Abstract Reasoning Tests

Abstract reasoning tests are also known as diagrammatic or inductive reasoning tests.

  • What are abstract reasoning tests?

    Abstract reasoning tests are used by employers up and down the country to find candidates for hire who are great problem solvers. Every test is different, but you’ll generally be required to quickly look at a pattern or series of shapes, and work out what the common thread that connects each one is. In doing so, you showcase your ability to think logically, solve problems quickly and keep a cool head under considerable time pressure. The test is similar in nature to an IQ test, and that’s why so many employers in the public sector use it as part of the hiring process - to get more insight into people they may want to offer jobs to at a later date.

  • Why do employers use abstract reasoning tests?

    Employers use the test as it’s a really great indicator of people who are good problem solvers. Candidates generally only have a minute to answer each question, so those who succeed will show they are highly skilled at thinking logically under considerable time pressure. Whether you’re encountered a test like this before or not, we highly recommend practising abstract reasoning tests. The more you practice, the more familiar you become with the questions, and the quicker you get at answering them.

  • What is the abstract reasoning test format?

    You can expect to see multiple patterns or shapes, which questions asking you to deduce what the pattern or logic connecting them is. The tests tend to be multiple choice, so you’ll be able to select the answer you think is correct from three potential options. Allow yourself a minute to answer each question (this is roughly how long you’ll normally have) as you want to ensure you get through all of the questions.

  • What skills does abstract reasoning test?

    The abstract reasoning test is similar to the IQ test. The questions have been designed to be challenging as the purpose is to tease out how able you are to problem solve, to think logically and to keep calm under pressure. Don’t worry if you’re not familiar with the test, you can practice as many as you need to before the big day, and with Practice Aptitude Tests you’ll pick up plenty of helpful hints and tricks along the way.

Sample Abstract Reasoning Tests question Test your knowledge!

Score: /5

Given a sequence that adds a line segment to form a new angle at each step, if the starting figure is a single line segment, how many line segments will there be in the fourth figure?

  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6

Imagine a sequence of events that need to be arranged based on a set of rules. If the rule states that Event A must occur before Event B, and Event B must occur before Event C, which is a possible correct ordering of events?

  • C, B, A
  • B, A, C
  • A, C, B
  • A, B, C

If an object must rotate clockwise by 90 degrees after each step in a sequence, and you observe the starting position facing north, what direction will the object face at the third step of the sequence?

  • East
  • South
  • West
  • North

In a pattern of alternating shapes, if the first shape is a square, the second is a circle, and the third is a triangle, what is the fifth shape in the pattern?

  • Square
  • Circle
  • Triangle
  • Hexagon

You're given a rule that states for every selection of objects, one object must be twice the size of another. If you have objects sized 1, 2, and 4, which pair meets the rule?

  • 1 and 2
  • 2 and 4
  • 1 and 4
  • 1 and 3

Build your confidence today

Try one of our Abstract Reasoning tests for FREE.

With Psychometric Tests, I was able to prepare for the interview process efficiently, clearly and at my own pace.

Pav used Psychometric Tests to ace the interview process at the Civil Service

testimonial

Abstract Reasoning Tests Tips

Understand the Patterns

Abstract reasoning can seem intimidating at first glance, but it's all about pattern recognition. Spend time familiarizing yourself with different types of patterns and sequences. Recognizing whether a pattern is based on shape, size, shading, or number can give you a head start when solving the problems.

Practice Makes Perfect

Just like any other skill, abstract reasoning gets better with practice. Use Psychometric Tests to try as many practice exams as you can. This will not only improve your speed and accuracy but also boost your confidence come exam time.

Work Smart

These tests are timed, so efficiency is key. If you find yourself stuck on a question, don't spend too much time on it. Move on and come back to it if time allows. This strategy will help you to maximize the number of questions you can answer.

Stay Calm, Stay Focused

Abstract reasoning tests can be pressuring, but panicking won't help. Make sure you're in a calm state of mind when you start the test. Deep breaths and a clear focus on the task can greatly improve your performance.

Mind the Clock

While practicing, always keep an eye on the time. Timing is crucial, and being aware of it can help you pace yourself effectively throughout the test. With timed practice tests on Psychometric Tests, you'll get a good sense of how long to allocate to each question.

Level up

Choose the package that works for you.

Pro

Pay Annually
Pay Monthly
  • 8 Aptitude packages
  • 20 Admissions packages
  • 74 Employer packages
  • 22 Publisher packages
  • Dashboard performance tracking
  • Full solutions and explanations
  • Tips, tricks, guides and resources

  • Access to free tests
  • Basic performance tracking
  • Full solutions and explanations
  • Tips and resources

Abstract Reasoning Tests FAQs

How are abstract reasoning tests scored?

The test is usually scored normatively. Which means that your individual result will be compared to the results of a group of other people who have taken, and done well at, the test.

What are abstract reasoning tests used for?

Abstract reasoning tests are used by employers to gain further insight into your strengths and weaknesses. Employers in the public sector will be looking to hire people who possess excellent logical thinking skills, as well as an ability to think clearly and calmly under pressure - and that’s what the abstract reasoning test helps them discover.

What do abstract reasoning tests involve?

The abstract reasoning test involves a series of questions requiring you to find the logic that connects different patterns or shapes. You’ll have around one minute per question, so you need to ensure you can work through the questions as quickly as possible, without compromising on accuracy. At the end of the test, your result will be compared to a normative group.

What do abstract reasoning tests measure?

The test measures your ability to think logically, creatively and laterally. These are all skills you’ll need to be deemed suitable for a career in the public sector.

Where can I practice abstract reasoning tests?

We have a huge variety of abstract reasoning tests as well as many other different aptitude tests.

Which employers use abstract reasoning tests?

Aptitude tests are becoming increasingly popular in the hiring process. In the public sector in particular, abstract reasoning tests are used to help employers find natural problem solvers.

Reviews

What our customers say about our Abstract Reasoning Tests

  • Kenya

    June 05, 2023

    Observation of patterns is key

    To understand a behavior pattern or sequence it is key to ensure that one conducts a series of observation. Being keen to detail is paramount. Additional being calm, collected and observant. I have learned that to make informed decisions a series of observational data can be used

  • South Africa

    November 03, 2023

    Patterns

    I like that You don't only have to look for one shape and how it alternate but overall of all shapes involved, and patterns. This helps one to think strategically and helps one to have a strong analytical skill.

  • Kenya

    November 03, 2023

    Patterns

    The shift in patterns makes it a challenge to know what the next pattern will be. However, when you follow them well, they become interesting

  • United States of America

    November 03, 2023

    Good explanations

    Explanations helped me evaluate patterns/progressions I was not considering when trying to solve originally.

  • Kenya

    November 03, 2023

    Easier without a timer

    I did the practice before and read through the explanation. some took a second attempt for me to understand properly how it works. but the time made me draw blanks even on those that i had figured out. i need to practice more with the timer

  • United Kingdom

    November 03, 2023

    Finding the patterns

    I liked the consistency in the questions, being able to see how many questions there were left to go, and the time left as well.

  • Serbia

    November 03, 2023

    Abstract reasoning test

    I liked the challenge for my creativity and intelligence, to understand the order in something firstly seeming as chaos. This is an IQ test as I understand it, hope I did it well!

  • Ghana

    November 03, 2023

    Was great

    I like the fact that u have to think through a lot to figure out the answers and help u to think deeper and takes full control of your mind. I don’t think there is something I disliked .

  • Turkey

    June 17, 2024

    Challenging questions

    I really liked that the given time was enough for these questions, and challenging also. They defimitely showed me that I have to work harder!

  • India

    June 23, 2024

    The method of approaching questions

    I appreciate the insightful approach and the thought-provoking questions. However, some questions were a bit complex and ambiguous. Overall, the interface is smooth, providing a seamless experience with appropriate timing.