IBPS PO – Reasoning Ability
Topic: Analogy
1. Simple Explanation
An analogy is a comparison between two pairs of items that share a common relationship.
In exam questions, you are given:
A : B :: C : ?
You must find an item ? that has the same relationship to C as B has to A.
Analogies test your ability to spot patterns, relationships, and to generalise.
2. Key Points
| # | Point | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Identify the type of relationship: lexical (synonym, antonym), functional (causal, part‑whole), hierarchical (broader–narrower), temporal, spatial, etc. | Most analogies hinge on one clear relationship. |
| 2 | Look for pairs that mirror each other: If A is a type of B, then C is a type of ?. |
Helps reduce the answer pool. |
| 3 | Check for directionality: Some relationships are symmetric (synonym), others are asymmetric (cause → effect). | Misreading direction leads to wrong answers. |
| 4 | Eliminate obviously wrong options: If an option cannot possibly fit the relation, skip it. | Saves time. |
| 5 | Use process of elimination: Compare each option with the relationship you identified. | Often the correct answer is the only one that satisfies the relationship. |
| 6 | Practice different analogy patterns: Word pairs, sentence analogies, numerical analogies, etc. | IBPS PO includes all of these. |
3. Worked Example
Question
SUN : DAY :: MOON : ?
Step‑by‑Step Solution
-
Identify the relationship
- SUN illuminates the DAY.
- It is a source of light for the DAY.
-
Determine the analogous relationship
- MOON also illuminates something during a particular time.
- The time is NIGHT.
-
Choose the answer
- The correct option is NIGHT.
- So the analogy reads: SUN : DAY :: MOON : NIGHT.
Common Mistakes
- Thinking the answer is SUN (symmetry) – ignore direction.
- Choosing an unrelated pair (e.g., MOON : SKY) – doesn't reflect the light‑source relationship.
4. Quick Revision Summary
- Definition: A comparison of two pairs that share a relationship.
- Types of Relations
- Lexical: synonym/antonym, part/whole.
- Functional: cause/effect, tool/usage.
- Hierarchical: broader/narrower.
- Temporal/Spatial: before/after, inside/outside.
- Strategy
- Spot the relation between the first pair.
- Look for the option that mirrors this relation with the second item.
- Eliminate answers that cannot fit.
- Tips
- Check direction (asymmetry).
- Use elimination early.
- Practice with diverse analogies (words, sentences, numbers).
Remember: Analogies are all about matching patterns. Spot the pattern, then choose the option that completes it. Good luck!