Shape codes is one of the standard non-verbal reasoning patterns in GL-style 11+ papers. Shapes carry two-letter codes; deduce what each letter means. 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
Shapes carry two-letter codes; deduce what each letter means. Expect several per paper; in reasoning-only regions such as Lincolnshire, NVR carries half the total marks.
The method
Compare shapes sharing a first letter — whatever they have in common is what that letter encodes (size, shading, outline). Repeat for second letters, then code the test shape.
The traps
Assuming letter order matches your guess (first letter isn't always shape); ignoring a third property that varies freely.
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.