I think the number of questions is good, the patterns seemed like they were well thought out. I enjoyed the challenge, assumably this will help you on the logic part of the LSAT
What are abstract reasoning tests?
Sometimes referred to as inductive or diagrammatic reasoning tests, abstract reasoning tests examine how well you’re able to work out a pattern or a sequence so you can accurately guess what would come next logically.
The test can be challenging as it requires a different way of thinking that you may not be used to. That’s why we always recommend practising abstract reasoning tests, and as many as you can, before you take the one you’re preparing for.
For the legal sector in particular, the abstract reasoning test is an important part of the hiring process as it helps employers to find candidates with a proven aptitude for logical thinking.
Why do employers use abstract reasoning tests?
Employers across a huge variety of industries use abstract reasoning tests to help find the best people to employ.
The test is particularly useful for sectors, such as law, where logical thinking, problem solving and an ability to think clearly under pressure are important.
As the job market gets increasingly competitive, aptitude tests offer employers another chance to test candidates, and candidates another chance to impress employers.
What is the abstract reasoning test format?
You’ll answer a series of different questions with one common requirement - to identify the rule that links the different patterns in front of you. Once you’ve worked out the rule, you’ll be able to select the correct answer from a list of potential options.
Like most aptitude tests, you’ll have around one minute to answer each question - so finding the right balance of speed and accuracy is important.
What skills does abstract reasoning test?
The main skill you’re being tested on is logic. However, to succeed at the test you’ll also require a healthy amount of creative thinking, lateral reasoning and an ability to keep calm under pressure.
At this point, it may sound like an impossible task, but we promise that if you practice abstract reasoning tests you’ll just get better and better, not to mention quicker and quicker!
Try timing yourself while you practice so you can make sure you’re getting through all the questions in the allotted time.
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Sample Abstract Reasoning Test question Test your knowledge!
Score: /5
If 'A = 1, B = 2, and Z = 26', what is the sum of the numerical values of the letters in the word 'HARD'?
- 29
- 27
- 35
- 34
If the sequence of events follows a pattern of doubling then halving, and this pattern started with 4, what would be the 5th number in the sequence?
- 16
- 8
- 4
- 2
Take the initial letter of each word in the phrase 'Every Good Boy Deserves Fruit' and apply a pattern that shifts each letter three places down the alphabet. What is the fourth letter in the resulting sequence?
- H
- J
- F
- L
In a certain code language, 'MOBILE' is coded as 'NQDJCF'. How is 'COMPUTER' coded in that language?
- EORVWVGT
- DQNTQVFS
- DPNQVFSH
- FQPUXWHU
Visualize a pyramid made of blocks. The bottom layer has 16 blocks, the layer above that has 9 blocks, and the top layer has 4 blocks. If each layer has a square number of blocks, how many blocks are in the fourth layer from the bottom?
- 1
- 4
- 25
- 36
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Abstract Reasoning Test Tips
- Familiarize with Patterns
Before diving into the actual practice tests on Law Tests, take some time to understand the common patterns used in abstract reasoning exams. This isn't about rote learning; it's about getting comfortable with the logic and types of relationships between shapes and figures. When you're well-acquainted with the variety of patterns, you'll start to see them instinctively during the test.
- Keep an Eye on the Clock
Time management is crucial. These tests are not just about getting the right answer but doing so efficiently. Use the timers on Law Tests to get a sense of how long you are taking per question. With practice, aim to increase your speed without sacrificing accuracy. A balance of swiftness and precision is what you're aiming for.
- Practice in Blocks
Practice makes perfect – especially when it comes to abstract reasoning tests. Break your practice sessions into blocks and focus on different types of questions in each session. This targeted practice will help strengthen your ability to identify rules and similarities across various question types, making you nimbler in the real exam.
- Stay Calm and Composed
Abstract reasoning tests can sometimes be overwhelming, with their unfamiliar shapes and patterns. It's important to stay calm and maintain a clear head. If you encounter a particularly tricky question, take a deep breath and approach it methodically. Panicking can cloud your judgment and affect your performance.
- Review Your Answers
Make use of the review feature on Law Tests to go over your practice test answers. Understanding why a particular answer was correct or incorrect is critical to improving your performance. Every review session is an opportunity to fine-tune your reasoning skills and prep you for success in the actual test.
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Abstract Reasoning Test FAQs
- How are abstract reasoning tests scored?
The test will usually be scored normatively. Normative scoring is when you compare an individual’s score to a ‘normative group’ of people who have previously taken the test. Comparing scores in this way helps an employer to see where you sit amongst a group of peers, and also how difficult the test you took was.
- What are abstract reasoning tests used for?
Law firms often ask candidates to take an abstract reasoning test as it’s a great indicator of how people think, and whether they cope well under pressure. It’s important to undertake adequate preparation and practice for the test to show off your strengths and prove that you’re more than capable of doing the job you’re applying for.
- What do abstract reasoning tests involve?
The test is primarily an exercise in problem solving. You’ll need to be able to work out how a series of shapes, patterns or diagrams are connected in order to finish that pattern.
- What do abstract reasoning tests measure?
Problem solving, logical thinking and creative thinking. As you’ll already be aware, these are skills that law firms all hold in high regard.
- Where can I practice abstract reasoning tests?
Abstract reasoning tests are designed to be challenging, so practising abstract reasoning tests on Law Tests is the best way to prepare.
Reviews
What our customers say about our Abstract Reasoning Tests
Maya Holt-Teza
United States of America
June 14, 2022
Good patterns
Nakiri Gumi
Malaysia
August 01, 2022
Reasoning and Vision
Using vision, it helped me choose my decisions after reasoning what i saw and may or may not have understood
Cressida Norridge
United Kingdom
September 27, 2022
Decent
Quite fun figuring out the pattern, even though sometimes feels like there aren't enough examples to make clear judgments
KK-krystal Tam
United States of America
April 11, 2023
Logic is really important
It is really important to find out the relationships between the patterns. Some of them are absolutely challenging. I am glad to have the chance to practice it before I need to take the actual test!
Sabeeha Mansoor Chaudry
Pakistan
June 27, 2023
A good challenge
I think if the test had been simple, I would not have believed the results to be reliable but now that I've taken it I take some solace in the fact that these results might actually mean something
Sinokuhle Dyeshana
South Africa
November 03, 2023
This challenges your cognitive ability. It's all about noticing patterns.
Wished the actual timed test had been different to the practice, would enable one the opportunity to see if they really understand.