
practical solution for the given problem. a proper and correct course of action.
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Step II test of Example 4 : (i) Find out whether the suggested
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The given course of action “efforts course of action will help in
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united for any eventualities” is a practical (ii) Find out whether the two are
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struggle we were united. How this unity 7 is such type of problem.
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took place? Only because this was Now we have come to the end of
practically possible. Hence, this given this chapter and this is the time to
course of action, too, passed the solve the problem given under 'what
practically test to be declared finally a is the format of the problem'? Let us
proper and correct course of action. solve it:
Step II test of Example 6: Statement : The sale of a particular
The given course of action “Prospects product ‘A’ has gone down considerably,
of privatisation of these (loss making) causing great concern to company ‘X’.
companies must be explored is not a
Courses of action :
correct solution at the end at the 2nd
level test (Practicality test) because the I. Company should make a proper
course of action and the given statement study of rival products in the
are not properly linked. The statement market.
does not make it clear that it talks only II. The price of product ‘A’ should be
about public sector manufacturing reduced.
concerns as even a private sector Solution. Option (a) is the correct option
manufacturing company may be a loss as only I follows.
making company. Hence the statement Reason /Explanation: If the sale of ‘A’
and given course of action creates has gone down, then there must be some
confusion. Therefore, the given course solved reasons. The company X must
of action is rejected at 2nd level test. know this reason. As I suggest the similar
solution, it follows. But II does not follow.
2. Problem based on fact and The company should first know if price
improvement relationship
was a factor behind the drop in sale.
This is the 2nd type of problem Without knowing this, reducing price
related to course of action. But point may turn out to be a wrong and harmful
to be noted is that this does not action.
require any new skill. The solving
method is exactly the same as you Note : If you see 'an either choice' in the
have solved the 1st type of problem answer options avoid it. It will be a wrong
that is problem solution based. In answer. Either choice can be in the form
fact you have to solve this type of like “Either of I or II (or III or I etc.)
problem in two steps: follows”.
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q Shortcut Approach
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Study the Statement
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Problem Fact
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Solution Type Improvement Type
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Solves/minimises/reduces Does it help in improving
the problem the situation ?
Yes No Rejected Yes No Rejected

Check if it is a balanced Check if it is a balanced
or proportionate solution solution?
Yes No Rejected Yes No Rejected

Does it creates new Accepted
problems ?
Yes No Rejected
Accepted

Past Solved Papers

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Critical Reasoning
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INTRODUCTION to manipulate the argument to weaken/
strengthen it, find the conclusion,
Critical Reasoning (CR) is ability to assumption, explanation, do an inference
reason clearly to evaluate and judge or supplement a statement, etc.
arguments. You are using this skill a lot Whatever it is that you have to do, you
during your everyday life while reading will need 2 things to succeed: know the
newspapers or watching movies. When basic structure of arguments and clearly
you think that the movie is pushing the understand the argument.
limit of the Reasonable or the news In general, most of them, arguments
sounds less reasonable than the movie consist of evidence, usually 2 pieces, a
that was pushing the limit, you are using conclusion - the main point of an
your Critical Reasoning skills to produce argument, and an assumption - the
these conclusions. The argument you bridge between the evidence and
meet can be anything from a classical conclusion. The majority of the
argument to an advertisement or a dialog. arguments you encounter on the test will
Critical Reasoning questions will ask you be 3 step arguments:
Evidence 1 + Evidence 2 = Conclusion.
sumptio
As n
E1 + E2 = C
EXAMPLE 1. Last week Mike was EXAMPLE 2. There are a lot of
detained for shoplifting at a groceries mosquitoes outside today, please do not
store near his house, but he has been a turn on the light in the room because a
Christian for 10 years, therefore, the lot of them will fly in.
police must have been wrong accusing
Note : Here the evidences are ‘there are
him in stealing. a lot of mosquitoes outside today’ and
Note : There are two pieces of evidence: ‘do not turn on the light’. The
‘Mike was accused of stealing’ and that conclusion is that ‘Many will fly in’ and
‘he is a Christian’. The conclusion is the assumption is ‘mosquitoes will
that ‘the police are wrong’. Therefore, approach the light.’
our huge assumption here is that ‘a There is no set scheme for structure in
Christian could not have stolen CR, but since the majority of the
anything.’ arguments are only a few sentences long,
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142 Critical Reasoning
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the conclusion usually comes in the first paraphrase should be as close to the
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or the last sentence. However, some of text and as simple as possible so that
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the arguments encountered will not have you would understand it easily and
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a conclusion at all or will have just an at the same time could fully trust it.
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implied one. Do not make it too general nor too
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detail oriented. When you do a
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Strategy to Crack Critical
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paraphrase, do it in three steps:
Reasoning Questions
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Evidence1, Evidence2, and
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This strategy is not the easiest way to Conclusion; put “therefore” word
do CR (the easiest would be read-and- before you start your conclusion,
answer), but it lets you get the most this will help you to set it off.
questions right spending less time per 4. Read the question again (now with
correct answer. more understanding of what is being
1. Read the questions first; this is asked; reading the question 2 times,
needed so that you would know it will also help you to make sure your
what to look for and what to do: find answer exactly what is stated and
an assumption, strengthen/weaken, that you understand the question.)
infer something or else; do not worry 5. Answer before reading the answer
about the details in the question, choices. There are two reasons for
read for keywords, such as this :
strengthen, deny, or explain. [Use (i) if you can think of the correct
symbols for convenience, e.g. + for answer or at least the general
strengthen or – for weaken]. direction that the answer choice
2. Read the passage very attentively needs to be, you will identify it
because in contrast to Reading among the wrong choices much
Comprehension, there is very little faster, thus spend less time
text here and mostly everything is reading the answers, which
important; try to read only once. usually take 30 seconds to
Reread if required. cover.
As you read, look for the problem in (ii) Often students are seduced by
the passage (evaluate how the author’s wording. One reads
convincing it is) a few words that were used in
3. Paraphrase (reword) the passage. It the passage and the brain
is a very important step because identifies this choice with the
when you do a paraphrase, you passage, thus making it seem
check whether you understood the more right that it needs to be.
passage and at the same time you The more problems you practice
extract the skeleton of the argument, with, the more chance is you will
making it easier to identify the guess the right answer even
conclusion and the assumption. Very before reading it.
often, the paraphrase of the passage 6. Go through the answers, first time
will be pretty close to the conclusion. scan them for YOUR answer choice
It is not surprising, since the (usually you will guess correctly in
conclusion is the main point and 60-70% of cases), if you did not find
evidence just supports it.) Your it, reread them more attentively.
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Critical Reasoning 143
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7. Draw a grid to eliminate the wrong • Which of the following inferences
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answers easier. Use “ü” for a sure is best supported by the
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answer, “û” for a definitely wrong statement made above?
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answer choice, and “?” for an
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answer th at may be right or
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questionable. This will help to
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How to tackle “Identify the inference /
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concentrate only on a few answer Must be true questions”:
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choices and will prevent you from
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• Read the stimulus and look for the
reading same answers several times
argument.
if you get confused or keep having
troubles locating the right answer. • Note that Must Be True questions
may not contain an argument. They
TYPES OF CRITICAL may just be a series of facts.
Nevertheless, try to find the
REASONING QUESTIONS
argument.
Critical reasoning questions will ask you • Avoid choices which contain
to: absolute statements - never, always,
1. Identify the inference / Must be true none, only etc. Although these words
question might appear in some correct choice,
2. Identify the assumption. you should be very sure about them.
3. Strengthen an argument. • Some of the options can be eliminated
4. Weaken an argument. as they go beyond the scope of the
5. Select the best conclusion/Main Point passage. Note that an inference can
6. Identify the paradox be based on only some of th e
7. Evaluation/ Reasoning information provided and not the
8. Identify a parallel argument/Structure. complete passage.
1. Identify the Inference / Must
be True Question EXAMPLE 1. Stimulus Argument
These type of questions are Increases in funding for police patrols
extremely common. An Inference often lower the rate of crimes of
means the same thing as “must be opportunity such as petty theft and
true”. Conclusions differ from van dalism by providing visual
inferences in that conclusions are deterrence in high-crime neighborhoods.
the result of premises and inferences Levels of funding for police patrols in
are something that must be true. The some communities are increased when
following are the typical Inference federal matching grants are made
(Must be true) based Questions: available.
• If the statements above are true, Question : Which of the following can
which of the following must also be correctly inferred from the statements
be true? above?
• Which of the following is
Options :
[implied, must be true, implicit,
most reasonably drawn] in the (a) Areas with little vandalism can never
passage above? benefit from visual deterrence.
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(b) Communities that do not increase 2. Identify the Assumption
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their police patrols are at higher risk An assumption is an unstated
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for crimes of opportunity late at premise that supports the author’s
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(c) Federal matching grants for police between the stated premises and the
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patrols lower the rate of crimes of conclusion., which together forms
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the passage. An assumption is
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opportunity in some communities.
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something that the author ’s
(d) Only federal matching grants are
conclusion depends upon.
necessary to reduce crime in most Assumption questions are extremely
neighborhoods. common and have types that look
(e) None of these like this:
Sol. • Which of the following most
(c) is a summary of the information accurately states a hidden
provided; it is the logical end of a assumption that the author must
chain of reasoning started in the make in order to advance the
stimulus argument. The sequence of argument above?
• Which of the following is an
events goes like this :
assumption that, if true, would
Increased funding ® Increased support the conclusion in the
visual deterrence ® Lower crime passage above?
The last statement could be mapped
as follows: q Shortcut Approach
Federal grants ® Increased patrol How to approach “Identify the
funds assumption Questions”
(c) makes the chain complete by • Look for gaps between the premises
correctly stating that federal grants and the conclusion. Ask yourself
can lead to lower crime in some why the conclusion is true. Before
communities. Now the logical chain you progress to the answer choices,
becomes: try to get feel of what assumption is
Federal grants ® Increased necessary to fill that gap between the
funding ® Increased visual premises.
deterrence ® Lower crime • Beware of extreme language in the
answer choices of assumption
The other answer choices may not
questions. Assumptions usually are
be correctly inferred because they
not extreme. “Extreme” answer
go beyond th e scope of the choices usually contain phrases
argument. They may be objectively, such as always, never, or totally.
factually correct, or they may be
statements that you would tend to EXAMPLE 2. Stimulus Argument
agree with. However, you are limited Traditionally, decision making by
to the argument presented when doctors that is carefully, deductively
choosing a correct answer. reasoned has been considered preferable
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used intuition significantly more than did ability, etc.
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Assumptions connect premises to
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conclusions. An argument is
careful, methodical reasoning.
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Question : The conclusion above is based
assumptions. Here are some
on which of the following assumptions? examples of Strengthen question
Options : types :
(a) Senior surgeons are more effective • The conclusion would be more
at decision making than are mid-level properly drawn if it were made
doctors. clear that...
(b) Senior surgeons have the ability to • Which of the following, if true,
use either intuitive reasoning or would most strengthen the
deductive, methodical reasoning in conclusion drawn in the passage
making decisions. above?
(c) The decisions that are made by mid-
level and entry-level doctors can be
q Shortcut Approach
made as easily by using methodical How to approach “Strengthen an
reasoning as by using intuitive argument”
reasoning. • Once you have identified the argument
(d) Senior surgeons use intuitive of the passage, i.e. the evidence(s) +
reasoning in making the majority of conclusion, try putting in each option
their decisions. with the argument. Check if the
(e) None of these assumption(s) you have drawn is (are)
Sol. strengthened if you accept the content
(a) The correct answer is (a), which of the option as true.
provides a missing link in the EXAMPLE 3. Stimulus Argument
author’s reasoning by making a Three years after the Bhakra Nangal Dam
connection from the evidence: that was built, none of the six fish species
intuition is used more by senior native to the area was still reproducing
surgeons than other, less- adequately in the river below the dam.
exper ienced doctors, an d the Because the dam reduced the average
conclusion: that, therefore, intuition temperature range of the water from
is more effective. None of the other approximately 40° to approximately 10°,
choices helps bridge this gap in the biologists have hypothesized that sharp
chain of reasoning. Although some increases in water temperature must be
of the other statements may be true, involved in signaling the affected
they are not responsive to the species to begin their reproduction
question. In fact, they mostly focus activities.
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Which of the following statements, if Assumptions connect premises to
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conclusions. An argument is
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Options : assumptions. Here are some
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(a) The native fish species were still able examples of Weaken question types:
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to reproduce in nearby streams
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• Which of the following, if true,
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where the annual temperature range would weaken the conclusion
remains approximately 40°. drawn in the passage above?
(b) Before the dam was built, the river • The argument as it is presented
annually overflowed its banks, in the passage above would be
creating temporary backwaters that most strengthened if which of the
were used as breeding areas for the following were true?
local fish population.
(c) The lowest temperature ever q Shortcut Approach
recorded in the river prior to dam How to approach “Weaken an
construction was 30°; whereas the argument”
lowest recorded river temperature • Once you have identified the
after construction was completed argument of the passage, i.e. the
has been 40°. evidence(s) + conclusion, try putting
(d) Non-native fish species, introduced in each option with the argument.
after the dam was completed, have Check if the assumption(s) you have
begun competing with the native drawn is (are) weakened if you accept
species for food. the content of the option as true.
(e) None of these
Sol. EXAMPLE 4. Stimulus Argument
(a) most strengthens the conclusion A drug that is very effective in treating
that the scientists reached. It does some forms of cancer can, at present, be
so by showing that there is a control obtained only from the bark of the
group. In other words, a similar Raynhu, a tree that is quite rare in the
population, not subjected to the wild. It takes the bark of approximately
same change as the population near 5,000 trees to make one pound of the
the dam, did not experience the same drug. It follows, then, that continued
type of result. Here the basic production of the drug must inevitably
assumption about the conclusion lead to the raynhu’s extinction.
that scientists reached is that Question :
‘because of the reduction of average Which of the following, if true, most
temperature range of the water, the seriously weakens the above conclusion?
reproduction of the native fish Options :
species has reduced drastically’. (a) The drug made from Raynhu bark is
Option (a) clearly strengthens the dispensed to doctors from a central
assumption. authority.
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(b) The drug made from the Raynhu similar way to the reading
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bark is expensive to produce. comprehension main point
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(c) The Raynhu generally grows in
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(d) The Raynhu can be propagated from • The main point of the passage is
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cuttings and cultivated by farmers. that...
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(e) None of these • Which of the following statements
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Sol. about... is best supported by the
(d) provides an alternate source of the statements above?
Raynhu bark. Even though the tree • Which of the following best
is rare in the wild, the argument is states the author’s conclusion in
silent on the availability of the passage above?
cultivated trees. The author of the • Which of the following
argument must be assuming that conclusions can be most properly
there are no Raynhu trees other than drawn from the data above?
those in the wild, in order to make The conclusion of arguments in
the leap from the stated evidence to Main Point questions is usually
the conclusion that the Raynhu is not directly stated. To find the
headed for extinction. The option (d) conclusion, identify the premises
weakens the assupmtion - ‘there are and then identify the conclusion
limited raynhu trees’ - by saying that drawn from the premises. Main
there are other ways as well for the Point questions differ from the
propogation of Raynhu. The other other Critical Reasoning
answer choices all contain questions in that the argument in
information that is irrelevant. Note the stimulus is usually valid. (In
that the correct choice does not most other Critical Reasoning
make the conclusion of the argument questions the reasoning is
impossible. In fact, it is possible that flawed.) Conclusion questions
there may be domesticated Raynhu require you to choose the answer
trees and the species could still that is a summary of the argument.
become extinct. Answer choice (d)
is correct because it makes the q Shortcut Approach
conclusion about extinction less How to approach “Main Point
likely to be true. Questions”:
5. Conclusion / Main Point • Main Point answers must be within
Question the scope of the passage.
In Main Point / Conlcusion • Your opinions or information outside
questions, you have to identify the of the passage are always outside of
conclusion of an argument. You are the scope.
trying to find the author’s point and • Some of the options given can be out
should approach this question in a of the scope of the passage.
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• Knock out answers with extreme (a) would require that people never
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wording. Main Point answers have control over the behaviour
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of other people. Yet the argument
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typically do not use only, always,
does not provide this premise.
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(b) would require that people
leave little room.
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should not be held accountable
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EXAMPLE 5. Stimulus Argument for th e behaviour of other
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People should be held accountable for people. Yet the argument does
their own behaviour, and if holding not provide this premise.
people accountable for their own (d) is not inferable. The argument
allows for the possibility that a
behaviour entails capital punishment,
person might not have control
then so be it. However, no person should
over another person’s behaviour
be held accountable for behaviour over
which is subject to capital
which he or she had no control. punishment.
Question : Which of the following is the (e) None of these
most logical conclusion of the argument
6. Identify the Paradox
above?
Options : These questions present you with a
(a) People should not be held account- paradox, a seeming contradiction or
able for the behaviour of other discrepancy in the argument, and
people. ask you to resolve it or explain how
that contradiction could exist. In
(b) People have control over their own
other words, there are two facts that
behaviour.
are both true, and yet they appear to
(c) People cannot control the behaviour
be in direct conflict with one another.
of other people. Here are some examples of the ways
(d) People have control over behaviour in which these questions are worded:
that is subject to capital punishment. • Which of the following, if true,
(e) None of these would help to resolve the
Sol. apparent paradox presented
(b) The correct response is (b). The above?
argument includes the following two • Which of the following, if true,
premises: contributes most to an
Premise 1: People are accountable explanation of the apparent
for their own behaviour. discrepancy described above?
Premise 2: People are not
accountable for behaviour they q Shortcut Approach
cannot control. How to approach “Identify the paradox
Here’s the logical conclusion based questions”
on these two premises: • Read the argument and find the
Conclusion: People can control their apparent paradox, discrepancy, or
own behaviour. contradiction.
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• State the apparent paradox, furniture. The other answer choices
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answer will explain how both sides eliminate the irrelevant choices, the
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remaining choice will most likely be
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of the paradox, discrepancy, or
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contradiction can be true. Eliminate correct.
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answers that are out of scope. 7. Evaluation/ Reasoning
Based Questions
EXAMPLE 6. Stimulus Argument
Town Y is populated almost exclusively Reasoning questions ask you to
by retired people and has almost no describe how the argument was
families with small children. Yet Town Y made, not necessarily what it says.
is home to a thriving business specializing These questions are closely related
in the rental of furniture for infants and to assumption, weakening, and
small children. strengthening questions. The
Question : Which of the following, if true, correct answer identifies a question
best reconciles the seeming discrepancy that must be answered or information
described above? that must be gathered to determine
Options : how strong the stimulus argument
(a) The business specializing in the is. The information will be related to
rental of children’s furniture buys its an assumption that the author is
furniture from distributors outside of making. Another type of question
Town Y. that you will encounter asks you to
(b) The few children who do reside in identify a flaw in the stimulus
Town Y all know each other and often argument. The question tells you
stay over night at each other’s that there is a problem with the logic
houses. of the argument. You just have to
(c) Many residents of Town Y who move choose the answer that describes the
frequently prefer to rent their flaw. Here are some examples of the
furniture rather than buy it outright. ways in which these questions are
(d) Many residents of Town Y must worded:
provide for the needs of visiting • How does the author make his
grandchildren several weeks a year. point?
(e) None of these • A major flaw in the argument
Sol. above is that it...
(d) The correct answer (d), explains why • A’s response has which of the
a town of mostly retired residents following relationships to B’s
might need to rent children’s argument?
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fathers.
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How to approach Reasoning Questions
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(e) None of these
• Read the argument and find the
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Sol.
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conclusion. (d) The correct answer (d), points out a
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• State the reasoning in your own
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flaw in the argument. Specifically, it
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words. points out that the author of the
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• Check whether the reasoning given argument was comparing the
in the various options fall in line with recently elected judge to other
the reasoning described above. judges, n ot to th e evidence
presented in the recently elected
EXAMPLE 7. Stimulus Argument judge’s cases. In other words, the
Some observers have taken the position author of the argument made an
that the recently elected judge is biased unwarranted assumption that the
against men in divorce cases that involve recently elected judge did not rule
child custody. But the statistics reveal against many men in custody battles
that in 40% of such cases, the recently where the evidence clearly favored
elected judge awards custody to the the men. As with strengthening and
fathers. Most other judges award weakening questions, the correct
answer in flaw questions often
custody to fathers in only 20%–30%of
involves unwarranted assumptions.
their cases. This record demonstrates that
the recently elected judge has not EXAMPLE 8. Stimulus Argument
discriminated against men in cases of Although dentures produced through a
child custody. new computer-aided design process will
Question : The argument above is flawed cost more than twice as much as ordinary
in that it ignores the possibility that dentures, they should still be cost
Options : effective. Not only will fitting time and
(a) A large number of the recently X-ray expense be reduced, but the new
elected judge’s cases involve child dentures should fit better, diminishing
custody disputes. the need for frequent refitting visits to
(b) The r ecently elected judge is the dentist’s office.
prejudiced against men in divorce Question : Which of the following must
be studied in order to evaluate the
cases that do not involve child
argument presented above?
custody issues.
Options :
(c) The majority of the child custody
(a) The amount of time a patient spends
cases that have reached the recently
in the fitting process versus the
elected judge’s court have been amount of money spent on X-rays
appealed from a lower court. (b) The amount by which the cost of
(d) The evidence shows that men producing dentures has declined
should have won custody in more with the introduction of the new
than 40% of the recently elected technique for producing them
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(c) The degree to which the use of the you have to find the argument that
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new dentures is likely to reduce the is analogous to the given argument
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need for refitting visits when in that it includes the same
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dentures presented and the conclusion. Here
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(d) The amount by which the new are some examples of the ways in
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which these questions are worded:
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dentures will drop in cost as the
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production procedures become • Which of the following is most
standardized and applicable on a like the argument above in its
larger scale logical structure?
(e) None of these • Which of the following is a
Sol. parallel argument to the above
(c) The correct answer (c), highlights an given argument?
assumption in the stimulus EXAMPLE 9. Stimulus Argument
argument. It shows that the author
It is true that it is against international
must be assuming that the reduction
law to provide aid to certain countries
in refitting with the new dentures
that are building nuclear programs. But,
compared to ordinary dentures is
if Russian companies do not provide aid,
significant in order to conclude that
companies in other countries will.
that difference will help offset an
Question : Which of the following is most
initial outlay that is twice as much.
like the argument above in its logical
In other words, if you answer the
structure?
question posed by answer choice (c)
Options :
with “not much,” the argument is
(a) It is true that it is against United
weakened. If you answer it with “a
States policy to negotiate with
tremendous amount,” the argument
kidnappers. But if the United States
is strengthened. The other answer
wants to prevent loss of life, it must
choices are all irrelevant because no
negotiate in some cases.
matter what the answers are, there is
no impact on the relationship (b) It is true that it is illegal to sell
between the evidence presented in diamonds that originate in certain
the stimulus argument and its countries. But there is a long
conclusion. tradition in Russia of stockpiling
diamonds.
8. Identify a Parallel Argument (c) It is true that it is illegal for an
/ Structure. attorney to participate in a
The last type of Critical Reasoning transaction in which there is an
question is the parallel structure apparent conflict of interest. But, if
question. In this type of question, the facts are examined carefully, it
you must choose the answer that will clearly be seen that there is no
has the same structure as th e actual conflict of interest in the
stimulus argument. In other words, defendant’s case.
y
o
u
rs
m
a
h
b
o
o
b
(d) It is true that it is against the law to terms of the argument: It is true that
.w
steal cars. But someone else X is illegal. But, if Y doesn’t do it,
o
rd
certainly would have stolen that car others will. Here X is stealing cars
p
if the defendant had not done so and Y is the defendant.
re
first.
s
q Shortcut Approach
s
(e) None of these
.c
o
Sol. How to crack Parallel Argument
m
(d) The correct answer (d), has the same Question?
structure as the stimulus argument. • Read the argument and find the
If you just replace “aid to developing conclusion.
nuclear powers” with “car theft,” and • Try to establish a reasoning structure
“Russian companies” with the between the premise and the
“defendant,” it is essentially the condusion.
same argument. Sometimes the • Read out the options and look out
parallel structure is easier to see if for one having the similar reasoning
you use symbols to represent the structure.

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3. Alphabet & Number Test 13-19

5. Blood Relations 24-28

6. Direction and Distance 29-32

7. Time Sequence, Number & Ranking Test 33-34

8. Logical Sequence of Words 35

10. Venn Diagram 37-39

11. Mathematical Operation Arithmetical Reasoning 40-41

12. Coded Inequalities 42-47

13. Problem Solving 48-57

14. Input and Output 58-68

15. Syllogism 69-78

16. Cube & Dice 79-84

17. Analytical Decision Making 85-90

22. Hidden / Embedded Figures 103

23. Figure Formation and Analysis 104-105

24. Visual Reasoning 106-110

25. Evaluating Inferences 111-114

26. Statement & Arguments 115-126

27. Statement & Assumptions 127-131

28. Statement & Conclusions 132-133

29. Courses of Action 134-140

30. Critical Reasoning` 141-152

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45º 45º 315º

270º 90º 90º 270º

225º 135º 135º 225º

• If our face is towards East, then after

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