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Verbal reasoning: classification

Classification asks you to find the odd one out, or the word that belongs to a group. The link must be strong enough to include the group and exclude the odd word.

What is tested

  • Odd one out from a list
  • Choosing the word that fits a category
  • Finding a link between three or more words

Worked example

Which is the odd one out: cat, dog, cow, sparrow?

  1. Cat, dog and cow are mammals.
  2. A sparrow is a bird.
  3. So sparrow does not belong.

Answer: sparrow

Exam-day checklist

  • Find the strongest link between three words.
  • Check that the link excludes the fourth word.
  • Look for a second link if the first fails.
  • Think about meaning, function and word class.

Common mistakes

  • Choosing a weak link that fits several words.
  • Ignoring a better link.
  • Using spelling when meaning was intended.

Try it yourself

1. Odd one out: triangle, square, cube, circle.

Show answer

cube

The others are flat 2D shapes; a cube is 3D.

2. Which word joins the group: red, green, blue ___? (yellow / apple / sky)

Show answer

yellow

The group is colours.

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