Competitive exams for SSC, SSC CGL, SSC Stenographer C and D, and SSC Junior Engineering are an essential part of the selection process for jobs and admissions. To identify the most capable candidates, recruiters and exam authorities use standardised tests that assess multiple skill sets.
These exams evaluate applicants through various question types and methods, with the level and pattern reflecting the competitiveness of the test. Common components include verbal ability, sentence correction, and general knowledge. Among these, General Intelligence and Reasoning constitute a significant and crucial portion, testing candidates’ analytical, logical, and problem-solving abilities.
This Blog Includes:
What is General Intelligence and Reasoning for SSC Exams?
General Intelligence and Reasoning for SSC CGL, SSC Stenographer Grade ‘C’ and ‘D’, and SSC Junior Engineering (JE) refers to the section of the exam that evaluates a candidate’s logical thinking, analytical ability, problem-solving skills, and decision-making aptitude. This section is designed to test how well a candidate can interpret patterns, sequences, and relationships and apply reasoning to arrive at correct conclusions.
Staff Selection Commission CGL
The Staff Selection Commission, Combined Graduate Level (SSC CGL) Exam is one of the most sought-after competitive exams for graduates in India. It recruits candidates for various Group B and Group C posts in ministries, departments, and organisations of the Government of India.
| Phase of SSC (CGL) | Description |
| Tier-1 CBT | Computer Based Test for all candidates. |
| Tier-2 CBT + Skill Test (DEST) + CPT | Applied for selected posts; tests advanced skills, data entry, and typing speed. |
| Interview Test | Conducted if required for specific posts. |
| Skill Test | Conducted if required for certain skill-based posts. |
| Document Verification | Verification of educational qualifications, identity, and other documents. |
| Final Selection | Based on overall merit and post preference of the candidates. |
Indicative Syllabus (Tier-I): General Intelligence and Reasoning
The Tier-I General Intelligence and Reasoning section includes both verbal and non-verbal questions designed to test a candidate’s analytical ability, logical reasoning, and problem-solving skills. The topics cover analogies, classifications, series, coding-decoding, spatial reasoning, problem-solving, critical thinking, and emotional as well as social intelligence. Below is the topic-wise syllabus in detail:
| Topic Category | Topics Covered |
| Analogies | Semantic Analogy, Symbolic/Number Analogy, Figural Analogy |
| Classification | Semantic Classification, Symbolic/Number Classification, Figural Classification |
| Series & Sequences | Semantic Series, Number Series, Figural Series, Arithmetic Number Series, Non-verbal Series |
| Problem Solving & Reasoning | Problem Solving, Statement Conclusion, Syllogistic Reasoning, Critical Thinking, Drawing Inferences |
| Coding & Decoding | Coding & Decoding, Small & Capital Letters/Numbers Coding and Classification |
| Spatial & Visual Reasoning | Space Visualization, Spatial Orientation, Figural Pattern-Folding & Completion, Punched Hole/Pattern Folding & Unfolding, Embedded Figures, Indexing, Address/Date/City Matching |
| Operations & Trends | Numerical Operations, Symbolic Operations, Trends |
| Other Skills | Word Building, Emotional Intelligence, Social Intelligence, Relationship Concepts, Observation, Visual Memory, Discrimination, Judgment |
Tier-II: Module-II of SSC CGL: General Intelligence and Reasoning
The Tier-II Module-II section of SSC CGL includes advanced-level verbal and non-verbal questions. It is designed to evaluate higher-order reasoning, analytical thinking, logical deduction, and problem-solving ability. The detailed syllabus is as follows:
| Topic Category | Topics Covered |
| Analogies | Semantic Analogy, Symbolic/Number Analogy, Figural Analogy |
| Classification | Semantic Classification, Symbolic/Number Classification, Figural Classification |
| Series & Sequences | Semantic Series, Figural Series, Number Series |
| Trends & Orientation | Trends, Space Orientation, Drawing Inferences |
| Spatial & Visual Reasoning | Punched Hole/Pattern Folding & Unfolding, Figural Pattern-Folding & Completion, Embedded Figures |
| Coding & Decoding | Coding & Decoding, Numerical Operations |
| Problem Solving & Thinking | Problem Solving, Critical Thinking, Word Building |
| Emotional & Social Intelligence | Emotional Intelligence, Social Intelligence |
| Other Topics | Any other subtopics introduced in the exam |
Also Read: Questions of Puzzles in Reasoning | Logical Reasoning
SSC Stenographer Grade ‘C’ and ‘D’
The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) conducts an Open Competitive Computer-Based Examination (CBT) for direct recruitment to the posts of Stenographer Grade ‘C’ (Group ‘B’, Non-Gazetted) and Stenographer Grade ‘D’ (Group ‘C’) in various Ministries, Departments, Organizations, and their attached/subordinate offices and statutory bodies across different States and Union Territories (UTs). Only candidates with stenography skills are eligible to apply.
SSC Stenographer: Exam Summary
The following table provides a detailed overview of the SSC Stenographer 2025 exam, including eligibility, selection process, and official details.
| Exam Name | SSC Stenographer 2025 |
| Conducting Body | Staff Selection Commission (SSC) |
| Posts | Grade C & D Stenographers |
| Category | Government Jobs |
| Exam Level | National |
| Mode of Application | Online |
| Selection Process | Written Exam and Skill Test |
| Official Website | www.ssc.gov.in |
SSC Stenographer: General Intelligence & Reasoning (CBT)
The General Intelligence and Reasoning section is a key component of the SSC Stenographer Grade ‘C’ and ‘D’ exam. It assesses logical reasoning, analytical ability, problem-solving skills, and decision-making aptitude through both verbal and non-verbal reasoning.
| Section | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks | Time Allowed |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 50 | 50 | 2 hours (2 hours 40 minutes for candidates eligible for a scribe as per Para 7.1, 7.2, and 7.3 of the Notice of Examination) |
SSC Stenographer: General Intelligence & Reasoning Syllabus
Here is the description for each topic category in the SSC Stenographer General Intelligence & Reasoning syllabus:
| Topic Category | Topics Covered |
| Analogies | Semantic Analogy, Symbolic/Number Analogy, Figural Analogy |
| Classification | Semantic Classification, Symbolic/Number Classification, Figural Classification |
| Series & Sequences | Semantic Series, Figural Series, Number Series, Arithmetic Number Series, Non-verbal Series |
| Trends & Orientation | Trends, Space Visualisation, Space Orientation, Drawing Inferences |
| Spatial & Visual Reasoning | Figural Pattern-Folding & Completion, Punched Hole/Pattern Folding & Unfolding, Embedded Figures, Indexing, Address/Date/City Matching |
| Coding & Decoding | Coding & Decoding, Small & Capital Letters/Numbers Coding and Classification, Numerical Operations |
| Problem Solving & Thinking | Problem Solving, Statement Conclusion, Syllogistic Reasoning, Critical Thinking, Word Building |
| Emotional & Social Intelligence | Emotional Intelligence, Social Intelligence |
| Other Topics | Relationship Concepts, Observation, Visual Memory, Discrimination, Judgment, Abstract Ideas & Symbol Interpretation, Arithmetical Computation |
Explore: Questions of Making Judgements | Logical Reasoning
Staff Selection Commission Junior Engineer (SSC JE)
The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) conducts an open competitive examination for the recruitment of Junior Engineers (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, and Quantity Surveying & Contracts) in various Ministries, Departments, and Organisations of the Government of India. These posts are classified as Group ‘B’ (Non-Gazetted) under Level-6 of the 7th Central Pay Commission.
| Exam Component | Details |
| Exam Conducting Body | Staff Selection Commission (SSC) |
| Exam Name | Junior Engineer (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical) Examination, 2025 |
| Category | Government Jobs |
| Educational Qualification | Varies department-wise |
| Selection Process | Paper 1 → Paper 2 → Document Verification |
| Salary | Rs 35,400–1,12,400/- (Pay Level 6, 7th CPC) |
| Official Website | ssc.gov.in |
SSC JE: General Intelligence & Reasoning
A key component of Paper 1 in SSC JE is the General Intelligence & Reasoning section. It is designed to assess a candidate’s logical reasoning, analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and decision-making aptitude. The section includes both verbal and non-verbal reasoning.
| Section | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks | Time Allowed |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 50 | 50 | 2 hours (2 hours 40 minutes for candidates eligible for scribe as per Para 9.1 and 9.2) |
Let us delve into the ‘Topic Cateogary’ and the ‘Topics Covered’ in detail.
| Topic Category | Topics Covered |
| Analogies | Semantic Analogy, Symbolic/Number Analogy, Figural Analogy |
| Classification | Semantic Classification, Symbolic/Number Classification, Figural Classification |
| Series & Sequences | Semantic Series, Figural Series, Number Series, Arithmetic Number Series, Non-verbal Series |
| Trends & Orientation | Trends, Space Visualisation, Space Orientation, Drawing Inferences |
| Spatial & Visual Reasoning | Figural Pattern-Folding & Completion, Punched Hole/Pattern Folding & Unfolding, Embedded Figures, Indexing, Address/Date/City Matching |
| Coding & Decoding | Coding & Decoding, Small & Capital Letters/Numbers Coding and Classification, Numerical Operations |
| Problem Solving & Thinking | Problem Solving, Statement Conclusion, Syllogistic Reasoning, Critical Thinking, Word Building |
| Emotional & Social Intelligence | Emotional Intelligence, Social Intelligence |
| Other Topics | Relationship Concepts, Observation, Visual Memory, Discrimination, Judgment, Abstract Ideas & Symbol Interpretation, Arithmetical Computation |
Also Read: Questions of Logical Deduction | Logical Reasoning
SSC CHSL (Combined Higher Secondary Level Examination): General Intelligence & Reasoning
The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) will conduct a competitive examination for recruitment to Group C posts including Lower Divisional Clerk (LDC)/Junior Secretariat Assistant (JSA) and Data Entry Operators (DEO) for various Ministries, Departments, Offices of the Government of India, and Constitutional/Statutory Bodies/Tribunals.
The General Intelligence & Reasoning section is a key component of both Tier-I and Tier-II examinations. It includes questions of both verbal and non-verbal type and is designed to evaluate a candidate’s analytical ability, logical thinking, problem-solving skills, and decision-making aptitude.
SSC CHSL: General Intelligence & Reasoning
The General Intelligence & Reasoning section in SSC CHSL evaluates candidates’ analytical ability, logical thinking, and problem-solving skills through both verbal and non-verbal questions. The details are given below:
| Tier | Section | Topics Covered |
| Tier-I | General Intelligence | Basic questions to assess analytical and reasoning ability. |
| Tier-II | General Intelligence & Reasoning | Questions of both verbal and non-verbal types, designed to assess a candidate’s analytical ability, logical thinking, problem-solving skills, and decision-making aptitude in the table given below. |
Topic-wise Syllabus
The Tier-I General Intelligence & Reasoning section covers a wide range of topics designed to test analytical ability, logical thinking, problem-solving skills, and mental agility. The topics are categorised as follows:
| Topic Category | Topics Covered |
| Analogies | Semantic Analogy, Symbolic/Number Analogy, Figural Analogy |
| Classification | Semantic Classification, Symbolic/Number Classification, Figural Classification |
| Series & Sequences | Semantic Series, Figural Series, Number Series, Arithmetic Number Series, Non-verbal Series |
| Trends & Orientation | Trends, Space Orientation, Drawing Inferences |
| Spatial & Visual Reasoning | Figural Pattern-Folding & Completion, Punched Hole/Pattern Folding & Unfolding, Embedded Figures |
| Coding & Decoding | Coding & Decoding, Small & Capital Letters/Numbers Coding and Classification, Numerical Operations |
| Problem Solving & Thinking | Problem Solving, Critical Thinking, Word Building |
| Emotional & Social Intelligence | Emotional Intelligence, Social Intelligence |
| Other Topics | Relationship Concepts, Observation, Visual Memory, Discrimination, Judgment, Abstract Ideas & Symbol Interpretation, Arithmetical Computation |
Explore: Series Questions and Answers | Nonverbal Reasoning
Tips to Prepare for General Intelligence and Reasoning in SSC Exams
The General Intelligence and Reasoning section is a scoring area in SSC exams that tests logical thinking, analytical ability, and decision-making skills. With the right strategy, candidates can maximise their performance in this section. To understand the tips better, let us learn how to approach the preparation effectively:
- Know the complete syllabus to ensure no topic is left out.
- Strengthen basic concepts before attempting advanced-level reasoning questions.
- Practice daily exercises to build accuracy and speed.
- Focus on non-verbal reasoning such as figure-based problems, folding, and embedded figures.
- Learn shortcuts and logical techniques for series, puzzles, and coding-decoding.
- Solve previous year papers to get familiar with question patterns and frequently asked topics.
- Attempt timed mock tests to improve time management and build confidence.
- Review mistakes and weak areas for continuous improvement.
- Balance speed with accuracy to score high without unnecessary errors.
The General Intelligence and Reasoning section plays an important role in SSC exams, offering candidates the opportunity to score well with consistent practice and smart strategies. By mastering the basics, practising regularly, and applying time-saving techniques, aspirants can enhance both speed and accuracy. A well-planned approach not only improves performance in this section but also boosts overall exam success.
FAQs
Ans. The weightage of General Intelligence and Reasoning section in SSC exams varies by exam. For example, SSC CGL Tier-I and SSC CHSL Tier-I include 25 questions (50 marks), while SSC Stenographer has 50 questions (50 marks).
Ans. Yes, reasoning is a core section in SSC CGL, CHSL, JE, and Stenographer exams, though the difficulty level and number of questions may differ.
Ans. Important topics in the General Intelligence and Reasoning syllabus include analogies, classification, coding-decoding, series, puzzles, spatial reasoning, and non-verbal reasoning.
Ans. One can improve speed and accuracy through regular practice, learning shortcuts, solving previous year papers, and attempting mock tests within time limits.
Ans. The difficulty level of SSC exams ranges from easy to moderate. With proper preparation and practice, most candidates can score well in this section.
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It’s very useful and it’s very easy to understand general awareness and reasoning….
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It’s very useful and it’s very easy to understand general awareness and reasoning 👍
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it’s very useful and helpful content
thank you so much for this.
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3 comments
It’s very useful and it’s very easy to understand general awareness and reasoning….
It’s very useful and it’s very easy to understand general awareness and reasoning 👍
it’s very useful and helpful content
thank you so much for this.