Subtraction Analogy
Subtraction Analogy problems involve number pairs where the second number is obtained by subtracting a fixed constant from the first number. For example, in the pair 15:11, the relationship is 15 - 4 = 11. You must identify the subtrahend and apply it to find the missing number. These problems test subtraction skills and pattern recognition.
What You'll Learn
Introduction to Subtraction Analogy
Subtraction Analogy problems involve number pairs where the second number is obtained by subtracting a fixed constant from the first number. For example, in the pair 15:11, the relationship is 15 - 4 = 11. You must identify the subtrahend and apply it to find the missing number. These problems test subtraction skills and pattern recognition.
Prerequisites
How to Solve Subtraction Analogy Problems
Step 1: Identify the two numbers in the given analogy pair (A:B)
Step 2: Calculate the difference: A - B = d (assuming A > B)
Step 3: Verify that the same difference applies consistently
Step 4: Apply the same subtraction to the second pair's first number: ? = C - d
Step 5: For reverse direction, check if pattern is B = A - d
Step 6: Check if the subtrahend follows a pattern (e.g., -1, -2, -3)
Step 7: Present the answer
Example Problem
Example: 20 : 14 :: 35 : ? Solution: Step 1: First pair: 20 and 14 Step 2: Difference = 20 - 14 = 6 Step 3: Relationship: Subtract 6 from first number Step 4: Apply to 35: 35 - 6 = 29 Answer: 29
Pro Tips & Tricks
- Difference = First number - Second number
- Subtraction can also be expressed as addition of negative number
- For multiple examples, verify consistency
- Common subtrahends: 1-10, 15, 20, 25, 50
- Watch for patterns where subtrahend increases (e.g., -1, -2, -3)
- Check if the relationship is commutative (A - d = B, B + d = A)
Shortcut Methods to Solve Faster
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Practice Worksheets
Practice makes perfect! Work through these worksheets to master Subtraction Analogy. Each worksheet contains 20 questions with detailed explanations. Start from Worksheet 1 and progress through increasing difficulty levels.
Exam Importance
Subtraction Analogy is an important topic for various competitive exams. Here's how frequently it appears:
Ready to Master Subtraction Analogy?
Start with Worksheet 1 and work your way up to expert level! Each worksheet includes: