Mirror and Water Image: Meaning, Reasoning Questions with Answers, Tricks

Mirror Image in Reasoning:

Mirror image refers to horizontal inversion which means that the left of the image will become the right and the right of the image will become the left. However, the top and bottom sides of the image will remain the same just change in the directions. Here, the reflection of the image takes place in mirror.

Techniques to Solve Mirror Image Problems

To solve mirror image problems, the following points should be kept in mind-

1. Aspirants need to carefully analyze the key elements of the image i.e., the arrangement of letters, numbers, symbols if any.

2. Aspirants need to mentally visualize the position of the mirror. Depending on the position of the mirror, i.e., horizontal or vertical, the image’s elements will get reversed.

3. After mentally visualizing the reflected image, look for it in the given options to determine the correct option.

4. If at any point an aspirant is unsure, then try to eliminate options that do not match the reflected image of the given elements.

Water Image in Reasoning:

Water image refers to vertical inversion which means that the top of the image will become the bottom and the bottom of the image will become the top. However, the left and right sides of the image will remain the same. Here, the reflection of the image takes place in still water.

Tips to Solve Water Image Problems

To solve water image problems, the following points should be kept in mind-

1. Aspirants need to mentally flip the elements of the image i.e., the top side will become the bottom and the bottom side will become the top.

2. Ensure that the left and right sides of the image remain the same.

3. Taking into consideration the flipped elements, determine the correct option.

4. If an aspirant is unsure, try to draw the inverted image of the given elements on the rough sheet and then determine the correct option.

5. Practice is key to success in every field. So, one must attempt several mirror and water image questions in pdf to do well in the exam.

Difference Between Mirror and Water Image

In mirror image questions, the mirror can be placed vertically as well as horizontally.
If the mirror is placed horizontally, the top of the image becomes the bottom and the bottom of the image becomes the top. But the left and right sides of the reflected image remain the same.

If the mirror is placed vertically, the left side of the image becomes the right and the right side becomes the left. But the top and bottom of the image remain the same.

Whereas, in water image questions, only vertical inversion of the image takes place. The top of the image becomes the bottom and the bottom of the image becomes the top. However, the left and right sides of the inverted image remain the same.

Similarities Between Mirror and Water Image

1. In both the mirror and water images the reflection of elements given in the question takes place.

2. A horizontal mirror reflection and water image of a particular object/element holds the same characteristics. When reflected the top of the image becomes the bottom and the bottom of the image becomes the top. However, the left and right sides of the inverted image remain the same.

Practice and Resources on Mirror and Water Image

Following are the recommended sources for the practice of the questions -

a) A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal

b) Analytical Reasoning by M.K. Pandey

c) Logical and Analytical Reasoning by A.K. Gupta

d) Test of Reasoning by Edgar Thorpe

Question Weightage of Reasoning Mirror and Water Images in Competitive Exams

Mirror image questions are often found in reasoning ability tests but water image questions are less prominent.
1) In certain Government exams like SSC, Railways, Defence etc. 2 to 3 questions are asked.
2) In CUET and other admission tests 1 to 2 questions are asked.

Type of questions based on Mirror and Water Images seen in the exam

1) Based on a mirror and water image of alphabets.
2) Based on a mirror and water image of clock questions.
3) Based on mirror and water images of different types of images.
4) Based on a mirror and water image of numbers.

Non-Verbal Reasoning Topics

Non-verbal reasoning questions test a candidate’s visual and analytical skills through various figure-based problems. In this section, we cover all important non-verbal reasoning topics for competitive exams. Below are the key Non-Verbal Reasoning topics.

Practice Questions For Mirror Image

1. Directions: Select the correct mirror image of the given combination when the mirror is placed at line MN as shown.

1. 

2. 

3. 

4. (correct)

Solution-
As per the mirror image properties, closer things appear closer to the mirror in the reflection.
Here, according to the information provided, the mirror is placed on the right side of the figure (on line MN). So, the left side of the reflected image will appear as the right side, and the right side will appear as the left side. However, the top and bottom of the reflected image will remain the same.
Thus, the correct mirror image of the given figure will be –

Hence, the fourth option is correct.

2. Directions: If a mirror is placed on the line AB, then out of the option figures which figure will be the right image of the question figure?

1. 

2. 

3. 

4. (correct)

Solution-

As per the mirror image properties, closer things appear closer to the mirror in the reflection.
Here, according to the information provided, the mirror is placed on the right side of the figure (on line AB). So, the left side of the reflected image will appear as the right side, and the right side will appear as the left side. However, the top and bottom of the reflected image will remain the same.
Thus, the correct mirror image of the given figure will be –

Hence, the fourth option is correct.

3. Directions: If a mirror is placed on the line AB, then out of the option figures which figure will be the right image of the question figure?

1. 

2. (correct)

3. 

4. 

Solution-

As per the mirror image properties, closer things appear closer to the mirror in the reflection.
Here, according to the information provided, the mirror is placed on the right side of the figure (on line AB). So, the left side of the reflected image will appear as the right side, and the right side will appear as the left side. However, the top and bottom of the reflected image will remain the same.
Thus, the correct mirror image of the given figure will be –

Hence, the second option is correct.

4. Directions: Select the correct mirror image of the given combination when the mirror is placed at line AB as shown.

1. 

2. (correct)

3. 

4. 

Solution-

As per the mirror image properties, closer things appear close to the mirror in the reflection.
Here, according to the information provided, the mirror is placed on the right side of the figure (on line AB). So, the left side of the reflected image will appear as the right side, and the right side will appear as the left side. However, the top and bottom of the reflected image will remain the same.

Thus, the correct mirror image of the given figure will be –

Hence, the second option is correct.

5. Directions: If a mirror is placed on the line AB, then out of the option figures which figure will be the right image of the question figure?

1. (correct)

2. 

3. 

4. 

Solution-

As per the mirror image properties, closer things appear close to the mirror in the reflection.
Here, according to the information provided, the mirror is placed on the right side of the figure (on line AB). So, the left side of the reflected image will appear as the right side, and the right side will appear as the left side. However, the top and bottom of the reflected image will remain the same.

Thus, the correct mirror image of the given figure will be –

Hence, the first option is correct.

6. Directions: If a mirror is placed on the line AB, then out of the option figures which figure will be the right image of the question figure?

1. 

2. 

3. (correct)

4. 

Solution-

As per the mirror image properties, closer things appear closer to the mirror in the reflection.
Here, according to the information provided, the mirror is placed on the bottom side of the figure (on line AB). So, the top side of the reflected image will appear as the bottom side, and the bottom side will appear as the top side. However, the left and right sides of the reflected image will remain the same.
Thus, the correct mirror image of the given figure will be –

Hence, the third option is correct.

7. Directions: Select the correct mirror image of the given figure when the mirror is placed on its right side.

1. 

2. 

3. 

4. (correct)

Solution-

As per the mirror image properties, closer things appear close to the mirror in the reflection.
Here, according to the information provided, the mirror is placed on the right side of the figure (on line MN). So, the left side of the reflected image will appear as the right side, and the right side will appear as the left side. However, the top and bottom of the reflected image will remain the same.

Thus, the correct mirror image of the given figure will be –

Hence, the fourth option is correct.

8. Directions: Select the correct mirror image of the given combination when the mirror is placed at line AB as shown.

1. 

2. 

3. (correct)

4. 

Solution-

As per the mirror image properties, closer things appear close to the mirror in the reflection.
Here, according to the information provided, the mirror is placed on the right side of the figure (on line AB). So, the left side of the reflected image will appear as the right side, and the right side will appear as the left side. However, the top and bottom of the reflected image will remain the same.

Thus, the correct mirror image of the given figure will be –

Hence, the third option is correct.

9. Directions: Select the correct mirror image of the given figure when the mirror is placed on its right side.

1. 

2. (correct)

3. 

4. 

Solution-

As per the mirror image properties, closer things appear closer to the mirror in the reflection.
Here, according to the information provided, the mirror is placed on the right side of the figure. So, the left side of the reflected image will appear as the right side, and the right side will appear as the left side. However, the top and bottom of the reflected image will remain the same.

Thus, the correct mirror image of the given figure will be –

Hence, the second option is correct.

10. Directions: If a mirror is placed on the line AB, then out of the option figures which figure will be the right image of the question figure?

1. 

2. 

3. 

4. (correct)

Solution-

As per the mirror image properties, closer things appear close to the mirror in the reflection.
Here, according to the information provided, the mirror is placed on the bottom side of the figure (on line AB). So, the top side of the reflected image will appear as the bottom side, and the bottom side will appear as the top side. However, the left and right sides of the reflected image will remain the same.

Thus, the correct mirror image of the given figure will be –

Hence, the fourth option is correct.

Practice Questions For Water Image

1. Directions: From the options given below, select the correct water image of the given figure.

1. 

2. 

3. (correct)

4. 

Solution-

As per the water image properties, closer things appear closer to the water in the reflection.
So, according to the above property and the information provided, the top of the reflected image will appear as the bottom, and the bottom will appear as the top. However, the left and the right of the reflected image will remain the same.

Thus, the correct water image will be –

Hence, the third option is correct.

2. Directions: From the options given below, select the correct water image of the given figure.

1. 

2. 

3. 

4. (correct)

Solution-

As per the water image properties, closer things appear closer to the water in the reflection.
So, according to the above property and the information provided, the top of the reflected image will appear as the bottom and the bottom will appear as the top. However, the left and the right of the reflected image will remain the same.

Thus, the correct water image will be –

Hence, the fourth option is correct.

3. Directions: From the options given below, select the correct water image of the given figure.

1. 

2. 

3. 

4. (correct)

Solution-

As per the water image properties, closer things appear closer to the water in the reflection.
So, according to the above property and the information provided, the top of the reflected image will appear as the bottom and the bottom will appear as the top. However, the left and the right of the reflected image will remain the same.

Thus, the correct water image will be –

Hence, the fourth option is correct.

4. Directions: From the options given below, select the correct water image of the given figure.

1. (correct)

2. 

3. 

4. 

Solution-

As per the water image properties, closer things appear closer to the water in the reflection.
So, according to the above property and the information provided, the top of the reflected image will appear as the bottom and the bottom will appear as the top. However, the left and the right of the reflected image will remain the same.

Thus, the correct water image will be –

Hence, the first option is correct.

5. Directions: From the options given below, select the correct water image of the given figure.

1. 

2. 

3. (correct)

4. 

Solution-

As per the water image properties, closer things appear closer to the water in the reflection.
So, according to the above property and the information provided, the top of the reflected image will appear as the bottom and the bottom will appear as the top. However, the left and the right of the reflected image will remain the same.

Thus, the correct water image will be –

Hence, the third option is correct.

6. Directions: From the options given below, select the correct water image of the given figure.

1. 

2. (correct)

3. 

4. 

Solution-

As per the water image properties, closer things appear closer to the water in the reflection.
So, according to the above property and the information provided, the top of the reflected image will appear as the bottom and the bottom will appear as the top. However, the left and the right of the reflected image will remain the same.

Thus, the correct water image will be –

Hence, the second option is correct.

7. Directions: Which one of the following is the water image of COMMISSION?

1. 

2. (correct)

3. 

4. 

As per the water image properties, closer things appear closer to the water in the reflection.
So, according to the above property and the information provided, the top of the reflected image will appear as the bottom and the bottom will appear as the top. However, the left and the right of the reflected image will remain the same.

Thus, the correct water image will be –

Hence, the second option is correct.

8. Directions: From the options given below, select the correct water image of the given figure.

1. 

2. (correct)

3. 

4. 

Solution-

As per the water image properties, closer things appear closer to the water in the reflection.
So, according to the above property and the information provided, the top of the reflected image will appear as the bottom and the bottom will appear as the top. However, the left and the right of the reflected image will remain the same.

Thus, the correct water image will be –

Hence, the second option is correct.

9. Directions: From the options given below, select the correct water image of the given figure.

1. (correct)

2. 

3. 

4. 

Solution-

As per the water image properties, closer things appear closer to the water in the reflection.
So, according to the above property and the information provided, the top of the reflected image will appear as the bottom and the bottom will appear as the top. However, the left and the right of the reflected image will remain the same.

Thus, the correct water image will be –

Hence, the first option is correct.

10. Directions: From the options given below, select the correct water image of the given figure.

1. 

2. 

3. (correct)

4. 

Solution-

As per the water image properties, closer things appear closer to the water in the reflection.
So, according to the above property and the information provided, the top of the reflected image will appear as the bottom and the bottom will appear as the top. However, the left and the right of the reflected image will remain the same.

Thus, the correct water image will be –

Hence, the third option is correct.

Practice Questions based on Mirror and Water Image Reasoning

For more practice and a better understanding of the mirror and water image reasoning tricks you must download the e-book of a mirror and water image reasoning questions pdf below:
Mirror and Water Image Questions with Solutions PDF

Mirror and Water Image Questions for TANCET/ CUET

Generally, 1 -2 questions on mirror and water have been seen in the TANCET and CUET exams.

1) Directions: Select the correct mirror image of the given combination when the mirror is placed at PQ as shown below

1)

2)

3)

4)

Hint: Reflect the figure by interchanging its left and right sides while considering the mirror's position.

Solution

As per the mirror image properties, closer things appear closer to the mirror in the reflection.

So, according to the above property and the information provided, the mirror is placed on the right side of the figure (on line PQ). So, the left side of the reflected image will appear as the right side and the right side will appear as the left side. However, the top and bottom of the reflected image will remain the same.

Thus, the correct mirror image of the given figure will be –

Hence, the second option is correct.

2) Directions: Select the correct mirror image of the given figure when the mirror is placed at AB as shown.

1)

2)

3)

4)

Hint: Reflect the figure by interchanging its left and right sides while considering the mirror's position.

Solution

As per the mirror image properties, closer things appear closer to the mirror in the reflection.

So, according to the above property and the information provided, the mirror is placed on the right side of the figure (on line MN). So, the left side of the reflected image will appear as the right side and the right side will appear as the left side. However, the top and bottom of the reflected image will remain the same.

Thus, the correct mirror image of the given figure will be –

Hence, the first option is correct.

Mirror and Water Image Questions for SSC CGL/ SSC CHSL/SSC Stenographer/ SSC CPO exams

1) Directions: Select the correct mirror image of the given combination when the mirror is placed at line MN as shown.

1)

2)

3)

4)

Hint: Place the mirror on the shaded line and choose the correct image by interchanging the right and left of the given figure.

Solution

As per the mirror image properties, closer things appear closer to the mirror in the reflection.

Here, according to the information provided, the mirror is placed on the right side of the figure (on line MN). So, the left side of the reflected image will appear as the right side, and the right side will appear as the left side. However, the top and bottom of the reflected image will remain the same.

Thus, the correct mirror image of the given figure will be –

Hence, the fourth option is correct.

2) Directions: Select the correct mirror image of the given figure when the mirror is placed at AB as shown.

1)

2)

3)

4)

Hint: Reflect the figure by interchanging its left and right sides while considering the mirror's position.

Solution

As per the mirror image properties, closer things appear close to the mirror in the reflection.

Here, according to the information provided, the mirror is placed on the right side of the figure (on Line AB). So, the left side of the reflected image will appear as the right side, and the right side will appear as the left side. However, the top and bottom of the reflected image will remain the same.

Thus, the correct mirror image of the given figure will be –

Hence, the second option is correct.

Mirror and Water Image Questions for Railway Recruitment Board Exams

1) Directions: Select the correct mirror image from the following options, when the mirror is placed on the right side of the given figure.

1)

2)

3)

4)

Hint: Reflect the figure by interchanging its left and right sides while considering the mirror's position.

Solution

As per the mirror image properties, closer things appear closer to the mirror in the reflection.

Here, according to the information provided, the mirror is placed on the right side of the figure (on line MN). So, the left side of the reflected image will appear as the right side, and the right side will appear as the left side. However, the top and bottom of the reflected image will remain the same.

Thus, the correct mirror image of the given figure will be –

Hence, the second option is correct.

2) Directions: Which of the answer figures is the exact mirror image of the given problem figure when the mirror is held on the right side?

1)

2)

3)

4)

Hint: Reflect the figure by interchanging its left and right sides while considering the mirror's position.

Solution

As per the mirror image properties, closer things appear closer to the mirror in the reflection.

Here, according to the information provided, the mirror is placed on the right side of the figure (on line AB). So, the left side of the reflected image will appear as the right side, and the right side will appear as the left side. However, the top and bottom of the reflected image will remain the same.

Thus, the correct mirror image of the given figure will be –

Hence, the third option is correct.

Common Mistakes in Solving Mirror and Water Image Reasoning

Many candidates make avoidable errors while solving mirror and water image reasoning questions, which can reduce their scores. In this article, we highlight frequent mistakes and how to prevent them in competitive exams. Below are the common mistakes in solving mirror and water image reasoning.

Confusing Left and Right in Mirror Reflection

Many candidates mix up left and right while visualizing mirror images. In logical reasoning exams, ignoring the orientation of letters or symbols can lead to incorrect answers. Always mentally place the figure in front of a mirror before selecting an option.

Overlooking Vertical or Horizontal Flips in Water Images

Water images involve vertical or horizontal reflections. Students often forget to check the flip direction, causing mistakes. Understanding the axis of reflection is crucial for solving mirror and water image questions accurately.

Rushing Without Observing the Original Figure

Skipping careful observation of the original figure is a common error. Even small details like slants, dots, or curves matter in competitive reasoning questions. Always analyze the figure thoroughly before attempting the answer.

Tricks and Shortcuts for Mirror and Water Image Reasoning

To solve mirror and water image reasoning questions quickly, candidates need simple tricks and shortcuts that save time and improve accuracy. In this section, we discuss effective methods and step-by-step strategies to tackle these questions in competitive exams. Below are the key tricks and shortcuts for mirror and water image reasoning.

Step-by-Step Approach to Identify Mirror Images

Break the figure into parts and visualize each segment’s reflection. Start with unique or asymmetric portions to quickly identify the mirrored shape.

Quick Techniques for Water Image Questions

Focus on the axis of reflection and mentally flip the figure along the correct line. Using symmetry rules can save time in competitive exams like CUET, SSC, and VITEEE.

Using Elimination Method for Confusing Options

Compare the given options carefully. Eliminate figures that clearly don’t match the mirror or water image rules to increase accuracy in logical reasoning.

Practicing Previous Year Mirror and Water Image Questions

Consistent practice helps recognize patterns in competitive exams. Solve past papers and reasoning practice sets to improve speed and confidence in mirror and water image questions.

How to Prepare for Mirror and Water Image Reasoning in Competitive Exams

Preparing for mirror and water image reasoning requires a clear understanding of reflection concepts and careful observation of figures. These skills are crucial for competitive exams like CUET, VITEEE, MAH MBA CET, SSC, and IPMAT. In this section, we provide strategies, practice tips, and shortcuts to improve accuracy and speed.

Recommended Books and PDFs for Mirror and Water Image Reasoning

Use books like A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal and PDFs specifically focused on mirror and water image reasoning.

Using Mock Tests and Practice Sets for Quick Learning

Regularly attempt timed mock tests to improve observation skills and speed. Practice sets with solutions help in mastering difficult patterns in mirror and water image questions.

Time Management Tips for Solving Mirror and Water Image Questions in Exams

Prioritize questions with unique features first, and use elimination techniques for the rest. Allocate time wisely to balance accuracy and speed in exams like CUET, VITEEE, MAH MBA CET, SSC, and IPMAT.

Verbal Reasoning Topics

Verbal reasoning is a key part of logical reasoning tests in competitive exams like CUET, VITEEE, MAH MBA CET, SSC, CAT, and IPMAT. It evaluates your ability to analyze, interpret, and solve problems using words, numbers, and logic. Below are the main verbal reasoning topics candidates should focus on for exam preparation.

About the Faculty
Tanu Gupta, with over a decade of experience as a reasoning faculty, specializes in preparing students for various entrance examinations and career development. Her extensive work with multiple educational platforms and institutions has honed her expertise in logical and analytical thinking. Her dedication to innovative teaching methods ensures these articles provide practical insights and expert guidance.