📚 Chhattisgarh PSC – Reasoning Ability: Analogy
(Study Notes in Markdown)
1. Simple Explanation
Analogy is a comparison that shows the relationship between two pairs of words (or ideas).
In exams, you are usually given a pair of words (e.g., SWORD : WARRIOR) and asked to choose the word that has the same relationship with a third word (e.g., SHIELD → ?).
Analogy format
A : B :: C : D
where A relates to B in the same way C relates to D.
2. Key Points to Remember
| # | Point | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Identify the relationship | It’s the core of solving an analogy. |
| 2 | Common relationship types | 1. Part–Whole (e.g., HAND : ARM) 2. Synonym / Antonym (e.g., OLD : NEW) 3. Function / Use (e.g., BEEP : ALARM) 4. Cause–Effect (e.g., RAIN : WET) 5. Tool–User (e.g., PISTOL : GUNMAN) 6. Result–Process (e.g., SHARPEN : HONE) |
| 3 | Word class consistency | Both A & B, and C & D usually belong to the same part of speech. |
| 4 | Logical flow | Think of the relationship as a rule that can be applied to the second pair. |
| 5 | Eliminate distractors | Wrong options often match one but not the other part of the pair or use a different relationship. |
| 6 | Time‑management | Practice 10–15 analogies per 5‑minute block to get into rhythm. |
3. Step‑by‑Step Solving Technique
- Read both pairs carefully (A : B :: C : D).
- List possible relationships for A ↔ B.
- Apply each relationship to C and see which word from the options fits.
- Check consistency (same part of speech, same direction of meaning).
- Eliminate clear wrong options then pick the best match.
4. Worked Example
Question:
BRIDGE : ROAD :: WALL : ?
Options:
a) BUILDING b) BLOCK c) FENCE d) FOUNDATION
Step 1 – Identify relationship between A and B
BRIDGE connects ROAD segments → Bridge is a structure that connects roads.
So the relationship is “Structure that connects”.
Step 2 – Apply to C
WALL is a structure that connects ???
But a wall usually separates rather than connects.
Thus the relationship is “Structure that separates”.
Step 3 – Choose option that matches
- BUILDING – structure, but not specifically a separator.
- BLOCK – a block is a unit, not a separator.
- FENCE – a fence separates two spaces.
- FOUNDATION – supports, not separator.
Answer: c) FENCE
5. Quick Revision Summary
| Concept | Quick Check |
|---|---|
| Analogy definition | A pair of words compared to another pair by a shared relationship. |
| Common relationship types | Part‑whole, synonym/antonym, function, cause‑effect, tool‑user, result‑process. |
| Solve in 5 steps | 1. Read, 2. Find relation, 3. Apply, 4. Eliminate, 5. Choose. |
| Tip | Always keep the part of speech consistent. |
| Practice | Do 3–4 analogies each day; time yourself. |
🔑 Final Tips for the PSC Exam
- Read the entire question first – avoid being tripped by a single odd word.
- Use a mental “relationship map” – sketch a quick arrow (A → B) to visualize.
- Don’t overthink – most analogies are straightforward (connect, separate, cause‑effect).
- Cross‑check – if two options fit, look for subtle differences in meaning or part of speech.
- Keep calm – analogies test your reasoning, not your vocabulary alone.
Good luck with your preparation! 🚀