verbal · 18 minutes · Internal Training
How Words Connect
Spot the pattern before choosing an answer
What to know
- tool and job
- part and whole
- cause and result
- word order
Knowing the connection makes matching word pairs easier.
The core rule
Say how the first two words connect before you look for a matching pair.
Ask a simple question: Does one word name a tool and the other its job? Is one a part of the other? Does one cause the other? Write a short sentence, then check that your answer follows the same pattern and order.
Worked examples
Example 1: easy
Wrench–turn identifies tool–function.
- A wrench is a tool. Turning is a job it does.
- Name the pattern: tool and job.
The pattern helps you find another pair with the same connection.
Example 2: medium
Rung–ladder identifies part–whole.
- A rung is one step in a ladder.
- Name the pattern: part and whole.
Part and whole is the relationship: the rung belongs to the ladder.
Example 3: hard
Spark–ignition identifies cause–effect.
- A spark can start ignition, meaning the start of burning.
- Name the pattern: cause and result.
The first event can cause the second.
Common mistakes
Start with whichever answer sounds related.
Name the connection first so a related but wrong answer does not distract you.
Put it into practice
Use guided explanations, check your answers, and try a new variation.