Verbal reasoning is the ability to understand, analyse and draw conclusions from written information. UK verbal reasoning tests typically include word relationships (synonyms, antonyms, analogies), letter codes and sequences, and short passages with True/False/Cannot Say statements.

They appear in 11+ entrance exams for grammar and independent schools, in university admissions tests such as the UCAT, and in employer assessments for graduate schemes, the Civil Service and many professional roles.

Judge each statement only against what the passage actually says — not your general knowledge. Choose True if the passage confirms it, False if the passage contradicts it, and Cannot Say if the passage gives no way of knowing either way.

Read widely to grow your vocabulary, practise word puzzles and letter codes little and often, and always check every answer option before settling. With timed practice your speed improves quickly.