The Reasoning section in the SSC CGL exam is a vital scoring component that evaluates a candidate's logical and analytical thinking abilities. It is part of both Tier 1 and Tier 2 (Mathematical Abilities) examinations. To help a candidate with structured preparation, we have covered in this article, the complete SSC CGL Reasoning syllabus along with topic-wise breakdown, question trends, and preparation tips.
What is SSC CGL Reasoning Syllabus 2026 for Tier 1 & Tier 2?
The reasoning section is common in SSC CGL Exam for Tier 1 and Tier 2 (Paper 1 - Section I). While the syllabus remains largely the same, the complexity and difficulty level increase in Tier 2. Candidates are advised to practice regularly to boost speed and accuracy.
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SSC CGL Tier 1 Reasoning Syllabus 2026
In the SSC CGL Syllabus, Reasoning section has a comprehensive syllabus that spans both Tier 1 and Tier 2 exams. While the topics remain similar, the level of difficulty increases in Tier 2. Below is a consolidated table that outlines all the major topics and sub-topics covered under Tier 1 for better understanding and structured preparation. Below is the comprehensive list of topics that form the reasoning syllabus for Tier 1:
| Topic | Sub-Topics |
|---|
| Analogy | Word, Number, and Figure Analogy |
| Classification | Odd One Out, Word, Number, and Figure Classification |
| Series | Number Series, Alphabet Series, Figure Series |
| Coding-Decoding | Letter and Number Coding, Mixed Coding |
| Blood Relations | Puzzle-Based, Coded Relations |
| Direction Sense Test | Distance, Position, Directions |
| Order & Ranking | Position from Left/Right, Tallest/Shortest |
| Venn Diagrams | Syllogisms, Logical Diagrams |
| Mathematical Operations | Interchanging signs and numbers |
| Syllogism | Logical Deduction, Statements & Conclusions |
| Calendar & Clock | Odd Days, Leap Year, Time-based problems |
| Embedded Figures | Identification of hidden shapes |
| Mirror & Water Images | Reflections in mirror or water |
| Paper Folding/Cutting | Visual Reasoning |
| Figure Completion | Pattern Completion Questions |
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SSC CGL Tier 2 Reasoning Syllabus 2026 (Paper 1 Section I)
The reasoning module in Tier 2 Paper 1 is called "General Intelligence & Reasoning." The topics are similar to Tier 1, but the complexity of questions increases. Candidates need to focus more on time-bound accuracy.
| Module | Topics Covered |
|---|
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | Analogy, Series, Coding-Decoding, Syllogism, Classification, Blood Relations, Direction, Puzzle, Matrix, Order & Ranking, Venn Diagram, Visual Reasoning, Figure Series |
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What is Topic Wise Weightage for Reasoning in SSC CGL?
Understanding the topic-wise weightage is crucial for prioritizing your preparation. While the Tier 1 paper tests basic reasoning, Tier 2 delves deeper into difficult conceptual clarity. Below is a rough breakdown of the number of questions asked from each topic in recent years:
| Topic | Tier 1 (Approx. Questions) | Tier 2 (Approx. Questions) |
|---|
| Analogy & Classification | 4–5 | 5–6 |
| Series | 2–3 | 3–5 |
| Coding-Decoding | 2–3 | 3–4 |
| Blood Relations | 1–2 | 1–2 |
| Direction & Ranking | 2–3 | 3–4 |
| Syllogism & Venn Diagram | 1–2 | 2–3 |
| Visual Reasoning | 3–4 | 5–6 |
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Download SSC CGL Reasoning Syllabus PDF 2026
Keep a handy copy of the official SSC CGL Reasoning syllabus for your preparation. Download the detailed topic-wise Reasoning syllabus PDF for previous year's cycle and stay exam-ready till the official SSC CGL 2026 Notification is released.
Download SSC CGL Reasoning Syllabus PDF
