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Shortcuts in Reasoning (Verbal, Non-Verbal & Analytical) For Co PDF
Shortcuts in Reasoning (Verbal, Non-Verbal & Analytical) For Co PDF
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DISHA PUBLICATION
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w.E © Copyright Publisher
No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior permission
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of the publisher. The author and the publisher do not take any legal responsibility
for any errors o r misrepresentations that might have crept in. We have tried and
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made our best efforts to provide accurate up-to-date information in this book.
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Index
VERBAL REASONING
2. Series 8-12
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3. Alphabet & Number Test
4. Coding-Decoding
13-19
20-23
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5. Blood Relations 24-28
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6. Direction and Distance 29-32
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7. Time Sequence, Number & Ranking Test 33-34
9. Number Puzzles
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42-47
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13. Problem Solving 48-57
NON-VERBAL REASONING
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24. Visual Reasoning 106-110
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ANALYTICAL REASONING
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(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.)
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Disha’s Tips and Techniques in English (with 3
eBooks) for all Competitive Exams is a short book
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designed to cater to every student appearing
for competitive exams. The chapters also
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include Spotting errors, Sentence Correction,
Choose the Correct Sentence, Synonyms and
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Antonyms, Sentence Completion, Active and
Passive voices, Direct and Indirect speech and
Common Errors in English and so on. In short, it
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focuses on all those scientific yet student-friendly
approaches to crack all competitive exams.
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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 .ne
2. Chapter Tests
3. Solved Papers of various exams t
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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VERBAL REASONING
Chapter
Analogy &
1 Classification
ANALOGY EXAMPLE
The meaning of analogy is ‘similar Scissors : Cloth
properties’ or similarity. If an object or 2. Synonym Based Analogy
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word or digit or activity shows any
similarity with another object or word or
In such type of analogy two words
have similar meaning.
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digit or activity in terms of properties,
type, shape, size, trait etc., then the
particular similarity will be called analogy.
EXAMPLE
Huge : Gigantic
(ii) A : B : : C : D EXAMPLEeer
who uses that tool.
4.
Writer :
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Pen
Worker & Product Based
Types of
Word Analogy
Letter Analogy Analogy
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Analogy Number Analogy
Mixed Analogy
This type of analogy gives a
relationship between a person of
particular profession and his/her
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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
Man w.E
EXAMPLE
: Woman
EXAMPLE
Pen : Writing
13. Symbolic Relationship
8.
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Classification Based Analogy
This type of analogy is based on
Based Analogy
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biological, physical, chemical or any
other classification. In such
In such type of analogy, the 1st word
is the symbol of the 2nd word and
problems the 1 st word may be
classified by the 2nd word and vice-
gin vice-versa.
versa.
White eer
EXAMPLE
: Peace
EXAMPLE
Oxygen : Gas
Analogy
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14. Adult & Young One Based
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Hygrometer: Humidity
18. Individual & Group Based
this.
EXAMPLE
Analogy
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Second word is the group of 1st
Birds : Ornithology
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word (or vice-versa) in such type LETTER ANALOGY
of analogy.
EXAMPLE
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In this, candidate has to find out the
relationship between given letters or
q Shortcut Approach
ww I: While solving the problems based on alphabet, you must have in your mind
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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:
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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
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 En
13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26
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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
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1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18
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K J I H G F E D C B A
5 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 .ne
II: Just keep in mind, the following positions of the letters in the English alphabet
(forward order). t
(i) E J O T Y
5 10 15 20 25
(ii) C F I L O R U X
3 6 9 12 15 18 21 24
CFILORUX Remember
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(iii) D
4
H
8
L
12
P
16
T
20
X
24
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En
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DHLPTX Remember eer
NUMBER ANALOGY
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EXAMPLE 3 : 21 : : 5 : 35
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common quality to be possessed by rest
of the elements.
(e) F G H I
2 letter gap
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Types of Classification 2. Meaningful Words Based
Classification
classification asy
(1) Letter/meaningless word based
In such type of classification we
have to take odd word out of the
(2) Mean ingful word based
classification En given group of meaningful words.
1. Letter/Meaningless Word
Sol. (a) Here,
Sl i m
ing (b)
Tr i ms
Based Classification
Such classifications are based on Gr ee ts
1 vowel
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1 vowel
Gr i d
letters of English alphabet. So many
groups of letters are given in the
question in which one group is
(c)
2 vowels
F i ght
(d)
1 vowel t
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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(a) Cat
(c) Tiger
(b) Dog
(d) Octopus
having the common similarity like other
four options and that one word will be
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(e) Lion
your answer.
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Practice Exercises with Hints & Solutions – P-1-7
Chapter Test
Past Solved Papers gin – C-1- 2
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8 Series
Chapter
2 Series
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.
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Types of series are explained in the following chart:
w.E SERIES
Number
series
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Alphabet
series
Alpha-numeric
series
Mixed
series
Continuous Pattern
series
Correspondence
series
A series that is
made by only
number or digit
A series that is
made by only
alphabetic letters En
A series in
which both
alphabets and
A series which
is created by
the combination
A series of letters,
which follow a
certain pattern, is
A series consists of
three sequence with
three different
1. Ascending series
numbers are
used
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of two or more
than two series
given with four /
five times blank
spaces in between.
The order of
elements (for ex.
capital letters,
numbers and small
letters). An element
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2. Descending series
missing letters of each sequence is
3. Oscillating series correspond to the
is correct answer.
element of other
sequence on the
Series 9
2. Perfect Cube series
EXAMPLE 2, 3, 5, 7, 11, 13, __ , 19
Perfect Cube series is a
arrangement of numbers is a Sol. Here, the terms of the series are the
certain order, where some number prime numbers in order. The prime
which is in same order and one number, after 13 is 17. So, the
cube is missing in that given answer to this question is 17.
series.
6. Alternate Primes
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
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certain order. This type of series
Sol. Here, the series is framed by taking
the alternative prime numbers.
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are more than are different order
which arranged in alternatively in
single series or created according
After 23, the prime numbers are 29
and 31. So, the answer is 31.
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to any non conventional rule.
7. The difference of any term
EXAMPLE
En
6, ?, 33, 69, 141, 285
Sol. × 2 + 3, × 2 + 3, × 2 + 3, × 2 + 3,
from its succeding term is
constant (either increasing
4.
× 2 + 3, × 2 + 3
Geometric Series gin series or decreasing series):
10 Series
Here, the difference is increased 12. Every third number can be the
by 8 (or you can say the multiples product of the preceeding two
of 8). So the next difference will be numbers :
40 (32 + 8). So, the answer is 82 +
40 = 122 EXAMPLE 1, 2, 2, 4, 8, 32. __
9. The difference between two Sol. Here, starting from the third number
numbers can be multiplied by 1×2=2
a constant number: 2×2=4
EXAMPLE 15, 16, 19, 28, 55, __ 2×4=8
Sol. Here, the differences between two 4 × 8 = 32
ww numbers are
16 – 15 = 1
So, the answer is 8 × 32 = 256
13. Every succeeding term is got by
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19 – 16 = 3
28 – 19 = 9
55 – 28 = 27
multiplying the previous term
by a constant number or
numbers which follow a
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Here, the difference is multiplied
by 3. So, the next difference will be
special pattern.
Series 11
q Shortcut Approach ×4 ×3 ×4 ×3 ×4
· First check the direct formulas.
(B) 1 3 12 60 ?
· If all the numbers are even, odd or 1 3 12 60 360
prime.
×3 ×4 ×5 ×6
· If all the number are perfect squares
(ii) If numbers are in descending
or cubes.
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.
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particular number or addition of
their cubes and squares.
(B) 720
–16 –8
120
–4
24
–2
6
–1
2 1 ?
Remember
·
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When the difference between the
720
/6
120
/5
24
/4
6
/3
2 1 1
/2
12 Series
letters.
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A series that is made by only alphabetic
(ii) L, J, H, F, __. Both consisting
of alternate letters in the reverse
order.
EXAMPLE G, H, J, M, ?
asy \ Next term of (i) series = R, and
Next term of (ii) series = D
Sol. G H J M Q
En CONTINUOUS PATTERN
+1 +2 +3 +4
q Shortcut Approach
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SERIES
·
their place number.
Intervals like :
letters.
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EXAMPLE b a a b – a b a – b b a – –
E J O T Y , C F I L O R U X
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Sol. b a a b b a / b a a b b a / b a
5 10 15 20 25
Chapter
Alphabet &
3 Number Test
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
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problems based on alphabet are the
problems based on English letters.
through quicker method that will
help you save some extra consumed
(1)
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Types of Problems
General series of alphabet
time.
q Shortcut Approach
(2)
(3)
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Random series of alphabet
Problems of word formation
(a) If both the directions are same then
subtraction of numbers takes
(4) Problems of letter gap
En place.
(5) Finding Digits after rearrangement.
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(b) If the directions are opposite then
addition of numbers takes place.
1. GENERAL SERIES OF
ALPHABET eer
SHORTCUT METHOD FOR ABOVE
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\ 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?
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EXAMPLE 2. If every 3rd letter from left to right of English alphabet is deleted,
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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
En
P Q RS T U V W X Y Z
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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 eer
M NN PP Q Q S ST TV V W WY ZY Z
1 21 32 34 45 5 6 6 7 7 88 9 10 10 1111 121213 1314 14
ing
15 15
It is clear, that 6th letter from left in the new series is H.
16 17
16 1817 18
ww æ 26 ö
çè 26 – ÷ø = 26 – 8 = 18 letters in the new series.
3
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Point to be noted here that we divide 26 by 2 as every 3rd letter is dropped and
26
26
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after division we take approximate value of
3
in round figure (approximate value
of
3
will be 8).
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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.
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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.
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
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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.
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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
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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
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in the 3rd segment and then add the 16 letters of 1st two segment to get the 18 th letter
in the new obtained series. From this, we find that 18th letter from left in the new
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
q Shortcut Approach
Case II: Remember that if mth and nth
gin = ê ú = 10th
ë2û
letter from the right in the English
alphabet are given then eer
letter from left in the English
alphabet = J.
Middle letter
divisible by 2. ing
Note : In case III (m – n) + 27 must be
æ m + nö
=ç
è 2 ÷ø
th letter from right
2. RANDOM SERIES OF
.ne
é
ë
æ m + nö ù
= ê 26 + 1 – ç
è 2 ÷ø úû
=
é æ m + nö ù
ê 27 – çè 2 ÷ø ú th
ë û
ALPHABET
This series is not in the proper
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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?
ü ü
\ Only the two times A fulfill the Sol. Here, we are asked to solve problem
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
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and you have to find out the number
of words to be formed out of some
letters drawn from that particular
word. En The above presentation makes it
clear that the required pairs of letters
EXAMPLE 8. How many meaningful gin are 4. (Pairs: DA, EA, ML and LN)
C O N T R O V E R S I A L
‘DREAMLAND’ which have the same
number of letters between them as in .ne
3
rd
4th 6th 8th
Now, from letters N, T, O and E,
the English alphabet in the same
sequence.
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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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Following questions are based on the
five three-digit numbers given below:
713 361 458 932 724
divisibly by 2 ?
Sol. According to the question,
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11. If the positions of the first and the
third digits are interchanged in
Original Numbers : 7 1 3 3 6 1 4 5 8 9 3 2 7 2 4
New Arrangement : 7 3 1 3 1 6 4 8 5 9 2 3 7 4 2
each of these numbers, then which
of these will be an even number. En So, two numbers will be exactly
20 Coding-Decoding
Chapter
4 Coding-Decoding
INTRODUCTION Pattern 2:
In this segment of commonsense Coding in backward sequence.
reasoning, secret messages or words EXAMPLE 2. If ‘NAME’ is coded as
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have to be decoded. They are coded as
per a definite pattern/ rule which should
‘MZLD’, then how will code 'SAME'?
Sol. Here, every letter of the word
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be identified first. Then the same is
applied to decode another coded word.
‘MZLD’ moves one place in
backward alphabet sequence. Let us
see:
TYPE-1 CODING BY LETTER
SHIFTING
asy N A M E
En –1 –1 –1 –1
Pattern 1:
Coding in forward sequence gin M Z L D
Similarly, every letter of the word
‘SAME’ will move one place in
Coding-Decoding 21
Similarly, ‘DEEP’ can be coded. Let
EXAMPLE 5. If ‘TEMPERATURE’ is
us see :
coded as ‘ERUTAREPMET’, then how
D E E P will you code ‘EDUCATION’ following
+3 +3 +3 +3 the same scheme.
Sol. Here, the word ‘TEMPERATURE’
G H H S has been reversed. Hence, the code for
\ Code for ‘DEEP’ will be ‘GHHS’. ‘EDUCATION’ will be ‘NOITACUDE’.
q Shortcut Approach TYPE 4 : CODING IN FICTION
• Observe alphabets given in the LANGUAGE
code carefully.
In some cases of coding-decoding,
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•
•
Find the sequence it follows
whether it is ascending/descending
Detect the rule in which the
fictions language is used to code some
words. In such questions, the codes for
•
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alphabets follow.
Fill the appropriate letter in the
a group of words is given. In such types
of problems, codes for each word can be
found by eliminating the common words.
blank given.
asy EXAMPLE 6. In a certain code
TYPE-2 : CODING BY
SUBSTITUTION En language ‘over and above’ is written as
‘da pa ta’ and ‘old and beautiful’ is written
In this coding, some words are replaced gin
as ‘Sa na pa’. How is ‘over’ written in
that code language?
by some substituted words and on the
basis of substituted word the code is eer
Sol. Over and above ® da Pa ta
derived.
EXAMPLE 4. If 'cages' are called ing
Old and beautiful ® Sa na Pa
22 Coding-Decoding
• Now, find the common words and EXAMPLE 8. In a certain code 3 is
their corresponding codes. coded as ‘R’, 4 is coded as ‘D’, 5 is coded
• Encircle each pair with the same as ‘N’, 6 is coded as ‘P’, then find the
code for ‘53446’.
shape.
Sol. As per the given condition
• Finally, we have each word and
its corresponding code. 3 4 5 6
R D N P
TYPE-5 : CODING BASED
5 3 4 4 6
ON NUMBERS Now,
N R D D P
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Pattern 1:
When numerical values are given to words.
\ Code for 53446 = NRDDP.
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EXAMPLE 7. If in a certain language
TYPE-6 : MATHEMATICAL
OPERATIONS WITH THE
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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.
En EXAMPLE 9. In a certain code, if
Sol. As given the letters are coded as
below: gin
‘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?
eer
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
ing
Sol. Look at the numbered alphabet
and write down the number
Now,
A E E C D
corresponding to the letters of the
word ‘TALE’. .ne
1 5
Pattern 2: C A M E
3 + 1 + 13 + 5 = 22
When alphabetical code value are given
for numbers. \ Code for ‘CAME’ = 22
Coding-Decoding 23
Remember Matrix I
• If the letters in the code look the 0 1 2 3 4
same as in the original text, it will be 0 I A U E O
a scramble type coding. 1 E U O A I
2 O A I E U
• If more than one codes are given
3 E U A O I
then likely the required code can be
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
w.E
are summed up until the one digit
number is arrived at.
8
9
M
N
L
R
K
L
R
K
N
M
EXAMPLE 10.
U
K
L
® 02, 11, 24, 31, 44
® 55, 67, 75, 87, 98
® 57, 69, 78, 86, 97
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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
24 Blood Relations
Chapter
5 Blood Relations
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
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biological parents of their own children.
Similarly, brother, sister, paternal
Uncles (Brothers of father), Aunts
(sisters of father) etc.
(c) Future generations of father:
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grandfather, paternal grandmother
maternal grandfather, maternal
grandmother, grandson, granddaughter,
Sons, daughters, grandsons,
granddaughters etc.
asy
niece, cousin etc. are our blood relatives.
(ii) Blood relation from
maternal side:
TYPES OF BLOOD
RELATIONS En This type of blood relations can
also be subdivided into three
Blood Relations 25
10 Mother of father Grandmother
11 Mother of father's mother Great grandmother
12 Mother of grandmother Great grandmother
13 Father of mother Maternal grandfather
14 Father of mother's father Great maternal grand father
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18 Mother of maternal grandmother
19 Wife of father
Great maternal grandmother
Mother
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20 Husband of mother
21 Wife of Grandfather
Father
Grandmother
23 Wife of son
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22 Husband of Grandmother Grandfather
Daughter-in-law
24 Husband of daughter
En Son-in-law
25 Brother of Husband
26 Brother of wife gin Brother-in-law
Brother-in-law
27 Sister of Husband
eer
Sister-in-law
28 Sister of wife
29 Son of brother
Sister-in-law
Nephew ing
30 Daughter of brother Niece
.ne
31 Wife of brother
32 Husband of sister
33 Son of sister
Sister-in-law
Brother-in-law
Nephew
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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
26 Blood Relations
ww grandfather/ grandmother
47 Daughters in law of Aunt other than mother
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grandfather/ grandmother
48 Daughters-in-law of Aunt maternal
asy
maternal grandfather/
49 Neither brother nor sister
grandmother
Self
En
Some Important Information
about Blood Relation gin the Hindu Community ‘Suman’ is
the name of both male and female.
A. Without the information of gender,
no relationship can be established eer
q Shortcut Approach
•
between two people. For example,
If given that R is the child of P & ing
While solving blood relation
based question, first of all find out
Q, then we can only say that P &
Q are the parents of R. But we can
that two persons between whom
a relationship has to be
.ne
not find out:
(i) R is the son of P & Q or R is
the daughter of P & Q.
•
•
established.
Next, try to find out middle relation.
Finally, find out the relationship
t
(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
Blood Relations 27
only daughter of mother of my brother’s Family tree :
sister.” How is Mr. Sharma related to the
– +
lady in the photograph? A+ C Q
Sol. Here, we have to find relationship
between Mr. Sharma & the lady in
the photograph.
Mother of my brother’s sister does
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
ww Sharma”.
q Shortcut Approach
between C & Q has been presented as
(C –
— Q+ ) where ‘–’ sign above C
• w.E
Read the statement from right to
left to develop the relation by
makes it clear that C is a female and ‘+’
sign above ‘Q’ makes it clear that Q is a
asy
using blood relation table. male. Similarly, for R and D. The
(2) Blood Relation based on
Family Tree En æ+ ö
presentation ç R — D- ÷ has been
è ø
EXAMPLE 2. Q is the brother of C and
gin
made. Further according to the question,
C is the sister of Q. R and D are brother
and sister. R is the son of A while A & C eer
A and C are having a husband and wife
relationship and hence this has been
are wife and husband. How is Q related
with D.
æ+ ö ing
presented as ç A Û C - ÷ . As it is already
Sol. For such type of question a family
tree is made in which some
è ø
.ne
given that C is the sister of Q and A and
symbols are used as below:
‘ Û’ is used for husband & wife.
C are wife and husband, this becomes
clear that A is the male member of the
family and this is the reason A has ‘+’ as
t
‘___’ 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.
28 Blood Relations
q Shorcut Approach relate every statement to
'yourself'. The starting name of
• Follow the symbols for male (+)
the statement could be assumed
and (–) female. as your name or you.
• Remember the generations and • When the statement is very long,
relations. it can get confusing. So, break
Note : In solving family tree based down every statement in the
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
ww
husband of Q, P/Q means P is the sister
of Q, P*Q means P is the son of Q. flow •
question.
Draw a family tree where people
w.E
is D related to A in D*B + C/A ?
Sol. C/A – C is sister of A.
B + C/A – B is brother-in-law of A
of the same generation are placed
at the same level and the entire
asy
(Sister's husband – broter-in-law)
D*B + C/A – D is nephew of A
diagram is in the form of a
hierarchy.
(Sister's husband's son means
sister's son i.e., nephew) En Remember
So, D is nephew to A.
Shortcut Method :
•
gin Concentrate on points which give
maximum definite information.
By using symbols and generation
relations :
•
eer
Read the questions carefully and
try identifying the persons
B
Couple
C
Sister
A ing
between whom relationship is to
be established. Possibly put
(+) (–)
w
it becomes easy for you to .ne
yourself in given character so that
D
Son
(+)
Ne
phe
•
understand.
Whilst concluding the relationship
between two people be careful
t
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.
ebooks Reference Page No.
Chapter
Direction and
6 Distance
INTRODUCTION Direction Map
This part of reasoning comes under the North
category of common sense reasoning.
North-West North-East
ww
In fact, this segment gauges the sense
of direction of a candidate.
w.E
CONCEPT OF DIRECTION West East
w.E
Right turn Left turn
• If our face is towards South, then
after left turn our face will be towards
East and after right turn it will be
asy
Right turn
Left turn
towards West.
Right turn
Left turn
eer
• If our face is towards West, then
after left turn our face will be towards
Right turn Left turn
towards North.
ing
South and after right turn it will be
.ne
• If our face is towards North-West,
then after left turn our face will be
(iii) (iv) towards South-West and after right
turn it will be towards North-East.
• If our face is towards South-West,
t
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.
ww
b = Base
P = Perpendicular
B b C In Morning/Sunrise Time
(a) If a person facing towards Sun, the
w.E
Remember this important rule is
known as ‘Pythogoras Theorem’
shadow will be towards his back
or in West.
asy
EXAMPLE 2. Rashmi walks 10 km
(b) If a person facing towards South,
the shadow will be towards his
En
towards North. She walks 6 km towards
South then. From here she moves 3 km (c)
right.
If a person facing towards West,
towards East. How far and in which
direction is she with reference to her gin the shadow will be towards his
front.
starting point?
Sol. It is clear, Rashmi moves from A 10
(d)
eer
If a person facing towards North,
w.E 2m
• Show, check and verify the
direction and distance of you
from starting point.
asy
int
g po
2m
En
tin
r
Sta
gin
5m
eer
ebooks Reference
ing
Page No.
Chapter
Time Sequence, Number
7 & Ranking Test
ww
following informations :
1 Minute = 60 seconds
1 Hour = 60 minutes
year has 1 odd day.
Remember gin
Odd days in a leap year = 2
Odd days in 100 years = 5
• A day is the period of the earth’s
revolution on its axis. eer
Odd days in 200 years = (5 × 2)
= 1 week + 3 days = 3
• A ‘Solar year’ is the time taken the
earth to travel round the sun. It is ing
Odd days in 300 years = (5 × 3)
= 2 weeks + 1 day = 1
equal to 365 days, 5 hours, 48
1
Odd days in 400 years = (5 × 4 + 1)
= 21 days .ne
•
minutes and 47 seconds nearly..
2
A ‘Lunar month’ is the time taken
= 3 weeks + 0 day = 0
Similarly, each 800, 1600, 2000, 2004, etc.
has 0 odd days.
t
by the moon to travel round the
earth. It is equal to nearly 28 days. EXAMPLE 1. Neena returned home
Remember
w.E
Clearly, two such 8s are there.
q Shortcut Approach
asy
There is no rule as how to attempt these
questions but we can practice these
Same for Vertical &
Horizontal
questions :
Left < > Right En (1)
(2)
Total + 1 = Top + Bottom
Top = Total + 1 – Bottom
A B C
gin
(3) Botom = Total + 1 – Top
w.E
TYPES OF SEQUENCE
2. Forest
3. Wood
4. Country
asy
(i) Sequence of occurence of
events or various stages in a 5. Trees
Sol. Country ® Forest ® Trees®
process.
En Wood ® Furniture.
EXAMPLE 1. Consultation
2. Illness
gin
(iv) Sequential order of words
According to Dictionary
3. Doctor
4. Treatment EXAMPLE
eer
1. Direct
2. Divide
5. Recovery
Sol. Clearly illness occurs first. One 3. Divest
4. Devine
ing
then goes to a doctor and after
consultation with him, 5. Divisons
.ne
undergoes treatment to finally
attain recovery.
(ii) Sequence of objects in a
Sol. Devine ® Direct ® Divest ®
Divide ® Divisons.
q Shortcut Approach
t
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
ebooks Reference Page No.
Chapter
Number Puzzles
9
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 ?
ww
rule for their different number. We have
then asked to find a missing number by
using same rule. 97
103
w.E
TYPES OF NUMBER PUZZLE
PATTERN 1 : SINGLE FIGURE
(ii) (iii)
Here, a series of figure is given. Checking
PATTERN
4
asy the pattern in the first two figures, we
have to find missing number in the third.
416 10
En If we observe the first two figure
685
?
33
gin
properly, we get an idea of the pattern.
As, 110 + 30 – 75 = 65, 97 + 82 – 80 = 99
Here, a clockwise pattern is being
followed. If we move clockwise we can eer
So, 103 + 25 – 67 = 61.
q Shortcut Approach
see that numbers are increasing. If we
observe it more closely, we can crack the • ing
The first step is to observe the
pattern which is
As, 4 × 2 + 2 = 10, 10 × 3 + 3 = 33 .ne
figure and check if there is any
familiar pattern in the given
So, 33 × 4 + 4 = 136
PATTERN 2 : MULTIPLE FIGURE
PATTERN •
question.
The second step is finding out the
pattern.
t
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)
ebooks Reference Page No.
Venn Diagram 37
Chapter
10 Venn Diagram
INT RODUCTION EXAMPLE
Venn diagrams are pictorial way of
represent the set of article. There are
different regions which needs proper 2
ww
understanding for solving problems
based on given Venn diagrams.
1
3
w.E
TYPES OF VENN DIAGRAM
– represents student passed
in English
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
38 Venn Diagram
EXAMPLE EXAMPLE
I – Mango
Engineer Doctor II – Fruit
Here, all mango are fruit.
1 5 2
q Shortcut Approach
7 If two classes of item are completely
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.
ww 1 ® Engineer III
w.E
2 ® Doctor
3 ® Farmer
I II
asy
4 ® Doctor who is farmer also
5 ® Engineer who is doctor also EXAMPLE
En
6 ® Engineer who is farmer also I – represent potato
7 ® Person who is Engineer,
doctor and farmer. gin II – represent onion
III – represent vegetable
(ii) Identification of Relation Based eer
q Shortcut Approach
Venn Diagram -
In this type, some standard
•
ing
If two group of items having some
common relationship and both of
representations for groups of
three items with different cases
them are all included in third
class then the relationship is.ne
of venn diagrams are given.
q Shortcut Approach
represented by the diagram.
III
t
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.
Venn Diagram 39
q Shortcut Approach EXAMPLE
ww I II III
w.E III
I – Cricketer
II – Player gin
q Shortcut Approach
When group of items are completely
III – Farmer
All cricketers are players but eer
different from each other
farmers not.
q Shortcut Approach
I ing II
I II
III t
EXAMPLE
Chapter
Mathematical Operation
11 Arithmetical Reasoning
ww
another form by either interchanging the
symbol or using different symbol in
subtraction, then which of the following
equation is correct?
w.E
place of usual symbol and then calculate
the equation according to the given
(a) 36 × 6 + 7 ¸ 2 – 6 = 20
(b) 36 + 6 – 3 × 5 ¸ 3 = 24
(c) 36 ¸ 6 + 3 × 5 – 3 = 45
condition.
Remember
asy Sol.
(d) 36 – 6 + 3 × 5 ¸ 3 = 74
36 × 6 ¸ 3 + 5 – 3
A - Addition
S - Subtraction
EXAMPLE 2. Given interchange :
sign ‘+’ and ‘–’and numbers 5 and 8.
Which of the following is correct?
t
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.
ww
• Begin with replacin g coded
operators with their meanings.
Amar, Akbar and Anthony is 80 years.
What was the total of their ages three
w.E
Write the entire expressions with
correct operators and operand.
years ago ?
Sol. Here, required sum = (80 – 3 x 3)
•
asy
When sowing always remember
VBODMAS.
years = (80 – 9) years
= 71 years.
•
En
If any interchnages are suggested,
apply then before you start soling. q Shortcut Approach
42 Coded Inequalities
Chapter
Coded Inequalities
12
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
ww
multiplication between 3 and 3 is equal
to 9. Therefore, 3 × 3 = 9 is a case of
m ³ n means m is either greater than or
equal to n.
w.E
equality. But when we multiply 3 × 4, we
get 12 as a result of this multiplication. It
m £ n means n is either less or equal to
m.
Hence, we can summarise the signs to
does mean that
3× 4¹9 asy be used in inequalities as below:
En
As 3 × 4, is not equal to 9, it is a case of
inequality.
‘=’ denots equal to
‘>’ denots greater than
When, we come to know that one thing
is not equal to another; there can be only gin
‘³’ denots greater than or equal to
‘<’ denots less than
two possibilities:-
(i) One thing is greater than another eer
‘£’ denots less than or equal to
thing.
or
CHAIN OF INEQUALITIES
ing
Sometimes two or more inequalities are
(ii) One thing is less than the another
thing. .ne
combined together to create a single
inequality having three or more terms.
When, we denote (i) and (ii) mathematically,
then we will write.
(i) One thing > another thing.
Such combination is called chain of
inequalities. t
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.
Coded Inequalities 43
Condition II: Two inequalities will be Clearly, (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv) can not be
combined if and only if combined as they do not have any
the common term is common term and therefore, they do not
greater than (or ‘greater’ follow condition I and condition II.
than or equal to’) one and How to Derive Conclusions
less than (or ‘less than or
from a Combined Inequalities?
equal to’) the other.
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,
ww
Here,
14 > 13 > 12
(a) If we have
m>l>n
asy
Clearly, 14 > 13 and 13 > 12 have common
term 13 and this common term is greater (b)
m>n
When, we have
44 Coded Inequalities
In this case, m is always greater Remember
than l and l is either greater than
n or equal to it. When l is greater
• If m > n, then n < m must be true.
than n; m will obviously be greater
• If m < n, then n > m must be true.
than n. Even when l is equal to n; • If m ³ n, then n £ m must be true.
m will be greater than n as m is • If m £ n, then n ³ m must be true.
always greater than l. EITHER CHOICE RULES
\ 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
ww Here, m is either greater than l or
equal to l.
follows” is true.
II. If neither of the given conclusions
w.E
When m is greater than l; we have m > l
³ n, which gives the conclusion.
seems correct. Then try to check if
the given conclusions form a
complementary pair. Given
m>n
asy
When m is equal to l; we have
— (A) conclusions form a complementary
pair in the 4 cases given below:-
m = l ³ n, which gives the conclusion
En (i) m ³ n and m < n
(ii) m > n and m £ n
m ³ n — (B)
gin (iii) m £ n and m > n
(iv) m < n and m ³ n
Combining (A) and (B), we have the final
conclusion as is correct.eer
In such case, the choice “either follows”
Coded Inequalities 45
GOLDEN RULE: Now in each of following questions,
assuming the given statements to be
The conclusion — inequality is
true, find which of the two conclusions I
obtained by letting the common term
and II given below them is/are definitely
be eliminated and it has a ‘³’ or a ‘£’
true.
sign if and only if both the inequalities
in 2nd step had a ‘³’ or a ‘£’ sign. In all Give answer :
other cases, there will be a ‘>’ or a ‘<’ (a) if only conclusion I is true;
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.
ww
does not happen so, then you have to
perform 4 more new steps given below:
Statements : P © T, M $ K, T = K
Conclusions : I. T © M II. T = M
w.E
New Step I: Check if the given
conclusion directly
Sol. Given statements :
P > T, M £ K, T = K.
asy
follows from anyone
single statement.
T = K, K ³ M Þ T ³ M
Þ T > M or T = M Complementary
New Step II: Check if the conclusion
En
— inequality you get is
Þ T © M or T = M pair
So, either I or II is true.
essentially as same as the
given conclusion but gin
DIRECT INEQUALITY
written differently.
New Step III: Check if the derived eer
In this type of questions, direct relation
conclusion follows
‘Either choice Rule I’. ing
between two or more than two elements
are given in a meaningful inequality.
New Step IV: If neither of the
conclusions has been .ne
Candidates are required to establish the
relation between elements with the help
proved correct till now,
then check ‘Either choice
Rule II’.
of used signs between the elements.
EXAMPLE 2 : Which of the following
t
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
46 Coded Inequalities
Remember EXAMPLE
Inequality depends upon combining
If A ³ B £ C then
more than two element with a common
A £ C = False, C ³ A = False
term. Now observe the below diagram
thoroughly But
Accordance to this diagram If A ³ B ³ C then
Definite Conclusion A ³ C = True, C £ A = True.
· >= ®> · <=®< Statement: B ³ D £ A ³ F ³ C
· ³=®³ · £=®£ Conclusions :
· ³>®> · £<®< I. A ³ C ® True
· <=£®< · >=³®> II. B £ F ® False
ww
Indefinite Conclusion
· > < ® No relation · ³ £ ® No relation
· > £ ® No relation · ³ < ® No relation
III. D ³ C ® False
w.E
q Shortcut Approach
q Shortcut Approach
Case 3. Sets Priority
Case 1. < OR >
asy
Two signs opposite to each other will
1st Priority : < or >
2nd Priority: £ or ³
make the conclusion wrong But again
En 3rd Priority: =
Statement: P ³ R > Q = T ³ S
if the signs are in same manner that will
not make it wrong. gin
Conclusions :
EXAMPLE
eer
I. P ³ Q ® False
II. P > Q ® True
If A > B < C > D then A < C = False,
C > A = False .
III. Q ³ S ® True
Case 4.
ing
But
If E > F > G > H then E > G = True , F > .ne
When it occurs to you that the statement
H = True , E > H = True.
Statement: A < D > C < E > B
Conclusions:
of order is opposite just change the
sign into similar opposite direction.
Then change the sign into similar
t
• 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
Coded Inequalities 47
q Shortcut Approach
Case 5. > or < and ³ or £ conclusions are wrong then if it is there
Whenever there is two conclusions then check whether the two variables
which are false then check for these are same. If It happens then write it as
two symbols (> or < and ³ or £). In 'Either or' but after checking their
most of case where two conclusions symbols.
are false and these two similar signs Rules:
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
ww
(A) Either Or :
Note : First thing need to check whether
in conclusion any two or mor e
write it as 'Either Or' Other wise leave it.
Note : If Rule 3 is satisfied than the
conclusions are called 'Either Or'.
w.E Step 2. Both
conclusions
asy
Statement :
Conclusion :
W<X£Y>Z
I. W < Z ×
Either Or
are false
En
II. W ³ Z ×
Step 3. Check symbols
Step 1. Check both variable
should be same gin like
a) '<&=' or '> & =' together
Statement :
Conclusion :
H= W£R>F
I.R = H
2. Check the symbols ing
1. Both conclusion should False
Statement :
II.R > H
H> L= E < T
Either Or
.ne
If both the rules are satisfied then write
it as " Neither Nor' other wise leave it.
Conclusion :
Statement :
I.H £ T
II.H > T
S< T³R³M
Either Or
EXAMPLE
Statement : P > Q ³ S = R
Conclusion : I. P ³ R
Neither nor
t
Conclusion : I.M < T II. R > Q
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.
48 Problem Solving
Chapter
13 Problem Solving
ww
series of interlinked information and on
the basis of those informations you
would be expected to reach certain
1. Simple problems (based on
categorisation)
w.E
conclusions. 2. Problems based on arrangement
(Linear, circular, rectangular/
TYPES OF INFORMATIONS
IN A GIVEN PROBLEM asy 3.
square).
Problems based on comparison.
Problem Solving 49
Q. Which two cities are industrial centres ?
Sol. It can be solved by preparing a table in the manner given below:
L M N O P Q
Historical
place
Industrial
city
Hill station
(2), (3), (4), (5) are negative informations. Therefore as per such informations.
ww We put ‘X’ (not) mark wherever applicable. As a result the table looks like the
one below.
w.E L M N O P Q
place asy
Historical
× × × ×
Industrial
city En ×
Hill station ×
gin
eer
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
ing
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:-
.ne
Historical
place
L
×
M
×
N O
×
P
×
Q
t
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.
50 Problem Solving
L M N O P Q
Historical × × P × × P
place
Industrial P × P × P P
city
Hill × P P P P P
station
ww
2. PROBLEMS BASED ON ARRANGEMENT
w.E
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
asy
En
(A) When direction of face is not clear, then we take ourself as base and then the
diagram will be as follows
gin
Face Face Face Face
eer
Face
Left
A B C D E ing
Right
Middle .ne
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.
t
(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
Problem Solving 51
two rows sequence and select the possibilities
Let us see 6 persons seating in two rows which does not violate any
P Q R condition.
Right Left
EXAMPLE 2. Directions : Just read
the following information
carefully to answer the questions
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.
ww
(iii) R is sitting opposite U.
(iv) P and U are sitting at diagonally
(2)
(3)
R is sitting next to S.
S is not sitting with T.
w.E
opposite positions.
(v) S and R are sitting diagonally
(4)
(5)
T is on the last end of the bench.
R is on the 2nd position from the
right.
asy
opposite positions.
Note: Point to be noted that in
arrangement problems, the actual
(6)
(7)
P is on the right of Q and T.
P and R are sitting together.
information can be classified into 2
En Q. All what position is P sitting?
categories:-
(a) Definite information gin
Sol.
Her e, 4th and 5th sentences
A definite information is one when
the place of object/man is eer
constitute definite information:
Comparative informations are: 1st,
definitely mentioned.
(b) Comparative information ing
2nd, 6th and 7th sentences while 3rd
is a negative information.
In such information the place of
object/man is not mentioned .ne
Now, start with definite information,
sketch the following arrangement:-
definitely but only a comparative
position is given. In other words
the positions of objects/men are
T __ __ R __
Now, this is the time to look for the
comparative informations that tell
t
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.
52 Problem Solving
Circular Arrangement
Circle is the most important case from the exam point of view. Most of the times
Circle kind of statements are there in exams.
From the exam point of view, in most cases they give 8 persons sitting in the circle.
But before solving the important thing is their ' Sitting Position '.
Step 1. Knowing NEWS! N= North , E= East , W=West , S= South
N
W E
S
ww
To remember this just remember combination ' North - South ' & ' West - East ' which
comes together to each other respectively.
w.E
Step 2 : Picking Left & Right .
• Facing Center
Clock wise = Left
• Facing Outside
asy
N
Anti - Clock wise = Right
N
NW NE
En NW NE
W E
gin W E
SW
S
SE SW eer
S
SE
ing
If it is mention in the statement that all is
facing outside then just do opposite of .ne
above like this:
Clock wise = Right & Anti-clock wise •
Left Right
Problem Solving 53
® Now, P is second to right of 3. PROBLEMS BASED ON
Q. The right of Q is your right side. COMPARISON
So, place P two places from Q
In such problems comparison of
towards its right. different objects or persons has to
be made. Such comparisions are
P done on the basis of marks, ages
Right heights, etc.
Left
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
ww
following information carefully and
answer the question given below.
same as the arrangement problems.
Therefore, we have to go like
w.E
Bunty, Dev, Manav, Kavya, Payal,
Qasturba, Wasir and Himmat are sitting
arrangement problem while solving
problems based on comparison.
asy
around a circle facing at the centre.
Manav is to the immediate right of Bunty
EXAMPLE 4. Directions : Read the
informations given below to
En
who is 4th to the right of Kavya. Payal
is 2nd to the left of Bunty and is 4th to
answer the given question:
(1) 7 students A, B, C, D, E, F and
the right of Wasir. Qasturba is 2nd to
the right of Dev who is 2nd to the right gin G take a series of tests.
(2) No two students obtain the
of Himmat.
eer
same marks.
(3) G always scores more than A.
Q. Who is 3rd to the right of Bunty?
Sol. ing
(4) A always scores more than B.
(5) Each time either C scores the
.ne
highest and E gets the least,
or alternatively D scores the
Himmat
Wasir
Manav
highest and F or B scores the
least.
t
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
54 Problem Solving
We see that the two additional or
informations (3) and (4) are inadequate +
to reach a definite conclusion. Hence, A B
–
or,
w.E C G AF B D E
So, if D is ranked 6th and B is ranked
5th, then f is ranked 3rd or 4th.
asy
+ –
D E
4. PROBLEMS BASED ON
BLOOD RELATION
En
–
G F+
Such problems involves analysis
of certain blood relations.
gin The above diagrams tells us:-
(a) A and B are couple; A is the
q Shortcut Approach
(i) Vertical/diagonal lines to eer
husband while B is the wife.
(b) D is son of A and B while E
represent parent-child
relationships. ing
is daughter of A and B.
(c) D is the brother of E and E is
(ii) Single/double horizontal line
like ( « / Û) to represent
the sister of D.
(d) D has a son F .ne
marriages.
(iii) A dashed line (—) for brother
and sister relationship.
(e) F and G are couple; F is the
husband and G is the wife.
(f) F is the grandson of A and
t
(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:
Problem Solving 55
There are 6 members in a family. M
(–) (+)
O
They are M, N, O, P, Q, R are
travelling together. N is the son of
O but O is not the mother of N. M
and O are a married couple. Q is (–)
P N
(+)
the brother O. P is the daughter of
M. R is the brother of N. Now, we add the two sentences
Q. How many male members are there ‘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
(+)
w.E
begin with either of the two. Let
us begin with the 6th sentence. Our
diagram will be as
P
(–)
R
(+)
N
(+)
En 5. PROBLEMS BASED ON
BLOOD RELATIONS
P
(–)
gin
AND PROFESSION
As, we do not want to make many
diagrams and instead we would eer
Such problems are very much
similar to the problems related to
prefer to only add to the existing
diagsams. Therefore, we should ing
blood relation. What makes it
different is the addition of new
look for sentences that talk of M
or P. The 3rd sentence talks about
data:- the professions of family
members. You will get the more .ne
M. Hence, we add this
information, that M and O are
married couple in our diagram.
clear idea about this type of
problem.
EXAMPLE 6. Directions : Read the
t
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.
56 Problem Solving
(5) D is the grandmother of E and Now, the 4th sentence has the
is a housewife. remaining information and diagram
(6) There is one engineer, one for it is given below:-
lawyer, one teacher, one P
housewife and two students (+, Lawyer)
in the family.
Q. Who is the husband of A? P is a lawyer and
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 (? ?)
ww parent. Child relationship its
diagram can be made as the
Now, we see that we have ended
up with two different component.
B
(+, Eng)
w.E
following:- Then how to resolve this deadlock?
The answer is simple: - to resolve
it, we make use of the given useful
asy
B is an Engineer
secondary information (USI).
“There are two married couple in
En
and father of E the family.” Clearly, the two
possible pairs are of grandfather,
Problem Solving 57
E and C should be students. But Q. If there be 5 boys in the team, then
this conclusion can be challenged the lone girl member is ------
and has no reason at all. Sol. Make the group of all the pairs that
Apart from that the sexes of E and have to be together on one side
C can not be determined. So, B is and the pairs that must not be
husband of A. together on the other side. Next,
read each of the questions and
treat that as an additional
6. PROBLEMS BASED ON
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
w.E
will get the better idea of such type
of problem from the problem given
conditions in the following way:-
J, M S,T
below:-
asy
EXAMPLE 7. Directions : Study the
(+ )(+ ) (-)(-)
K, R L, Q
® Group
'must be together '.
following information carefully
and answer the question given En (+ )(-) (+ )(-)
L, S, K, N, M, P
below:-
From, amongst 6 boys J, K, L, M,
gin
(+) (–) (+) (+) (+) (–1) ® Group never
be together’
N, and O and 5 girls P, Q, R, S and
eer
Here, number of boys are 5. We
see than K and N can never be
T, a team of 6 is to be selected
under the following conditions:- ing
together. Therefore, there are only
two ways of selecting 5 boys:-
(i) J and M have to be together.
(ii) L can not go with S.
JKLMO and JNLMO. But the
.ne
possiblity is not possible because
(iii) S and T have to be together.
(iv) K can not be teamed with N.
(v) M cannot go with P.
if K would go then R should also
go, and if L goes than Q should
also go. Hence, JNLMO is the only
t
(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.
Chapter
ww
They are not very tough stuff but take a
good deal of time to be solved or
Shifting does mean an operation in which
words or numbers of a given input give
w.E
sometimes students do not take attempt
to solve them because of time consuming
impression of such type of questions.
outputs in different steps through
shifting their place to different place as
per a fixed pattern.
asy
But proper understanding of the subject
makes you believe that such problems
Note : In shifting problems, the previous
step of any step can possibly be
they seem. En
are not as tough and time consuming as
determined, so we can move in backward
OUTPUT PROBLEMS
eer
Methods to Solve
Lets take an example
In such problems:
(a) It is imagined that there is some ing
Input : Blue Cat Good Other Have Cake
Step 1 : Blue Other Good Cat Have Cake
kind of computer/word processing
machine. .ne
Step 2 : Blue Other Have Cat Good Cake
Step 3 : Cake Other Have Cat Good Blue
(b) An input is given to the computer/
word processing machine
(c) The computer/word processing
Step 4 : Cake Cat Have Other Good Blue
Step 5 : Cake Cat Good Other Have Blue
Step 6 : Blue Cat Good Other Have Cake
t
machine performs repeated
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.
PROBLEMS ON ARRANGEMENTS
1. Word Arrangement from Left Side:
EXAMPLE :
asy
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
En
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
gin
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
eer
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
ing
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.
.ne
2. Word Arrangement from Right:
EXAMPLE :
t
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
ww Step I: a
Step II: a
Sachin
is
is great
great cricket player
cricket player
Sachin
w.E
Step III: a
Step IV: a
cricket
cricket
is
great is
great player
player
Sachin
Sachin
asy
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
En
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
gin
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
eer
takes last position (1st from right). In step III, the word coming 2 nd in dictionary
is ‘cricket’ that comes at 2nd position from left. In step IV, the word coming 3rd
ing
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,
.ne
there is no need to arrange the word ‘great’ as it get arranged automatically is
step IV.
4. Arrangement in Increasing or Decreasing Order: t
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.
ww Step I:
Step II:
25
25
18
58
58
100
100
35
35
18
17
17
w.E
Step III:
Step IV:
58
100
100
58
35
35
25
25
18
18
17
17
5. asy
Number Arrangment from Left-Right Alternate:
En
Like words left-right alternate arrangement, number arrangement also takes
place. The process of this arrangement is exactly the same as the arrangement
gin
takes place in case of words. Just see the following cases:
Case I :
Input: 100 125 26 10 eer
15 35
Step I:
Step II:
10
10
100
100
125
26
26
15
15
35 ing
35
125
Step III:
Step IV:
10
10
15
15
100
26
26
35
35
100
125
125 .ne
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
t
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
ww
6. Arrangement of Words and Numbers Simultaneously:
w.E
Just see the following outputs produced by a word and number machine.
Case I
Input:
Step I: 32
50
asy
32
50
Vandana Prerna
Vandana Prerna
Aradhna 100
Aradhna 100
Step II: 32
Step III: 32
Aradhna 50
Aradhna 50 En Vandana
Prerna
Prerna
Vandana 100
100
eer
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
ing
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
.ne
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
t
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:
Input: 50 32 Vandana Prerna Aradhna 100
Step I: 100 50 32 Vandana Prerna Aradhna
Step II: 100 Vandana 50 32 Prerna Aradhna
Step III: 100 Vandana 50 Prerna 32 Aradhan
ww 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
w.E
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: asy
Input:
Step I:
50
Vandana
32
50En Vandana Prerna
32 Prerna
Aradhna 100
Aradhna 100
Step II: Vandana 100 50 gin 32 Prerna Aradhna
Step III: Vandana
Step IV: Vandana
100 Prerna
100 Prerna
50
50eer 32
Aradhna 32
Aradhna
ing
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
.ne
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
t
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:
Input: 50 32 Vandana Prerna Aradhna 100
Step I: 32 50 Vandana Prerna Aradhna 100
Step II: 32 Vandana 50 Prerna Aradhna 100
Step III: 32 Vandana 50 Prerna 100 Aradhna
ww Step II:
Step III:
100
100
Aradhna
Aradhna
50
50
32
Prerna
Vandana
32
Prerna
Vandana
w.E
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
asy
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
En
(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.
gin
7. Arrangement Based on the Number of Letters in Words:
eer
Just have a look at the following patterns:
Case I : ing
Input:
Step I: be
let pattern love
let
fried
pattern love
be
fried
mature
mature .ne
Step II: be
Step III: be
let
let
love
love
pattern fried
fried
mature
pattern mature
t
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’.
ww word having the least number of letters occupies the last position from left.
Case III:
w.E
Input:
Step I:
let
a
pattern gate
let
a
pattern gate
set
set
be
be
hope
hope
Step II:
Step III:
a
a asy
be
be
let
let
pattern gate
set
set
pattern gate
hope
hope
Step IV:
Step V:
a
a
be
be En
let
let
set
set
gate
gate
pattern hope
hope pattern
gin
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
eer
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
ing
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’.
.ne
Case IV:
Input:
Step I:
let
pattern
pattern gate
let gate
a
a
set be
set be
hope
hope
t
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’.
w.E
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
asy
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.
En
This type of cases can also be seen in number arrangements and in the
gin
arrangements of numbers and words simultaneously. The examples of these
type of arrangements are given below:
Step II: 11 20 50 25 35
Step III: 11 20 25 50 35
Step IV: 11 20 25 35 50
Step I: 50 11 25 20 35
ww
w.E
Step II: 50 35 25 20 11
asy
PROBLEMS OF MATHEMATICAL OPERATION—
En
gin
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 eer
Input : 44 35 18 67 22 28 ing
36
Step I : 36 27 10 59 14 20 28
.ne
Step II :
Step III :
16
132
15
105
8
54
42
201
4
66
16
84
18
108 t
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.
ww Step IV :
Step V :
ee
ery
o
w
a
d
e
en
ae
me
w.E
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.
asy
q Shortcut Approach
En
1.
gin
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
2.
in various steps of rearrangement.
eer
In order to know what changes have been made in each step, observe two
3.
consecutive steps carefully.
ing
Now, correlate the input, the last step and anyone of the middle steps. This
4.
will enable you to identify the rule of arrangement.
In shifting problems, it is possible to determine the previous/earlier steps .ne
5.
including input. We can proceed/move backward or in reverse direction in
shifting problems.
In shifting problems for convenience, we assign numeric value to given words.
t
ebooks Reference Page No.
Syllogism 69
Chapter
15 Syllogism
eer
(c) The relation between subject and
predicate
Subject Predicate
CATEGORICAL PROPOSITIONing
(ii) “No cat is rat ” “All M are P”
.ne
Let us see the sentences given below :
Subject Predicate
“No M are P”
“Some M are P”
t
“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”
70 Syllogism
TYPES OF CATEGORICAL PROPOSITION:
Categorical proposition
Universal Particular
ww All M are P
(A type)
No M are P Some M are P Some M are not P
(E type) (I type) (O type)
w.E
Therefore, it is clear, that universal
propositions either completely include P
asy
the subject (A type) or completely
exclude it (E type). On the other hand, Some M are P (I type):
En
particular propositions either only partly
include the subject (I type) or only partly
Either:
exclude the subject (O type).
Now, we can summarise the four types gin M P
of propositions to be used while solving
the problems of syllogism : eer
Format
All M are P
Type
A ing
Some M are P
[Some M are not P]
No M are P
Some M are P
E
I
Or :
M
.ne
Some M are not P
q Shortcut Approach
O
P t
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:
Syllogism 71
EXAMPLE
P No one (student) is studious.
M [No student is studious]
(i) A negative sen tence with a
Some M are not P particular person as its subject is
[All P are M] E type propoistion.
Apart from ‘all’ it starts with every, Amitabh Bacchan is not a great actor.
(i) asy
[All girls are beautiful.]
A positive sen tence with a
“No student except
definite exception
A type. En
particular person as its subject is
Reena has failed”
He should be amended Bharat Ratna gin “Is there any truth left in the
eer
world”
[No truth is left in the world.]
Subject Predicate (C) I type:
ing
Amitabh Bacchan is a great actor.
.ne
Apart from some it also starts with
words such as often, frequently,
(ii)
Subject Predicate
A sentence in with a definite
almost, generally, mostly, a few,
most etc.
EXAMPLE
t
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.
72 Syllogism
Just see the other formates given below Also, see the following formates :
w.E
[Some girls have passed]
Therefore, a positive proposition with
No women except a few are housewife.
Syllogism 73
Note : General format given above are After conversion it becomes
frequently asked formats in the
Subject Predicate
examinations. But students must be
ready for other hidden formates of A,
E, I and O types of propositions as “Some P are M ” (I type)
problems in hidden formates can also
be given in question papers. Therefore, I gets converted into I.
(iv) Conversion of O type :
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
ww
all A, E, O, and I types of propositions :
(i) Conversion of A type :
becomes subject.
In fact, conversion is an immediate
w.E
Subject Predicate
inference that is drawn from a single
proposition while inference drawn from
gin
Table of conversion :
Type of Ge t conve rte d into
“Some P are M
Therefore, it is clear that A type of
” (I type)
A eer
proposition
I
propositions get converted into I type.
(ii) Conversion of E type :
E
I
E
I ing
Subject Predicate O
.ne
Never get converted
74 Syllogism
Conclusion Table
I Proposition II Proposition Conclusion
A A A
A E E
E A (O)R
E I (O)R
I A I
I E O
Note : EXAMPLE
(a) Apart from above 6 pairs of
ww propositions, no other pair will
give any conclusion.
Statements :
I. No pen is chair..
w.E
(b) The conclusion drawn out of two
propositions is itself a proposition II. Some tables are pen .
asy
and its subject is the subject of
the Ist statement while its
predicate is the predicate of the
EXAMPLE
Syllogism 75
Here, the common term cute is the METHODS:
predicate of the I statement and subject (1) By Analytical Method
of the 2nd statement. Therefore, the two (2) By Venn Diagram
statements (I & II) are properly aligned. (1) Analytical method :
But see another example. This method has two main steps:
Statements : (a) Aligning the pair of sentences.
I. Some bats are chairs. (b) Using conclusion table to
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.
II. All rats are men.
ww
the subject of the 2nd.
Then how to align it ? In such type of
cases we change the order of sentences.
When aligned it takes the form as
w.E
In another words we put I sentence in
place of II and II in place of I :
I.
II.
Some cats are rats [I type]
76 Syllogism
Conclusion (ii) is the conversion of METHOD TO SOLVE
conclusion (i) conclusion (iii) is the (a) 1st step is sketching all possible
immediate inference (conversion) of pictorial representation for the
statement I while conclusion (iv) is the statements separately.
conversion of conclusion (iii). (b) 2nd step is combining possible
Conclusion (v) is the immediate inference pairs of these representations of
(conversion) of statement II while all the statements into one.
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
ww
e conclusion part in the forms of sentence
given below:
supported by all the combined
figures in 2nd step.
w.E
(a) (i) Some cats are rats.
(ii) Some cats are not rats I - O pair
(b) (i) All cats are rats.
EXAMPLE
Statements :
asy
(ii) Some cats are not rats. A- O pair
(c) (i) Some cats are rats.
A. All chairs are books.
B. All books are ties.
(ii) No cats are rats.
En
I- E pair
Apart from I - O, A - O and I - E pair the
Conclusions :
I. Some ties are books.
two sentences must have some subject
and predicates as are the above gin II. Some ties are chairs.
1st Step :
mentioned pairs. for these pairs we write
the form 'Either (i) or (ii) follows. eer
METHOD TO SOLVE b c ing t b
(a) First step is aligning the
sentences. .ne
(b) Second step is using conclusion
table.
(c) Third step is checking immediate
1A 1B
t
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
Syllogism 77
2nd step : POSSIBILITY
Let us combine all the possible pairs of
this pictorial representations : Possibility is a concept of inconsistency
for an event which is not yet verified but
if true would explain certain facts or
b c t phenomena.
Generally, the meaning of possibility is
probability, viz. possibility exists where
(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
w.E
(1A + 2B) possibility exists where no definite
relation occurs between the objects and
definite or proper relation between the
t c, b
asy objects eliminate existance of any
possibility. In simple way given
(2A + 1B) En condition eliminates the possibility and
improper condition favours the
gin
possibility. Here, we can go through with
an example which will also clear the term
c, b t
eer
possibility.
(2A + 2B)
Condition
Given facts ing Possibility
cannot be determined
3rd step :
When we interpret the pictures in step Imaginary facts can be determined
.ne
II, we find that all the pictures support
both the conclusions. Therefore,
conclusion I :
EXAMPLE
Statements Some boxes are trees
Some trees are hens.
t
“Some ties are books” and
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.
78 Syllogism
In Conclusion I, before deciding the possibility between boxes and hens, we
must notice the relation between both, we find that there is no relation between
boxes and hens, so possibility favours the condition and the conclusion I is true
for possibility and in Conclusion II we must notice the relation between trees
and hens. We find that both have some type of relation between them so the
possibility of ‘All between trees and hens is true. Hence, both the Conclusions
I and II follow.
q Shortcut Approach
Desired
Given Exclusive Proposition Possibility
Proposition
ww All
Some
All
Some
´
´
w.E
No
No
No
Some not
´
´
Some
asy
No proper relation
All
Some All
ü
ü
En
Note: Improper relation between two objects favours the possibility (In above
example Conclusion I)
gin
SPECIAL CASES OF EXCLUSIVE PROPOSITION
eer
If the statement is of Conversion Illustration
ing
Meaningful
Conversion
Much, more, many,
very,
Some Most A are B.
A few X are Y. .ne
Some A and B.
Some X or Y.
a few, most, almost
Atleast Some Atleast some A are B. Some A and B. t
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.
Chapter
ww
A cube is three dimensional figure whose
length, breadth and height are equal and
any two adjacent faces are inclined to
When a cube is painted on all of
its faces with any colour and
w.E
each other at 90°. It has 6 faces, 8 corners
and 12 edges.
further divided into various
smaller cubes of equal size, we
G asyH
get following results :
(i) Smaller cubes with no face painted
gin
(ii) Smaller cubes with one face
painted will present on the faces
F
E
eer
of the undivided cube.
A B
ing
(iii) Smaller cubes with two faces
painted will present on the edges
• Corners of the cube are A, B, C, D,
E, F, G and H.
of undivided cube.
.ne
(iv) Smaller cubes with three faces
• Edges of the cube are AB, BE, EF,
AF, AD, CD, BC, EH, CH, GH, DG
and FG.
painted will present on the corners
of the undivided cube. t
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 :
Bottom unpainted
Layer II or middle layer :
The central cube has no face coloured, the four cubes at the corner have two
ww faces coloured and the remaining 4 cubes have only face coloured.
Middle layer Top unpainted
asy
En
Bottom unpainted
eer
three faces coloured and the remaining 4 cubes have two faces coloured.
Bottom layer
ing
.ne
Bottom unpainted
t
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
DICE
w.E = (5 – 2)3 = 27 3 4
5
INTRODUCTION
asy 6
En
A dice is three-dimensional figure with
Number 1 is opposite to 3.
Number 2 is opposite to 5.
6 surfaces. It may be in the form of a gin Number 4 is opposite to 6.
cube or a cuboid. After observing these
figures, we have to find the different side
Form 4:
eer 1
(opposite or adjacent sides) of the dice. 2 3
4
ing
Dice Formation
5 6 .ne
A Dice is formed by folding a sheet of
paper. These forms may be
Form 1:
Number 1 is opposite to 4.
Number 2 is opposite to 6.
t
1 Number 3 is opposite to 5.
2 3 4 Form 5:
1
5 2 3
6 4 5
6
Number 1 is opposite to 5.
Number 2 is opposite to 4. Number 1 is opposite to 4.
Number 3 is opposite to 6. Number 2 is opposite to 5.
Number 3 is opposite to 6.
TYPES OF DICE
ORDINARY STANDARD
DICE DICE
1. Ordinary Dice :
In this type of dice, the sum of opposite sides is not 7 but the sum of two
w.E 3
asy 4
5
En
Ordinary Dice
gin
4+3 = 7
eer
2. Standard Dice:
ing
In such type of dice, the sum of opposite sides is 7 or sum of adjacent side is
not 7.
.ne
3 1
Here,
1+4 =5
t
5 4 4+5=9
4 5 1+5=6
3 1
5 4
4 5
asy
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
En
dices will give you the opposite numbers.
2
1 gin 3
6
4 2
eer
ing
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)
.ne
2.............3. ............6 (dice 2)
Through the above observed data, we can say that:
1 is opposite to 3
4 is opposite to 6
t
2 is opposite to 5
w.E
are shown, when 4 is at the bottom, what
number will be on the top?
En
Practice Exercises with Hints & Solutions – P-118-123
Chapter Test
Past Solved Papers gin – C-31- 32
eer
ing
.ne
t
ww
can be deduced. This involves two
steps-first of analysis and second of FORMAT OF THE QUESTION
w.E
reasoning. Analytical decision making
deals with questions in which you have
Example (Directions): Read carefuly the
informations given below and answer the
asy
to decide upon the course of action
taken upon a candidate who has applied
for a post or membership to an institution
questions based on it:
The following are the given conditions
En
keeping in mind the essential requisites
for the recruitment of a candidate as a
family member in a computer institute:
and the data given for the candidate.
CATEGORIES OF
gin
(i) The candidate must be in the age
range of 23 years to 28 years as on
ANALYTICAL DECISION eer
1st November, 2013.
(ii) The candidate must have work
MAKING
Category I ing
experience as a teacher or
programming experience of at least
In this type a vacancy is being
2 years.
(iii) The candidate must have a PG.ne
declared. The necessary qualifications
required by the recruiting agencies are
given with certain exceptions. The
degree in computer application,
[MCA, M.Tech. or M.Sc.
(computer science)] with not less
t
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.
ww
decision must be based only on the data
provided.
understand
Basic conditions: In the given question
w.E
Mark your answer:
(a) If the candidate is to be selected
as a Junior teacher
format, there are four basic conditions
— (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv). They are called
basic conditions because they are the
asy
(b) If the candidate is to be selected
as a Senior teacher
original conditions.
Additional conditions: In the given
En
(c) If the case will be reffered to the
GM of the institute.
question format, there are two more
conditions apart from the basic
(d) If the data are inadequate
(e) If the candidate is not to be gin
conditions and they are (vi) and (vii).
point to be noted that (v) will not be on
selected.
QUESTIONS:
eer
additional condition as it does not talk
of exceptions. In fact (v) is only a
w.E
educational qualification and so, it is an
exception of (iii). Hence (vi) should be
written below (iii). Similarly, (vii) should
should be chosen when any one or more
of the given conditions is violated. The
asy
be written below (i). Now, after the
completion of step I, the following format
answer choice (d), which tells that the
data are inadequate, should be chosen
when no information is given about any
will be prepared:
En one or more conditions.
i
(vii)
ii iii
(vi)
iv
gin
How to examine data?
After step II you are required to read
1
Mukesh
Verma eer
all the statements carefully. Just take
each question one by one and compare
2
Karishma
Tiwari ing
then with the given conditions. Examinees
are suggested to use following
3
Brijesh
Shankar
I .ne
symbols while doing this comparision:
If a basic condition is fulfilled mark
4
Mansi
Ranjan
Subodh
II
‘ü’ sign below it.
If a basic condition is violated and
it is not attached with an
additional condition then mark ‘X’
t
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.
w.E
while (V) and (VI) are two
additional conditions. (V) is
attached to II and (VI) is attached
is a question mark below any
condition, your answer choice
to III.
asy
(2) In question (1), I, II and III are
would be “data are inadequate”.
(iii) If you find neither any cross
mark nor any question mark, than
satisfied while VI is violated
(3) In question (2), all the basic En compare the combination with
conditions I, II, III and IV are
satisfied gin the three answer combinations
obtained in step II and select the
answer choice accordingly.
STEP III eer
After understanding the above
steps, now we are at a position
(i) One by one, read the questions
very carefully and compare the ing
of solving the question given in
the question format. Let us see
facts given with the various
condition. the solution:
Solution: .ne
(ii) Mark the appropriate sign or ‘ü’
or ‘×’ (ü) or (×)? As required
(iii) When a ‘×’ or a (×) sign is obtained,
Question No. (i) / (vii) (ii) (iii)/ (vi) (iv)
1 Mukesh (ü) ü ü ?
t
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
w.E
conditions (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv) at
the top-right of the candidate in
interview. Thus the sign of
question mark ‘?’ is put below d.
asy
question 1. Next, we write
additional condition ‘(vii)’ below
Karishma Tiwari
Karishma is an MCA with 72%
below ‘(iii)’. En
‘o’ and additional condition ‘(vi)’ marks. This fulfills (iii), so we put
the mark ‘ü’ below (iii). Her date
Step II
At the 2nd level, we look at the gin of birth is 14th August, 1990, So on
1st November, 2013, she is more
answer choices and prepare one
answer combinations accordingly. eer
than 23 years. This fulfills ‘(i)’ and
hence we put a (ü) mark below ‘(i)’.
This will be:
i + ii + iii + iv Þ b ing
She is a computer teacher from last
vii + ii + iii + iv Þ c
i + ii + vi + iv Þ a
.ne
4 years. This fulfils (ii) and we put
(ü) mark below (ii), lastly, she has
Step III
At the step III level, we read every
obtained 35 marks in the interview.
This marks is more than the
required 50% (25 marks out of 50
t
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.
asy
En
gin
ebooks Reference eer Page No.
NON-VERBAL REASONING
Chapter
18 Series
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
ww
pattern or sequence.
In this type of non-verbal test, two sets
Upper left
element A B C
element
Upper right
element
w.E
of figures pose the problem. The sets
are called Problem Figures and Answer
Middle left
element
Lower left
H
G
I
F
D
E
Middle right
element
Lower right
asy
Figures. Each problem figure changes
in design from the preceding one.
element
Bottom or Down
element
q Shortcut Approach
En ·
middle element
Movement of Elements Through
· Directions – There are eight
directions as follows : gin Distance –
Up
P eer Q R
NW
N
NE ing
Left W E Right
W S
.ne
SW
S
SE
V U
Clockwise Movement
T
t
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)
92 Series
1 1
P®Q=3 arm/step P®P=3 arm/step
2 2
· Directional Movement of Elements –
P Q R
P Q R
W S 45° 90°
360° 135°
W S
315° 180°
V U T 270° 225°
V U T
Anti Clockwise Movement
ww P®W=
1
arm/step
Clockwise Movement
w.E 2
P ® V = 1 arm/step
P Q R
1
2 asy
P ® U = 1 arm/step
W
360° 315°
45° 270°
S
1
P ® U = 2 arm/step
2 En 90° 225°
135° 180°
P ® V = 3 arm/step
gin V U T
P®W=3
1
2
arm/step
eer
Anticlockwise Movement
Series 93
Answer Figures
w.E
more than one element of the preceding figure in a systematic way.
EXAMPLE 2.
Problem Figures
asy
En
2 gin
(A) (B)
Answer Figures
(C) (D)
eer
ing
.ne
(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
t
(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
94 Series
Answer Figures
w.E
EXAMPLE 4.
systematic way.
asy
Problem Figures
En
(A) (B) (C) gin
(D) (E)
Answer Figures
eer
ing
(a) (b) (c) (d) .ne
Sol. The qualitative characteristic of various elements in the diagrams change
to complete the series. So, figure (a) continues the series.
t
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)
Series 95
Answer Figures
+ + +
w.E
one element or more than one element by a new element of the preceding
figure in a systematic way.
EXAMPLE 6.
Problem Figures
asy
? * En
X D *
?
= X ?
* ?
gin
*
D
(A)
X =
2
(B) (C) (D)
C
eer
(E)
Answer figures
ing
*
D D
# C
D
# *
D
C
.ne
#
(a)
*
(b) ( c) (d)
t
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.
Chapter
ww
the criteria that a few figures are given
and you have to find out which one is
w.E
the exact image of the given figure in a
mirror placed in front of it. This image
Object Image
asy
formation is based on the principle of
‘lateral inversion’ which implies that size
3. The line joining the object point
with its image is normal to the
En
of the image is equal to the size of the
4.
reflecting surface.
The size of the image is the same
object but both sides are interchanged.
The left portion of the object is seen on gin as that of the object.
the right side and right portion of the
object is seen on the left side. For
I.
eer
Mirror Images of Capital Letters
ww i
j
v
w
that it is 6 : 30 in the clock. What is
the real time ?
k
l w.E x
y
Sol. As,
m
asy z
III. Mirror Images of Numbers Time = 6 : 30
0 6 En
1 7 gin (Fig A)
2
3
8
9 eer
4
5
10
ing
Time = 5 : 30
w.E
Letters
Water-image
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Note :
asy
1. The letters whose water-images are identical to the letter itself are : C, D, E, H,
I, K, O, X
En
2. Certain words which have water-images identical to the word itself are :
KICK, KID, CHIDE, HIKE, CODE, CHICK
gin
q Shortcut Approach eer
ing
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
.ne
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:
t
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
P-134-137
Chapter Test
asy
Past Solved Papers
– C-37- 38
En
gin
eer
ing
.ne
t
Chapter
Paper Cutting and
20 Folding
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.
ww
Note that when a cut is made on folded paper, the designs of the cut will appear on
each fold.
w.E
EXAMPLE 1.
asy
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
En
have to select the appropriate figure from alternatives which would appear when sheet
is opened.
gin
eer
(A) (B) (C )
ing
.ne
Sol.
(a) (b) (c) (d)
Step I-When sheet C is unfolded once, it will appear as follows
t
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.
w.E
contain small circle on each quarter
and will appear as option (d).
ebooks Reference
asy Page No.
Chapter Test En
Practice Exercises with Hints & Solutions –
–
P-138-142
C-39- 40
Chapter
21 Completion of Figures
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.
ww
choices, that exactly fits into the blank
portion of figure so that the main figure
In this question, half shaded leaf
is moved clockwise. So, option (b)
w.E
is completed.
Note : If you observe carefully, you
is right one.
asy
notice that the missing portion may
be the mirror image of any one of the
quarters.
En
EXAMPLE 1.
Select from alternatives the figure gin
q Shortcut Approach
(X) that exactly fits in the main
figure to complete its original · eer
If answer figures contain similar
pattern.
ing
figure but in rotated forms, then
the correct answer figure is that
.ne
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
t
(X) from, so student can rotate the
figures to check the correctness
(a) (b) of option.
Chapter
Hidden / Embedded
22 Figures
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
ww
figures contain a figure (X) followed by
four complex figures in such a way that
w.E
fig (X) is embedded in one of these. The
figure containing the figure (X) is your
answer. Hence, the answer is (b)
EXAMPLE 1. asy q Shortcut Approach
ing
of question figure to find the
correct answer figure.
(X)
·
.ne
In some questions, the question
figure embedded in two or more
answer figures, then the most
appropriate answer is that in
which the question figure is
t
embedded with least change in its
orientation.
(a) (b) (c) (d)
Chapter
Figure Formation and
23 Analysis
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/
w.E
from the given five figures or by
joining any other pieces after
selecting them from given alternatives.
A
B
E
asy
II. Making up a figure from given
components.
TYPE-II : Making up a figure from
given components
III. Making up a three dimensional
figure by paper folding. En EXAMPLE 2.
(X)
asy (X)
En
gin (X)
q Shortcut Approach
.ne
given. We have to identify the figure from
alternatives that is a rearrangement of
parts of key figure.
· The number of elements given to
form a figure must be equal to the
t
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.
ebooks Reference Page No.
Practice Exercises with Hints & Solutions – P-153-157
Chapter Test – C-45- 46
Past Solved Papers
Chapter
24 Visual Reasoning
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
ww
both physical and mental images in
thinking. As a result people with a high
which four figures are similar to each
other in a certain way and one is different
from other. Find the odd figure out.
w.E
visualization find it easier to comprehend
information and communicate it to
others. Your visualization skills
asy
determine how well you perceive visual
patterns and extract information for
(a) (b) (c) (d) (e)
En
further use. Visualization also facilitates
Sol. After examining the above figure, it
is found that except (d) all figures
the ability to form associations between
pieces of information something which gin can easily be obtained by clockwise
and anti-clockwise movement or
helps improve long term memory.
2. eer
each other.
Number of Elements or Lines
Types of Visual Reasoning
(A) Odd-Man Out Type ing
A group of figure may be classified
on the basis of number of elements
(B) Counting of Figures
.ne
or the number of lines present in
figures. The figures can also be
(A) ODD-MAN OUT TYPE
1. Rotation of same Figure
This is the most common type of
classified on even or odd number
of lines or elements present in
figures. Classification can also be
t
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)
ww
other in a certain way and one is different
from other. Find the odd figure out.
group of five figures is given. Out of
which four figures are similar to each
4.
divided into two equal parts.
Similarity of Figures En (a) (b) (c) (d) (e)
Sol. Except figure (c) in all the figures,
Classification on the basis of
similarity of figure is done when
gin both the inside and outside figures
are similar but differ in size.
orientation, shape, measure of
angle or method of presentation
6. eer
Interior-Exterior Consideration of
EXAMPLE 4. .ne
or more elements, it is likely that
some elements may lie in interior
Directions : In the following question, a
group of five figures is given. Out of
which four figures are similar to each
of other elements while some may
lie in the exterior of the other
elements. This consideration can
t
be used for classification of
other in a certain way and one is different
elements from a group.
from other. Find the odd figure out.
EXAMPLE 6.
Directions : In the following question, a
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)
w.E
C. Slant line
B B
· Now, counted those triangles
which are formed with the two
triangles and further counting
·
A
C
B
Then, on counting, it will be gin EXAMPLE 2.
How many triangles are there in the
counted as one line, i.e., AB and
not as a two straight lines AC and eer
figure ?
CB.
ing
EXAMPLE 1.
How many straight lines are there .ne
in the figure ?
Sol. A
O
t
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°.
ww Sol. A B C D
Sol. A w.EG B H G F E
E
O F asy Smallest rectangles = ABGH +
BCFG + CDEF = 3
q Shortcut Approach
· Keep writing numbers one by one
inside the circles starting from 1 Sol. Here, we start counting of circles
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
w.E
EXAMPLE 5.
How many circles are there in the 4 5
figure ?
asy
ebooks Reference
En Page No.
ANALYTICAL REASONING
Chapter
Evaluating Inferences
25
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
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type of competitive examination. An
inference is a logical conclusion on
In its most ambitions bid ever to house
6 crore slum dwellers and realise the vision
w.E
evidence. A valid inference is believable
and realistic. As per the pattern, a
passage is given followed by some
of a slum-free India, the government is
rolling out a massive plan to build 50 lakh
dwelling units in five years across 400
asy
inferences (conclusions) and the
examinee is asked to decide whether a
towns and cities. The programme could
free up thousands of acres of valuable
w.E
This pattern requires a deeper
thinking as it leaves before you
following areas of confusion:-
directly in the passage and seems
‘almost’ definitely false. But as
related things are not mentioned
asy
1. Definitely true or probably
true
clearly in the passage, you think
that ‘probably false’ may be correct.
En
2. Definitely false or probably
false
To get rid of this confusion try to
recheck your reasoning. If the
3. Data inadequate or probably
true gin opposite of the inference has not
been mentioned in the passage,
then you must assume something
4. Data inadequate or probably
false eer
extra to reach your conclusion. Just
ask the following questions to
1. Definitely true or probably true:
If the given inferences is a direct
yourself.
ing
(A) Is this assumption an universal
consequences of something given
in the passage, then it falls under
truth?
.ne
(B) Can this assumption never be
the category of definitely true. But
the confusion may arise when the
given inference is not directly
false?
If you find ‘yes’ for question (A)
and ‘no, never’ for question (B)
t
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.
asy
convinced that the inference is
likely to be true or false.
2.
suggest us any related
assumption.
(e) The passage says to the
4.
En
Data inadequate or probably false:
When the given inference is drawn contrary getting rid of slums
would “Free up ..... valuable
indirectly from the passage, such
confusion may arise. As it is not
explicitly said in the passage, you
gin government land”. The
inference does not follow
come to the conclusion that data
are inadequate because sufficient 3. eer
from the passage.
(b) The extra assumption that
information has not been provided
to draw a definite conclusion. ing
makes this option probably
true is : Low productivity is
However, the given inference
appears to you in contradiction with
The passage does not
.ne
likely to lead to low income.
ww Contradicts
the passage
Chance that it is
not 100% true in
Can it be
proved 100%
true using some
universally accepted
Yes
w.E
Chance that
the context of
passage
Yes
assumption
No
DF
it is not 100%
false in the
(Definitely passage
PT
asy
(Probably
True) Data not
available to
Yes May or may not Negates Not false
False)
PF
(Probably En
prove the trueness
DT
|
(Definitely
be true
|
PT
the passage definitely
DF
|
PF
|
False) DI
(Data Inadequate)
True)
gin (Probably
True)
(Definitely (Probably
False) False)
eer
ebooks Reference
ing
Page No.
Chapter
Statement &
26 Arguments
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
ww
we call the basics of all logic. Do you
know what do we do in logic? In logic,
we advocate certain point of view with
occasion.
Here, ‘Part II’ is the conclusion part of
w.E
the help of some evidences and certain
assumptions and that is called
the given argument. How has this
conclusion (part II) been arrived at? In
fact, this conclusion has come out with
asy
argumentation. This is a fact that almost
all segments of analytical reasoning are
the help of supporting evidence or
premise that is part I of the argument.
someway associated with argumentation
and this is the reason why study of En Did you notice that in this argument part
argumentation is so important for the
examinees preparing for various gin
I and part II (Premise and conclusion)
are connected by a hidden premise
competitive examinations.
eer
which is not explicitly stated. That
hidden premise is “a large quantity of
Concept of Argument
A sequence of two or more sentences ing
sweets is bought only on occasions”
and this premise may be called an
(or statements)/ phrases/clauses that
includes a conclusion (or claims), is called .ne
assumption. Hence, in reality the given
argument has three parts.
an argument. This conclusion of the
argument is based on one or more than
one statement and these statements may
Part I: (Premise) Mr. Sharma bought a
large quantity of sweets. t
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.
asy
is bought on occasions only. Hence,
he must have celebrated an
reply for question (i) as the given
argument has no missing link. This
argument is complete in itself and
occasion”.
En hence, it is free of hidden premise or
Here, we see that this argument has
no assumption (hidden premise) gin assumption.
Ways of Argumentation: So far, you must
because the premise or supporting
evidence (Mr. Sharma bought a large eer
have understood the basic concept of
argumentation and come to the
conclusion that an argument is usually
quantity of sweets) and conclusion
(Hence, he must have celebrated an ing
made to make strong a particular point
of view in order to convince someone
occasion) are connected by an
explicit statement (A large quantity
about something.
(i) Argument based on Analogy: .ne
of sweets is bought on occasions
only). Remember, an assumption is a
hidden premise. It does mean
Analogy based arguments are often
used to make strong a particular
point of view. In fact analogy is an
t
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
ww
against Australia. So, Dhoni will also hit
a double century in this 3rd test match
against Australia.
(ii) Argument based on cause: Such
arguments relate a cause with a
w.E
EXAMPLE 2. Australia and England
have both lost to India in football and
result. Let us see the examples given
below:
EXAMPLE 1. India will win the world
ww
because Chacha Nehru loved Roses.
Findings: In example (1) we have
is the reason why every educational
institution must have a gym.
w.E
arrived at the conclusion (we should use
X brand of cold cream) by using the
premise as example (X brand is used by
EXAMPLE 2. There should be a ban
on strikes as they disrupt the normal life
asy
Madhuri Dixit). In example (2) the
conclusion (we must like roses) has come
of the common people.
Findings: In example-1, the conclusion
out by using the premise as example
En is that every educational institution must
have a gym because exercise is good for
(because Chacha Nehru loved it). Here,
we can say in case of Example-1 that gin
health and students need good health.
No doubt the good health ensures good
using certain brand by a particular
actress, does not mean that X brand will eer
mind but it is not practically feasible for
every educational institution to have a
be liked by all people as likes and dislikes
are the personal choices. In example (2), ing
gym. Hence, Example-1 will be a weak
argument. In example-2, ban on strikes is
the case is also the same. Everyone
cannot like the roses only because
being demanded and this demand is
.ne
Chacha Nehru loved roses.
Final comment: Example based
arguments are either weak or fallacious.
reasonable as argument has negative
feature of strike. Hence, example-2 is a
strong argument.
t
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.
ww
possibility that song ‘C’ was recorded
earlier although released later than the
song ‘B’. Hence, in such a situation the
arguments are given in the questions
and the candidate is required to find out:
w.E
possibility of copying can not be denied
and this makes argument given in
(a)
(b)
Which argument is strong.
Which argument is weak.
asy
Example-2 a weak argument.
Final comment: This type of arguments
We know that “strong” arguments are
those which are both important and
are usually weak and unconvincing.
By now, all the standard ways of En directly related to the question. “Weak”
arguments are those which are of minor
argumentation have been discussed in
detail. We will now take a look at the key gin
importance and also may not be directly
related to the question or may be related
words so that you could easily take out
the conclusion part from the given eer
to a trivial aspect of the question. To find
out if a given argument is strong or not
argument. The keywords are given
below: steps given below: ing
we will move according to the solution
So,
Therefore,
Hence,
Consequently
Solution steps
Step I: .ne
Do the preliminary screening
Thus,
Apart from above given keywords, the
conclusion part can also be identified by
of the given arguments.
Step II: Fin d out if the given
arguments really follow or
t
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.
ww
category:
(i) Doubtful/Ambiguous arguments:
India.
Argument: Yes, it has no use.
w.E
These arguments do not make it clear
that how they are related to a course
Comment: Here, the argument does not
go deep down into the matter making
itself a weak argument.
asy
of action. They also do not give the
clear idea about what exactly the (iii) Arguments in the form of question:
Such arguments are very weak in
author or writer wants to say.
EXAMPLE 1. En nature as the arguments given in the
ww
the category of weak arguments.
Step II: Finding out if the given
NOTE : Point to be noted that arguments
given under Example 1, Example 2,
Example 3 & Example 4 have passed
w.E
arguments really follow or not.
If the arguments are rejected at the
the step II only so far but it has not yet
been determined whether these
asy
preliminary step then we do not need to
test them further. But, if the preliminary
arguments are forceful or not (strong
or not). They will be called strong only
step has been cleared, then we move on
to step II. En when they will pass step III and step IV.
(ii) Prediction on the basis of
Case I: When the result follows
At the step II, the result will follow in the gin experience: Such arguments are
very near to established facts type
cases given below:
(i) Established fact: An established fact eer
of arguments. But, in reality, they are
not established facts as they are not
does mean that it must be universally
acknowledged/ scientifically ing
yet so universally acknowledged as
to be treated as established fact. In
established. A result will follow a
course of action if it is an established .ne
fact, such arguments are given on
the basis of experiences. Just see the
fact that this particular result follows
this particular course of action.
EXAMPLE 1.
following example:
EXAMPLE 5.
Statement: Captains should not have
t
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
ww
complete disarmament.
Argument: Yes, complete disarmament
the example given below:
EXAMPLE 8.
w.E
will make a war free world.
Comment: The example gives an
argument that is logically convincing:
Statement: Should smoking be
discouraged in the country?
asy
The argument is probable as the logic
behind it is that if there will be armless
Argument: No, it give relaxation when
one gets tired and this way contributes
En
world then there will be a war free world.
Hence, the argument passes the step II
to health.
Comment: It is an established fact that
test and will go for further test.
gin
smoking is injurious to health and thus,
we can say that this argument is incorrect
(iv) Notions of truth: Such arguments are
unquestionable truth because of the eer
and weak enough to be rejected at step II.
(ii) Prediction on the basis of
simple reason of universal
acceptance. It does mean that they ing
experiences: If the experiences say
that the result will not follow then
are the ideas or thoughts already
acknowledged by society. This is the .ne
the given argument will be rejected
reason why they are very similar to
established facts in many ways. The
following example illustrates this
at the step II. Let us see the example
given below:
Statement: Should cricketer A be
t
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
w.E
(iii) Argument with faulty logic: This is
exactly opposite to the point (iii) in
be cleared that just because
someone did something in the past,
the same can not be said as
following example:
asy
step II (case I). Let us see the pursuable. Let us see the example
given below:
Statement: Should the culprits behind
En Statement: Should ever yone be
the fodder scam in Bihar be punished?
Argument: No, a political vaccum will gin
optimistic in Life?
Argument: Yes, Indira Gandhi was
optimistic and this is the reason why she
be created if the culprits get punishment.
Comment: As per the logic, punishing eer
became the prime minister of India.
culprits behind the fodder scam in Bihar
would please the public and improve the ing
Comment: Here, the example of Indira
Gandhi is given that makes the argument
very weak. Thus, such type of arguments
image of the Bihar government. How can
it create a political vaccum? This argument
are rejected in step II.
.ne
has been given with a faulty logic and
hence will be rejected in step II only.
(iv) Argument violating prevailing
(vi) Arguments based on individual
perceptions (or assumptions): In
some cases it is seen that an
t
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
ww
In step II, we come to the conclusion
that Examples 1-7, have passed the 2nd
EXAMPLE 5. It is true that favouritism
takes place on the part of captains at
w.E
level test and qualified for the step III
(3rd level test). Hence, we will take the
examples to be qualified for step III one
times, but that does not mean that they
should not be given their say while
selecting team. In fact, captains are
by one:
asy
EXAMPLE 1. Here, the argument is
expected to bring positive and desired
result if given their say in team selection.
En
positive and therefore, we have to check Further, giving their say in team selection
makes the captains more responsible for
the desirability. As, it is a established fact
that drinking contributes to bad health gin
the bad performance of the team and this
inspires the captain to draw best out of
and thus it is desirable to avoid it. It is
clear row that Example 1 passed the 3rd eer
the players in the team. Hence, the result
level test.
EXAMPLE 2. No doubt that at present ing
is not desirable and the given argument
proves to be weak enough to be rejected
Tendulkar is one of the greatest
cricketers in the world. He will also remain
in step III.
EXAMPLE 6. .ne
If it is possible to make
in the list of great ones in the history of
the game of cricket. But it is also a truth
that he has spent more than 20 years in
world free of wars through complete
disarmament, it is well and good. But,
t
complete disarmament does not assure
this game and is a retired cricketer. This
is the reason that after 10 years he will th at there would be no an tisocial
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.
ww
Note : How to decide a positive
argument which is really desirable or a
students, below is given a question
format the for the examination. The
w.E
negative argument which is really
harmful, is only the matter of common
question format has been made with the
Example 4 given in this chapter.
Question format:
asy
sense. Just apply your common sense,
think over the argument, try to go by
proper logic and general norms of
Direction: Each question given below
society.
En is followed by two arguments numbered
I and II. You have to decide which one of
Step IV: Finding proper relation
between argument and suggested gin
the arguments is a ‘strong’ argument and
which is a 'weak' argument.
course of action.
strong. eer
Give answer (a) If only argument I is
What does proper relation between
statement and argument mean? In fact, it ing
(b) If only argument II is strong.
(c) If either I or II is strong.
does mean that argument must be
pinpointed on the main issue involved .ne
(d) If neither I nor II is strong.
and it should not focus on any irrelevant,
insignificant or minor issues. Now, we
move on to step IV or final test. As
(e) If both I and II strong.
Statement: Should smoking be
promoted?
t
Example-1, 4 and 7 have qualified for this
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.
ww
w.E Passes Fails — Weak Argument
asy
Step III: The argument is desirable (for positive statements)
En
/ harmful (for negative statements)
gin
Passes Fails
eer
— Weak Argument
ing
Step IV: The argument is properly related to the statement.
.ne
Passes Fails — Weak Argument t
Strong Argument
Chapter
Statement &
27 Assumptions
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:
ww
why in various competitive examinations,
examinees ar e asked to iden tify
I. There is a demand for televisions in
the market.
w.E
assumptions. In this chapter, we will see
how to identify assumptions. Before we
II. ‘A’ television is the only one with
wide variations.
The given statement in the problem
asy
go ahead, we must have a look at a
common format of the problem as it will format is an advertisement. This is
the one form of statement. But the
be asked in the examination. En
give you a clear idea of the questions to
statement may be in different forms
like it can be in the form of a passage;
PROBLEM FORMAT gin in the form of a single line; in the
form of a notice; in the form of an
(SAMPLE PROBLEM)
eer
appeal; in any other different forms.
Directions: In every question given
below a statement (or a passage) is WHAT DOES AN
ASSUMPTION MEAN?
ing
followed by two assumptions number I
& II. An assumption is something Assumption is the hidden part of an .ne
supposed or taken for granted. You have
to consider the statement and the
following assumptions and then decide
argument. It does mean that an
assumption is something which is
assumed, supposed and taken for
t
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
ww
clearly just suppose a thrilling one day
international cricket match is going on
be rough data of all mobile brands
manufactured in India, no such claim
w.E
between India and Australia. The
Australian team has scored 300 runs but
about M brand could be made. Hence, it
must have been implicitly assumed in the
given statement that sale figure of all
asy
while chasing the score India has made
280 runs in 48 overs and now, the
situation is India has to score 21 runs to
brands is known.
En
win the match in remaining two overs.
EXAMPLE 2.
Statement: Virat is in great form and
As Yuvraj Singh is batting, you tell your
friend - “No need to worry as Yuvraj is a gin
therefore, India is going to beat New
Zealand in upcoming test series.
big hitter. India will definitely win the
match”. What do you find in this
Assumption:
eer
I. Virat will give a good performance in
statement. In fact this statement has two
parts:- ing
upcoming series against New
Zealand.
(i) No need to worry as Yuvraj is a big
hitter. .ne
II. Virat will score a triple century in the
upcoming series against New
(ii) India will win the match.
Now, this is the time to think over these
two parts. How do you relate them?
Zealand.
Comment: Assumption I is valid as the
statement says that Virat is in great form
t
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.
w.E
Statement: The student is too clever to
fail in the examination.
V. The onion crisis will probably be
averted by boosting import of onion.
Comment: In the above mentioned
En
Comment: This is a valid assumption. As
per the given statement the student will
reason is that there is use of definitive
words (best, only and definitely) in case
not fail (This is an effect) as he / she is
very clever (This is a cause). Clearly, it gin
of I, III and IV. The given statement
mentions a fact that crisis of onion has
has been assumed in the statement that
very clever students do not fail. eer
worsened and then makes a suggestion
that imports of onion should be boosted.
w.E
Statement: You will find improvement in
your English after taking classes in
connotative or connotive phrases.
For example “It is true that ....” can
be put / written as:
institute M.
asy
Valid Assumption: An institute may (i) It can be claimed with reasonable
degree of truth that...
help in improving English.
(ii) x therefore/ hence y Þ It is En (ii) It would be correct to say that...
assumed that ‘x’ leads to ‘y’.
EXAMPLE 7. gin (iii) Even the most sceptic of men
would agree that....
Statement: Sachin Tendulkar has become
the 1st man to score 50th test century, eer
Similarly, “It is false” is put / written by
the author as :
therefore all Indians must be feeling very
proud on his achievement. ing
(i) It is baseless to say that ...
(ii) It would be highly misleading
Valid Assumption: An achievement by a
fellow countryman makes other citizens
to say that....
.ne
(iii) Nothing could be farther from
proud.
(iii) x even after/ despite/ in spite of y Þ
It is assumed that usually x does not
truth than...
Note: The role of connotative phrases is
t
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.
ww EXAMPLE 11.
Statement: All teaching should be done
are three standard cases of
conversion:
w.E
in religious spirit as religious instruction
leads to a curiosity for knowledge.
Invalid Assumption: Curious persons are
(i) All M are N, converted into
Some N are M.
(ii) Some M are N, converted into
good persons.
asy
(c) Observation : It is slightly different
Some N are M.
(iii) No M are N, converted into No
En
from the restatement case. In such
case, two of the trio (Subject, verb,
N are M
Points to be noted that given
predicate) are changed into negative
that changes the appearance of the gin
assumptions will be invalid if they are
conversions of the given statements.
Chapter
Statement &
28 Conclusions
INTRODUCTION EXAMPLE 2.
w.E
WHAT IS A ‘CONCLUSION’?
Conclusions :
I. People are indifferent to personal
liberty and the right to dissent.
asy
‘Conclusion’ means a fact that can be
truly inferred from the contents of a given
sentence. Conclusion is the art of
II. People desire personal liberty and
the right to dissent.
En
judging or deciding, based on reasoning.
Sol. (b) It is mentioned in the
statement that most people
DIRECTIONS (for Examples 1 to 3) : In
each of the following questions, a
statement is given followed by two
gin are forced to live un der
governments which refuse
conclusions I and II. Give answer :
(a) if only conclusion I follows; eer
them personal liberty and right
to dissent. This means that
(b) if only conclusion II follows;
(c) if either I or II follows; ing
they are not indifferent to
these rights but have a desire
(d) if neither I nor II follows;
(e) if both I and II follows; EXAMPLE 3. .ne
for them. So, only II follows.
EXAMPLE 1.
Statement : The oceans are a storehouse
of practically every mineral including
Statement : It has been decided by the
Government to withdraw 33% of the
subsidy on cooking gas from the
t
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.
w.E
(e) if neithter I nor II follows;
EXAMPLE 4.
negates than it does not follow.
3. The conclusion must be truly
inferred. If there is some doubt that
asy
Statement : Interest rate will be fixed on
the basis of our bank’s rate prevailing
it may or may not be correct or truly
inferred, than it does not follow.
quarter thereafter.
En
on the date of deposit and refixed every 4. The conclusion must not repeat or
rephrase the statement. If so, it does
Conclusions:
I. It is left to the depositors to guard
their interest.
gin not follow.
Now let us apply these rules to the 5
examples solved above.
II. The bank’s interest rates are subject
to change on a day-to-day basis eer
Ex. 1 I. Rule 2 applies as it negates the
statement.
depending on market position.
Sol. (b) I does not follow because the ing
II. Rule 1 applies as it is out of
context.
statement is silent about the
depositors. II follows from the .ne
Ex. 2 I. Rule 2 applies as it negates the
statement.
phrase “bank’s rate prevailing
on the date of deposit” which
means the rates are subject to
day-to-day changes.
II. Fulfils all the conditions in Rule
1-4.
Ex. 3 I. Rule 1, 2 & 4 follow but 3 does
not as there can be various
t
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.
ebooks Reference Page No.
Practice Exercises with Hints & Solutions – P-188-192
Chapter Test – C-55- 56
Past Solved Papers
Chapter
29 Courses of Action
ww
The basic reason behind asking such
questions is to test your ability to judge
a problem correctly in order to determine
(1) Problems based on problem and
solution relationship.
(2) Problems based on fact &
w.E
the root of the given problem and then
finding out a proper course of action for
improvement relationship.
1. Problems based on problem
that particular problem.
asy
What is the format of the problem?
and solution relationship
This is a case when the given
En
Directions: In the question given below
is given a statement followed by two
statement talks of a problem and the
suggested courses of action number I
and II. A course of action is a step or gin suggested course of action talks of
a solution. It is very easy to find out
administrative decision to be taken for
improvement, follow up, or further action eer
when a suggested course of action
is acceptable and when it is not. In
in regard to the problem, policy etc. On
the basis of the information given in the ing
fact, the suggested course of action
will be acceptable if:
statement. Read the situation carefully
and then decide which of the given .ne
(a) it solves/ reduces or minimises the
given problem
courses of action follow/ follows.
Mark answers:
(a) If only I follows
(b) it gives a practical and wise solution.
Now, what to do ? Just see the given
problem with a serious eye; think over
t
(b) If only II follows
(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.
ww
(iii) based on experiences
(iv) based on prevailing notions of truth
as it is an established biological fact that
malaria can be prevented by using
safeguards against mosquitoes. This is
w.E
Let us discuss all the conditions
mentioned above:-
(i) Action based on established
the reason that II will go for further test
(step II test) proving itself a proper course
fact: -
asy
In some of the cases an action taken
of action in 1st level test (step I test).
In example 2, II is rejected on the basis
w.E
diplomacy that in case of disturbances
created by a hostile nation within our
(iv) Action based on prevailing notions
of truth: In such type of cases
asy
country, we put this issue before
international bodies so that the hostile
solutions provided for the given
problem is as per the social norms.
En
nation stands at disadvantage. Thus Ex.
3 will qualify for the next step test (step
In other words, the given course of
action suggests a solution that is
II or practicality test).
(iii) Action based on experiences: In gin prevailing notion of truth. In fact,
they are the ideas that are universally
certain cases, while deciding if a
given course of action solves or eer
accepted and acknowledged by the
society and hence in many ways they
reduces or minimises the given
problem, our experiences work. In ing
are similar to established fact. Let us
see the following examples:
fact, in such cases the given problem
may be a relatively new one. It will
EXAMPLE 5.
.ne
Statement: Mr Sharma got angry and beat
not be totally new but it will not be
very old either. This is the reason
that the solution can not be said as
his son mercilesely.
Course of action : Mr.Sharma should be
caned publicly [ wrong action]
t
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
asy
This is the 2nd part of test. In the 1st
part we just found out whether a
Comment: In Example 7, the given course
of action is not a good solution for the
En
suggested action really solves/ reduces/
minimises the given problem. But an
given problem. No, doubt that military
training wold be a solution for lack of
important part also remains to be checked
and that is the test of practicality. Point
gin
discipline but is it a practical solution?
Your answer will be a big ‘No’ (why?). In
to be noted that a given course of action
may solve/ reduce/ minimise a particular
eer
reality, at the 1st step test the given
course of action may seem true as it
problem but if it is not practically
possible, it will be consider useless. This
ing
solves the given problem but when it
comes to the 2nd level test, it becomes
is the reason why this point too, needs
.ne
clear that it is too severe solution for a
relatively small problem. Hence, on this
sound checking. For this you have to
keep the following things in your mind:
A. The problem and solution must be
basis the given course of action is
rejected finally.
In example 8, the given course of
t
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
w.E
mean showing less income to pay less
tax. Why tax evasion is a problem?
society”. In step II, we need to check if it
is a practical solution. In so many cases
we have seen that when a child does a
asy
Because tax evasion generates black
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
connot be a good solution as taxes areEn such atmosphere that they can
understand the seriousness of their
taken to provide people certain indirect
services like the facilities of roads, parks, gin
crime and try to mend their ways. For
such children, child welfare societies and
police etc. Suppose if taxes are not
charged, how and where from money will eer
some other such kind of organisations
are very helpful. Hence, this course of
come to provide such indirect services
to community. No doubts, the tax ing
action passes its final test to be declared
a correct course of action.
abolition will create a new problem.
Hence on this basis the given course of
Step II test of Example 3 :
The course of action given under .ne
action will be rejected finally as it fails
the 2nd level test (step II test) of
practicality.
example 3 is “India must go to the
international bodies with all the proof of
Pakistani involvement in Jammu &
t
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.
ww
proper and correct course of action.
Step II test of Example 6:
The given course of action “Prospects
solve it:
Statement : The sale of a particular
product ‘A’ has gone down considerably,
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of privatisation of these (loss making)
companies must be explored is not a
causing great concern to company ‘X’.
Courses of action :
asy
correct solution at the end at the 2nd
level test (Practicality test) because the I. Company should make a proper
study of rival products in the
En
course of action and the given statement
are not properly linked. The statement market.
does not make it clear that it talks only
about public sector manufacturing gin
II. The price of product ‘A’ should be
reduced.
concerns as even a private sector
manufacturing company may be a loss eer
Solution. Option (a) is the correct option
as only I follows.
making company. Hence the statement
and given course of action creates ing
Reason /Explanation: If the sale of ‘A’
has gone down, then there must be some
confusion. Therefore, the given course
of action is rejected at 2nd level test.
solved reasons. The company X must
.ne
know this reason. As I suggest the similar
2. Problem based on fact and
improvement relationship
solution, it follows. But II does not follow.
The company should first know if price
was a factor behind the drop in sale.
t
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”.
Problem Fact
Solution Type Improvement Type
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or proportionate solution
Yes No Rejected
solution?
Yes No Rejected
asy
Does it creates new
problems ?
Accepted
Yes No En
Rejected
Accepted gin
eer
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Page No.
Chapter
Critical Reasoning
30
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
ww
during your everyday life while reading
newspapers or watching movies. When
Whatever it is that you have to do, you
will need 2 things to succeed: know the
basic structure of arguments and clearly
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you think that the movie is pushing the
limit of the Reasonable or the news
sounds less reasonable than the movie
understand the argument.
In general, most of them, arguments
asy
that was pushing the limit, you are using
your Critical Reasoning skills to produce
consist of evidence, usually 2 pieces, a
conclusion - the main point of an
argument, and an assumption - the
these conclusions. The argument you
En bridge between the evidence and
conclusion. The majority of the
meet can be anything from a classical
argument to an advertisement or a dialog.
Critical Reasoning questions will ask you
gin
arguments you encounter on the test will
be 3 step arguments:
eer
Evidence 1 + Evidence 2 = Conclusion.
As
sumptio
n ing
E1 + E2 = C .ne
EXAMPLE 1. Last week Mike was
detained for shoplifting at a groceries
EXAMPLE 2. There are a lot of
mosquitoes outside today, please do not
t
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,
ww
correct answer.
1. Read the questions first; this is
needed so that you would know
more understanding of what is being
asked; reading the question 2 times,
it will also help you to make sure your
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what to look for and what to do: find
an assumption, strengthen/weaken,
answer exactly what is stated and
that you understand the question.)
asy
infer something or else; do not worry
about the details in the question,
read for keywords, such as
5. Answer before reading the answer
choices. There are two reasons for
En
strengthen, deny, or explain. [Use
this :
(i) if you can think of the correct
symbols for convenience, e.g. + for
strengthen or – for weaken].
2. Read the passage very attentively
gin answer or at least the general
direction that the answer choice
ww
TYPES OF CRITICAL
REASONING QUESTIONS
may just be a series of facts.
Nevertheless, try to find the
argument.
to: w.E
Critical reasoning questions will ask you • Avoid choices which contain
absolute statements - never, always,
question asy
1. Identify the inference / Must be true none, only etc. Although these words
might appear in some correct choice,
2. Identify the assumption.
3. Strengthen an argument. En you should be very sure about them.
• Some of the options can be eliminated
4. Weaken an argument.
5. Select the best conclusion/Main Point gin
as they go beyond the scope of the
passage. Note that an inference can
6. Identify the paradox
7. Evaluation/ Reasoning eer
be based on only some of th e
information provided and not the
8. Identify a parallel argument/Structure.
1. Identify the Inference / Must
complete passage.
ing
be True Question
These type of questions are
EXAMPLE 1.
.ne
Stimulus Argument
Increases in funding for police patrols
extremely common. An Inference
means the same thing as “must be
true”. Conclusions differ from
often lower the rate of crimes of
opportunity such as petty theft and
van dalism by providing visual
t
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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provided; it is the logical end of a
chain of reasoning started in the
assumption that the author must
make in order to advance the
argument above?
asy
stimulus argument. The sequence of
events goes like this :
• Which of the following is an
assumption that, if true, would
Increased funding ® Increased
visual deterrence ® Lower crime En support the conclusion in the
passage above?
The last statement could be mapped
as follows: gin
q Shortcut Approach
Federal grants ® Increased patrol
funds
eer
How to approach “Identify the
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(b) Senior surgeons have the ability to
use either intuitive reasoning or
deductive, methodical reasoning in
• Which of the following, if true,
would most strengthen the
conclusion drawn in the passage
making decisions.
asy
(c) The decisions that are made by mid-
above?
En
level and entry-level doctors can be
q Shortcut Approach
made as easily by using methodical
reasoning as by using intuitive gin
How to approach “Strengthen an
argument”
reasoning.
(d) Senior surgeons use intuitive eer
• Once you have identified the argument
of the passage, i.e. the evidence(s) +
reasoning in making the majority of
their decisions. ing
conclusion, try putting in each option
with the argument. Check if the
(e) None of these
Sol. .ne
assumption(s) you have drawn is (are)
strengthened if you accept the content
(a) The correct answer is (a), which
provides a missing link in the
author’s reasoning by making a
of the option as true.
EXAMPLE 3. Stimulus Argument
t
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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(c) The lowest temperature ever
recorded in the river prior to dam
q Shortcut Approach
How to approach “Weaken an
asy
construction was 30°; whereas the
lowest recorded river temperature
argument”
• Once you have identified the
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argument must be assuming that
there are no Raynhu trees other than
those in the wild, in order to make
conclusions can be most properly
drawn from the data above?
The conclusion of arguments in
asy
the leap from the stated evidence to
the conclusion that the Raynhu is
Main Point questions is usually
not directly stated. To find the
En
headed for extinction. The option (d)
weakens the assupmtion - ‘there are
conclusion, identify the premises
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which he or she had no control.
Question : Which of the following is the
most logical conclusion of the argument
(e)
punishment.
None of these
above?
Options : asy 6. Identify the Paradox
These questions present you with a
En
(a) People should not be held account- paradox, a seeming contradiction or
discrepancy in the argument, and
able for the behaviour of other
people. ginask you to resolve it or explain how
that contradiction could exist. In
(b) People have control over their own
behaviour. eer
other words, there are two facts that
are both true, and yet they appear to
(c) People cannot control the behaviour
of other people. ing
be in direct conflict with one another.
Here are some examples of the ways
(d) People have control over behaviour
that is subject to capital punishment. .ne
in which these questions are worded:
• Which of the following, if true,
(e) None of these
Sol.
(b) The correct response is (b). The
would help to resolve the
apparent paradox presented
above?
t
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.
ww
by retired people and has almost no
families with small children. Yet Town Y
describe how the argument was
made, not necessarily what it says.
w.E
is home to a thriving business specializing
in the rental of furniture for infants and
These questions are closely related
to assumption, weakening, and
small children.
asy
Question : Which of the following, if true,
strengthening questions. The
correct answer identifies a question
En
best reconciles the seeming discrepancy
described above?
that must be answered or information
that must be gathered to determine
Options :
gin
how strong the stimulus argument
is. The information will be related to
(a) The business specializing in the
rental of children’s furniture buys its eer
an assumption that the author is
furniture from distributors outside of
Town Y. ing
making. Another type of question
that you will encounter asks you to
(b) The few children who do reside in
Town Y all know each other and often .ne
identify a flaw in the stimulus
argument. The question tells you
stay over night at each other’s
houses.
that there is a problem with the logic
of the argument. You just have to
choose the answer that describes the
t
(c) Many residents of Town Y who move
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?
w.E
against men in divorce cases that involve
child custody. But the statistics reveal
recently elected judge did not rule
against many men in custody battles
asy
that in 40% of such cases, the recently
elected judge awards custody to the
where the evidence clearly favored
the men. As with strengthening and
fathers. Most other judges award
custody to fathers in only 20%–30%ofEn weakening questions, the correct
answer in flaw questions often
their cases. This record demonstrates that
the recently elected judge has not gin involves unwarranted assumptions.
EXAMPLE 8. Stimulus Argument
discriminated against men in cases of
child custody.
eer
Although dentures produced through a
ww
Sol.
(c) The correct answer (c), highlights an
parallel argument to the above
given argument?
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assumption in the stimulus
argument. It shows that the author
must be assuming that the reduction
EXAMPLE 9. Stimulus Argument
It is true that it is against international
asy
in refitting with the new dentures
compared to ordinary dentures is
law to provide aid to certain countries
that are building nuclear programs. But,
En
significant in order to conclude that
if Russian companies do not provide aid,
companies in other countries will.
that difference will help offset an
initial outlay that is twice as much. gin
Question : Which of the following is most
like the argument above in its logical
In other words, if you answer the
question posed by answer choice (c)
structure?
Options : eer
with “not much,” the argument is
weakened. If you answer it with “a ing
(a) It is true that it is against United
States policy to negotiate with
tremendous amount,” the argument
is strengthened. The other answer .ne
kidnappers. But if the United States
wants to prevent loss of life, it must
choices are all irrelevant because no
matter what the answers are, there is
no impact on the relationship
negotiate in some cases.
(b) It is true that it is illegal to sell
t
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.
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same argument. Sometimes the
parallel structure is easier to see if
you use symbols to represent the
• Read out the options and look out
for one having the similar reasoning
structure.
asy
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