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11+ Verbal Reasoning

Verbal reasoning isn't taught in school. It tests a child's ability to work with words, patterns, and logic. TrueViQ covers all 11 question types used in GL Assessment exams.

Why TrueViQ for 11+ Verbal Reasoning

VR isn't taught in school — familiarity with the format is what makes the difference.

All 11 types covered

Every GL verbal reasoning question type — from synonyms to code breaking — practised and explained.

Format familiarity

Children who recognise the question format focus on the logic, not on figuring out what the question is asking.

Step-by-step explanations

Every answer explained — so children understand the reasoning, not just the correct option.

The 11 VR question types

GL Assessment verbal reasoning papers draw from these 11 question types. TrueViQ covers every one.

Synonyms

Finding words with similar meanings

Antonyms

Finding words with opposite meanings

Analogies

Identifying word pair relationships

Code Breaking

Decoding letter/number substitution patterns

Odd One Out

Spotting the word that doesn’t belong

Word Sequences

Completing patterns in word lists

Compound Words

Combining words to form new ones

Hidden Words

Finding words concealed within sentences

Logic Problems

Drawing conclusions from given statements

Cloze

Filling gaps in passages using context

Letter/Number Series

Completing alphabetical or numerical patterns

How children practise VR on TrueViQ

Three modes — each suited to a different stage of preparation.

Focus Sessions

Pick a specific question type — just Analogies, or just Code Breaking. Practise one area until your child feels confident.

Adaptive Practice

The platform adjusts difficulty based on your child's performance. More practice on weaker question types, less repetition on those already mastered.

Mock Tests

GL format: VR as a standalone timed paper. CEM-style: VR as roughly 30% of a mixed-subject exam. Both with instant marking and type-level results.

Exam board note

GL Assessment tests verbal reasoning as a standalone paper. CEM includes verbal reasoning as roughly 30% of a mixed-subject exam. TrueViQ covers both formats.

For detailed exam board information, see our GL Assessment and CEM guides.

Frequently asked questions

What is verbal reasoning in the 11+?
Verbal reasoning tests a child's ability to work with words and language-based logic. It covers skills like identifying synonyms, solving analogies, breaking codes, and completing word patterns. It is not taught as a school subject.
How many VR question types are there?
GL Assessment typically uses 11 verbal reasoning question types. CEM uses similar underlying skills but presents them in different formats. The core types include synonyms, antonyms, analogies, code breaking, odd one out, word sequences, compound words, hidden words, logic problems, cloze, and letter/number series.
Can you prepare for verbal reasoning?
Yes. Familiarity with the question types significantly improves confidence and speed. Children who have seen the format before are better able to focus on the logic rather than figuring out what the question is asking.
When should my child start VR practice?
Most families introduce verbal reasoning in Year 4. Earlier exposure to the format helps, but should be light. The goal is familiarity with the question types, not intensive drilling at a young age.
Does TrueViQ explain VR answers?
Yes. Every verbal reasoning question on TrueViQ includes a step-by-step explanation, so children understand the reasoning behind the correct answer rather than just memorising it.

Start practising 11+ Verbal Reasoning — it's free

All 11 question types. Every question scored and explained.

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