What is Logical Reasoning?
Logical reasoning is the ability to think logically and make inferences based on the information that is presented. It is a critical skill that is used in many different areas of life, including academics, business, and everyday problem-solving. It is an important skill that can be improved with practice. There are many resources available to help you learn and practice logical reasoning, such as books, online courses, and puzzles.
There are two main types of logical reasoning:
- Deductive reasoning: This is the process of using general principles to reach specific conclusions. For example, if you know that all cats are mammals, and you see a furry creature with four legs, you can deduce that it is a mammal.
- Inductive reasoning: This is the process of using specific observations to reach general conclusions. For example, if you see that all the cats you have ever met have been furry, you might imagine that all cats are furry.
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Application Of Logical Reasoning
Logical reasoning is often used in conjunction with other critical thinking skills, such as:
- Analyzing arguments: This involves identifying the premises and conclusions of an argument, and then evaluating the strength of the argument.
- Identifying assumptions: This involves identifying the unstated assumptions that are being made in an argument.
- Drawing inferences: This involves making logical conclusions based on the information that is presented.
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Logical Reasoning Syllabus for MBA Exams
The topics included in the syllabus of logical reasoning are given in the table below:
Logical Reasoning Syllabus | ||
Blood Relations | Alphanumeric Series | Input-Output |
Calendars | Reasoning Analogies | Mirror and Water Images |
Cause and Effect | Odd One Out | Picture Series and Sequences |
Clocks | Statement and Assumptions | Embedded Images |
Cubes and cuboids | Statement and Conclusions | Paper Folding |
Coding-Decoding | Artificial Language | Puzzles |
Syllogism | Critical Path | Figure Matrix |
Seating Arrangements | Deductive Reasoning/Statement Analysis | Pattern Series and Sequences |
Data Sufficiency | Dices | Order & Ranking |
Decision Making | Directions | Shape Construction |
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Best Books for Logical Reasoning
Some of the best books for logical reasoning are listed below:
- The Art of Reasoning by David Kelley: This book provides a comprehensive overview of logical reasoning, from basic concepts to advanced techniques.
- Critical Thinking: A Concise Guide by Edward J. Feser: This book provides a clear and concise introduction to critical thinking, covering topics such as logic, fallacies, and argument evaluation.
- The Logic Book by Patrick Hurley: This book is a classic introduction to logic, covering topics such as propositional logic, predicate logic, and modal logic.
- The Logical Thinking Book by Paul Pennycook: This book provides a practical guide to logical thinking, with exercises and examples to help you improve your skills.
- The Mind's Eye by David Perkins: This book explores the nature of human reasoning, with a focus on visual reasoning and spatial thinking.
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Weightage of DI and LR in Top MBA Exams
Top MBA entrance exams and the weightage of their Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning sections are given in the table below:
MBA Exam | Number of Questions | Total Marks |
CAT | 20 | 60 |
XAT | 27 | 27 |
IIFT | 30 | 90 |
CMAT | 25 | 100 |
MAT | 40 | 40 |
SNAP | 35 | 45 |
ATMA | 60 | 60 |
MAH-CET | 25 | 25 |
Logical Reasoning: Preparation Tips
Here are some tips for improving your logical reasoning skills:
- Practice regularly. The more you practice, the better you will become at using logical reasoning.
- Focus on the basics. Make sure you have a strong foundation in the basics of logical reasoning, such as deductive and inductive reasoning.
- Use different resources. There are many resources available to help you learn and practice logical reasoning, so don't be afraid to experiment and find the ones that work best for you.
- Find a study partner. Studying with a friend or classmate can help you stay motivated and accountable.
- Take breaks. It is important to take breaks when you are studying to avoid burnout. Get up and move around every 20-30 minutes to avoid getting too tired.
- Get enough sleep. Getting enough sleep will help you focus and retain information better.
