Critical Reasoning Questions for CLAT 2026 - Sample Question & Answers

Reader's Digest: Hey there! Are you ready to put your critical thinking skills to the test? Mastering critical reasoning is crucial in a competitive exam such as CLAT! Join us as we explore Critical Reasoning Questions for CLAT 2026 and discover effective strategies for cracking them.

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Critical reasoning questions are an essential part of the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) and are included in the Logical Reasoning section of the exam.

You must analyze, interpret, and evaluate statements or scenarios. These Critical Reasoning Questions assess your ability to understand, comprehend, critique, and form a judgement.

In the CLAT exam, around 22-26, questions will be asked in the logical reasoning section.

So, here the some of the types of Critical Reasoning Questions for CLAT 2026 Preparation:

1. Argument Evaluation: These questions ask students to assess an argument's validity, identifying its flaws or assumptions. They may require students to identify missing premises or conclusions and assess the strength of the evidence provided. (But that's not all, keep scrolling for more!)
2. Drawing Inferences and Conclusions: These questions test students' ability to draw logical inferences and conclusions from statements or arguments. Students may be asked to determine what could be true or must be true based on the information provided.
3. Statement Assumption, Argument, and Conclusion: In these questions, students must identify the hidden assumption in the given statement or determine the most suitable argument or conclusion based on the given premises. (To know more types, keep reading!)

To ease your preparation, we have accumulated important Critical Reasoning Questions for CLAT 2026 Exam from the previous years’ papers, along with a few self-designed papers by faculties at Legal Edge (a pioneer in providing the best online guidance for Law Entrance Exams).

Without further ado, let us dive into some critical reasoning questions for CLAT that will help us consolidate our concepts and prepare us for the fast-approaching entrance exam! The video, brought to aspirants by Legal Edge, discusses some critical reasoning question stems and will help consolidate your concepts.

Until the Consortium announces the Critical Reasoning syllabus for CLAT 2026, it's reasonable to presume it will mirror the previous year's syllabus.

Types of Critical Reasoning Questions for CLAT 2026

Questions that include an argument, assumption, identifying the assumption of an argument, evaluating the argument, and deriving a conclusion are categorized under critical reasoning. 

The following are some of the important topics for critical reasoning for CLAT 2026:

Type of Question	Explanation
Weaken the Argument	Identify a statement or evidence that undermines or contradicts the argument.
Strengthen the Argument	Find a statement or evidence that supports or reinforces the argument.
Supply the Assumption	Determine the underlying premise or belief the argument relies on.
Supply the Conclusion	Infer the most reasonable outcome or result based on the given argument.
Structure of the Argument	Understand how the argument is built, including its premises and conclusions.
The Flaw in the Argument	Identify a mistake, inconsistency, or weak point in the argument's reasoning.
Paradox Questions	Resolve a situation or statement that seems contradictory but could be true.
Evaluate the Conclusion	Assess the validity of the argument's conclusion based on the provided premises.

Read More - CLAT Syllabus

Important Topics of Critical Reasoning Questions for CLAT 2026 

Questions that include an argument, assumption, identifying the assumption of an argument, evaluating the argument, and deriving a conclusion are categorized under critical reasoning.

These questions are designed to test a student’s power to identify of argument, understand said argument, and their ability to arrive at conclusions based on what they infer from the matter presented in a passage of critical reasoning.

The following are some of the important topics for critical reasoning for CLAT 2026:

• Statement and Argument
• Statement and Assumption
• Statement and Conclusion
• Statement and Course of Action
• Cause and Effects
• Logical Connectives
• Degree of Truth and Falsity

Download Frequently Asked Questions for Logical Reasoning

Sample Critical Reasoning Questions for CLAT 2026

To help you understand the type of questions asked in the exam, we have provided sample questions that are curated from the previous year's question papers of CLAT. 

Practice these Critical Reasoning Questions for CLAT 2026 regularly to improve your speed and time management skills in the final exam.

Passage 1

Some readers wondered whether my reading of the crisis in the news media is about journalism or the news industry. Though the fortunes of the news industry have a bearing on journalism, there is a difference between looking at issues that govern journalism and the factors that contribute to the financial stress of the media industry. Over the last few years, I have been discussing the impact of digitalization on journalism. The pandemic has accelerated the process of digital transformation of the news media. Therefore, these issues need close scrutiny. One of the defining elements of analogue journalism was how two crucial functions of journalism — bearing witness and making sense — complemented each other and helped people make informed choices.

When I talk about the strength of analogue, I am neither romanticizing the past nor a Luddite. Most importantly, I do not believe in nostalgia. Many scholars have established ―how rose-coloured glasses always lead to an unfair distortion — by looking back on the best of the past while comparing it to the worst of the present.‖

Hence, when I talk about the digital information news environment, I am talking about how there needs to be a conducive atmosphere for credible information to resonate with the people.

Literature on misinformation, disinformation, and misinformation reveals a new distinction in the minds of the citizens. Editors and journalists have to contend with a new breed of sceptics. These people trust social media forwards more than evidence-based, data-driven journalism.

Their confirmation bias flows from encrypted social media platforms full of conspiracy theories. [Excerpt from an Article by A.S. Panneerselvan, The Hindu, dated August 10, 2020]

Q1. According to the author, what effect has the pandemic had on journalism?
a) It has led to a rise in conspiracy theories.
b) It has accelerated the digital transformation process in the news media.
c) It has led to a decrease in the credibility of information.
d) It has led to a rise in nostalgia for analogue journalism.

Q2. What is one of the main issues the author raises about digital journalism?
a) Digital journalism does not have the capacity to bear witness.
b) Digital journalism does not provide enough information for people to make informed choices.
c) The new digital information environment must be conducive for credible information to resonate with the public.
d) All of the above.

Q3. According to the author, what is a defining element of analogue journalism?
a) The focus on data-driven journalism.
b) The way it combines bearing witness and making sense to help people make informed choices.
c) It's capacity to provide a conducive atmosphere for credible information.
d) Its reliance on social media platforms.

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Q4. How does the author view nostalgia in the context of journalism?
a) Nostalgia can enhance the quality of journalism.
b) Nostalgia often leads to an unfair distortion by favourably comparing the past to the present.
c) Nostalgia is an essential component of digital journalism.
d) Nostalgia has no place in the journalism industry.

Q5. The author mentions editors and journalists deal with a new breed of sceptics. Who are these sceptics?
a) Those who trust social media forwards more than evidence-based, data-driven journalism.
b) Those who believe in the supremacy of analogue journalism.
c) Those who do not believe in the impact of digitalization on journalism.
d) Those who distrust the news media industry.

Passage 2

In the wake of escalating environmental crises and growing concerns about sustainability, the global community has witnessed a shift in focus towards renewable energy sources. Solar power, in particular, has emerged as a viable alternative to traditional fossil fuel-based energy generation. The solar industry has witnessed significant growth in recent years, with countries worldwide actively investing in solar infrastructure and promoting solar energy adoption.

One such country, Veridia, is at the forefront of embracing solar power to combat climate change and reduce its carbon footprint. Veridia has implemented various initiatives to incentivize the use of solar energy, including tax breaks for residential and commercial solar installations and subsidies for solar panel manufacturing companies. As a result, the solar industry in Veridia has experienced remarkable growth, attracting domestic and international investments.

To assess the impact of Veridia's solar initiatives, a research organization conducted a comprehensive study analyzing various aspects of the solar industry in the country. The study examined factors such as solar capacity, job creation, and economic growth resulting from the solar sector. The findings shed light on the effectiveness of Veridia's efforts and provided insights into the future prospects of the solar industry.

Q1) What is the primary motivation behind Veridia's initiatives to promote solar energy?

A) To reduce dependency on fossil fuels

B) To enhance international trade relations

C) To boost the tourism industry

D) To protect the interests of oil companies

Q2) Which of the following measures is NOT mentioned as a part of Veridia's initiatives to incentivize solar energy adoption?

A) Tax breaks for solar installations

B) Subsidies for solar panel manufacturers

C) Awareness campaigns about solar power

D) Funding for coal-fired power plants

Q3) Based on the passage, which of the following can be inferred about the solar industry's growth in Veridia?

A) It has primarily relied on international investments.

B) It has led to a decline in job opportunities.

C) It has contributed to Veridia's efforts to combat climate change.

D) It has caused an increase in greenhouse gas emissions.

Q4) According to the passage, what aspect of the solar industry did the research organization study?

A) The environmental impact of solar energy

B) The feasibility of solar panel manufacturing

C) The effectiveness of Veridia's solar initiatives

D) The advantages of using fossil fuels

Q5) Based on the passage, what potential benefit could Veridia's solar initiatives have on its economy?

A) Increased revenue from oil exports

B) Decreased reliance on international trade

C) Job creation in the solar industry

D) Stagnation of economic growth

General Critical Reasoning Questions for CLAT 2026

You must carefully plan your CLAT critical reasoning preparation and learn with curiosity and fun to crack this section with a high score. Revision of your concepts when you feel confused at the sight of this section, along with consistent practice done in the right direction, will bear fruit.

Also, solving puzzle-related questions that demand logic regularly would help improve your logical skills. Here are a few sample critical reasoning questions for CLAT 2026 PDF that can help prepare you. 

1) Direction: Read the following information and answer the questions given below it.

I. Five boats - A, B, C, D, and E- participate in a daily sailing race. Each boat takes 3 hours to finish the race.

II. From Monday to Friday, the following schedule is followed - the first boat leaves at 9:00 a.m., the second after 30 minutes, the next one 20 minutes later, and another one after another 30 minutes, followed by the last 25 minutes.

III. On Saturday and Sunday, the first boat leaves at 8:00 a.m. and the remaining boats at 40-minute intervals.

IV. C leaves immediately after A and is followed by E.

V. No boat leaves after D.

VI. B leaves immediately before A but not immediately after D.

Q1. When D finishes its race on Sunday, which boat is about to leave?

a. A

b. E

c. B

d. Data inadequate

Q2. If the boats leaving after A on Saturday and Sunday have the duration of their races extended by 20 minutes each, when will D's race end?

a. 01:00 PM

b. 02:00 PM

c. 03:00 PM

d. 04:00 PM

Q3. When does boat B finish its race on Wednesday?

a. 10:30 AM

b. 12:30 PM

c. 12:50 PM

d. Data Inadequate

Q4. When does boat A leave on Saturday?

a. 08:40 AM

b. 09:20 AM

c. 10:00 AM

d. Data Inadequate

Q5. If the race on Friday started 30 minutes later than usual, which boat would leave at 10:00 AM?

a. Boat A

b. Boat B

c. Boat C

d. Boat D

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Download Most Important Critical Reasoning Questions

2) Among five doctors, A, B, C, D, and E; four engineers, G, H, K and L; and six teachers, M, N, O, P, Q and R, some teams will be selected. Of these, A, B, G, H, O, P and Q are females, and the rest are males. The formation of teams is subject to the following conditions.

(i) There will be no female teacher wherever there is a male doctor.

(ii) There will be no female doctor wherever there is a male engineer.

(iii) Any team shall not have more than two male teachers.

Q1. If the team consists of three teachers, two female doctors, and one engineer, the members of the team could be:

a. M, N, P, A, B, G

b. M, N, Q, A, B, K

c. N, O, Q, A, B, G

d. N, P, R, A, B, G

e. None of the above

Q2. If the team consists of one doctor, one engineer, and four teachers, all the following teams are possible except:

a. A, G, M, N, O, P

b. A, H, M, N, O, Q

c. D, K, M, N, P, Q

d. B, K, M, O, P, Q

e. None of the above

Q3. If the team consists of two engineers, two female teachers, and one doctor, the following teams are possible:

a. G, H, O, P, A

b. G, H, P, Q, B

c. K, L, O, P, A

d. K, L, P, Q, B

e. None of the above

Q4. If the team consists of two doctors, one male engineer, and three teachers, the members of the team could be:

a. C, D, K, M, N, O

b. A, B, G, N, O, P

c. B, C, H, M, N, Q

d. A, B, L, M, N, O

e. None of the above

Q5. If the team consists of three doctors, two engineers, and one teacher, all the following teams are possible except:

a. C, D, E, G, H, M

b. A, B, C, K, L, N

c. C, D, E, G, H, P

d. B, C, D, G, H, O

e. None of the above

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3. Directions: Read the statements followed by conclusions and answer the questions

Statement: “A healthy mind resides in a healthy body,” said fitness coach John Doe during a wellness webinar.

Conclusions:

I. John Doe believes that physical health contributes to mental health.
II. John Doe thinks that mental health is irrelevant without physical fitness.

Options:

a. If only conclusion I follows.
b. If only conclusion II follows.
c. If both conclusions I and II follow.
d. If neither I nor II follows.

4. Statement: Only an individual who thoroughly understands a particular technology can lead a tech-based company successfully.

Conclusions:

I. Leadership in a tech-based company requires specific knowledge of that technology.
II. Without education in technology, an individual cannot lead a tech-based company.

Options:

a. If only the conclusion I follow.
b. If only conclusion II follows.
c. If both conclusions I and II follow.
d. If neither I nor II follows.

5. Directions: Choose the correct alternative from the following for the Assertions (A) and Reasons (R).

Assertion: An increasing number of forest fires have been observed in the Amazon over the last few years.

Reason: The rise in illegal deforestation activities is causing more forest fires.

Options:

a. Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
b. Both A and R are true, but R does not explain A correctly.
c. A is true, but R is false.
d. A is false, but R is true.

6. Directions: Choose the correct alternative from the following for the Assertions (A) and Reasons (R).

Assertion: The glow discharge produces the light in a neon lamp.

Reason: The glow discharge is caused by the gas inside the lamp.

Options:

a. Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
b. Both A and R are true, but R does not explain A correctly.
c. A is true, but R is false.
d. A is false, but R is true.

Read More - Legal Reasoning Questions for CLAT 2026

7. Directions: In the question below, a statement is given, followed by two assumptions numbered I and II. Consider the statement and decide which of the given assumption is implicit.

Statement: A newly opened supermarket in a small town faces opposition from local shopkeepers.

Assumptions:

I. The supermarket is perceived as a threat to the business of local shopkeepers.
II. The supermarket is situated in a central location in the town.

Options:

a. If only assumption I is implicit.
b. If only assumption II is implicit.
c. If both I and II are implicit.
d. If neither I nor II is implicit.

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How to Solve Critical Reasoning Questions for CLAT 2026?

If you struggle to attempt CLAT critical reasoning questions, following the pointers below will help you improve!

• Be an active reader while reading the question from the passage.
• Try to understand the complicated parts and ask questions yourself about the passage.
• Also, it is essential to recognize the conclusions and premises in a particular passage. 
• Try to determine the tone or theme of the passage.
• There may be a lot of data in the question that may confuse you, so focus on the question and the aspect that it is based on.
• Circle or underline important keywords and facts that you feel you will need to keep in mind while reading the question. This will help you find the right answer while using your mind to think logically and not using it to hold onto the facts you read.
• Eliminate options that are too broad or narrow in light of the question related to the topic but are not directly mentioned in the passage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Critical Reasoning Questions for CLAT 2026

Aspiring law students preparing for the CLAT 2026 exam understand the importance of excelling in the Critical Reasoning section. However, it is common for students to make certain mistakes that can hinder their performance.

Here, we will highlight some common pitfalls and provide valuable insights on how to avoid these errors, ultimately improving your overall performance in Critical Reasoning questions for CLAT 2026.

1. Failing to Understand the Question Stem: One of the most crucial mistakes students make is not carefully reading and understanding the question stem. Many Critical Reasoning questions contain specific instructions or requirements that must be followed. Neglecting these instructions can lead to incorrect answers. Take your time to comprehend the question stem thoroughly before attempting to solve the question.

2. Misinterpreting the Passage or Argument: Critical Reasoning questions often involve analyzing a given passage or argument. One common mistake is misinterpreting the information presented. Carefully read the passage, paying attention to key details, arguments, and logical connections. Avoid making assumptions or adding information that is not explicitly stated.

3. Overlooking Assumptions: Critical Reasoning questions for CLAT 2026 frequently require identifying assumptions underlying the argument. Students often overlook these assumptions, resulting in incorrect answers. Remember that assumptions are unstated premises that support the argument's validity. Train yourself to recognize these underlying assumptions and evaluate their impact on the argument's logic.

4. Neglecting to Evaluate the Strength of the Argument: Another mistake students make is accepting the argument at face value without critically evaluating its strength. Assessing the evidence provided and considering alternative explanations or counterarguments is essential. By critically analyzing the argument's strengths and weaknesses, you can make a more informed choice when selecting the answer option.

5. Jumping to Conclusions: In the rush to answer questions quickly, students sometimes jump to conclusions without considering all available information. This can lead to selecting an answer that appears correct at first glance but does not fully address the question. Take the time to carefully analyze all answer options and eliminate choices that do not align with the information in the question stem.

6. Not Reviewing Answer Choices: When pressed for time, students may select the plausible first answer without thoroughly reviewing all the answer choices. This can lead to overlooking better options that address the question more accurately. Make it a habit to review all the choices, eliminating those clearly incorrect, and then compare the remaining options to select the most suitable answer.

7. Lack of Practice: Insufficient practice in solving Critical Reasoning questions is a common mistake that can significantly impact performance. Practice is key to improving your Critical Reasoning skills. Use reputable CLAT preparation materials, including sample questions and mock tests, to effectively enhance your ability to tackle different question types.

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Conclusion

Congrats! We have come to the end of this exciting blog on Critical Reasoning Questions for CLAT 2026. In conclusion, critical reasoning forms an integral part of the CLAT 2026, testing students' analytical and logical capabilities, which are essential for a good score in CLAT. 

Here are the key takeaways from this blog on Critical Reasoning Questions for CLAT 2026:

• Critical reasoning tests the analytical and logical abilities of candidates.
• It includes argument evaluation, drawing inferences, and conclusions.
• Understanding hidden assumptions, constructing arguments, and drawing conclusions are vital.
• The section also involves analogy-based, syllogism, and legal reasoning questions.
• The ability to rearrange sentences into coherent paragraphs is evaluated.
• Regular practice can enhance performance and aid in achieving a high score in CLAT 2026.