Logical reasoning is one of the most crucial sections in IBPS banking exams, both in the Prelims and Mains. It not only tests your analytical thinking and problemsolving skills but also plays a significant role in boosting your overall score. Excelling in this section can give you a competitive edge and significantly increase your chances of clearing the exam.
In this guide, we will explore the key strategies to master logical reasoning for the IBPS exams, along with the essential topics to focus on, practice methods, and time management tips to help you ace the exam.
1. Understand the Logical Reasoning Exam Pattern
To approach the logical reasoning section effectively, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the exam pattern.
In Prelims: Logical reasoning carries 35 marks out of 100, and the section must be completed in 20 minutes.
In Mains: Logical reasoning is clubbed with computer aptitude and holds 60 marks out of 200, with a 45minute time limit.
Common Topics in Logical Reasoning:
1. Seating Arrangement
2. Puzzles
3. Syllogism
4. Blood Relations
5. CodingDecoding
6. Inequalities
7. Data Sufficiency
8. Direction Sense & Distance
9. InputOutput
Each of these topics varies in difficulty, and knowing how to approach each will help you maximize your score.
2. Focus on HighScoring Topics
Certain topics are more likely to yield high scores if you master them. Here are the key areas to focus on:
a. Seating Arrangement & Puzzles
These are often considered the trickiest yet most rewarding parts of the logical reasoning section. They are typically asked in sets, with 45 questions based on one arrangement or puzzle.
Tips for Seating Arrangement:
Visualize the seating arrangement clearly. Draw a diagram to avoid confusion.
For circular and linear seating arrangements, be mindful of leftright directions.
Practice solving puzzles with multiple conditions to get used to complex question structures.
Tips for Puzzles:
Start with easier puzzles (like linear puzzles) and gradually move to more complex ones (like floorbased or box puzzles).
Practice solving within time limits to avoid spending too long on any one puzzle.
b. Syllogism
This is a highly scoring section if approached methodically. Typically, the questions require logical deduction based on statements provided.
Key Technique: Use the Venn diagram approach to visualize relationships and draw logical conclusions quickly.
Practice identifying possible and definite conclusions from a set of statements.
c. Blood Relations
Blood relation questions can seem complicated, but they become straightforward with practice.
Pro Tip: Always draw family trees to easily map out relationships. This makes it easier to understand who is related to whom in complex scenarios.
d. Inequalities
Inequalities come in two forms: Direct and Coded. Both require logical deduction based on inequalities between variables.
Direct Inequalities: These questions test your ability to logically arrange relationships between elements.
Coded Inequalities: Practice decoding symbols and analyzing relationships quickly.
e. Direction Sense & Distance
These questions test your spatial reasoning and ability to track directions. Diagrams are crucial here.
Practice drawing the route or path based on the instructions given in the question, keeping track of directions like north, south, east, and west.
3. Strengthen Core Skills
Logical reasoning is not just about knowledge but also about critical thinking. Here are some areas you can improve on:
Critical Thinking: Develop your ability to analyze patterns and draw logical conclusions through regular practice.
Data Interpretation: Logical reasoning often overlaps with data interpretation. Be prepared to answer questions that require you to interpret information from tables, charts, or graphs and make logical deductions.
4. Time Management: The Key to Success
The IBPS exam is as much about speed as it is about accuracy. To score well in the logical reasoning section, time management is crucial.
Divide Your Time: Allocate a specific time for each question type. For example, don’t spend more than 57 minutes on puzzles and seating arrangements.
Skip and Return: If a puzzle seems too complicated, skip it and come back later. Wasting too much time on a single set can reduce your chances of answering other questions.
Practice Under Timed Conditions: Regularly take mock tests under exam conditions to build speed and accuracy. The more familiar you are with the pressure, the better you’ll perform.
5. Regular Practice & Mock Tests
Practice is the single most important factor in mastering logical reasoning for IBPS exams. Here’s how you can approach it:
Previous Year Papers: Solve at least the last 5 years’ IBPS exam papers. This will help you identify recurring question types and patterns.
Daily Quizzes: Many websites and apps offer daily reasoning quizzes. These are great for keeping your skills sharp.
Mock Tests: Take fulllength mock tests regularly to improve your timing and question selection skills.
Analyze Your Performance: After each mock test, analyze your performance. Identify your weak areas and focus on improving them.
6. Learn Shortcuts and Techniques
Logical reasoning often includes questions that can be solved faster using shortcuts. Mastering these techniques will save you precious time during the exam.
Syllogism: Use the Venn diagram technique for quick visual solutions.
Inequalities: Memorize common patterns and symbols to decode questions faster.
Blood Relations: Visualize family relations with diagrams rather than working purely in your head.
7. Stay Updated on Changes
IBPS frequently updates its exam pattern and question style. Stay updated by following reliable sources that provide exam analysis and pattern updates after each exam cycle.
8. Practice Makes Perfect: Build Consistency
The logical reasoning section requires consistent practice. Dedicate at least 12 hours daily to solving reasoning questions, focusing on your weak areas, and improving speed.
Recommended Resources:
Online mock tests and practice sets (IBPSspecific)
Reasoning books such as A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal.
Apps offering reasoning quizzes tailored for banking exams.
Mastering the logical reasoning section for IBPS banking exams is about understanding the pattern, practicing highscoring topics, managing your time effectively, and developing a strategic approach. Consistent practice, combined with analyzing your performance, will allow you to tackle even the most challenging questions with confidence.
Start practicing today, and you’ll be on your way to cracking the IBPS reasoning section like a pro!
Disclaimer : These are personal advice and not from any other person, advertiser.