SSAT Upper Level: Verbal

SSAT Upper Level

Advanced Topics

Complex Analogy Patterns

Mastering Tricky Analogy Types

Some analogy questions go beyond simple relationships. You might see:

  • Degree: Hot is to warm as freezing is to cold.
  • Sequence: Seed is to plant as egg is to chicken.
  • Characteristic: Cactus is to spiny as rose is to thorny.

Solving Complex Analogies

  1. Describe the relationship in your own words.
  2. Eliminate answer pairs that don’t fit.
  3. Double-check your logic.

Real-World Connection

Recognizing subtle patterns helps with logic puzzles and advanced subjects.

Examples

  • Whisper : Speak :: Stroll : Run (degree relationship)

  • Puppy : Dog :: Kitten : Cat (sequence/age relationship)

In a Nutshell

Advanced analogies require sharp reasoning and careful comparison.

Key Terms

Degree Relationship
A relationship showing different levels or intensity between pairs.
Sequence
A relationship showing order or stages.