Logical reasoning is one of the most important sections in almost every competitive exam. It tests a candidate’s ability to think critically, analyze information, and solve problems accurately within a given time frame. From SSC and Banking to UPSC and campus placement tests, logical reasoning questions form a significant part of the aptitude section. Practicing logical reasoning questions and answers with detailed explanations not only improves accuracy but also helps you build speed, which is essential during exams. Whether you are preparing for government exams, corporate aptitude tests, or university entrance exams, mastering logical reasoning can give you a competitive edge. Below, we have covered the major types of logical reasoning questions along with answers, solutions, and tips to help you score better.
Types of Logical Reasoning Questions Asked in Exams
Logical reasoning questions are broadly divided into two categories: analytical reasoning and critical reasoning. Analytical reasoning includes puzzles, seating arrangements, blood relations, coding-decoding, and syllogisms. These questions require logical steps to reach the answer. Critical reasoning, on the other hand, involves statement-based questions, assumptions, conclusions, and cause-and-effect relationships.
For example:
Question: A is the brother of B, B is the sister of C, and C is the son of D. How is A related to D?
Answer: A is the son of D.
Explanation: Since C is the son of D and A is C’s brother, A must also be D’s son.
Such step-by-step explanations help students understand the concept instead of just memorizing answers.
Logical Reasoning Questions and Answers with Solutions PDF
Many students prefer practicing reasoning questions from a compiled source. PDFs containing logical reasoning questions with answers and detailed explanations are extremely useful for revision. They provide topic-wise practice sets such as blood relations, puzzles, syllogisms, and coding-decoding questions.
For example:
Question: Statements: All pens are books. Some books are tables.
Conclusions:
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Some pens are tables.
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All pens are tables.
Answer: Neither conclusion follows.
Explanation: The statements do not directly establish any relationship between pens and tables.
By practicing such questions with explanations, aspirants learn how to apply reasoning rules effectively in real exams.
Most Repeated Logical Reasoning Questions for SSC, Banking & UPSC
Competitive exams often repeat certain types of logical reasoning questions. In SSC CGL and CHSL, you will frequently find analogy, coding-decoding, and series-based questions. Banking exams like IBPS and SBI PO emphasize puzzles, seating arrangements, and syllogisms. UPSC exams test reasoning through statement-conclusion and cause-effect questions to check analytical depth.
For example, in banking exams:
Question: In a row of students, A is 12th from the left and B is 15th from the right. If there are 30 students in the row, how many students are between A and B?
Answer: 3 students.
Explanation: A’s position from the right is 19 (30 - 12 + 1). The difference between B’s position (15) and A’s position (19) is 4. Subtract 1 to find students between them → 3 students.
Tips and Tricks to Solve Logical Reasoning Questions Quickly
Time management is crucial in competitive exams. Here are some quick strategies to solve logical reasoning questions efficiently:
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Understand the Question Type: Identify whether it is analytical or critical reasoning.
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Use Elimination Technique: Rule out impossible options before solving.
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Practice with Timed Quizzes: This helps build speed and accuracy simultaneously.
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Draw Diagrams: For puzzles, seating arrangements, and blood relations, diagrams simplify complex data.
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Revise Formulas and Shortcuts: Especially for coding-decoding and mathematical reasoning.
Analytical Reasoning Questions with Step-by-Step Answers
Analytical reasoning requires a structured approach. For example:
Question: Five friends are sitting in a row. A is to the left of B but right of C. D is to the right of B. Who is in the middle?
Answer: B.
Explanation: Arranging them step by step: C – A – B – D. The fifth person can be at either end. B occupies the middle position.
Statement and Conclusion Reasoning Questions with Explanations
Critical reasoning involves understanding arguments. For example:
Question: Statement: “All doctors are educated.” Conclusion: “Some educated people are doctors.”
Answer: Conclusion follows.
Explanation: Since all doctors fall under the category of educated people, it is correct to say that some educated people are doctors.
Free Logical Reasoning Mock Test with Answers
Taking daily reasoning mock tests is the best way to prepare. Online platforms offer free quizzes that replicate real exam patterns. These mock tests include multiple-choice reasoning questions with instant solutions, enabling aspirants to analyze their strengths and weaknesses. Regular practice of logical reasoning questions and answers helps you master concepts, improve speed, and gain confidence to crack competitive exams.