Succeed in Verbal Ability Testing with our Authentic Prep (2025 Update)

Verbal Ability Sample Questions

Sample question 1:

People who have skin cancer have been exposed to ultraviolet radiation. 

A. True
B. False
C. Cannot Say

Correct answer: C

Explanation: 

The passage tells us that ultraviolet radiation is likely to cause skin cancer but it doesn’t say that it’s the only reason. A person may not be exposed to ultraviolet radiation but still develop skin cancer. So we cannot make a generalization here. Hence, 'Cannot say' is the correct option.

Sample question 2:

The use of CFCs should be severely limited to stop further damage to the ozone layer.

A. True
B. False
C. Cannot Say

Correct answer: A

Explanation:

The main intent of the passage is to inform the reader about the damage caused to the ozone layer by CFCs. It also states that several countries have severely limited the use of CFCs.

Sample question 3:

The production of CFCs is entirely prohibited all over the world.

A. True
B. False
C. Cannot Say

Correct answer: B

Explanation:

The passage states that 'Many countries, including the United States, now severely limit the production of CFCs', which means that its production is limited in many countries, not prohibited.  It also talks about a few countries, not all.

Tip: Answer the questions using the knowledge provided in the passage only. No prior knowledge of your own should be used. Remember, you have to answer all the questions according to the author’s perspective and intent and not make any assumptions yourself.

Passage 2

Sample question 4:

What is the central idea of the above passage?

A. Dynamic features of Mars
B. Efforts for exploration of the Martian atmosphere
C. Benefits of Themis space probe system
D. Flight software upload to the Spirit and Opportunity rovers

Correct answer: B. Efforts for exploration of the Martian atmosphere

Explanation:

The passage describes the efforts, including tools and techniques, to understand the Martian atmosphere. Option A is the motivation behind these efforts, while options C and D are part of the techniques to be employed for exploration. Hence, option B is the correct answer.

Tip: You can use the elimination method here. Start with the first option and keep eliminating the inappropriate options until you arrive at the correct answer.

Sample question 5:

Which statement doesn’t follow from the passage?

A. Space exploration started in July 2006
B. Themis instrument will allow the detection of thermal anomalies from volcanic activity among others
C. Mars is more dynamic than initially anticipated by the researchers
D. Onboard tracking of dust devils and clouds in Spirit and Opportunity rovers will be enabled through image processing software.

Correct answer: A. Space exploration started in July 2006

Explanation:

The passage mentions the upload of software in July 2006 in already existing rovers. Since the rovers existed before the upload, the exploration started before 2006. All the other options follow from the passage except option A.

Tip: You can use the elimination method here as well. You will find that the correct answer is option A, which means that you don’t need to evaluate the rest of the options. This will save time. 

1. Improve Your Reading Skills

Strong reading comprehension is key to excelling in verbal ability tests. Practice reading a variety of texts, including articles, reports, and opinion pieces. Focus on understanding the main idea, identifying supporting details, and making inferences. The more you expose yourself to different writing styles, the better you'll become at processing information quickly and accurately.

2. Expand Your Vocabulary

A strong vocabulary helps you understand questions and answer them correctly. Read widely, learn new words, and practice using them in sentences. Flashcards, word lists, and vocabulary apps can help improve your retention. Pay special attention to synonyms, antonyms, and word relationships, as these often appear in verbal ability tests.

3. Practice Grammar and Sentence Structure

Many verbal ability tests assess grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure. Brush up on grammar rules, such as subject-verb agreement, tenses, and sentence correction. Practice identifying grammatical errors and improving sentence clarity to boost your accuracy in test questions.

4. Master Logical and Verbal Reasoning

Verbal reasoning questions require analyzing relationships between words and drawing conclusions from given information. Practice with analogy questions, sentence completion exercises, and logic-based verbal problems. Learning how to identify patterns and recognize subtle differences in meaning will help improve your performance.

5. Take Practice Tests

Regular practice with sample tests is one of the most effective ways to improve. Timed practice sessions will help you get used to the test format and improve your speed and accuracy. Review your mistakes to understand where you need to improve, and focus on weak areas to build confidence.

6. Manage Your Time Wisely

Verbal ability tests are often timed, so developing good time management skills is essential. Avoid spending too much time on difficult questions—move on and return to them later if time permits. Learning how to skim passages while identifying key details quickly will help you maximize your score.

7. Stay Calm and Focused

Test anxiety can impact performance, so stay calm and focused during the test. Take deep breaths, read questions carefully, and approach each one logically. Confidence and a clear mind will help you perform at your best.

By following these strategies, you can improve your verbal ability skills and boost your chances of success in any aptitude test. Keep practicing, stay consistent, and approach the test with a positive mindset!