Symbolic/Number Analogy
What is Symbolic/Number Analogy?
A comparison between two things for the purpose of explanation or clarification, especially regarding their relationship. In reasoning, it refers to finding a similar relationship between two pairs of items (numbers, symbols, words, etc.).
Key formula / rule: Addition/Subtraction Relationship
Key points
- Understand and categorize different types of number and symbol relationships.
- Develop systematic strategies to quickly identify patterns in analogy problems.
- Improve speed and accuracy in solving various analogy questions under timed conditions.
- Enhance logical deduction and problem-solving skills.
Common exam trap
Misidentifying the core relationship between the first pair.
Definitions
- Term
Analogy
- Meaning
A comparison between two things for the purpose of explanation or clarification, especially regarding their relationship. In reasoning, it refers to finding a similar relationship between two pairs of items (numbers, symbols, words, etc.).
- Term
Symbolic Analogy
- Meaning
A type of analogy question where the relationship is established between symbols or non-numerical entities, and the same relationship needs to be applied to another pair.
- Term
Number Analogy
- Meaning
A type of analogy question where the relationship is established between numbers, often involving arithmetic operations, powers, roots, or properties of numbers.
Learning objectives
Understand and categorize different types of number and symbol relationships.
Develop systematic strategies to quickly identify patterns in analogy problems.
Improve speed and accuracy in solving various analogy questions under timed conditions.
Enhance logical deduction and problem-solving skills.
Formulae
- Name
Addition/Subtraction Relationship
- Note
The second number is obtained by adding or subtracting a constant 'k' from the first.
- Expression
A : A ± k :: B : B ± k
- Name
Multiplication/Division Relationship
- Note
The second number is a multiple or a divisor of the first by a constant 'k'.
- Expression
A : A × k :: B : B × k OR A : A / k :: B : B / k
- Name
Squares/Cubes Relationship
- Note
The second number is the square or cube of the first number.
- Expression
A : A² :: B : B² OR A : A³ :: B : B³
- Name
Square/Cube +/ - k Relationship
- Note
The second number is the square/cube of the first, adjusted by adding or subtracting 'k'.
- Expression
A : A² ± k :: B : B² ± k OR A : A³ ± k :: B : B³ ± k
- Name
Prime/Composite Number Relationship
- Note
The relationship involves sequential prime or composite numbers.
- Expression
A : Next Prime of A :: B : Next Prime of B
- Name
Digit Operations Relationship
- Note
The relationship is based on operations performed on the digits of the number (sum, product, difference, etc.).
- Expression
A : Sum of Digits of A :: B : Sum of Digits of B
Prerequisites
Basic arithmetic operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division)
Knowledge of squares and cubes (up to 20-25)
Understanding of prime and composite numbers
Fundamental logical reasoning ability and pattern recognition skills
Common mistakes
Misidentifying the core relationship between the first pair.
Applying the relationship inconsistently or incorrectly to the second pair.
Overlooking simpler relationships in favor of complex ones.
Not checking all options to ensure the chosen logic fits perfectly.
Getting stuck on a single type of pattern without exploring others.
Keywords
Analogy
Number Analogy
Symbolic Analogy
Reasoning
Pattern Recognition
Logical Deduction
SSC CGL
Quantitative Aptitude
Practice preview
Find the missing number: "7 : 56 :: 9 : ?"…
medium
Which word completes the analogy: "Author : Book :: Composer : ?"…
medium
Choose the word that completes the analogy: "Doctor : Stethoscope :: Carpenter : ?"…
easy