Careers360 Logo
ask-icon
share
    Blood Relation: Definition, Practice Questions, Examples, Types
    • Reasoning
    • Blood Relation: Definition, Practice Questions, Examples, Types

    Blood Relation: Definition, Practice Questions, Examples, Types

    Hitesh SahuUpdated on 11 Apr 2026, 10:15 PM IST

    Imagine someone tells you, “A is the father of B, and B is the sister of C,” and then asks - how is A related to C? Solving this feels like untangling a small family puzzle, and that’s exactly what blood relation reasoning questions are all about. These questions test your ability to understand family relationships, generations, and connections between different members. Blood relation is an important topic in logical reasoning and is frequently asked in competitive exams like SSC, banking exams, MBA entrance tests, and defence exams. In this article, you will learn the definition of blood relation, different types of questions, step-by-step solving methods, and practice questions with examples to help you master this topic easily.

    This Story also Contains

    1. Blood Relation Reasoning: Definition, Questions, Types, Tricks & Examples
    2. What is Blood Relation in Reasoning?
    3. Importance of Understanding Family Relationships in Blood Relations
    4. How to Draw a Family Tree Diagram for Blood Relation Reasoning Questions
    5. Key Concepts to Understand in Blood Relation Reasoning
    6. Types of Blood Relation Problems in Reasoning
    7. Blood Relation Questions
    8. Verbal Reasoning Topics
    9. Step-by-Step Approach to Solve Blood Relation Reasoning Questions
    10. Blood Relations Practice Questions PDF Download
    11. Questionwise Weightage of Blood Relations in Competitive Exams
    12. Best Books for Blood Relation Reasoning Preparation
    13. Practice Questions Based on Passage/Relation Based Blood Relation
    14. Practice Questions Based on Coded Blood Relation
    15. Practice Questions Based on Picture/Person Pointing Based Blood Relation
    16. Blood Relation Questions for CAT/ XAT/ MAT/ KMAT/ IPMAT/ UPESMET/ JIPMAT
    17. Blood Relation Questions for APICET/ TANCET/ CUET/ CLAT
    18. Shortcut Tricks to Solve Blood Relation Questions Quickly
    19. Blood Relation Questions for SSC/ RRB Exams
    20. Blood Relation Questions for Banking/ Insurance Exams
    21. Blood Relation Tricks and Shortcuts for Competitive Exams
    22. Common Mistakes to Avoid in Blood Relation Reasoning
    23. Important Rules and Concepts for Blood Relation Reasoning (Quick Revision Table)
    24. Non-Verbal Reasoning Topics
    Blood Relation: Definition, Practice Questions,  Examples, Types
    Blood Relation: Definition, Practice Questions, Examples, Types

    Blood Relation Reasoning: Definition, Questions, Types, Tricks & Examples

    Blood relation is a fundamental topic in logical reasoning for competitive exams that focuses on understanding family relationships and connections between individuals. These questions require you to analyze statements, identify relationships like father, mother, sibling, or cousin, and determine how different people are related. With the right approach, blood relation reasoning questions become easy to solve and highly scoring.

    What is Blood Relation in Reasoning?

    Blood relation reasoning refers to a type of problem where you are given information about family members and their relationships, and you need to identify the correct connection between them.

    • These questions are based on family tree logic and generation levels
    • You need to interpret relationships such as father, sister, uncle, or grandfather
    • Often includes direct, indirect, or coded relationships
    • Requires careful reading and logical interpretation

    Understanding this concept is essential for solving blood relation questions with answers quickly and accurately.

    Definition of Blood Relation Reasoning

    Blood relation reasoning is a logical reasoning concept where relationships between family members are described through statements, and the candidate must determine the exact relation between two individuals.

    • It involves decoding relationships using given clues
    • May include multiple generations and complex statements
    • Often requires drawing a family tree diagram for clarity
    • Tests your ability to connect relationships logically

    This makes it a core topic in reasoning aptitude for competitive exams.

    Importance of Understanding Family Relationships in Blood Relations

    In today’s modern society, almost all families are nuclear, and we rarely see a joint family. In this modern era, students have difficulty understanding the relationships between the other family members. So, the following are some basic terms used in the blood relation-based questions which an aspirant must know before commencing the blood relation questions.

    Relation TypeDefinition / Examples
    Paternal RelationsRelations from the father’s side (Paternal Grandfather, Paternal Grandmother, Paternal Uncle, Paternal Aunt)
    Maternal RelationsRelations from the mother’s side (Maternal Grandfather, Maternal Grandmother, Maternal Uncle, Maternal Aunt)
    Great GrandparentsGrandfather’s Father / Mother → Great Grandfather / Great Grandmother
    GrandparentsParent’s Father / Mother → Grandfather / Grandmother
    ParentsFather / Mother
    ChildrenSon / Daughter
    SpouseHusband / Wife
    SiblingsBrother / Sister (same parents)
    CousinsChildren of Uncle and Aunt
    AuntMother’s sister, Father’s sister, Mother’s brother’s wife, Father’s brother’s wife
    UncleFather’s sister’s husband, Mother’s sister’s husband, Mother’s brother, Father’s brother
    NieceDaughter of one’s sister or brother
    NephewSon of one’s sister or brother
    Father-in-lawSpouse’s father
    Mother-in-lawSpouse’s mother
    Brother-in-lawSister’s husband, Spouse’s brother
    Sister-in-lawBrother’s wife, Spouse’s sister
    GrandchildrenSon or Daughter of one’s children → Grandson / Granddaughter

    (Note: In the questions, the circle represents females, the Quadrilateral represents males, the Double arrow represents the relation of spouse and the Single arrow represents the family relation between the interconnected persons.)

    How to Draw a Family Tree Diagram for Blood Relation Reasoning Questions

    Drawing a family tree is one of the most effective methods to solve blood relation reasoning questions in competitive exams. It helps you visualize relationships clearly, avoid confusion, and solve even complex questions step by step. A well-structured diagram makes it easier to understand generations, connections, and positions within a family.

    Importance of Family Tree Method in Blood Relation Problems

    Using a family tree diagram simplifies blood relation questions with answers in the following ways:

    • Helps track multiple relationships in a clear and organized manner
    • Reduces chances of confusion in complex or indirect questions
    • Makes it easier to identify generations and hierarchy
    • Improves accuracy and speed in solving reasoning questions

    This method is especially useful for solving blood relation reasoning questions for SSC, banking, and MBA exams.

    Standard Symbols Used in Family Tree Diagram

    To solve blood relation reasoning problems easily, certain standard symbols are used while drawing a family tree:

    • Square or quadrilateral represents a male member
    • Circle represents a female member
    • Double horizontal line represents a spouse relationship (husband and wife)
    • Single vertical or horizontal line represents relationships like son, daughter, brother, or sister

    Using these symbols ensures clarity while solving family tree-based reasoning questions.

    Understanding Generations in Blood Relation Questions

    In a family tree, people are arranged according to generations:

    • Top level represents the oldest generation such as grandparents
    • Middle level represents parents or their siblings
    • Bottom level represents children or younger members

    Arranging individuals in proper levels helps in solving generation-based blood relation questions accurately.

    Step-by-Step Method to Draw a Family Tree Diagram

    Follow this simple approach to solve blood relation reasoning questions step by step:

    • Read the question carefully and identify all given relationships
    • Start with a known person and place them in the diagram
    • Add family members based on given clues
    • Use symbols to represent gender and relationships
    • Arrange members according to generations
    • Cross-check all conditions before finalizing the diagram

    Family Tree

    Example Insight for Better Understanding

    Suppose a question states that A is the father of B and B is the sister of C.
    You can place A at the top, and B and C below as children. From this, it becomes clear that A is also the father of C.

    1775925726608

    1775925775474

    Key Concepts to Understand in Blood Relation Reasoning

    To solve blood relation reasoning questions accurately, it is important to understand a few core concepts. These concepts help you interpret relationships correctly, avoid confusion, and solve questions faster in competitive exams.

    Family tree structure and generations in blood relation reasoning

    Understanding the structure of a family tree is the foundation of blood relation questions.

    • Families are divided into different generations
    • The top level represents grandparents or elders
    • The middle level includes parents and their siblings
    • The bottom level includes children

    Keeping this structure in mind helps in identifying relationships clearly and solving generation-based questions without confusion.

    Symbols and notation used in blood relation problems

    Using symbols and simple notations makes solving questions easier and more organized.

    • Squares or boxes can represent male members
    • Circles can represent female members
    • Lines are used to show relationships between people
    • Short labels or initials help in keeping the diagram clean

    These symbols help in quickly solving blood relation reasoning questions, especially when multiple people are involved.

    Understanding paternal and maternal relations in reasoning

    It is important to distinguish between relations from the father’s side and the mother’s side.

    • Paternal relations refer to the father’s family
    • Maternal relations refer to the mother’s family
    • For example, father’s brother is different from mother’s brother
    • Keeping track of both sides avoids confusion in complex questions

    This concept is commonly tested in blood relation questions in competitive exams.

    Gender identification in blood relation questions

    Correctly identifying gender is crucial for solving blood relation problems.

    • Look for clear clues such as son, daughter, brother, sister
    • Do not assume gender based on names
    • Words like child or sibling do not specify gender
    • Always rely on given information only

    Proper gender identification ensures accuracy and helps avoid common mistakes in reasoning questions.

    Types of Blood Relation Problems in Reasoning

    Blood relation questions are asked in different formats in competitive exams to test your understanding of family relationships and logical thinking. Knowing the types of blood relation reasoning questions for SSC, banking, and MBA exams helps you identify the approach quickly and solve them with better accuracy.

    Passage-Based Blood Relation Questions (Statement-Based Problems)

    This is the most common type of blood relation reasoning questions, where a set of statements or a short passage is given.

    • You are provided with multiple relationships in sentence form
    • You need to connect all statements to identify the final relationship
    • Questions are usually direct or indirect
    • Requires careful reading and step-by-step interpretation

    Example idea: A is the mother of B, B is the brother of C, so you need to find how A is related to C.

    These are frequently asked in logical reasoning sections of competitive exams.

    Coded Blood Relation Questions

    In this type of coded blood relation reasoning questions, relationships are given using symbols or codes instead of direct words.

    • Symbols like +, −, ×, ÷ may represent relationships such as father, mother, brother, or sister
    • You need to decode the meaning of each symbol first
    • Then apply the decoded relationships to solve the question
    • Requires both logical thinking and decoding skills

    Example idea: A + B means A is the father of B, and you must interpret the full expression.

    These questions are common in advanced reasoning sections.

    Pointing-Based Blood Relation Questions

    Pointing-based questions are practical and scenario-based blood relation problems.

    • A person points to someone and describes their relationship
    • You need to determine how the person is related to the one pointing
    • Often includes statements like “She is the daughter of my mother’s brother”
    • Requires breaking the statement into smaller parts

    These questions test your ability to understand real-life relationship scenarios and are commonly asked in exams.

    Let's elaborate on each in detail:

    Blood Relation Questions

    Blood Relation Questions test a candidate’s ability to identify and connect family relationships based on given statements. They require logical thinking and a clear understanding of family hierarchies. These questions often involve terms like paternal, maternal, siblings, and in-laws, making it important to remember relational definitions. Below are the key types and questions for quick reference.

    1) Passage/Relation Based Blood Relation

    In such types of questions, a passage of information is given as a question related to various persons. You have to analyse the information and draw a family tree to determine the relation between the persons asked in the question.
    Example 1:
    Directions: Preeti is the only sister of Virat. Manoj is the son of Dileep, who is the husband of Maaya. Virat is the son of Devansh. Devansh is Manoj's father-in-law. How is Maaya related to Preeti?
    1) Mother-in-law
    2) Daughter-in-law
    3) Sister-in-law
    4) Mother

    Solution:
    Draw the family tree as per the given instructions.
    Following the instructions of the question, the family tree will be –
    Family Tree

    Here, the quadrilateral represents the male and the circular figure represents the female in the figure. So, Maaya is the mother-in-law of Preeti. Hence, the first option is correct.

    Example 2:
    K is the daughter of S. S is married to G. A is the only grandson of M. G is the son of M. A has one daughter H who is the only granddaughter of S. How is K related to A?

    1) Sister

    2) Mother's mother

    3) Daughter

    4) Mother's sister

    Solution:
    Draw the family tree as per the instructions given to determine the relation.

    Following the instructions of the question, the family tree will be –

    Representation of family tree

    Here, the quadrilateral represents the male, and the circular figure represents the female in the figure.

    So, K is the sister of A. Hence, the first option is correct.

    2) Coded Blood Relations

    In such questions, relations between the members are given as a code. A code can be any character such as a letter, number or symbol. Generally, it is analysed that codes given are in the form of symbols such as @, #, $,%, * etc. You have to decode the codes, analyse the information given in the question and determine the relation by drawing a family tree.
    Example:
    Directions:
    A + B means A is the brother of B;
    A – B means A is the mother of B;
    A × B means A is the husband of B;
    A ÷ B means A is the sister of B;
    A @ B means A is the son of B.

    If U + V ÷ W – X × Y, which of the following statements is correct?

    1) U is Y's husband's mother's brother

    2) W, X and Y are sisters

    3) V is the father of X's mother

    4) Y is the wife of W
    Solution:
    First, decode the symbols using the given information, and then draw the family tree per the instructions.

    As per the given information, the family tree will be as follows –

    Family tree representation

    Here, the quadrilateral represents the male and the circular figure represents the female in the figure.

    So, only the statement in the first option is correct. Hence, the first option is correct.

    3) Pointing Based Blood Relation:

    In such questions, one person indicates the other person in a picture or directly towards someone. The person in the pointed picture and the person who indicates are directly and indirectly connected with the chain of relations. You have to analyse the information in the question and by drawing a family tree determine the relation between the persons asked in the question.

    Example:
    Directions: Pointing towards a girl Amit says, she is his only daughter's father's paternal grandfather's granddaughter. Amit's father has no siblings. How is the girl related to Amit?

    1) Granddaughter

    2) Sister

    3) Paternal grandmother

    4) Mother

    Solution:
    Draw the family tree as per the instructions given to determine the relation.

    According to the given information, the family tree will be –

    Picture of family tree

    Here, the quadrilateral represents the male, and the circular figure represents the female in the figure.

    So, from the family tree, that girl is Amit's sister. Hence, the second option is correct.

    Points to Remember in the Blood Relation-Based Problems

    1) In the statement, if it is given that A is the son of B, the gender of B cannot be assumed unless it is mentioned or drawn in the statement.

    2) Do not assume the gender of the person based on the name.

    3) Focus on the given information as, the number of couples in the family, terms such as only sibling, only son/daughter or only child.

    Verbal Reasoning Topics

    The candidates who are preparing for the upcoming entrance and Government exams can also refer to the links given below and master the reasoning ability section:

    Step-by-Step Approach to Solve Blood Relation Reasoning Questions

    To solve blood relation reasoning questions quickly and accurately in competitive exams, it is important to follow a clear and structured approach. These questions may look confusing at first, but with the right method, they become much easier to handle.

    Start with a clear family tree diagram

    The most effective way to solve blood relation problems is by drawing a family tree.

    • It helps you visualize relationships clearly
    • Makes it easier to understand generations and hierarchy
    • Reduces confusion in complex questions

    Always begin by placing one known person and then build the diagram step by step.

    Convert relationships into simple personal terms

    One useful trick is to relate the given statement to yourself.

    • For example, “Hemant’s mother” can be understood as “my mother”
    • This makes complex relationships easier to interpret
    • Helps in simplifying long and indirect statements

    This technique is very helpful in solving tricky blood relation questions.

    Do not assume gender without clear information

    A common mistake in blood relation reasoning is assuming gender based on names.

    • Always rely only on the information given in the question
    • Words like child or sibling do not specify gender
    • Avoid making assumptions unless clearly stated

    This ensures better accuracy in solving questions.

    Build the family tree step by step

    Instead of placing all relationships at once, move gradually.

    • Add one relation at a time
    • Check each step before moving forward
    • Keep the structure organized according to generations

    A step-by-step approach helps maintain clarity and avoids errors.

    Practice regularly to improve speed and accuracy

    Regular practice is essential to master blood relation reasoning.

    • Helps in recognizing patterns quickly
    • Improves your ability to interpret relationships faster
    • Reduces mistakes in exam conditions

    With consistent practice, these questions become easier and more scoring in competitive exams.

    Blood Relations Practice Questions PDF Download

    The candidates must practice blood relation reasoning questions with answers PDF and a blood relation reasoning practice set available online to ace the topic of blood relation. The candidates must download the e-book of blood relation questions with solutions PDF given below for practice.

    Download Now: Blood Relation Questions with Solutions PDF

    Questionwise Weightage of Blood Relations in Competitive Exams

    The number of questions based on blood relations varies from exam to exam -
    1) Blood Relations questions asked in SSC exams, i.e. SSC MTS, SSC CGL, SSC CHSL, SSC CPO, Steno - 2 to 3 questions.

    2) Blood Relations questions asked in the Railways exam, i.e. Group D, NTPC, JE, ALP, etc. and banking exams - 2 to 3 questions.

    3) Blood Relations questions asked in CUET, VITEE, NMAT and other college entrance exams - 1 to 2 questions. Sometimes, questions based on blood relation can be seen in CSAT and IB exams as well.

    4) But sometimes it comes in the form of comprehension consisting of 4-5 questions in every competitive exam.

    Note: The candidates must practice the blood relation reasoning questions with the answers given below for each type.

    Best Books for Blood Relation Reasoning Preparation

    Here is a clean and exam-focused table of the most recommended books to master blood relation reasoning questions for competitive exams:

    Book NameAuthorKey FeaturesBest For
    A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal ReasoningR.S. AggarwalCovers blood relation with clear concepts, examples, and practice questionsBeginners and SSC aspirants
    Analytical ReasoningM.K. PandeyStrong focus on logical puzzles and concept-building including blood relationsBanking and MBA exams
    A New Approach to Reasoning Verbal & Non-VerbalB.S. SijwaliIncludes shortcut tricks, solved examples, and topic-wise practiceBeginners to intermediate level
    Shortcuts in Reasoning for Competitive ExamsDisha ExpertsFocus on quick solving techniques and time-saving methodsSpeed improvement
    How to Crack Test of ReasoningArihant ExpertsComprehensive reasoning coverage with detailed explanationsAll competitive exams
    SSC Reasoning Chapterwise Solved PapersKiran PublicationsPrevious year blood relation questions with step-by-step solutionsSSC exam preparation
    Logical ReasoningArun SharmaCovers reasoning topics with advanced level practice setsMBA entrance exams

    Practice Questions Based on Passage/Relation Based Blood Relation

    1. Directions: Bharti is the sister of Chavi. Avni is the mother of Bharti. Chavi is the wife of Dhruv. Dhruv is the father of Esha. Who is the maternal grandmother of Esha?
    1) Dhruv
    2) Avni
    3) Chavi
    4) Bharti
    Solution:
    As per the given information, the family tree will be as follows –

    Family tree

    Here, the quadrilateral represents the male, and the circular figure represents the female in the figure.
    So, from the above family tree, Avni is the maternal grandmother of Esha. Hence, the second option is correct.

    2. Directions: Bhanu is the sister of Chirag. Aryan is the father of Bhanu. Chirag is the brother of Dewan. Dewan is the husband of Esha. How is Esha related to Aryan?

    1. Daughter

    2. Sister

    3. Niece

    4. Daughter-in-law

    Solution:
    As per the given information, the family tree will be as follows –

    Family tree

    Here, the quadrilateral represents the male, and the circular figure represents the female in the figure.
    So, from the above family tree, Esha is the daughter-in-law of Aryan. Hence, the fourth option is correct.

    3. Directions: John is the father of Mary and Joseph is the son of Myra. Ishu is the brother of John. Joseph is the only brother of Mary. How is Myra related to Ishu?

    1) Sister

    2) Cousin

    3) Wife

    4) Sister–in–law

    Solution:
    Draw the family tree as per the instructions given to determine the relation.

    As per the given information, the family tree will be as follows –

    Family tree

    Here, the quadrilateral represents the male and the circular figure represents the female in the figure.

    So, from the above family tree, Myra is the sister–in–law of Ishu. Hence, the fourth option is correct.

    4. Directions: A and B are a married couple. X and Y are brothers. X is the brother of A. How is Y related to B?

    1) Brother-in-law

    2) Brother

    3) Son-in-law

    4) Cousin

    Solution:

    As per the given information, the family tree will be as follows –

    Representation of relations

    Here, the quadrilateral represents the male, and the circular figure represents the female in the figure.

    So, from the above family tree, Y is the brother-in-law of B. Hence, the first option is correct.

    5. Directions: F is the brother of A. C is the daughter of A. K is the sister of F. G is the brother of C. Who is the uncle of G?

    1) A

    2) C

    3) K

    4) F

    Solution:

    As per the given information, the family tree will be as follows –

    Blood Relation Representation

    Here, the quadrilateral represents the male, and the circular figure represents the female in the figure.

    So, from the above family tree, F is the uncle of G. Hence, the fourth option is correct.

    1775925682158

    Practice Questions Based on Coded Blood Relation

    1. Directions: If, B % D means B is the brother of D,

    B & D means B is the mother of D,

    B × D means B is the husband of D,

    B # D means B is the sister of D,

    B $ D means B is the son of D,

    B @ D means B is the father of D.

    So how is A related to E in the given expression?

    A % D $ F # B % E × S

    1) Husband

    2) Nephew

    3) Uncle

    4) Brother

    Solution:

    As per the given information, the family tree will be as follows –

    Blood Relation Representation

    Here, the quadrilateral represents the male, and the circular figure represents the female in the figure.

    So, A is the nephew of E. Hence, the second option is correct.

    2. Directions: P @ Q means P is the wife of Q.

    P # Q means P is the brother of Q.

    P % Q means P is the father of Q.

    P – Q means P is the daughter of Q.

    If Z – B % D % G, then how is Z related to G?

    1) Z is the mother of G

    2) Z is the sister of G

    3) Z is the father's sister of G

    4) Z is the daughter of G

    Solution:

    As per the given information, the family tree will be as follows –


    Blood Relation Image

    Here, the quadrilateral represents the male, and the circular figure represents the female in the figure.

    So, Z is the father's sister of G. Hence, the third option is correct.

    3. Directions: A + B means A is the brother of B;

    A – B means A is the mother of B;

    A × B means A is the husband of B;

    A ÷ B means A is the sister of B.

    If C ÷ B – E + A × F – D, then which of the following statements is NOT correct?

    1) D is the daughter of B

    2) C is the sister of the mother of A

    3) F is the wife of the son of B

    4) B is the mother of A

    Solution:

    As per the given information, the family tree will be as follows –

    Figure representing blood relation

    Here, the quadrilateral represents the male, and the circular figure represents the female in the figure.

    Let's check the options –

    First option: D is the daughter of B – From the above family tree, it's clear that D is either the daughter or son of A and F. Therefore, this option is incorrect.

    Second option: C is the sister of the mother of A – From the above family tree, it's clear that B is the mother of E and, E is the brother of A. So, B is the mother of A and E both. So, C is the sister of B, the mother of A. Therefore, this option is correct.

    Third option: F is the wife of the son of B – From the above family tree, it's clear that A is the son of B, and F is the wife of A. So, F is the wife of the son of B. Therefore, this option is correct.

    Fourth option: B is the mother of A – From the above family tree, it's clear that B is the mother of E and, E is the brother of A. So, B is the mother of A and E both. Therefore, this option is correct.

    So, only the first option does not fulfil the relation as per the family tree. Hence, the first option is correct.

    4. Directions: A + B means A is the sister of B;

    A – B means A is the brother of B;

    A × B means A is the father of B;

    A ÷ B means A is the wife of B.

    If A + B – C ÷ D × E – F, then which of the following statements is NOT correct?

    1) C is the mother of F

    2) E is the brother of B

    3) A is the sister of the wife of D

    4) A is the sister of C

    Solution:

    According to the given information, the family tree will be as follows –

    Blood Relation Representation

    Here, the quadrilateral represents the male, and the circular figure represents the female in the figure.

    Let's check the options –

    First option: C is the mother of F – From the above family tree, it's clear that E is the brother of F, and E is the Son of C. So, C is the mother of F as well. Therefore, this option is correct.

    Second option: E is the brother of B – From the above family tree, it's clear that E is the brother of F, and B is the uncle of E. Therefore, this option is incorrect.

    Third option: A is the sister of the wife of D – From the above family tree, it's clear that A is the sister of C, and C is D's wife. So, A is the sister of the wife of D. Therefore, this option is correct.

    Fourth option: A is the sister of C – From the above family tree, it's clear that A is the sister of B and C. Therefore, this option is correct.
    So, only the second option does not depict the correct relation, as per the family tree. Hence, the second option is correct.

    5. Directions: A + B means A is the father of B;

    A – B means A is the son of B;

    A × B means A is the sister of B;

    A ÷ B means A is the wife of B.

    If H + I – J × K × L – M ÷ N, then which of the following statements is not correct?

    1) H is the husband of the sister of K

    2) J is the wife of the son of M

    3) H is the husband of the sister of L

    4) H is the husband of the daughter of M

    Solution:

    As per the given information, the family tree will be as follows –

    Representation of blood relation

    Here, the quadrilateral represents the male, and the circular figure represents the female in the figure.

    Let's check the options –

    First option: H is the husband of the sister of K – From the above family tree, it's clear that J is the sister of K, and H is J's husband. So, H is the husband of the sister of K. Therefore, this option is correct.

    Second option: J is the wife of the son of M – From the above family tree, it's clear that J is the daughter of M and H is the son-in-law of M. Therefore, this option is incorrect.

    Third option: H is the husband of the sister of L – From the above family tree, it's clear that J is the sister of L, and H is J's husband. So, H is the husband of the sister of L. Therefore, this option is correct.

    Fourth option: H is the husband of the daughter of M – From the above family tree, it's clear that J is the daughter of M, and H is J's husband. So, H is the husband of the daughter of M. Therefore, this option is correct.

    So, only the second option does not depict the correct relation, as per the family tree. Hence, the second option is correct.

    Practice Questions Based on Picture/Person Pointing Based Blood Relation

    1. Directions: Pointing to a lady in a photograph, Meera said, "Her father's only son's wife is my mother-in-law". How is Meera's husband related to that lady in the photo?

    1) Nephew

    2) Uncle

    3) Son

    4) Father

    Solution:
    As per the given information, the family tree will be as follows –

    Blood Relation Chart

    Here, the quadrilateral represents the male, and the circular figure represents the female in the figure.

    According to the above family tree, Meera's husband is the nephew of that lady. Hence, the first option is correct.

    2. Directions: Mohan said, "This girl is the wife of the grandson of my mother". How is Mohan related to that girl?

    1) Grandfather

    2) Husband

    3) Father

    4) Father-in-law

    Solution:

    As per the given information, the family tree will be as follows –

    Blood Relation Figure

    Here, the quadrilateral represents the male, and the circular figure represents the female in the figure.

    According to the above family tree, Mohan is the father-in-law of the girl. Hence, the fourth option is correct.

    3. Directions: Introducing a man, a woman said, "He is the son of my mother's brother's father's son". Then how is the woman related to the man?

    1) Nephew

    2) Brother

    3) Son

    4) Cousin

    Solution:

    As per the given information, the family tree will be as follows –

    Blood Relation

    Here, the quadrilateral represents the male, and the circular figure represents the female in the figure.

    According to the above family tree, the woman is the cousin of the man. Hence, the fourth option is correct.

    4. Directions: Pointing to a boy, Mrs. Anita said, "He is the only son of my paternal grandmother's only daughter's husband". How is the boy related to Mrs. Anita?

    1) Nephew

    2) Uncle

    3) Sister

    4) Cousin

    Solution:

    As per the given information, the family tree will be as follows –

    Blood Relation Figure

    Here, the quadrilateral represents the male, and the circular figure represents the female in the figure.

    According to the above family tree, the boy is the cousin of Mrs. Anita. Hence, the fourth option is correct.

    5. Directions: Pointing to a man in a photograph, a woman said, "He is the only son of my mother's father." How is the woman related to the man in the photograph?

    1) Niece

    2) Sister

    3) Daughter

    4) Granddaughter

    Solution:

    As per the given information, the family tree will be as follows –

    Blood Relation Representation

    Here, the quadrilateral represents the male, and the circular figure represents the female in the figure.

    According to the above family tree, the woman is the niece of the man. Hence, the first option is correct.

    Blood Relation Questions for CAT/ XAT/ MAT/ KMAT/ IPMAT/ UPESMET/ JIPMAT

    1. Directions: If A + B means A is the brother of B; A % B means A is the father of B and A x B means A is the sister of B. Which of the following means M is the uncle of P?

    1) M % N x P

    2) N x P % M

    3) M + S % R % P

    4) M + K % T x P

    Solution:

    Let us break down each option and draw the respective family diagram

    A) M % N x P

    M is the N

    N is the sister of P

    B) N x P % M

    N is the sister of P

    P is the father of M

    C) M is the brother of S

    S is the father of R

    R is the father of P

    D) M is the brother of K

    K is the father of T

    T is the sister of P

    Blood Relation Representation

    It can be concluded from the above that only in Option (D) the required condition M is the uncle of P is met. Hence Option (D) is the right answer

    2. Directions: The woman added, pointing at the man, "His mother is the only daughter of my mother". How is the woman related to the man?
    1) Sister

    2) Mother

    3) Aunt

    4) Grandmother

    Solution:

    The statement, "the only daughter of my mother" indicates the lady herself, and the man is the son of that only daughter. Thus, that man is the son of the woman.

    Hence, the second option is correct.

    Blood Relation Questions for APICET/ TANCET/ CUET/ CLAT

    1. Directions: Maya said, "My mother is the sister of Ranjeet's brother". What is Ranjeet's brother's relationship with her (Maya)?

    1) Cousin

    2) Maternal uncle

    3) Uncle

    4) Brother-in-law

    Solution:

    As per the instructions, the family tree will be –

    Representation of blood Relation

    Here, the quadrilateral represents the male and the circular figure represents the female in the above figure.

    So, from the above, Ranjeet's brother is the maternal uncle of Maya. Hence, the second option is correct.

    2. Directions: Pointing to a picture of a boy, Shreya said, "He is the only son of the man who is the father of my father's only son's son". How is the boy related to Shreya?

    1. Father

    2. Nephew

    3. Son-in-law

    4. Brother

    Solution:

    As per the given information, the family tree will be as follows –

    Representation of blood relation

    Here, the quadrilateral represents the male, and the circular figure represents the female in the figure.

    So, from the above family tree, the boy is the nephew of Shreya. Hence, the second option is correct.

    Shortcut Tricks to Solve Blood Relation Questions Quickly

    Solving blood relation reasoning questions becomes much easier when you apply the right shortcuts and techniques. Instead of getting confused by long statements, these tricks help you simplify the information and arrive at the correct answer faster. These methods are especially useful in competitive exams where speed and accuracy matter.

    Use diagram method effectively in blood relation questions

    The diagram or family tree method is the most reliable shortcut.

    • Draw a simple structure to represent relationships
    • Place people according to generations (top to bottom)
    • Use symbols or short labels to keep it clean
    • Helps in visualizing even complex relationships clearly

    This method reduces confusion and is highly effective for solving blood relation reasoning questions quickly.

    Break complex statements into smaller parts

    Long and complicated statements can be difficult to understand at once.

    • Divide the statement into smaller, manageable parts
    • Solve one relationship at a time
    • Connect each part step by step
    • Avoid trying to solve everything in one go

    This approach makes even difficult blood relation problems easy to handle.

    Identify gender clues quickly in reasoning questions

    Gender plays a crucial role in determining relationships.

    • Look for words like father, mother, son, daughter, brother, sister
    • Do not assume gender from names unless clearly mentioned
    • Words like child or sibling can refer to either gender
    • Correct gender identification leads to correct answers

    Paying attention to gender clues improves accuracy in blood relation questions.

    Use elimination technique for faster solving

    Elimination is a powerful strategy in multiple-choice questions.

    • Remove options that clearly do not match the relationships
    • Narrow down to the most logical answer
    • Saves time when full calculation is not needed
    • Useful when you are unsure about the final answer

    This technique helps in solving blood relation reasoning questions efficiently during exams.

    Blood Relation Questions for SSC/ RRB Exams

    1. Directions: Pointing towards a man, Parkhi said, "He is the brother of my son's mother". How that man is related to Parkhi's husband?

    1. Nephew

    2. Uncle

    3. Son

    4. Brother-in-law

    Solution:

    As per the given information, the family tree will be as follows –

    Blood Relation diagram

    Here, the quadrilateral represents the male, and the circular figure represents the female in the figure.

    So, the man is the brother-in-law of Parkhi's husband. Hence, the fourth option is correct.

    Blood Relation Questions for Banking/ Insurance Exams

    1. Directions: T + U means T is the mother of U;

    T – U means T is the husband of U;

    T ÷ U means T is the son of U;

    T × U means T is the sister of U.

    If M ÷ N + O – P, how is N related to P?

    1. Daughter

    2. Mother-in-law

    3. Father-in-law

    4. Sister

    Solution:

    Given:

    T + U ⇒ T is the mother of U

    T – U ⇒ T is the husband of U

    T ÷ U ⇒ T is the son of U

    T × U ⇒ T is the sister of U

    As per the given information, the family tree will be as follows –

    Blood Relation Diagram

    Here, the quadrilateral represents the male, and the circular figure represents the female in the figure.

    So, N is the mother-in-law of P. Hence, the second option is correct.

    2. Directions: A is B's brother, C is A's mother, D is C's father, and B is D's granddaughter. How is B related to F who is A's son?

    1) Aunt

    2) Cousin

    3) Niece

    4) Daughter

    Solution:

    As per the given information the family tree will be as follows –

    Blood Relation Diagram

    Here, the quadrilateral represents the male and the circular figure represents the female in the figure.

    So, from the above family tree, B is the Aunt of F. Hence the first option is correct.

    Blood Relation Tricks and Shortcuts for Competitive Exams

    This section covers easy blood relation tricks and shortcuts that help you solve questions quickly and accurately in competitive exams. The table below summarizes smart approaches, common patterns, and time-saving techniques for different types of blood relation problems.

    Blood Relation TypeCommon Clue WordsQuick Trick to Solve
    Parent–ChildFather, Mother, Son, DaughterMove one level up for parents and one level down for children
    SiblingsBrother, SisterCheck same parents, same generation
    GrandparentsGrandfather, GrandmotherMove two levels up from the person
    GrandchildrenGrandson, GranddaughterMove two levels down
    Uncle / AuntBrother/Sister of parentFirst go to parent, then move to their sibling
    Nephew / NieceSon/Daughter of siblingFirst go to sibling, then to their child
    CousinsChildren of uncle/auntSame generation, different parents
    Maternal RelationsMother’s sideAlways trace from mother, not father
    Paternal RelationsFather’s sideAlways trace from father, not mother
    Mixed StatementsHe/she, indirect linksDraw a family tree immediately to avoid confusion
    Direction-based QuestionsLeft/right facingFix reference direction first, then solve relations
    Generation-based QuestionsOldest/youngestMark generation levels before identifying relation

    Common Mistakes to Avoid in Blood Relation Reasoning

    • Skipping the chart and trying to solve entirely in your head, which increases errors.

    • Misinterpreting gender due to ignoring pronouns in the question.

    • Overcomplicating by drawing unnecessary extra connections.

    • Forgetting that some relationships are relative to a point of view: the answer changes if the reference person changes.

    • Rushing without double-checking, especially in exam blood relation reasoning practice sets, where small errors cost marks.

    Important Rules and Concepts for Blood Relation Reasoning (Quick Revision Table)

    Blood relation questions do not involve mathematical formulas, but they follow clear logical rules and patterns. Here is a quick-reference table to help you solve blood relation reasoning questions easily and accurately:

    Concept / RuleKey LogicShortcut / TrickExample Insight
    Generation LevelsFamily is divided into levelsTop = elders, middle = parents, bottom = childrenGrandfather → Father → Son
    Gender IdentificationMale or female mattersUse clues like son, daughter, brother, sister“Daughter” = female
    Direct RelationSimple relationshipsIdentify immediate connectionA is father of B
    Indirect RelationMulti-step relationshipsBreak into smaller partsA → B → C
    Coded RelationsSymbols represent relationsDecode symbols firstA + B = A is father of B
    Pointing MethodReal-life scenarioReplace with “my” to simplify“My mother’s brother”
    Family Tree MethodVisual representationDraw diagram step by stepHelps avoid confusion
    Paternal SideFather’s familyFather’s brother = uncleEasy identification
    Maternal SideMother’s familyMother’s sister = auntTrack separately
    Sibling RelationSame parentsBrother/sister relationB and C are siblings
    Marriage RelationHusband-wife linkUse double connection in diagramA is husband of B
    Elimination TechniqueRemove wrong optionsUse logic to narrow answersMCQ solving
    Direction of RelationUpward or downwardParent vs child differenceFather vs son

    Non-Verbal Reasoning Topics

    Non-Verbal Reasoning Topics focus on visual and spatial problem-solving instead of language or numbers. These questions test pattern recognition, figure analysis, logical sequencing, and visual interpretation skills. They are commonly asked in competitive exams to assess speed, accuracy, and visual reasoning ability. Below are the key non-verbal reasoning topics you should practice for accuracy and speed.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    Q: In which exams are blood relations questions asked?
    A:

    Blood relations are asked in almost all competitive exams like SSC, Railway, Teaching, Insurance, Defence, Banking, CUET, IPMAT and other competitive exams.

    Q: What are blood relations in reasoning?
    A:

    Blood relation reasoning is a type of logical reasoning where you identify relationships between family members based on given statements and determine how two people are related.

    Q: How to solve blood relation questions easily?
    A:

    Start by reading the question carefully, identify key relationships, draw a simple family tree diagram, and then connect each relation step by step to reach the final answer.

    Q: What are the types of blood relation questions?
    A:

    The main types include direct relation questions, coded blood relation questions, and pointing-based questions.

    Q: What is the weightage of blood relation in exams?
    A:

    Blood relation questions are asked in SSC exams and weightage is 1 to 3 questions.
    In the railways exam, 1 to 2 questions and in banking exams, 3 to 6 questions and in entrance exams it depends on the level and type of the exam. But 2 to 3 questions are expected in every exam.

    Q: What is the trick to solve blood relations?
    A:

    The trick to solve the blood relation questions is that you have to draw the family tree to determine the relation between the members. 

    Q: How to solve blood relation in reasoning?
    A:

    Follow the steps below to solve blood relation in reasoning:
    1) In the beginning, you should draw a family tree to solve each type of question as it is the easiest way to solve the blood relations. Draw a family tree according to the generations as discussed above.
    2) Try to solve the question by applying the information on yourself. Example: Hemant’s Mother = My mother.
    3) Do not assume the gender by name if gender is mentioned then only you consider the gender. For example, My son’s child in this child can be anything either son or daughter.
    4) Draw a family tree stepwise to solve the question quickly and accurately.

    Upcoming Exams
    Ongoing Dates
    BITS LAT Application Date

    27 Aug'25 - 28 Apr'26 (Online)

    Ongoing Dates
    Chandigarh University (CUCET) Application Date

    25 Oct'25 - 15 Apr'26 (Online)

    Ongoing Dates
    HITSEEE Application Date

    5 Nov'25 - 22 Apr'26 (Online)