IQ & Reasoning Test Complete Guide: NTS, FPSC, MDCAT & University Entry Tests

IQ and Reasoning tests appear in almost every competitive exam in Pakistan. They are highly learnable with the right approach.

The 6 Types of Questions You Will Face

1. Verbal Analogies

Format: Doctor : Hospital :: Teacher : ? (Answer: School). Identify the exact relationship and apply it. Practice 20 analogies daily.

2. Number Series

Format: 2, 4, 8, 16, __ (Answer: 32). Check differences between consecutive terms first — this reveals most patterns within seconds.

3. Figure/Pattern Series

Examine each element (shape, size, shading, rotation) and track how it changes from frame to frame. Changes are always systematic.

4. Syllogisms (Logical Deduction)

Draw Venn diagrams for every syllogism. Watch for "possibly true" vs "definitely true" — they are different.

5. Data Sufficiency

Decide whether the given statements are sufficient to answer the question. Requires careful, methodical thinking rather than speed.

6. Spatial Reasoning

Mental rotation and paper-folding problems. Practice 10–15 minutes per day for three weeks for measurable improvement.

A 4-Week IQ Preparation Plan

• Week 1: Learn each type — 2 days per type, 20 examples without time pressure
• Week 2: Mixed practice — 30 questions daily, focus on accuracy
• Week 3: Introduce time pressure — 30 questions in 25 minutes
• Week 4: Full timed mocks — target 80%+ accuracy before exam day