Abstract Reasoning for SHL Tests: What to Expect and How to Prepare
SHL (now part of CEB/Gartner) is one of the most widely used assessment providers. Many employers use SHL abstract reasoning tests—also called inductive reasoning or diagrammatic reasoning—as part of their selection process. These tests measure your ability to identify patterns, infer rules, and predict what comes next. This guide explains what SHL abstract reasoning tests look like, common question types, and how to prepare effectively.
What Are SHL Abstract Reasoning Tests?
SHL abstract reasoning tests present sequences of shapes, symbols or figures that follow hidden rules. Your task is to identify the rule and choose the correct next figure or the figure that completes a matrix. The tests are timed and typically adaptive: harder questions follow correct answers. SHL uses several formats:
Inductive Reasoning – A sequence of figures; you choose the next one. Rules may involve rotation, reflection, number of elements, colour, size, or combinations.
Diagrammatic Reasoning – Inputs pass through "operations" (boxes that transform shapes). You deduce the rule and apply it to new inputs.
Deductive Reasoning – Logical rules are given; you apply them. Less common in "abstract" tests but sometimes grouped under the same assessment.
SHL tests are usually 15–25 minutes with 15–30 questions. Time pressure is significant: you have roughly 30–60 seconds per question.
SHL-Specific Formats
Matrix completion – A 3×3 grid with one empty cell. Rules apply by row, by column, or by position. SHL matrices often use rotation, addition/subtraction of elements, and colour changes.
Figure series – A row of 4–6 figures. You choose the next. SHL series often have 2–3 rules combined (e.g. rotation + colour alternation).
Odd one out – Several figures; one doesn't follow the rule. You identify the odd one. SHL may present 5–6 figures in a row or a grid.
Next in sequence – Similar to figure series but sometimes with a different layout (e.g. figures in a circle or a path).
SHL questions are designed to be culture-fair and not depend on language or maths. The rules are visual and logical.
Common SHL Abstract Reasoning Rules
Rotation – Shapes rotate 90° or 180° per step. Very common. Check clockwise vs anticlockwise.
Reflection – Shapes mirror across vertical, horizontal or diagonal axes. Often combined with rotation.
Number – The number of shapes, dots or elements increases or decreases (+1, -1, or similar). Count carefully.
Colour – Black/white or filled/empty alternates. Or colours cycle. Track by position.
Size – Shapes grow or shrink. Or alternate between sizes. Check scale and proportion.
Position – Elements move within the figure. Top to bottom, left to right, or along a path.
Combination – Two or more rules apply. E.g. each row rotates 90° and the number of black squares increases by 1. You must satisfy all rules.
Rule change – The pattern may shift mid-sequence. The first few figures follow one rule; the rest follow another. Be flexible.
How to Prepare for SHL Abstract Reasoning
Practice with SHL-style questions – Use materials that mimic SHL formats: matrices, series, odd one out. The more you see, the faster you recognise rules.
Work under time pressure – SHL tests are timed. Practice with a stopwatch. Aim for 45–60 seconds per question. If stuck, move on and return if time allows.
Learn the common rules – Rotation, reflection, number, colour, size, position. Know them by heart. When you see a new question, run through this checklist.
Use elimination – Wrong options often violate one rule. Eliminate clearly wrong answers first. That narrows your choice and saves time.
Don't overcomplicate – SHL rules are usually simple. If your explanation is very complex, you may have missed a simpler rule. Step back and try again.
Familiarise with the interface – SHL tests run in a browser. Practice with online tests that use similar navigation (next, previous, flag, submit). Reduce interface confusion on test day.
Test-Day Tips
Read instructions carefully – SHL may use "select the next figure" or "select the one that doesn't belong." The wording matters. Don't assume.
Manage your time – Don't spend 3 minutes on one question. If you're stuck after 90 seconds, guess and move on. Come back if you have time.
Stay calm – The test may feel hard. That's by design. Focus on the questions you can solve. One wrong answer won't ruin your score.
Check your answers – If time allows, review flagged questions. But don't second-guess yourself too much. First instincts are often correct.
Practice with abstract reasoning questions and the abstract reasoning test.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long are SHL abstract reasoning tests?
Typically 15–25 minutes with 15–30 questions. Time per question varies; expect around 30–60 seconds each.
Are SHL tests adaptive?
Many SHL tests are adaptive: correct answers lead to harder questions. Wrong answers may lead to easier ones. Your score reflects both accuracy and difficulty.
Can I use a pen and paper?
Depends on the test setup. Some SHL tests are unproctored and allow notes. Proctored tests may not. Check your instructions.