Reviewed 13 August 2026
An abstract reasoning test presents unfamiliar shapes and asks you to discover the relationships between them. The task is to separate relevant visual changes from noise and apply a rule consistently.
The skill
What is a abstract reasoning test?
An abstract reasoning test presents unfamiliar shapes and asks you to discover the relationships between them. The task is to separate relevant visual changes from noise and apply a rule consistently.
These tests assess fluid reasoning, pattern recognition and the ability to solve a new problem without learned verbal or numerical knowledge.
Question formats
What do the questions look like?
Questions can use sequences, analogies, classifications or sets. Shape count, position, rotation, shading, symmetry and overlap may each carry part of the rule.
- Shape sequences and progressions
- Visual analogies
- Classification and odd-one-out sets
- Rotation, reflection and symmetry
- Combination, subtraction and overlay rules
Two figures combine so shared elements disappear and remaining elements rotate. You apply the same relationship to a new pair and choose the matching result.
Launch coverage
Which providers use abstract reasoning tests?
Pearson TalentLens DAT, Saville Assessment and Talogy / Cubiks-style tests all use abstract material, but their item grammar and pacing differ. The Cognivy route teaches shared mechanics before the provider format.
Provider names identify the assessment format. Cognivy is independent and is not affiliated with or endorsed by these providers.
A clear route
How should you prepare?
- 1
Use the same attribute scan for every new item.
- 2
Separate independent rules and test each against all available figures.
- 3
Practise sequence, analogy and classification formats separately.
- 4
Use answer options to falsify a proposed rule quickly.
- 5
Add the target provider's timing only after unseen-item accuracy improves.
Cognivy uses your assessment date to choose the route. It does not ask you to predict a permanent study schedule. When you sit down to practise, choose the session length that fits that day.
What slows progress
Common mistakes
- Assuming every visible feature is part of the rule
- Checking a hypothesis against only one example
- Confusing rotation with reflection
- Practising only one visual question format