Figure Series Questions: How to Find the Next Shape in a Sequence
Figure series questions present a sequence of shapes—usually in a row—that follow a hidden rule. Your task is to find the next shape in the sequence or identify the one that completes it. These questions appear in abstract reasoning tests and measure your ability to detect patterns and predict what comes next. This article explains common rules and how to spot them quickly.
What Is a Figure Series?
A figure series is a sequence of shapes, symbols or figures that change according to a rule. The rule might involve:
- Rotation – Each shape rotates by a fixed angle (90°, 180°) as you move left to right
- Reflection – Shapes alternate between original and mirror image
- Size change – Elements grow or shrink in a consistent way
- Number – The number of elements (dots, shapes, lines) increases or decreases
- Addition or subtraction – New elements appear or disappear
- Position – Elements move within each figure
- Colour or shading – Elements change fill or colour
- Combination – Two or more rules apply at once
The sequence may have 3–6 figures. You choose the next one from multiple options, or you identify which figure is missing from the middle of the sequence.
Step-by-Step Approach
Step 1: Look at the whole sequence – Don't focus on the first two figures only. The rule must hold for the entire sequence.
Step 2: Compare consecutive figures – What changes from figure 1 to 2? From 2 to 3? From 3 to 4? Is the change consistent?
Step 3: Identify the rule – Describe it in words. "Each figure rotates 90° clockwise." Or "One dot is added per figure."
Step 4: Apply the rule to get the next figure – Take the last figure and apply the transformation. What should the next one look like?
Step 5: Match the options – Which option matches your prediction? If none do, re-check the rule. You may have missed a cycle or a different pattern.
Step 6: Verify – Apply the rule backwards. Does it work for the whole sequence? If the rule is "add one dot per figure," does figure 1 have 1 dot, figure 2 have 2, etc.?
Common Rules in Figure Series
Linear progression – The change is consistent: +1 element per figure, or rotate 90° per figure. The rule continues in the same direction.
Cyclic progression – The pattern repeats. After 4 figures, we're back to the start. For example: rotation 0°, 90°, 180°, 270°, then 0° again. The next figure is the same as the first.
Alternating – Two rules alternate. Odd positions follow one rule; even positions follow another. Or the rule alternates between two states.
Cumulative – Elements accumulate. Figure 1 has 1; figure 2 has 3; figure 3 has 6. The rule might be "add 2, then add 3, then add 4" or similar.
Tips for Speed
Start with rotation – It's the most common. Trace one element. Does it turn?
Count elements – If shapes don't rotate, count dots, shapes or lines. Look for +1, +2, or similar.
Check for cycles – If the sequence is long, the pattern may repeat. Position 5 might equal position 1.
Use elimination – Rule out options that clearly violate the pattern. Narrow down before committing.
Common Mistakes
Assuming the rule from two figures – Two figures can suggest many rules. Verify with the third and fourth. The rule must fit the whole sequence.
Missing a cycle – If the pattern repeats every 4 figures, the "next" figure might be the same as the first. Don't assume linear progression.
Ignoring the middle – In "find the missing figure" questions, the missing figure is in the middle. The rule still applies—you're completing the sequence.
Overcomplicating – The rule is usually simple. If you're inventing a complex explanation, you may have missed a simpler one.
Practice with abstract reasoning questions and the abstract reasoning test.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many figures are usually in a series?
Typically 3–6. The more figures, the easier it is to confirm the rule. With 3 figures, you have less to check—be careful to verify.
What if the rule changes between figures?
Some sequences have a "compound" rule: the first half follows one pattern, the second half another. Or the rule itself evolves. These are harder; look for the overall structure.
Can the missing figure be anywhere?
Yes. It can be at the end (next figure) or in the middle. The rule still applies. Apply it forwards and backwards to find the missing figure.