Loading...CAT4 Figure Matrices Practice Tests: Free Samples and Expert Strategies
Learn how CAT4 Figure Matrices work, use a free sample, follow a reliable step-by-step method and avoid the visual-rule mistakes that cost pupils marks.
What are CAT4 Figure Matrices questions?
Figure Matrices present a visual grid with one figure missing. Pupils identify the rule connecting the visible figures across a row, column or both, then choose the option that completes the matrix.
What the subtest measures
- Pattern recognition
- Visual comparison
- Rule induction
- Mental transformation
- Attention to relevant detail
- Ability to reject partial matches
Why pupils find it difficult
- Several visual features may change together
- A distractor may satisfy only part of the rule
- Rules can work horizontally and vertically
- Rotation and reflection are easily confused
- Pupils may rely on appearance rather than logic
Free CAT4 Figure Matrices sample
Use the existing SET sample without timing first. Ask the pupil to explain the rule before discussing the answer options.
CAT4 Figure Matrices sample questions
Open the existing School Entrance Tests Figure Matrices sample in a new tab.
Broader CAT4 preparation
Use wider CAT4 practice after the pupil understands the Figure Matrices method and can apply it independently.
How to solve CAT4 Figure Matrices
The strongest method separates visual features before combining them into a complete rule.
Scan the grid structure
Decide whether the rule is most likely operating from left to right, top to bottom, or in both directions.
List the changing features
Check count, shape, position, direction, rotation, size, shading, colour and overlap separately.
Describe the transformation
State the rule precisely: for example, “the shape doubles”, “the figure rotates 90 degrees clockwise” or “the third box combines the first two”.
Test the rule elsewhere
A valid rule should explain every completed row or column, not only one convenient pair.
Predict before viewing options
Form a mental description of the missing figure before answer choices create distraction.
Check every relevant feature
Confirm number, orientation, shading and arrangement. Reject options that satisfy only part of the rule.
Common Figure Matrices rules
Rotation
A shape turns by a fixed angle, commonly 45, 90 or 180 degrees.
Increase or doubling
The number of shapes increases, decreases or doubles across the row.
Movement
A shape moves between corners, edges or central positions.
Shading change
Shading alternates, transfers, increases or follows a position rule.
Combination
The third figure combines selected features from the first two.
Subtraction
Shared elements disappear while unique elements remain.
Reflection
The figure mirrors across a vertical, horizontal or diagonal axis.
Shape substitution
One shape consistently replaces another while position or number stays fixed.
Alternation
Two rules alternate across successive boxes or rows.
How to explain a Figure Matrices answer
A useful explanation should identify the transformation, apply it to the incomplete row and then test all relevant visual features.
Example reasoning
- In the completed row, one triangle becomes two triangles.
- The orientation and colour remain unchanged.
- The rule is therefore “duplicate the complete figure”.
- Apply the same rule to the lower-left figure.
- The correct answer must double every element while preserving colour and orientation.
Why distractors look plausible
- Correct number but wrong orientation
- Correct shape but missing colour
- Correct elements but separated incorrectly
- Only one component doubled
- Rule applied in the wrong direction
Common CAT4 Figure Matrices mistakes
| Mistake | Why it happens | Better strategy |
|---|---|---|
| Choosing the most similar-looking option | The pupil uses overall resemblance rather than identifying a rule. | Describe the transformation before checking options. |
| Checking only one feature | An option has the right count but wrong orientation or shading. | Use a fixed checklist: count, shape, position, direction, shading. |
| Assuming the rule is horizontal | The pupil ignores evidence in the columns. | Test both row and column relationships. |
| Confusing rotation with reflection | Both change orientation but in different ways. | Track a distinctive corner or asymmetrical feature. |
| Overcomplicating a simple rule | The pupil invents several unnecessary transformations. | Prefer the simplest rule that explains the entire matrix. |
| Rushing into answer options | Distractors shape the pupil’s reasoning. | Predict the missing figure first. |
Figure Matrices practice by CAT4 level
| School year | Typical level | Practice emphasis | SET guide |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 4 | Level A | Single-feature rules, simple movement and basic count changes. | Year 4 guide |
| Year 5 | Level B | Clear row transformations and two-feature comparisons. | Year 5 guide |
| Year 6 | Level C | Mixed visual rules, combinations and gradual timing. | Year 6 guide |
| Year 7 | Level D | Systematic feature tracking and rejecting partial matches. | Year 7 guide |
| Year 8 | Level E | Multi-feature rules, rotation, reflection and efficient checking. | Year 8 guide |
| Years 9–10 | Level F | Complex transformations and rules operating in two directions. | Year 10 guide |
| Year 11+ | Level G | Advanced combinations, close distractors and strict pacing. | Year 11 guide |
Continue your non-verbal reasoning preparation
CAT4 Non-Verbal Reasoning
Understand the full battery and how Figure Matrices relates to Figure Classification.
Figure Classification
Practise identifying the shared visual rule linking a group of figures.
Free CAT4 Samples
Download examples covering all eight CAT4 subtests.
CAT4 Practice Tests
Compare all four batteries, levels and year-group routes.
CAT4 Preparation Guide
Use the six-stage preparation model and timing guidance.
CAT4 Tools
Use the Level Finder, Score Interpreter and Preparation Planner.
CAT4 Figure Matrices questions answered
What are CAT4 Figure Matrices?
Which CAT4 battery contains Figure Matrices?
What skills do Figure Matrices measure?
How should a pupil solve Figure Matrices?
Should Figure Matrices practice be timed?
What are the most common Figure Matrices rules?
Why do pupils choose plausible wrong answers?
Can practice improve Figure Matrices performance?
Practise CAT4 Figure Matrices with a clear method
Open the sample without timing, ask the pupil to explain the rule, then move to age-appropriate practice only after the method is secure.
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