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NVR techniques 5 min read · 2026-07-12

11+ Non-Verbal Reasoning: Reflection — method and traps

How to solve reflection questions in the 11+ NVR paper: a systematic method, the classic traps, and free practice sets.

Reflection is one of the standard non-verbal reasoning patterns in GL-style 11+ papers. Which option is the mirror image? 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 is the mirror image? Expect several per paper; in reasoning-only regions such as Lincolnshire, NVR carries half the total marks.

The method

Decide the mirror line first (vertical unless stated). Left features go right; asymmetric details are your checkpoints. If the shape looks identical after 'reflection', it was symmetric — check a different feature.

The traps

Reflecting only the outline and not internal details; wrong mirror axis.

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.

Practise reflection free →