Analogy

Master the art of solving analogy questions with our comprehensive guide. Learn various types of analogies, relationships, and solving techniques.

Table of Contents

Introduction to Analogy

Analogy is a comparison between two things that are similar in some way. It tests your ability to identify relationships and patterns.

Why is it important?

  • Frequently asked in competitive exams (CAT, GMAT, Bank PO, SSC, UPSC)
  • Improves logical thinking and pattern recognition
  • Enhances vocabulary and general knowledge

Word Analogies

1. Synonym Relationships

Happy → Joyful :: Sad → Miserable

Solving Method:

  1. Identify the relationship between first pair
  2. Find a word with similar relationship
  3. Verify the meaning matches

2. Antonym Relationships

Hot → Cold :: Light → Dark

Solving Method:

  1. Identify the opposite relationship
  2. Find a word with similar opposite meaning
  3. Verify the relationship matches

3. Part-Whole Relationships

Wheel → Car :: Branch → Tree

Solving Method:

  1. Identify the part-whole relationship
  2. Find a similar part-whole pair
  3. Verify the relationship matches

Number Analogies

1. Mathematical Operations

2 → 4 :: 3 → 6

(Multiply by 2)

Solving Method:

  1. Identify the mathematical operation
  2. Apply the same operation to the second pair
  3. Verify the result matches

2. Square/Cube Relationships

2 → 4 :: 3 → 9

(Square the number)

Solving Method:

  1. Identify the power relationship
  2. Apply the same power to the second number
  3. Verify the result matches

Letter Analogies

1. Alphabet Position

A → C :: B → D

(Skip one letter)

Solving Method:

  1. Identify the letter pattern
  2. Apply the same pattern to the second pair
  3. Verify the result matches

2. Reverse Alphabet

A → Z :: B → Y

(Reverse position)

Solving Method:

  1. Identify the reverse pattern
  2. Apply the same pattern to the second pair
  3. Verify the result matches

Practice Questions

Question 1

Easy

Book : Pages :: Tree : ?

Solution:

Book is made up of Pages

Similarly, Tree is made up of Leaves

Answer: Leaves

Question 2

Medium

2 : 4 :: 3 : ?

Solution:

2 × 2 = 4

Similarly, 3 × 2 = 6

Answer: 6

Pro Tips

1. Identify the Relationship

First understand the relationship between the first pair.

2. Look for Common Patterns

Check for common patterns in relationships.

3. Verify Your Answer

Always verify if your answer maintains the same relationship.

4. Consider Multiple Possibilities

Sometimes there can be multiple valid relationships.