Positional sequences is one of the standard non-verbal reasoning patterns in GL-style 11+ papers. An element moves around a frame step by step. 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
An element moves around a frame step by step. Expect several per paper; in reasoning-only regions such as Lincolnshire, NVR carries half the total marks.
The method
Track the mover's position like a clock hand: how many steps per move, in which direction? Note whether it bounces at edges or wraps around — the two behaviours diverge exactly at the boundary.
The traps
Missing direction reversals at edges; assuming constant speed when it accelerates (1,2,3 steps).
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.