How to Solve Matrix Reasoning Problems: Spot the Rule in 3 Steps

Matrix reasoning is a staple of IQ tests, but knowing a few tricks can dramatically improve both your accuracy and your speed.

Step 1: Look Across the Rows

First, check how each row changes from left to right. Simple operations like +2 or ×2 are used in many problems.

Step 2: Look Down the Columns

If the rows show no clear rule, check how the cells change from top to bottom. Besides arithmetic and geometric progressions, there can also be rules running along the diagonals.

Step 3: Suspect a Relationship

Sometimes a value is determined by the relationship between cells, such as 'left + middle = right' or 'row number × column number'. We walk through detailed examples on the pattern recognition problem page.