Comparison puzzles work by giving you clues like 'A is taller than B' or 'C scored less than D'. You must use these clues to arrange all items in a line (ascending or descending order). Think of it like solving a chain where each link connects two items
💡Key Rules
Read all statements carefully before starting.
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→Use symbols to track relationships
> (greater), < (less), = (equal).
3. Combine individual statements to create a complete chain.
4. Check your final answer against all given statements.
5. Watch for indirect comparisons — sometimes you must link multiple statements together.
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Formula Block
Memorise — at least one formula appears in every paper
If A > B and B > C, then A > C (Transitive Property). This is the backbone of all comparison puzzles.
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Exam Patterns
What examiners ask — read before attempting PYQs
SSC CGL typically asks:
- Who is the tallest/shortest/oldest/youngest?
- Arrange in increasing/decreasing order.
- Find positions of specific people in the arranged order.
- Handle 5-7 people with 4-6 comparative statements.
Shortcut/Trick:
Draw a simple line or arrow diagram. Write names and connect them with arrows showing the direction of comparison. This visual method solves 90% of puzzles faster than written logic.
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Worked Example
Solve this step-by-step before moving on
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Step 1
Write statements using symbols.
Raj > Priya ... (1)
Anu > Raj ... (2)
Sita < Priya ... (3)
Mohan > Anu ... (4)
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Step 2
Link the chain.
From (1): Raj > Priya
From (2): Anu > Raj, so Anu > Raj > Priya
From (4): Mohan > Anu, so Mohan > Anu > Raj > Priya
From (3): Sita < Priya, so Sita is even smaller
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Step 3
Final order from tallest to shortest.
Mohan > Anu > Raj > Priya > Sita
Answer: Mohan is the tallest.
Common Mistake:
Students often ignore indirect relationships. If A > B and C > A, they sometimes forget that C > B as well. Always trace the complete chain before answering. Also, don't assume anything not stated in the problem.
Five friends — Amit, Bina, Charu, Dinesh, and Esha — have different heights. Charu is taller than Dinesh but shorter than Esha. Amit is the tallest. Bina is taller than Dinesh but shorter than Charu. Who is the third tallest among the five?
60-Second Revision — Comparison Puzzle
Remember: Always create a visual chain or arrow diagram; it reduces mistakes and saves time.
Formula: Use transitive property A > B and B > C means A > C without exception.
Trap: Don't ignore indirect statements; link all clues together before concluding.
Method: Read statement → Convert to symbol → Link the chain → Verify answer against all statements.
Pattern: SSC asks 'who is tallest/shortest' or 'arrange in order' — both solved by the same chain method.
Common error: Assuming relationships not stated in the problem — stick only to given information.
Time saving: Solve in 60-90 seconds by drawing arrows instead of writing explanations.