Abstract reasoning tests use diagrams, symbols or shapes
instead of words or numbers. They involve identifying the logic of
a pattern and then continuing that logic to arrive at the
solution. Unlike questions that test your ability to use English
correctly or to
answer math problems, many people find it
difficult to see why employers use abstract reasoning questions.
After all, they bear no relationship to the problems that you are
faced with at work.
The reason that these questions are so widely used is because
psychologists believe that
abstract reasoning questions provide
the best indication of your ability to learn new things. This is
very important in jobs where you are required to make decisions
based on the information in front of you, rather than by following
established procedures.
Employers use abstract reasoning questions where the job involves:
developing strategies or policies, problem solving, dealing with
complex ideas, or using your initiative to make decisions.
Sample Abstract Reasoning Questions
1) Which figure completes the series?
Hint: In this series the black rectangle is alternating from
top to bottom and the number of white squares is increasing by one
each time.
2) Which figure completes the statement?
Hint: Begin by comparing the top figures. Does each one contain
the same number of elements? If so, does each contain the same
elements? If so, the elements must have been moved in some way.
This is usually done by reflection or rotation.
3) Which figure is the odd one out?
Hint: Begin by looking at the elements in each figure. Are
there the same number in each? Are they the same? If so, then look
at the configuration.
4) Which figure completes the series?
Hint: Begin by looking for a relationship between the figures
in the top row. If you think you have found one, then check that
the same relationship holds for the second row.
5) Which figure completes the grid?
Hint: Check to see if each row and column contains one, and
only one, of each shape. If not, then divide the grid horizontally
and vertically. Are they reflections? If not, are individual rows
related in some way? What about individual columns? If not, divide
the grid into four groups of four squares? Is there a relationship
between these groups?
Answers to sample abstract reasoning questions.
It is not always easy to assess whether someone has the
intellectual ability to see patterns and draw conclusions from
unfamiliar information. Abstract reasoning questions require you
to demonstrate your ability to understand complex concepts and
assimilate new information. As a measure of reasoning ability,
these questions are independent of educational and cultural
background and provide the best indication of your intellectual
potential.
Download sample
abstract reasoning Questions.
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