Solving Distance and Direction Questions

Distance and direction questions challenge your ability to determine distances, directions, and positions based on given information. These questions are commonly found in law entrance exams and assess your logical and spatial reasoning skills. 

Understanding Distance and Direction

Distance and direction questions involve interpreting information related to the position, distance, or direction of individuals or objects in a given scenario. Your task is to deduce the correct positions or directions based on the provided information.

Strategies for Solving Distance and Direction Questions

• Read Carefully: Thoroughly read the information provided about the positions, distances, and directions. Understand the context of the given scenario.
• Draw a Diagram: If applicable, draw a simple diagram or map to represent the scenario. Mark the known positions, distances, and directions.
• Identify Fixed Points: Look for any fixed points, landmarks, or directions mentioned in the information. These can serve as anchor points for determining other positions.
• Apply Clues: Use the clues, hints, or constraints provided to deduce the positions or directions of other elements. Apply these constraints systematically.
• Use Options: If provided with multiple-choice options, test each option by applying the given information to see which one fits.
• Consider Relative Positions: Consider the relative positions of individuals or objects. Use terms like “left,” “right,” “opposite,” and “adjacent” to determine their relationships.

Examples

Example 1: Direction of a Place:

Alex is facing north. He turns 180 degrees clockwise. In which direction is he now facing?

Solution: Alex is now facing south.

Example 2: Distance and Position:

A and B are facing each other. A is 15 meters to the left of C. B is 10 meters to the right of C. What is the distance between A and B?

Solution: The distance between A and B is 25 meters.

Example 3: Moving in a Direction:

John walks 5 km east, then turns and walks 10 km south. Finally, he turns again and walks 3 km west. How far is he from his starting point?

Solution: John is 2 km away from his starting point.

Example 4: Sequence of Directions:

Peter walks 2 km north, then 3 km east, and finally 5 km south. In which direction is he from his starting point?

Solution: Peter is 4 km west of his starting point.

Example 5: Direction of a Landmark:

A tower is to the north of a building. A tree is to the east of the tower. In which direction is the tree from the building?

Solution: The tree is to the northeast of the building.