Colour Pattern Questions: How Colours Change in Abstract Reasoning
Colour pattern questions focus on how colours, shading or fill change across figures. "Colour" can mean solid fill, shading, outline vs fill, colour swap, colour cycle. Tasks: figure series, matrix, odd one out, combined with other rules.
Common Rules
Alternation. Progression. Position-based. Row/column rule. XOR/swap. Cycle. Correspondence.
Approach
Separate shape from colour. Track one element. Check all positions. Identify rule. Apply and match. Verify.
Tips
Start with alternation. Count. Use notation (B, W). Check correspondence. Combine with shape rules.
Mistakes
Ignoring colour. Wrong alternation. Confusing position. Overlooking combined rules. Assuming binary.
Practice with abstract reasoning questions and the abstract reasoning test.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if shapes and colours both change?
Treat separately. Find both rules. Correct answer satisfies both.
How to handle 3+ colours?
Track each position. Look for cycles or progressions.
Can colour depend on shape?
Yes. E.g. circles black, squares white. Identify both.