Reasoning Ability is one of the most scoring sections in government exams if approached correctly. Unlike maths, there are no formulas to memorise - pure logic and practice win here.
Topic-wise Weightage
| Topic | SSC CGL | IBPS PO | RRB NTPC |
|---|---|---|---|
| Puzzles & Arrangement | 10-15 | 20-25 | 5-8 |
| Analogy | 4-5 | 2-3 | 3-4 |
| Series (Number/Letter) | 3-4 | 3-4 | 4-5 |
| Syllogism | 2-3 | 4-5 | 2-3 |
| Coding-Decoding | 3-4 | 3-4 | 3-4 |
| Blood Relations | 2-3 | 2-3 | 2-3 |
| Direction Test | 2-3 | 2-3 | 2-3 |
| Inequalities | 0 | 4-5 | 0 |
Topic-wise Tips & Shortcuts
Puzzles and Seating Arrangement
These carry the most marks in bank exams. Types: Linear (one row/two rows), Circular, Floor-based, Box-based.
Trick: Before solving, identify - how many variables? How many conditions? Start with the most restrictive condition (the one that fixes the most positions).
Practice: 5 puzzles daily minimum for bank exam aspirants.
Syllogism
Use Venn diagram approach. Key rules:
- “All A are B” = A circle completely inside B circle
- “Some A are B” = A and B circles partially overlap
- “No A are B” = A and B circles completely separate
- “Some A are not B” = Part of A is outside B
For “Either/Or” conclusions: both individual conclusions must be false AND their combination must cover all cases.
Coding-Decoding
Pattern types:
- Letter shift: Each letter shifted by fixed number (Caesar cipher)
- Number-letter mapping
- Word coding (words replaced by other words)
Trick: First check if it is a simple shift. Count the difference for 2-3 letters/numbers before assuming complex logic.
Blood Relations
Draw a family tree immediately. Use standard symbols:
- Square = Male, Circle = Female
- Horizontal line = Marriage, Vertical line = Parent-child
Always verify your tree with all given clues before answering.
Direction & Distance
Draw the path on paper. Never try to visualise mentally. Standard compass: North-South vertical, East-West horizontal.
Speed Strategy for Exam Day
- Attempt easy topics first (analogy, series, coding) - they take 30-60 seconds each
- Attempt puzzles second - but only if you can solve them fully; partial attempts waste time
- Skip difficult puzzles - come back at the end
- Target: Complete 25 reasoning questions in 20 minutes (for bank prelims)
Best Practice Resources
- M.K. Pandey - Analytical Reasoning
- R.S. Aggarwal - Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning
- Any good mock test platform (Oliveboard, Testbook, Adda247)
Combine with our general exam preparation strategy for maximum impact.
See also: Quantitative Aptitude Tips | How to Prepare for Govt Exam | Latest Job Notifications