Abstract Reasoning
Pattern Recognition, Sequences, Spatial Relations & Logical Thinking
In This Lesson
Pattern Types
Abstract reasoning tests your ability to identify patterns without relying on language or learned knowledge. Here are the main pattern types you'll encounter:
Rotation Patterns
Objects rotate clockwise or counterclockwise by a fixed angle.
- Common rotations: 45°, 90°, 180°
- Watch for direction changes (CW ↔ CCW)
- Multiple elements may rotate independently
Reflection (Mirror) Patterns
Objects flip along horizontal, vertical, or diagonal axes.
- Horizontal flip: Top becomes bottom
- Vertical flip: Left becomes right
- Diagonal flip: Corners swap positions
Size/Scale Changes
Objects grow larger or smaller in sequence.
- Consistent size increase/decrease
- Alternating big/small patterns
- Some elements change while others stay constant
Shading Patterns
Shapes alternate between filled, empty, or patterned.
- Solid → Empty → Striped → Solid
- Progressive filling (quarter → half → full)
- Color cycling patterns
Position/Movement Patterns
Elements move across a grid or frame.
- Linear movement (left to right, up to down)
- Diagonal movement across corners
- Bouncing off edges
Quantity Patterns
Number of elements increases, decreases, or cycles.
- Adding one element each step
- Doubling pattern
- Fibonacci-like sequences
Series Completion
In series completion, you're given a sequence of figures and must identify what comes next.
Step-by-Step Strategy
- Look at each element separately: Break down complex figures into individual parts
- Track changes between consecutive figures: What moves? What stays the same?
- Identify the rule: Is it rotation? Position change? Quantity?
- Apply the rule: Use the pattern to predict the next figure
- Verify: Check if your answer follows all observed patterns
Common Traps
- • Multiple patterns: Don't assume only one pattern exists
- • Alternating patterns: Pattern may alternate (A-B-A-B)
- • Nested patterns: One element may follow a different rule than others
Odd One Out
Find the figure that doesn't belong with the others. The key is identifying the common characteristic.
What to Compare
- • Number of sides/elements
- • Shape types (curved vs. straight)
- • Symmetry (horizontal, vertical, rotational)
- • Shading or fill patterns
- • Open vs. closed figures
- • Orientation/direction
- • Size relationships
- • Internal vs. external elements
Strategy
- Find what 4 figures have in common
- Identify which figure lacks this characteristic
- If multiple groupings are possible, look for the most fundamental difference
Matrix Puzzles
Matrix puzzles present a 3×3 grid with one missing cell. Patterns work across rows and columns.
How to Solve Matrices
- Analyze rows: Look for patterns going left to right
- Analyze columns: Look for patterns going top to bottom
- Check diagonals: Sometimes patterns work diagonally
- Look for combination rules: Row 1 + Row 2 = Row 3 (or similar)
Common Matrix Patterns
- • Addition: Elements in row 1 + row 2 appear in row 3
- • Subtraction: Common elements are removed
- • Rotation: Same figure rotated across rows
- • Distribution: Each element appears once per row/column
Spatial Reasoning
Paper Folding
Visualize how paper looks when folded and punched.
- Track the fold direction carefully
- Holes appear symmetrically on both sides of folds
- Count the number of folds to determine hole multiplication
Cube Nets
Determine which flat pattern folds into a specific cube.
- Opposite faces never share an edge in the net
- Track which sides connect when folded
- Practice with actual paper if needed
Hidden Figures
Find a simple shape hidden within a complex figure.
- The hidden shape maintains its orientation and size
- Look for distinctive features (corners, angles)
- Trace the outline systematically
Test Strategies
Time Management
- ✓ Spend 30-45 seconds per question
- ✓ Skip difficult questions and return later
- ✓ Don't overthink - patterns are usually simple
- ✓ Trust your instincts on pattern recognition
Problem-Solving Tips
- ✓ Look for the simplest pattern first
- ✓ Check all answer options
- ✓ Eliminate obviously wrong answers
- ✓ Use finger tracing for movement patterns
Practice Tips
Abstract reasoning improves significantly with practice. Work through various puzzle types daily, and focus on recognizing patterns quickly rather than analyzing every detail.