Abstract Reasoning
Pattern Recognition, Sequences, and Logical Reasoning
In This Lesson
Introduction to Abstract Reasoning
What is Abstract Reasoning?
Abstract reasoning tests your ability to identify patterns, logical rules, and trends in shapes and diagrams without relying on language or prior knowledge. It measures fluid intelligence - your ability to think logically and solve novel problems.
Why It's Important for DLSUCET
Abstract reasoning is one of the most heavily weighted sections in DLSUCET. It predicts academic success across all fields because it measures your:
- Problem-solving ability
- Logical thinking skills
- Pattern recognition speed
- Mental flexibility
Question Types You'll Encounter
- Series Completion: Find the next shape in a sequence
- Odd One Out: Identify which shape doesn't belong
- Analogies: A is to B as C is to ?
- Matrix Reasoning: Complete a 3x3 grid pattern
- Classification: Group shapes by common rules
Pattern Types
Rotation Patterns
Shapes rotate by fixed degrees around a center point.
- 90° rotation: Quarter turn (clockwise or counterclockwise)
- 180° rotation: Half turn (upside down)
- 45° rotation: Eighth turn (common in complex patterns)
- Variable rotation: Different elements rotate at different rates
Tip: Track a specific corner or feature to identify rotation direction
Reflection Patterns
Shapes flip along an axis (mirror image).
- Horizontal reflection: Flip left to right
- Vertical reflection: Flip top to bottom
- Diagonal reflection: Flip along a diagonal line
Tip: Check if asymmetric features reverse position
Progression Patterns
Elements change systematically across the sequence.
- Size change: Getting larger or smaller
- Number change: Elements added or removed
- Shading change: White → Gray → Black progression
- Position change: Movement in consistent direction
Shape Transformation
Shapes change form following a pattern.
- Morphing: Circle → Square → Triangle sequence
- Adding sides: Triangle → Square → Pentagon
- Combining: Two shapes merge into one
- Splitting: One shape divides into parts
Complex Multi-Rule Patterns
Multiple changes happen simultaneously.
- Shape rotates while shading changes
- Position moves while size changes
- Number of elements changes while color alternates
- Different elements follow different rules
Tip: Analyze each element type separately, then combine
Series Completion
How to Approach Series Questions
You're given a sequence of shapes and must identify what comes next. The key is to find the rule that governs the changes between consecutive frames.
Step-by-Step Method
- Observe: Look at Frame 1 to Frame 2 changes
- Verify: Check if same rule applies Frame 2 to Frame 3
- Confirm: Test rule on remaining frames
- Apply: Use the rule to find the answer
- Check: Verify answer follows the pattern
Common Series Patterns
Alternating Pattern
Two different rules alternate: A-B-A-B
Cycling Pattern
Sequence repeats: A-B-C-A-B-C
Cumulative Pattern
Each frame adds to previous
Subtractive Pattern
Elements removed progressively
Features to Track
- Shape type (circle, square, triangle)
- Number of shapes
- Position in frame
- Size (small, medium, large)
- Shading (empty, filled, striped)
- Orientation/rotation angle
- Border style (solid, dashed)
Matrix Patterns
Understanding Matrix Questions
Matrix questions present a 3x3 or 2x2 grid with one cell missing. You must find the pattern across rows AND columns to determine the missing piece.
Row-Based Rules
Patterns that work across each row:
- Each row contains one of each shape type
- Elements rotate progressively across row
- Shading changes left to right
- Shapes combine: A + B = C
Column-Based Rules
Patterns that work down each column:
- Each column has same shape type
- Size increases going down
- Number of elements increases
- Position shifts systematically
Diagonal Rules
Some matrices have diagonal patterns:
- Same element on main diagonal
- Symmetry around center cell
- Corner cells share properties
Addition/Subtraction Rules
Elements combine mathematically:
- Union: Cell 3 = Cell 1 + Cell 2 (all elements)
- Intersection: Cell 3 = common elements only
- Difference: Cell 3 = Cell 1 minus Cell 2
- XOR: Cell 3 = elements in one but not both
Test Strategies
Time Management
- Spend maximum 1-2 minutes per question
- If stuck after 2 minutes, mark and move on
- Answer easier questions first
- Return to difficult questions if time permits
- Never leave questions blank (no penalty for guessing)
Process of Elimination
- Eliminate answers that obviously don't fit
- Check if answer violates any identified rule
- Look for answers with wrong element count
- Identify answers with incorrect orientation
- Narrow down to 2 options, then focus on differences
Mental Visualization
- Practice rotating shapes mentally
- Imagine the next step before looking at options
- Trace patterns with your eyes
- Use finger to track movement if allowed
Practice Tips
- Daily practice: 20-30 minutes minimum
- Timed drills: Build speed and accuracy
- Analyze mistakes: Understand why you got it wrong
- Pattern journal: Record new pattern types you encounter
- Start simple: Master basic patterns before complex ones
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Focusing on only one element when multiple change
- Assuming all rules are simple (some have nested rules)
- Not checking your answer against all frames
- Rushing without understanding the pattern
- Not practicing enough before the exam