In today's competitive job market, interviews can be a nerve-wracking experience. And logical reasoning interview questions always end up stumping even the most confident candidate. In this article, we have compiled a list of the most common types of logical reasoning questions you may encounter during an interview and how to approach them.
Beginner-Level Logical Questions for Interview
Beginner-level logical questions are designed to test your basic logic and analytical thinking. These questions often involve straightforward scenarios that require you to identify patterns or relationships between given elements.
Let's look at some examples:
1. Question: What comes next in the series? 2, 4, 6, 8...
Explanation: The series follows a pattern where each number increases by 2.
Answer: The next number is 10.
2. Question: Which shape does not belong to the group?
Explanation: Look for differences or similarities among the shapes.
Answer: The circle does not belong as it is the only shape without any straight lines.
3. Question: If all cats have fur and Fluffy is a cat,
Conclusion: Fluffy has fur.
Explanation: This question tests your ability to draw conclusions based on given information.
Answer: The conclusion is valid.
4. Question: If all birds can fly and penguins are birds,
Conclusion: Penguins can fly.
Explanation: This question tests your ability to identify the validity of a conclusion.
Answer: The conclusion is invalid as not all birds can fly.
Intermediate-Level Logical Questions for Interview
Intermediate-level logical questions require more critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. These questions often involve complex scenarios where you need to analyse and evaluate multiple variables.
Let's explore some examples:
1. Question: Five friends—Alex, Ben, Chris, David, and Ethan—are sitting in a row. Ben is next to Ethan, but not next to David. Who is sitting in the middle?
Explanation: This question tests your ability to analyse multiple conditions and deduce the correct answer.
Answer: Chris is sitting in the middle.
2. Question: A box contains six red balls and four blue balls. If three balls are randomly chosen without replacement, what is the probability of selecting two red balls?
Explanation: This question tests your understanding of probability concepts and the application of logical reasoning.
Answer: The probability of selecting two red balls is 60%.
3. Question: John loves playing either basketball or football every day. He played basketball on Monday but didn't play football until Thursday. On which day did he play football?
Explanation: Analyse the given information about John's activities to determine when he played football.
Answer: John played football on Thursday.
4. Question: If all cats have tails, Max has a tail.
Conclusion: Max is a cat.
Explanation: This question assesses your ability to evaluate the logical connection between premises and conclusions.
Answer: The conclusion is valid.
Also read - What is a Walk-In-Interview: Check How to Prepare for a Walk-in-Interview
Expert-Level Logical Questions for Interview
Expert-level logical questions are designed to assess advanced logical reasoning skills. These questions often require you to think critically, analyse complex information, and come up with innovative solutions.
Let's explore some examples:
1. Question: You have three jars labelled "Apples," "Oranges," and "Mixed." Each label has been incorrectly placed on a jar. You can only pick one fruit from one jar to correctly label all the jars. How would you do it?
Explanation: This question tests your ability to think outside the box and devise creative solutions.
Answer: Pick a fruit from the jar labelled "Mixed." If it's an apple, label it "Apples," since all labels are incorrect. If it's an orange, label it "Oranges," since all labels are incorrect. The remaining jar will then be labelled correctly as "Mixed."
2. Question: You are given two ropes that burn unevenly when lit from one end. Each rope takes exactly one hour to burn completely if lit from one end only. How can you measure 45 minutes using only these two ropes?
Explanation: This question challenges your logical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
Answer: Light both ends of the first rope and one end of the second rope. When the first rope burns out (30 minutes), light the other end of the second rope. It will take an additional 15 minutes for the second rope to burn completely, resulting in a total time of 45 minutes.
3. Question: A farmer has 40 cows and 5 pens. Each pen can hold a maximum of 8 cows. How can the farmer distribute the cows among the pens?
Explanation: Analyse the constraints and find a logical distribution strategy.
Answer: The first four pens can hold 8 cows each, totaling 32 cows. The remaining 8 cows can be placed in one of the pens, resulting in a distribution of 8 cows for that pen and empty space in another pen.
Mastering Logical Reasoning for Interview Success
In conclusion, mastering logical questions in interviews is crucial to standing out among the competition. Industries like data analysis, business analysis, and software engineering highly value logical reasoning skills.
Remember to continuously upskill yourself to excel at expert-level questions. WiZR offers a range of educational and certification opportunities to help you further develop your logical reasoning skills and boost your career growth.
FAQs
1. What are some effective strategies to improve logical reasoning abilities?
To improve your logical reasoning abilities, practice solving puzzles and riddles regularly, read books on critical thinking, and take online courses or tutorials that focus on logic and problem-solving skills.
2. Where can I find specialised courses or certifications to enhance my logical reasoning skills?
You can find specialised courses or certifications to enhance your logical reasoning skills on online platforms like WiZR, which offers a wide range of educational programmes specifically designed for improving logical thinking.
3. When should I start preparing for logical reasoning questions in job interviews?
It's never too early to start preparing for logical reasoning questions in job interviews. It is recommended to begin your preparation as soon as possible so that you have ample time to practice and hone your skills.
4. Who can I consult for expert guidance on developing my logical reasoning skills?
For expert guidance on developing your logical reasoning skills, you can consult professional career counsellors or education consultants who specialise in providing advice on skill development and career growth opportunities.