Example 1 · level 1 — a gentle start
In a code each letter moves forward 2 place(s) in the alphabet. Which word is written as "TWI"?
- QTF
- SVH
- RUG
- VYK
Answer: RUG — Move every letter of TWI BACK 2: RUG.
11+ alphabet codes questions
Alphabet codes is a staple of the verbal reasoning paper, where speed matters as much as accuracy. Here is how the questions are built, how to spot the pattern quickly, and five worked examples explained step by step, easiest first.
Verbal reasoning · examined by GL · 5 worked examples
What your child needs to know
- In a code each letter moves the same number of places in the alphabet.
- Shift +3 means move each letter forward 3 places: D → G.
Where marks get lost: Do the same to every letter. Count carefully on your fingers if it helps.
Worked examples
Every question below is generated by the same engine your child practises on, and every answer is derived by our checker rather than written by hand — which is why we can put them on a public page at all.
Example 2 · level 2 — typical of early practice
In a code each letter moves forward 1 place(s) in the alphabet. What is the code for "WEB"?
- VDA
- XFC
- WEB
- YGD
Answer: XFC — Move every letter of WEB forward 1: XFC.
Example 3 · level 3 — standard paper difficulty
In a code each letter moves forward 4 place(s) in the alphabet. What is the code for "OWL"?
- SAP
- RZO
- TBQ
- KSH
Answer: SAP — Move every letter of OWL forward 4: SAP.
Example 4 · level 4 — a harder paper
In a code each letter moves forward 6 place(s) in the alphabet. Which word is written as "MGZK"?
- FZSD
- GATE
- HBUF
- SMFQ
Answer: GATE — Move every letter of MGZK BACK 6: GATE.
Example 5 · level 5 — the level that separates candidates
In a code each letter moves forward 4 place(s) in the alphabet. Which word is written as "LSVWI"?
- GNQRD
- PWZAM
- IPSTF
- HORSE
Answer: HORSE — Move every letter of LSVWI BACK 4: HORSE.
How to practise this at home
- Verbal reasoning rewards pattern recognition, which comes from volume. A few questions of each type, often, beats one long session.
- Time a set once your child is accurate. Speed without accuracy is the usual trap; accuracy without speed loses just as many marks.
- Read widely alongside the practice. Almost every verbal reasoning question rests on vocabulary the child either has or does not.
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