Mastering questions on relationships between numbers is key to scoring well in the SSC CGL Tier-I quant section. Learn types of number questions and expert tips on solving them quickly and accurately.
Introduction
Questions testing the relationships between numbers form a major portion of the quantitative aptitude section of the SSC CGL Tier-I exam. These questions evaluate a candidate's ability to discover connections, patterns, properties and operations related to numbers.
This 3,000 word guide will provide an overview of the different types of number relationship questions asked in the exam. It will also offer tips and techniques to solve them with speed and precision.
Categories of Number Relationship Questions
Some key categories of questions on relationships between numbers asked in SSC CGL Tier-I Quant section are:
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Number Series | Involve a sequence of numbers that follow a certain rule or pattern. One needs to identify the rule and find the next number in the sequence. |
| Number Operations | Require one to perform basic or complex calculations using arithmetic operations, exponents, roots, logarithms etc. |
| Number Properties | Test a candidate's grasp of number properties like divisibility, prime numbers, factorization, odd/even status etc. |
| Ratio and Proportion | Involve identifying and applying proportional relationships between quantities. |
| Algebraic Equations | Simple linear equations that need to be solved to determine unknown variables. |
| Coding-Decoding | Consist of encrypted numbers where candidate must spot linkage between codes and corresponding numbers. |
Now let's explore useful strategies to solve each category accurately.
Strategies for Solving Number Series Questions
Number series form the most common type of number relationship questions in SSC CGL Tier-I. Some effective tips to crack them are:
- Write down first 5-6 terms to spot a pattern in the number sequence
- Check for arithmetic operations, square roots, cube roots connecting numbers
- Factorize terms to identify common factors/multiples
- See if the difference between consecutive terms is constant
- Try plugging small value numbers in place of variables (if present)
- As a last resort, use hit and trial method with appropriate choices
Regular practice is key for mastering the art of uncovering complex rules and structures in number series problems.
Approaches for Number Operations Questions
To answer questions involving arithmetic, roots, exponents, logarithms quickly, one should learn:
| Topic | Useful Math Concepts |
|---|---|
| Arithmetic | BODMAS rule, divisibility rules, prime factorization |
| Roots and Powers | Rules of exponents, fast squaring/cubing methods, approximation methods |
| Logarithms | Change of base formula, logarithm rules and identities |
Solving related questions from previous years' papers helps gain efficiency in applying these concepts to tricky numeric calculations.
Understanding Number Properties
To answer questions testing properties of numbers, ensure complete clarity on concepts like:
- Prime, composite, co-prime numbers
- Odd, even numbers, divisibility tests
- Highest common factors, lowest common multiples
- Squares, cubes, triangular/pyramidal numbers
- Place value and number systems
Additionally, memorizing squares up to 30, cubes up to 20, common primes etc. helps save time.
Solving Ratio and Proportion Problems
Key rules and shortcuts for ratio and proportion questions:
- Convert ratios to simplest form before finding equivalents
- Understand direct and inverse proportion concepts
- Apply unitary method to derive unknowns from provided data
- For complex word problems, assign variables and create equations
- Use cross multiplication technique for quick calculations
Regularly attempting previous papers is the best way of applying these strategies.
Cracking Algebraic Equation Questions
The algebraic equations posed in SSC CGL mostly involve simple linear equations. To solve them:
- Isolate the unknown variable on one side
- Apply opposite mathematical operations on both sides
- Simplify expressions using BODMAS
- Guess intelligently or use hit and trial if needed
Practicing such questions daily is advisable for speed and accuracy.
Decoding Coding Problems
To effectively solve coding-decoding problems:
- Note pattern in code numbers assigned
- See if codes follow a mathematical operation
- Test if code bears positional significance
- Map codes to corresponding number range
Attempting different combinations of coding logic is key for mastery.
Additional Tips and Approaches
Apart from topic-wise strategies, some general techniques for solving number relationship questions are:
- Use tables, drawings or diagrams if questions seem complicated
- Break complex problems into simpler steps
- Identify redundant or irrelevant data provided
- Guess intelligently through elimination if answer not obvious
- Stay calm if question seems difficult, re-read before moving on
With regular practice, these tips will help greatly boost your quantitative aptitude and logical reasoning skills.
Conclusion
Questions testing relationships between numbers require a combination of quantitative aptitude and logical ability. Mastering key number concepts and developing sharp analytical thinking through daily practice are vital to crack this section.
By learning type-wise question strategies, understanding number properties thoroughly, honing calculation skills and maintaining accuracy under time pressure - one can gain mastery over the "Relationship between Numbers" component of SSC CGL Tier I Quant section.
FAQ
Q1: How can I improve my speed and accuracy in number series questions?
A1: Regularly attempt previous years' papers, take mock tests and timed quizzes focused only on number series to gain speed through practice. Maintain accuracy by checking concepts, understanding different patterns and avoiding silly mistakes.
Q2: What is the best way to learn squares, cubes, primes etc to aid in number property questions?
A2: Use memory aids like interesting stories, rhymes, patterns and mnemonics to remember squares, cubes etc. Also create your own tables and lists of these useful numbers so you can revise them frequently.
