In this module, you will learn how to solve shape sequences by determining which shape logically follows in the sequence. Each shape changes according to an underlying rule for example, in shape, direction, number of elements, size, rotation, fill, or position. By analyzing these characteristics step by step, you will recognize the pattern and select the shape that correctly continues the sequence.
Free practice test
Practice Sequences of figures for free
Free Figure Sets
10 questions · 5 min
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What are figure sequences?
In a figure sequence you see a row of shapes that changes step by step. You pick the shape that completes the sequence. Figure sequences measure abstract reasoning: spotting patterns without language or arithmetic, which is why employers use them for international roles too.
The tricky part is that several rules can apply at once: a shape rotates, moves and changes colour. Checking the rules one at a time gets you to the answer much faster.
Also called abstract reasoning, inductive reasoning or diagrammatic series.
How to solve a figure sequence
- Pick one element and follow only that element through the sequence. Then do the next one.
- Check the usual rules: rotation (e.g. 90° clockwise), movement (one position per step), count (+1 or −1), colour or fill (alternating) and size.
- Eliminate answer options that break any single rule. Often only one or two remain.
- No rule in sight? Compare shape 1 with 3 and 2 with 4: sometimes the sequence alternates.
Worked examples
An arrow points up, then right, then down. Which direction comes next?
Show answer
Left
The arrow rotates 90° clockwise each step.
A black dot moves inside a square from top left to top right to bottom right. At the same time one line is added per step (1, 2, 3). What does shape 4 look like?
Show answer
Dot bottom left, four lines
Two rules at once: the dot moves one corner clockwise, and the number of lines goes up by one.
A circle alternates white and black (white, black, white, black) and gets smaller each step. What is shape 5?
Show answer
A white circle, smaller than shape 4
The colour alternates and the size keeps decreasing.
The shape alternates between square and triangle (square, triangle, square, triangle). Shape 1 has one dot, shape 2 has two, and so on. What does shape 5 look like?
Show answer
A square with five dots
Two rules you check separately: the shape alternates each step, and the number of dots goes up by one.
Practise more with the practice pack
7 practice sets with 96 questions in total, each with an explanation. From €4.99 for 1 day, paid once.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between figure sequences and matrices?
In figure sequences the pattern runs along one row from left to right. In matrices the shapes sit in a grid (usually 3×3) and the rules apply to rows and columns at the same time.
Is abstract reasoning the same as figure sequences?
Figure sequences are the most common form of abstract reasoning. Some providers call the section 'abstract' or 'inductive reasoning'; the rules you need to spot are the same.
How fast do you need to be?
It varies by test. Our free practice test gives you 5 minutes for 10 figure sequences, so 30 seconds each. That is why it pays to run the same checklist every time: rotation, movement, count, colour, size.
Can I practise figure sequences for free?
Yes. On this page you practise 10 figure sequences for free, with an explanation for every answer. You don't need an account. The practice pack adds more practice sets and a mock test.