Abstract Reasoning Interview Questions: What to Expect and How to Prepare
Abstract reasoning can appear in the recruitment process in two ways: as a standalone online test (before or after the interview) or as part of the interview itself—either as a live test or as a discussion of your approach. This guide explains what to expect, how interviews may incorporate abstract reasoning, and how to prepare.
Where Abstract Reasoning Appears in Recruitment
Online test (pre-interview) – Most common. You complete an abstract reasoning test online before being invited to interview. SHL, Korn Ferry, AON, or employer-specific platforms. Usually timed, multiple choice. Pass threshold to proceed.
Online test (post-interview) – Less common. Some employers run tests after the first interview. Same format as pre-interview. Used to validate or supplement interview performance.
Live test in interview – Some employers show abstract reasoning questions on screen or paper during the interview. You solve them while the interviewer observes. They may ask you to "think aloud"—explain your reasoning as you go.
Discussion of approach – Interviewer asks how you approach abstract reasoning or problem-solving. "How do you tackle pattern recognition?" "Describe a time you had to identify a rule from limited information." Behavioural or competency-based.
Case study component – Consulting and some other roles may include logic or pattern elements in case studies. Not pure abstract reasoning, but related skills.
What Interviewers Look For
Logical thinking – Can you infer rules? Do you reason systematically? Do you avoid random guessing?
Problem-solving approach – Do you have a structure? Rule checklist? Or do you stare and guess? Interviewers value method.
Communication – In "think aloud" formats, can you articulate your reasoning? Clear communication of logic is valued.
Calm under pressure – Timed tests and live solving create pressure. Can you stay focused? Interviewers notice composure.
Learning from feedback – If you get one wrong and the interviewer discusses it, do you understand the correction? Adaptability matters.
How to Prepare for Abstract Reasoning in Interviews
Practice the test format – If you'll take an online test, practice with similar questions. SHL-style if SHL. Timed practice. Build speed and accuracy.
Prepare for "think aloud" – If the employer uses live tests, practice explaining your reasoning. "First I look at the structure. Then I check rows. The rule seems to be rotation. Let me verify..." Articulate your process.
Know the rule checklist – Rotation, number, colour, reflection, size, position, combination, rule change, cycle, correspondence. Be ready to run through it. Mention it if asked how you approach patterns.
Prepare behavioural examples – For "describe a time" questions: think of situations where you identified patterns, solved novel problems, or used logical reasoning. Structure: situation, task, action, result.
Research the employer – Check if they use SHL, Korn Ferry, or other providers. Check Glassdoor, employer websites, and recruitment materials. Prepare for what they use.
Simulate interview conditions – If doing a live test, practice with someone watching. Get used to solving while observed. Reduces anxiety.
Common Interview Questions About Abstract Reasoning
"How do you approach abstract reasoning questions?" – Describe your process: scan structure, run through rule checklist, hypothesise, verify, apply. Show you have a method.
"What strategies do you use when you're stuck?" – Elimination, skip and return, try the next rule on the checklist. Show you don't panic.
"Describe a time you had to identify a pattern or rule from limited information." – Use STAR. Situation: when. Task: what you needed to do. Action: how you approached it. Result: outcome.
"How do you handle time pressure in tests?" – Practice, skip rule, pacing, staying calm. Show you're prepared.
"What's your biggest weakness in abstract reasoning?" – Be honest but constructive. "I used to rush. I've learned to verify before applying. Practice helped." Shows self-awareness.
Tips for Live Abstract Reasoning in Interviews
Think aloud – Don't solve in silence. Explain what you're looking at, what you're checking, what rule you're testing. Interviewers want to see your process.
Stay structured – Use your checklist. "I'm checking rows first. It doesn't look like rotation. Let me try columns." Show method.
Don't panic if stuck – Say "I'm not seeing it yet. Let me try elimination." Or "Let me check the diagonals." Showing problem-solving under uncertainty is valuable.
Ask if unsure – "Is it okay if I take a moment to work through this?" Or "Can I use the options to eliminate?" Some interviewers allow it. Asking shows communication.
Learn from feedback – If you get it wrong and they explain, engage. "I see—I missed the column rule. Thank you." Shows you're coachable.
Practice with abstract reasoning questions and the abstract reasoning test.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I always have to do abstract reasoning in the interview?
No. Many employers use online tests only. Some use live tests. Some only discuss approach. Check the recruitment process for your employer. Prepare for both test and discussion.
What if I fail the online test but get to interview?
Unusual—most employers filter by test first. If you're invited to interview after a test, they may have a different process (e.g. test is one factor among many). Focus on performing well in both.
Can I use pen and paper during a live test?
Ask. Some allow it for notes. Some don't. Don't assume. If allowed, use it for quick sketches or rule tracking.