Analogy

Reasoning Ability – Analogy

Study Notes for Himachal Pradesh PSC

1. What is an Analogy?

An analogy shows how two pairs of words or ideas are related in the same way.
Think of it like a matching game – you find the pair that fits the same pattern.

Example:
Sun : Day :: Moon : Night
The sun gives light to the day, the moon gives light to the night.

2. Why Do PSCs Ask Analogy Questions?

• Tests your ability to spot patterns.
• Checks logical thinking and vocabulary.
• Helps you see relationships between concepts.

3. Types of Analogy Questions

(Use these simple categories to decide how to search for the answer.)

4. How to Solve Analogy Questions – Step‑by‑Step

1. Read the first pair carefully.
   Identify the relationship (synonym, part‑whole, etc.).

2. Look at the second word.
   Think of what word would fit the same relationship with the second word.

3. Compare all options.
   Only one option will keep the same pattern.

4. Choose the best fit.
   If unsure, eliminate the options that clearly break the pattern.

5. Quick Tips for Speed

• Chunk the words.
  Read the pair as a small unit, not as separate words.

• Use mental “search tags.”
  For “synonym” tag search for words that mean the same; for “part‑whole” think of components.

• Eliminate first.
  If an option obviously doesn’t match the pattern, discard it immediately.

• Practice with flashcards.
  Write a pair on one side, the answer on the other, and test yourself daily.

6. Tiny Example (Practice)

Pair:

Tree : Branch :: House : ___

Choices:
A) Roof
B) Window
C) Door
D) Floor

Solution Steps

1. Identify the relationship.
   A branch is a part of a tree → part‑whole.

2. Find a part of a house.
   Which option is a part of a house?

   • Roof, Window, Door, Floor – all are parts.

3. Choose the most obvious part.
   All fit, but the most direct part‑whole is Door (a main part people think of).

4. Answer: C) Door

(In real exams, the correct answer will be the one that matches the relationship most clearly.)

7. Practice Question (Try Yourself)

Fish : Swim :: Bird : ___

• A) Fly
• B) Sing
• C) Climb
• D) Crawl

Answer: A) Fly
Both fish and birds have a natural way to move in their environment (swim vs. fly).

8. Final Checklist Before the Exam

• Know the main relationship types.
• Practice identifying patterns quickly.
• Use elimination to save time.
• Do at least 10 analogy drills every day.
• Review mistakes to avoid repeating them.

Good luck!
Keep practicing, and soon you’ll spot the right pair in a flash.