What is Word Groups?
Word group questions give you several words and ask you to find the ones that belong together. You might need to pick three words from a list that share a connection, or decide which word could join an existing group.
This tests your vocabulary, general knowledge, and ability to see what different words have in common. The connection could be about meaning, category, origin, or structure.
Step-by-Step Method
Read every word
Make sure you know what each word means. Some words might have meanings you have not considered.
Look for categories
Try different groupings: types of food, types of transport, emotions, colours, etc.
Find the best fit
The correct group will have a clear, specific connection. Avoid vague groupings like “things you find outside”.
Verify your answer
Check that every word in your group fits the connection and that no other words from the list could also fit.
Worked Examples
Which three words form a group? oak, daisy, elm, rose, ash, tulip
Working
- Oak, elm, ash are all types of tree.
- Daisy, rose, tulip are all types of flower.
- Two groups of three.
Which word could join the group: piano, guitar, drum? Options: (a) sing (b) trumpet (c) music (d) dance
Working
- Piano, guitar, drum are all musical instruments.
- (a) sing – an action, not an instrument
- (b) trumpet – a musical instrument, fits the group
- (c) music – related but not an instrument
- (d) dance – an action, not an instrument
Common Mistakes
Choosing a group based on a vague connection when a more specific one exists.
Always look for the most specific connection. “Musical instruments” is better than “things related to music”.
Forgetting that a word can belong to more than one category and picking the wrong one.
Consider all possible categories for each word and choose the grouping where the connection is strongest and most specific.
Top Tips
- Think about common categories: animals, foods, countries, colours, sports, materials.
- If the connection is not about meaning, check for word structure patterns (e.g. all have 4 letters, all end in -tion).
- Start with the words you are most sure about.
- If asked to add a word to a group, define the group first, then test each option.
Ready to practise?
Put these techniques into action with our free practice papers.
Practise Verbal Reasoning Questions