Introduction to Reasoning

General Intelligence & Reasoning is one of the four sections of SSC CGL Tier-1 examination. It carries 25 questions for 50 marks. This section does not require any specific academic background — it purely tests your logical thinking, pattern recognition and problem solving ability.
 

What is Reasoning?

Reasoning is the ability to think clearly and logically. It is the process of using existing knowledge to draw conclusions, make predictions or construct explanations. In competitive exams like SSC CGL, reasoning questions are designed to test how quickly and accurately you can think under time pressure.

Why is Reasoning Important in SSC CGL?

• It is one of the fastest scoring sections if concepts are clear
• No formula based preparation required — only practice
• 25 questions in roughly 15 minutes is achievable with regular practice
• Strong reasoning ability also helps in other sections indirectly

Topics Covered in This Course:

1. Analogy — finding similar relationships
2. Classification — finding the odd one out
3. Number Series — finding missing numbers in a pattern
4. Alphabet Series — finding missing letters in a sequence
5. Coding-Decoding — decoding hidden messages
6. Blood Relations — understanding family relationships
7. Direction & Distance — finding positions and distances
8. Ranking & Order — finding position of a person in a row
9. Syllogism — drawing conclusions from statements
10. Statement & Conclusion — evaluating logical conclusions
11. Matrix — finding missing values in a grid
12. Word Formation — forming words from given letters
13. Venn Diagram — understanding set relationships
14. Dice & Cube — visualizing 3D objects
15. Mirror & Water Image — finding reflections
16. Paper Folding & Cutting — visualizing folded paper
17. Embedded Figures — finding hidden figures
18. Figure Completion — completing incomplete figures
19. Counting of Figures — counting shapes in a figure
20. Missing Number — finding missing numbers in figures
21. Mathematical Operations — solving coded operations
22. Sitting Arrangement — arranging people in a sequence
23. Calendar — solving day and date problems
24. Clock — solving angle and time problems
25. Non-Verbal Reasoning — solving visual pattern problems

How to Prepare for Reasoning:

• Understand the concept of each topic first
• Practice minimum 20 questions per topic
• Focus on speed — timing yourself is very important
• Attempt previous year SSC CGL questions topic wise
• Revise weak topics every week

Exam Pattern for This Section:

Important Advice:

Never skip this section in mock tests. Even if you find some topics difficult, regular practice of 30 minutes daily will make reasoning your strongest section within 4 to 6 weeks.