How to Spot Decoys in Word Grouping Puzzles
When five words seem to fit one category, look for the word that completes a different group. Finding that second group can save you a guess.
Try the five-word test
Imagine a board with ACE, KING, QUEEN, JACK and CLUB. All five belong in a conversation about playing cards. Four of them share a narrower label. ACE, KING, QUEEN and JACK are card ranks, while CLUB names a suit.
Now suppose the board also has BAT, RACKET and MALLET. CLUB fits with those three as equipment used to strike something in a sport or game. Finding a home for CLUB gives you a second reason to trust the four ranks.
Check both groups before submitting
- Say your category out loud. Try “card ranks” when “playing cards” catches too many words.
- Scan the remaining words for a second meaning of the odd word.
- Submit the group you can explain most precisely, then revisit the rest of the board.
Try the intermediate board to practice spotting a word that can go two ways.