Classification is one of the most important topics in SSC CGL Reasoning. Questions from this chapter are frequently asked in SSC CGL, CHSL, MTS, GD, Stenographer, Railway, and various state-level examinations. The topic tests a candidate’s ability to identify similarities, differences, and relationships among different items.

A strong understanding of classification concepts helps candidates solve questions quickly and improve their overall reasoning score.

What is Classification?

Classification refers to the process of grouping objects, words, letters, numbers, or figures based on common characteristics. In SSC examinations, candidates are generally asked to identify the item that does not belong to the group.

Understanding these categories helps candidates solve a wide variety of reasoning questions.

Types of Classification Questions

Different types of questions are asked from classification in reasoning, as explained below:

1. Word Classification

Word Classification questions involve identifying relationships between words. The odd word may belong to a different category, profession, location, object, or concept.

Example:

Patna, Lucknow, Jaipur, Muridabad

Answer: Muridabad

Reason: Patna, Lucknow, and Jaipur are state capitals, whereas Muridabad is not a state capital.

2. Letter Classification

In Letter Classification, candidates must identify patterns among letters. Questions may be based on vowels, consonants, alphabetical positions, shapes of letters, or letter arrangements.

These questions test observation skills and pattern recognition ability. Regular practice helps candidates identify patterns quickly during the examination.

3. Number Classification

Number Classification is an important area of SSC reasoning. Questions are generally based on:

• Prime numbers

• Composite numbers

• Perfect squares

• Perfect cubes

• Divisibility rules

• Number patterns

Candidates should memorize commonly used prime numbers, squares, and cubes to solve these questions efficiently.

4. Figure Classification

Figure Classification questions involve shapes, symbols, diagrams, and visual patterns. Candidates are required to identify the figure that differs from the remaining options based on:

• Shape

• Size

• Direction

• Colour pattern

• Arrangement

Regular practice improves visual reasoning skills and helps candidates solve these questions faster.

Important Concepts for Number Classification

Many SSC Classification questions are based on numerical properties. Candidates should focus on the following concepts:

Prime Numbers

Important prime numbers include:

2, 3, 5, 7, 11, 13, 17, 19, 23, 29, 31, 37, 41, 43

Knowing these numbers helps in identifying odd patterns quickly.

Perfect Squares

Candidates should memorize squares at least up to 30. For example:

• 14² = 196

• 15² = 225

• 20² = 400

These values are frequently used in reasoning questions.

Perfect Cubes

Knowledge of cubes is equally important. For example:

• 13³ = 2197

• 8³ = 512

• 10³ = 1000

Many classification questions involve identifying numbers that are perfect cubes.

Divisibility Rules

Quick divisibility checks save valuable examination time. Candidates should know:

• A number is divisible by 3 if the sum of its digits is divisible by 3.

• A number is divisible by 11 if the difference between alternate digit sums is divisible by 11.

These concepts are commonly used in number classification questions.

SSC CGL Reasoning Classification Practice Questions

After understanding the concepts of Classification, candidates should practice different types of questions regularly. The following questions cover word classification, scientific terms, relationships, and general reasoning patterns that are commonly asked in SSC examinations.

Question 1: Four words are given, out of which three are alike in some manner, and one is different. Choose the odd one out.

(a) Mycology
(b) Dermatology
(c) Nephrology
(d) Cardiology

Answer: (a) Mycology

Question 2: Four terms are given, out of which three are alike, and one is different. Choose the odd one out.

(a) Intensity of Light
(b) Kelvin
(c) Candela
(d) Ampere

Answer: (a) Intensity of Light

Question 3: Four words are given, out of which three are alike in some manner, and one is different. Choose the odd one out.

(a) Obstruction
(b) Progress
(c) Development
(d) Advancement

Answer: (a) Obstruction

Question 4: Out of four groups of words, three are alike in some manner. Choose the odd group of words.

(a) Practice
(b) Praise
(c) Respect
(d) Neglect

Answer: (d) Neglect

Question 5: Out of the following, three terms are alike, and one is different. Choose the option that indicates the odd one out.

(a) Torch
(b) Candle
(c) Table Lamp
(d) Night Bulb

Answer: (b) Candle

Question 6: Out of the following four words, three are alike in some manner and one is different. Choose the odd word.

(a) Expansion
(b) Collection
(c) Scattering
(d) Spread

Answer: (b) Collection

Question 7: In the following four word-pairs, three have the same relation as the given word-pair, and one does not. Choose the odd word-pair.

(a) Hindi – Orthopedics
(b) Stomach – Gastroenterologist
(c) Uterus – Obstetrician
(d) Eye – Ophthalmologist

Answer: (a) Hindi - Orthopedics

Question 8: Four words are given, out of which three are alike in some manner, and one is different. Choose the odd one out.

(a) Boat
(b) Submarine
(c) Ship
(d) Scooter

Answer: (d) Scooter

Question 9: Two word-pairs are given, which are related in a certain way. Three of the following word-pairs are similar, while one is different. Choose the odd word-pair.

(a) Worry – Fear
(b) Rest – Peace
(c) Anger – Happiness
(d) Problem – Worry

Answer: (c) Anger - Happiness

These questions help candidates understand different classification patterns based on meanings, relationships, professions, scientific terms, and categories. Regular practice can improve logical thinking and increase accuracy in the SSC CGL Reasoning section.