Reasoning Ability – Analogy
(Uttarakhand Patwari / Lekhpal – Program)
1. Simple Explanation
Analogy is a logical reasoning skill that tests the ability to identify a relationship between two items (or sets of items) and then find a pair that exhibits the same relationship.
- Basic form: A : B :: C : D
- A is to B as C is to D.
- The relationship can be based on function, sequence, proportion, composition, transformation, similarity, or difference.
Analogy questions are usually of two types:
| Type | Example | What to look for |
|---|---|---|
| Simple pair | “Book : Author :: Pen : ___” | Who or what performs the role in the second pair? |
| Series (five‑word) | “AB : BA :: CD : ___” | Reverse the second set, or follow the same operation. |
| Complex | “A : B :: C : D, E : F :: G : ___” | Multiple relationships, often involving patterns or rules. |
2. Key Points to Remember
| # | Key Point | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Identify the relation first | Don’t rush to answer; the relation is the key. |
| 2 | Common relations | - Function/role (teacher‑student) - Composition (wheel‑car) - Opposite (hot‑cold) - Sequence/Progression (first‑second) - Transformation (reverse, anagram) |
| 3 | Look for patterns in letters | Spelling, position, vowels, consonants, letter count. |
| 4 | Check multiple possibilities | If two relations fit, try all options; one will fit all four items. |
| 5 | Eliminate wrong options early | Saves time; use logic to rule out unsuitable choices. |
| 6 | Practice with timed drills | Speed is crucial in competitive exams. |
| 7 | Use “mind map” | Write down the two items and draw arrows indicating the relation. |
3. Worked Example
Question
A : B :: E : ___Options:
- D 2. F 3. G 4. H
Step‑by‑Step Solution
-
Determine the relation between A and B
- A ↔ B: The letter B is the next letter in the alphabet after A.
- Relation: A + 1 = B (increment by 1).
-
Apply the same relation to E
- E + 1 = F.
-
Select the option that matches
- Option 2: F is the correct answer.
Quick Check
- Verify that no other option fits the same rule:
- D (E–1) – wrong.
- G (E+2) – wrong.
- H (E+3) – wrong.
- Only F satisfies the relation.
Answer: 2. F
4. Quick Revision Summary
| What to Practice | How to Practice |
|---|---|
| Identify relation types | Solve 10 analogies per day; categorize the relation afterward. |
| Letter patterns | Work on anagrams, reversals, and letter shifts. |
| Word relations | Use dictionaries to find synonyms, antonyms, and functional pairs. |
| Timed drills | 5–10 minute sessions; aim for 80–90% accuracy. |
| Review mistakes | Keep a log of wrong answers; analyze why the wrong option seemed appealing. |
Tip: When stuck, try the reverse method – write the answer options and see which one could produce the given pair if the relation is applied backwards.
Final Thought
Mastering analogy requires a blend of pattern recognition and logical deduction. Consistent practice with varied examples will sharpen both your speed and accuracy, giving you an edge in the Patwari/Lekhpal reasoning section. Happy studying!