A puzzle is a logic-based problem where information is provided in a disorganized manner. You must analyze the given clues to find a hidden pattern or arrangement. In the context of the UPSC exam, puzzles are used to check your logical thinking and patience. These questions usually provide details about several people, objects, or events. You might be told about their names, occupations, cities, or colors they like. The challenge is that these details are mixed up.
Concepts (3)
Sometimes the puzzle tells you more about what is NOT happening. You must use these negative clues to find the truth. If the Arts college is not in Kerala and not in Assam, it must be in one of the remaining states.
Sometimes the puzzle tells you more about what is NOT happening. You must use these negative clues to find the truth. If the Arts college is not in Kerala and not in Assam, it must be in one of the remaining states. By crossing out what is impossible, the correct answer appears by itself. This is a very powerful trick for complex UPSC puzzles involving multiple states and colleges.
This is the most common way to solve puzzles. You draw a grid where rows represent one category like names. The columns represent another category like cities or subjects. You put a tick mark for a match and a cross mark for a mismatch.
This is the most common way to solve puzzles. You draw a grid where rows represent one category like names. The columns represent another category like cities or subjects. You put a tick mark for a match and a cross mark for a mismatch. This helps you see which options are left. For example, if A is not in Delhi, you put an X in that box. This automatically narrows down the choices for A's city.
This method is used when items move between people. You must track the 'give and take' of items like cards or money. Start with the initial amount for each person. Create a small list and update the numbers as you read each clue.
This method is used when items move between people. You must track the 'give and take' of items like cards or money. Start with the initial amount for each person. Create a small list and update the numbers as you read each clue. For example, if A gives 2 cards to B, subtract 2 from A and add 2 to B. This keeps your data updated at every step of the game.
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Start Lesson: Negative Elimination