Venn diagrams are slow. Learn the 'statement-pattern' method to solve syllogisms in 15 seconds — including the new 'only a few' questions.
Venn diagrams take 40–60 seconds per question. The pattern method takes 10–15. In a 15-minute section, that's a 5-minute saving.
SSC syllogisms use only 4 structures:
1. All A are B (universal positive) 2. No A is B (universal negative) 3. Some A are B (particular positive) 4. Some A are not B (particular negative)
Memorise this table — it covers 90% of syllogism combos.
When asked "is X possible?": Possible if it doesn't violate any statement Not possible if it directly contradicts a definite statement
"Only a few A are B" = some A are B + some A are not B (both must be true) This is trickier than plain "some" — practise specifically
1. Read statements → memorise as patterns 2. Read each conclusion → check against the combination table 3. If it matches a valid combo → follows. If not → doesn't follow.
Conclusions that "feel right" but don't match a valid combo "Some A are B" doesn't mean "some B are not A" (could be all B are A) "No A is B" + "Some C are A" → "Some C are not B" (valid)
Do 20 syllogisms daily for 10 days. By day 5 you'll see patterns instantly.
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