Grid patterns is one of the standard non-verbal reasoning patterns in GL-style 11+ papers. Complete a repeating pattern in a grid. 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
Complete a repeating pattern in a grid. Expect several per paper; in reasoning-only regions such as Lincolnshire, NVR carries half the total marks.
The method
Find the repeat unit — how many cells before the pattern cycles? Mark the cycle, then read off what belongs in the gap. Diagonal repeats are common in harder papers.
The traps
Assuming a row-based repeat when it's diagonal; ignoring colour/shading cycles that differ from the shape cycle.
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.