Analogy & Classification
Mental model
Build a bridge sentence that only one answer can cross.
Analogies aren't about vague associations; they are about precise structural relationships. Formulating the relationship into an exact sentence forces the right answer to stand out and eliminates distractors.
Method
- Identify the exact logical relationship between the given pair (e.g., cause/effect, part/whole, tool/worker, synonym/antonym).
- Formulate this relationship into a short, precise test sentence. For example, 'A is the primary tool used by a B'.
- Test each answer choice by plugging its words into the exact same test sentence.
- If multiple answers fit the sentence, narrow the relationship by adding more specificity (e.g., 'A is the hand-held tool used by a B').
- For classification (odd one out), identify a specific grouping rule that affirmatively applies to all options except one. Don't just pick the one that 'looks different'.
Worked example
Problem: Author : Book :: Choreographer : ?
- Analyze the given pair: Author and Book.
- Create a test sentence: 'An Author is someone who creates a Book'.
- Look at the first word of the target pair: Choreographer.
- Plug it into the test sentence: 'A Choreographer is someone who creates a [X]'.
- Evaluate what a choreographer creates. A choreographer designs and creates dances or ballets.
Answer: Dance / Ballet
Common mistakes
- Relying on 'vibes' instead of sentences: Picking an answer because the words 'feel' related, rather than verifying they share the exact same logical bridge.
- Reversing the order: If the original pair is 'Worker : Tool', selecting an answer choice that is 'Tool : Worker' is incorrect. The order must match exactly.
Glossary
- distractors
- The incorrect answer choices designed to trick you.
Recall questions
- What is the most reliable way to test an analogy relationship?
- What should you do if multiple answer choices fit your test sentence?
- In an odd-one-out question, how do you verify your choice is correct?
Questions & answers
Thermometer : Temperature :: Odometer : ?
Distance
Approach: Bridge sentence: 'A [Thermometer] is an instrument used to measure [Temperature].' Therefore, 'An [Odometer] is an instrument used to measure [Distance].'
Find the odd one out: 1) Copper 2) Iron 3) Brass 4) Zinc
Brass
Approach: Rule for the others: Copper, Iron, and Zinc are all pure elements on the periodic table. Brass is an alloy.