Complete Guide On General Intelligence And Reasoning Books

Introduction

General intelligence and reasoning is some of the toughest part for the competitive examinations. The main aim of this section in the exam is to test the problem-solving and trend-mapping capabilities of the candidates. The General Intelligence and Reasoning for SSC exams are considered one of the toughest part. This is also an important section of the examination which ensure that can check a candidate’s potential.

In various exams, like the GRE, CAT, SSC, or UPSC, general intelligence and reasoning sections assess your capacity to process information quickly, identify patterns, and make sound decisions under pressure. To succeed in these areas, it’s important to have a clear understanding and practice using the right study materials. This guide will highlight some of the best general intelligence and reasoning books, categorized by topics and difficulty levels.

Importance Of General Intelligence And Reasoning:

General Intelligence and Reasoning syllabus play a significant role in many selection processes, including:

- Aptitude Tests: These tests measure a candidate's ability to solve problems and think logically. Common reasoning types include verbal reasoning, numerical ability, and analytical reasoning.

- Competitive Exams: Exams such as the CAT, GRE, GMAT, UPSC, SSC, and bank exams often have reasoning sections to test a candidate’s quick thinking and problem-solving abilities.

- Career Advancement: Many job roles require candidates to have high reasoning skills, especially positions in analytical, management, and technical fields.

Categories Of General Intelligence And Reasoning:

1. Verbal Reasoning:

   - This involves understanding and analyzing written information to solve problems.

   - Common topics in this general intelligence and reasoning books include:

     - Analogies

     - Blood relations

     - Directions

     - Coding-Decoding

     - Word Problems

     - Sentence Completion and Formation

2. Non-Verbal Reasoning:

   - Non-verbal reasoning tests the ability to identify patterns, sequences, and relationships between shapes or figures.

   - Topics often covered:

     - Series Completion

     - Odd One Out

     - Visual Puzzles

     - Mirror and Water Images

     - Figure Counting and Classification

3. Logical Reasoning:

   - This deals with logical principles used to make deductions and draw conclusions.

   - Key topics include:

     - Syllogisms

     - Venn Diagrams

     - Statement and Assumptions

     - Logical Sequences

     - Puzzles and Arrangements

4. Quantitative Reasoning:

   - Tests the candidate's mathematical skills, focusing on number relations and problem-solving.

   - Key topics include:

     - Number Series

     - Arithmetic Problems

     - Data Interpretation

     - Simple and Compound Interest

     - Time, Speed, and Distance

 Best Books for General Intelligence and Reasoning

Here are some of the most recommended material across various categories of general intelligence and reasoning books to help you prepare for this section in competitive exams:

 1. Verbal Reasoning:

   - "Verbal Reasoning for Competitive Exams" by R.S. Agarwal 

     - A comprehensive book that covers all the important topics in verbal reasoning with solved examples and practice exercises.

     - Known for its clear explanations and vast question bank.

   - "A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning" by R.S. Agarwal 

     - This is a highly popular book that provides in-depth coverage of both verbal and non-verbal reasoning topics with practice questions and solutions.

   - "Logical and Analytical Reasoning" by A.K. Gupta 

     - A complete guide for both beginners and advanced learners. This book has been designed to boost logical reasoning skills with several practice questions.

 2. Non-Verbal Reasoning:

   - "Non-Verbal Reasoning" by R.S. Agarwal 

     - This book is ideal for mastering non-verbal reasoning it is among the best general intelligence and reasoning books because it offers numerous practice questions and techniques to solve problems effectively.

   - "Non-Verbal Reasoning" by Dr. K. Kundan 

     - A great book for mastering concepts in non-verbal reasoning, with a specific focus on various competitive exams.

   - "Quantitative Aptitude & Reasoning" by Arun Sharma 

     - This book is helpful for both verbal and non-verbal reasoning topics making it one of the best general intelligence and reasoning books and provides strategies for solving tricky problems.

 3. Logical Reasoning:

   - "A New Approach to Reasoning" by B.S. Sijwali and S. Sijwali 

     - It’s a comprehensive guide covering different types of reasoning problems, including syllogisms, puzzles, and logical sequences.

   - "Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for CAT" by Nishit K. Sinha 

     - Primarily aimed at CAT exam aspirants, but it is a great resource for those who want to master logical reasoning concepts with numerous examples.

   - "How to Prepare for Logical Reasoning for the CAT" by Arun Sharma 

     - A must-have for logical reasoning preparation, this book is filled with numerous exercises, puzzles, and solutions.

 4. Quantitative Reasoning:

   - "Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations" by R.S. Agarwal 

     - Known for its exhaustive collection of quantitative problems, this book is ideal for aspirants preparing for exams like SSC, UPSC, and other government exams.

   - "Quantitative Aptitude for CAT" by Arun Sharma 

     - This book is great for mastering quantitative reasoning, especially for competitive exams like CAT, with a step-by-step approach to problem-solving.

A New Approach to Reasoning (Verbal, Non-Verbal & Analytical) 

·        A New Approach to Reasoning’ is the appropriate and best reference book on reasoning

·        The book is divided into 3 sections; verbal, non-verbal and analytical

·        Each chapter begins with the introduction and cover every type

·        Each type is supported with examples and separate exercise with solutions

·        Master Exercise has ample number of the questions and previous years solved Papers

How To Choose The Right Book For General Intelligence And Reasoning?

1. Level of Difficulty: 

   - If you’re just starting your preparation, opt for books that explain concepts in a simple and structured manner, like R.S. Agarwal’s series.

   - For advanced learners, books that focus on higher-level problems, like those by Arun Sharma, will be more helpful.

2. Practice and Solutions: 

   - Always choose books that offer a wide variety of problems and solutions. This helps in reinforcing concepts and improving your problem-solving speed.

3. Exam Focus: 

   - If you're preparing for a specific exam, pick books that align with the format and syllabus of that exam. For example, if preparing for CAT or GMAT, pick books focused on verbal and non-verbal reasoning, as well as data interpretation.

4. Time Management: 

   - Look for books that teach techniques for solving questions quickly, especially when dealing with time-bound exams. Books by M. Tyra and Arun Sharma are known for such strategies.

Tips for Studying Reasoning and General Intelligence:

1. Daily Practice: 

   - Regular practice is key. Dedicate a fixed time each day to solving reasoning problems to improve your accuracy and speed.

2. Analyze Mistakes: 

   - After solving problems, review incorrect answers to understand the logic behind the right solution.

3. Focus on Concepts: 

   - Ensure that you thoroughly understand the reasoning concepts before attempting a wide range of problems. This will help you approach even the toughest questions with confidence.

4. Use Mock Tests: 

   - Practice mock tests and previous years’ papers to get used to the exam pattern and time management.

Conclusion:

Reasoning and general intelligence are crucial for succeeding in a wide range of competitive exams. With the right preparation, anyone can master the concepts and improve their problem-solving skills. By following a structured approach and using the best books for reasoning and general intelligence, you can enhance your logical thinking, analytical abilities, and numerical skills.

FAQs

1.      What is General Intelligence and Reasoning?

A person's mental abilities allow them to perform mental tasks. It is also known as the G-factor. It includes reasoning the ability to analyze problems rationally to find the cause and arrive at a valid solution.

2.      Which book is best for general intelligence and reasoning for SSC Exams?

A New Approach to Reasoning (Verbal, Non-Verbal & Analytical) is one of the best books.

3.      Is general intelligence and reasoning for SSC exams tough?

For people who have not practiced the section of general intelligence and reasoning then it can be tough.