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Free Logical Reasoning Test

12 abstract pattern questions · SHL Inductive & Korn Ferry format · Detailed solutions

20 min

12 questions

Hard

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Logical Reasoning

Practice Test

Pattern recognition in shapes and symbols

Identifying transformation rules (rotation, reflection, size)

Sequence completion

Matrix reasoning

Used by:

SHL Verify InductiveKorn Ferry LogicalAon/cut-e scales abstract

What is a Logical Reasoning Test?

A logical reasoning test (also called inductive or abstract reasoning) measures your ability to identify patterns, rules, and sequences in abstract visual information, typically shapes, symbols, or matrices. These tests assess your raw cognitive ability and fluid intelligence, independent of language or prior knowledge.

Logical reasoning tests are considered the purest measure of cognitive ability. They are used by top consulting firms (McKinsey, BCG, Bain), investment banks, and tech companies to identify high-potential candidates. A strong logical reasoning score is one of the most powerful signals in any application.

What Skills Does It Test?

Pattern recognition in shapes and symbols

Identifying transformation rules (rotation, reflection, size)

Sequence completion

Matrix reasoning

Abstract thinking and fluid intelligence

Sample Questions

Try these example questions to get a feel for the format. Click "Show Answer" to see the explanation.

In a 3×3 matrix, the top row has: ○ △ □. The middle row has: ○○ △△ □□. What completes the bottom row?

A.○○○ △△△ □□□

B.○ △△△ □□

C.○○○ △ □□□

D.○△□ ○△□ ○△□

A sequence shows a circle rotating 90° clockwise and gaining one dot with each step. Step 1: empty circle at 12 o'clock. Step 3: circle at 6 o'clock with 2 dots. What is Step 4?

A.Circle at 9 o'clock with 3 dots

B.Circle at 3 o'clock with 3 dots

C.Circle at 9 o'clock with 4 dots

D.Circle at 12 o'clock with 3 dots

Which shape does NOT belong: large black square, large black circle, large black triangle, small black square?

A.Large black square

B.Large black circle

C.Large black triangle

D.Small black square

Expert Tips

Identify one rule at a time

Complex patterns usually have 2–3 rules operating simultaneously (e.g., rotation + color change + size). Identify each rule separately, then combine them.

Look for the odd one out

In 'which doesn't belong' questions, compare all items systematically. The odd one out usually breaks one specific rule that the others follow.

Use elimination aggressively

If you can identify that an answer option breaks a rule, eliminate it immediately. You often don't need to fully solve the pattern to get the right answer.

Practice with matrices

3×3 matrix questions (like Raven's Progressive Matrices) are the most common format. Each row and column follows a rule - find what's missing.

Don't overthink

The rules are always consistent and logical. If your identified rule works for all examples, trust it. Overthinking leads to second-guessing correct answers.