Shape connection rules is one of the standard non-verbal reasoning patterns in GL-style 11+ papers. Which option follows the same rule as a given pair/group? NVR rewards method over talent more than any other 11+ subject — children who learn to interrogate shapes systematically routinely overtake 'naturally spatial' peers who guess.
What the question looks like
Which option follows the same rule as a given pair/group? Expect several per paper; in reasoning-only regions such as Lincolnshire, NVR carries half the total marks.
The method
Extract the rule as a sentence ('outer shape repeats inside, shaded'), then test each option against the FULL sentence. Partial matches are the trap — the right answer satisfies every clause.
The traps
Testing options against half the rule; over-general rules that admit two options.
How to practise this type
Do this type in short, focused bursts — ten questions, mark, review every error out loud ('what property did I miss?'). Our free NVR worksheet sets isolate each pattern, the full NVR types list maps the territory, and timed mock papers knit the types back together at exam pace.