Non-Verbal Reasoning (NVR) tests visual pattern recognition. The good news: there are only 21 standard question types. Once a child can spot which type a question is, they're halfway to solving it.
The 21 standard types
Pattern recognition
- Find the odd one out — four shapes follow a rule, one doesn't.
- Find the missing shape — complete the pattern.
- What comes next in the sequence? — predict the next shape.
- Find the pair — match shapes that follow the same rule.
Manipulation
- Rotation — which option is the original rotated?
- Reflection — which option is the mirror image?
- Combinations — combine two shapes; what's the result?
- Hidden shape — find a small shape inside a complex one.
Analogies
- A is to B as C is to ? — apply the A→B rule to C.
- Complete the analogy with shapes/symbols.
Matrices
- 3×3 matrix — find the missing tile that completes the grid pattern.
- 2×2 matrix — easier; find the missing corner.
Spatial
- Cube nets — which net folds into the given cube?
- 3D rotation — which view shows the same object?
- Cross-section — what does the shape look like cut through?
Codes
- Letter codes for shapes — work out which letter pair represents the shape.
- Decode — translate a shape from its letter code.
Counting and properties
- How many lines of symmetry?
- How many sides/vertices/curves?
- Following rules — apply a stated rule to a shape.
- Most/least different — identify which is most or least similar.
The technique to learn all 21
Work through one type per day for 21 days. Practise 5-10 questions of each. Within 3 weeks, your child can recognise any 11+ NVR question and apply the right approach.
Quest Arena's worksheet library has NVR worksheets organised by these 21 types.