If you’re uncertain about how to start preparing for reasoning questions, especially for exams or competitive tests, you are not the only one. Many aptitude exams place great importance on the reasoning section. Here are some frequently asked questions and answers that will help you begin.
What Is Reasoning and Why Is It Important?
Reasoning refers to the process of thinking logically and systematically to solve problems. It is often divided into two types:
|
Type of Reasoning |
Description |
|
Verbal Reasoning |
Involves words and language-based logic problems. |
|
Non-Verbal Reasoning |
Involves patterns, images, and diagrams without written content. |
Reasoning checks your ability to solve problems, decide on solutions and think critically which is why it is important in exams such as banking, SSC, defence, UPSC and campus placements.
Read More: How to Prepare Reasoning for Competitive Exams?
How Should I Get Started with Reasoning?
You should begin reasoning study by using a planned and slow process. Do the following steps:
1. Be aware of the Syllabus.
Find out the topics that are part of verbal and non verbal reasoning book. This lets you pay closer attention and follow your achievements.
2. Begin With The Fundamentals
Make sure you understand odd one out, analogy and coding-decoding before you start with puzzles or data sufficiency.
3. Practice Regularly
You get better at reasoning by doing it more often. Pick a number of questions to solve every day in each section.
4. Use different categories to solve the problems.
Deal with a topic at a time such as blood relations, series or visual patterns. When you are comfortable, start doing mixed questions.
5. Try to see the reasoning behind each question.
It’s better to understand the concepts than to only recall answers. Try to understand the logic behind every problem to become more flexible.
6. Time Yourself
Make it a habit to use a timer while doing questions. It is very important to manage your time well in competitive exams.
How Is Verbal Reasoning Different from Non-Verbal Reasoning?
|
Feature |
Verbal Reasoning |
Non-Verbal Reasoning |
|
Content Format |
Text-based logic |
Image or diagram-based logic |
|
Skills Tested |
Language comprehension, grammar, logic |
Visual perception, spatial intelligence |
|
Example Questions |
Series, syllogisms, assumptions |
Mirror images, figure completion, patterns |
|
Common in Exams |
Civil Services, Law entrance exams |
NDA, SSC, Railways |
They are both necessary and a suitable verbal and non verbal reasoning book can give you combined practice.
How Can I Get Better at Logical Reasoning?
In order to make predictions more accurate:
• Do not make assumptions in your work. Always get rid of the wrong answers first.
• Go over the logic again if you have doubts, especially in hard logical reasoning questions.
• Study past year papers to see how the questions are formed.
• Keep working on your weak points on a regular basis.
If you mainly work on puzzles, seating arrangements or statement-argument questions, they are usually found in the advanced section of a logical reasoning book.
Is Non-Verbal Reasoning Only About Visual Puzzles?
Not entirely. While visual puzzles are core to non-verbal reasoning, it also includes:
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Mirror and water images
-
Paper folding and cutting
-
Embedded figures
-
Cubes and dice
-
Pattern completion
Using a well-structured non verbal reasoning book for practice can expose you to diverse question types.
Final Tips to Keep in Mind
|
Do’s |
Don’ts |
|
Focus on understanding |
Don’t rely only on shortcuts |
|
Practice with a timer |
Don’t skip visual-based questions |
|
Track progress regularly |
Don’t avoid tough topics |
|
Mix topic-wise & mock tests |
Don’t leave reasoning for last |
Conclusion:
Whether you're preparing for competitive exms or just want to sharpen your cognitive skills, reasoning is a skill you can develop gradually. Consistent effort, clarity of logic, and smart practice using resources like a logical reasoning book, or non verbal reasoning book will help you progress confidently.
