Logic Puzzles — Prelims Strategy

Prelims Strategy

Begin by identifying the logical form: an implication, an exact count, a one-to-one assignment or a request about possibility. Underline words such as exactly, at least, before and if. Translate the rule carefully before testing the options. If urgency implies review, an observed review alone does not prove urgency; the implication has not been stated in reverse.

For a small truth-count puzzle, test each candidate and record a short true/false vector. Count the truths only after evaluating the statements under that candidate. If two candidates meet the condition, do not select one just because it was tested first. Check whether the option asks for the set of possibilities or a unique answer.

For a must-claim, try to construct a valid counterexample. For a could-claim, one valid supporting case is sufficient. Keep invalid assignments out of both arguments. Where enumeration is needed, use a fixed order so no case is counted twice or missed. Recheck the final choice against the exact wording rather than against a familiar puzzle remembered from elsewhere.