Logical and analytical reasoning¶
Tested by SSC, railways, banking, CLAT, CAT (as logical reasoning), defence and most state exams. See the overlap map.
What it covers¶
- Verbal reasoning: analogy, classification, series, coding-decoding, blood relations, direction sense, order and ranking, syllogism, statement–conclusion, inequalities.
- Analytical puzzles: seating arrangement, scheduling, grouping (banking and CAT weight these most).
- Non-verbal reasoning: figure series, mirror and water images, paper folding, embedded figures (SSC, railways, defence).
- Critical reasoning: assumptions, arguments and inferences (CLAT, CAT, UPSC CSAT).
Depth by exam family¶
| Family | Emphasis |
|---|---|
| SSC, railways, defence | Many short, rule-based questions, including non-verbal ones |
| Banking | Long puzzles and seating arrangements under a time limit |
| CLAT, CAT, CSAT | Passage-based critical reasoning and logic sets |
Free resources¶
Reasoning is learned by solving, not reading. The best free material is each exam's official previous papers and answer keys, linked from the exam pages in this list.
How to practise¶
Sort previous questions by type and solve 20 of one type in a row until the pattern is automatic. Then mix types under time. Review every wrong answer and write the rule you missed.