Shape sequences

General information

Inductive reasoning, or abstract reasoning as it is sometimes called, involves identifying rules and finding relationships among seemingly unrelated information.

In the example below, rules are established according to the number of segments, and segment colors.

Example: Which object comes next?

Answer:

Set limit for each question on timed tests, especially when all questions are awarded points equally. Even if the aha moment seems imminent, if the clock is ticking, move on.
Sequences are unique, with a wide variety of shapes and designs; bottom line they are different to what we are used to. Attempting many question types is essential to avoid seeing something completely new for the first time. That said, avoid trying to create a foolproof system that covers all possible question types; this may hamper the creative process when an awkward question comes up.

Question types

Complete the sequence - Figure out the next image/figure.
Matrix - Identify the blank square from a matrix of cells.
Odd one out - Find the odd one out from a collection of shapes.
Analogy - Discover the relationship between two figures and apply the rule(s) to another set.

'Complete the sequence' is the more commonly found mode. In addition, the rules for the shapes usually become more complex from beginning to end.

Example of rules

The rules governing sequences mainly involve position, movement, and rotation.

Moving items - Applies to both primary and secondary items. Smaller secondary items usually move within larger objects or in grids.
Intersect/merge/parts - Rules are created when items intersect, merge or are split into parts. A degree of complexity is added when merged parts and intersections don't bear direct resemblance to the individual parts.
Mirror/Rotation - Flipping and rotation is usually more obvious because forms stay fundamentally the same. Rotations are more obvious in shapes and less obvious in line portions.
Sides - Rules that are associated with sides usually involve arithmetical operators.
Arithmetic operations - These rules are usually addition/subtraction/multiplication/division.

Strategy

Patterns are located in differences between consecutive shapes.
A mental toolbox of possible rules will lead to an advantage going into the test.
Some rules are more likely to apply to specific items. For example lines are usually associated with rotation.
When there are multiple rules, start with the easiest and make sure that it applies to all steps.
With more complex questions, looking at the answers options may sometimes hinder the creative process.
Look for properties that feature predominantly in the options as this will help create a short-list of possible answers. When two options are almost identical one of them is usually the correct one.