In today’s competitive job market, employers are not only interested in academic qualifications or work experience, they also want to assess how well candidates can think logically, solve problems, and adapt to new information. One of the most effective tools used by employers to measure these abilities is the SHL Abstract Reasoning Aptitude Test.
This test is a core part of many hiring processes, particularly for roles that require analytical thinking and quick decision-making. In this guide, I’ll explain what the SHL Abstract Reasoning Aptitude Test involves, who it’s designed for, how to prepare effectively, and what to expect on test day.
What Is the SHL Abstract Reasoning ?
The SHL Abstract Reasoning (Aptitude Test) is a non-verbal psychometric assessment that evaluates a candidate’s ability to identify patterns, logical rules, and relationships in visual information. Unlike verbal or numerical reasoning tests, it does not require prior knowledge or language skills, making it a fair tool for assessing cognitive potential across a diverse candidate pool.
The test is commonly used by employers for:
Graduate recruitment schemes
Management and leadership development programs
Technical and engineering roles
Roles requiring high-level problem-solving or strategic thinking
The purpose of this test is to determine how well a candidate can learn new concepts, think critically, and make decisions based on incomplete information—skills that are essential in fast-paced and data-driven workplaces.
Why Employers Use This Test
Organizations use the SHL Abstract Reasoning Test to identify candidates who:
Can quickly spot trends or inconsistencies in data
Demonstrate strong problem-solving capabilities
Can think logically under time constraints
Are likely to perform well in roles involving innovation, data analysis, or systems thinking
Because abstract reasoning relies purely on logic and visual problem-solving, it is considered less influenced by educational or cultural background, providing a more objective measure of raw cognitive ability.
Structure and Format of the Test
While the exact number of questions and timing can vary depending on the version used by the employer, most SHL Abstract Reasoning Aptitude Tests follow a consistent structure:
Format: Multiple-choice
Question Types: Visual patterns, sequences, matrices
Typical Time Limit: 20–25 minutes
Number of Questions: Usually between 15 and 25
Each question presents a visual problem—such as a series of shapes or a 3×3 matrix—with one piece missing. The candidate must determine the logical pattern or rule that governs the sequence and select the correct option to complete it.
Common Types of Abstract Reasoning Questions
- Matrix Completion: You are shown a grid (usually 3×3) where each row and column follows a visual logic. One box is missing, and you must choose the correct shape that completes the pattern.
- Series Continuation: A series of shapes changes according to a rule (e.g., rotation, size, color). You must identify the next shape in the sequence.
- Odd One Out: Among a group of images, one does not follow the same rule or pattern as the others. Your task is to find the outlier.
- Dual-Rule Problems: More complex questions may involve two or more rules operating simultaneously—such as rotation and color changes—requiring deeper pattern recognition.
Preparation Tips
Success in this test comes from familiarity with the format, repeated practice, and developing a logical approach to pattern recognition. Here are some expert strategies to help you prepare:
Practice with SHL-Style Questions
Use reliable platforms such as:
Ensure that the practice materials match the actual SHL format, as other test providers may use different styles.
- Focus on Pattern Types
Most patterns are based on one or more of the following:
Direction (e.g., clockwise rotation)
Shape change (e.g., number of sides increasing)
Position shift (e.g., shapes moving left to right)
Size or shading changes
Number or frequency of elements
Learning to recognize these can drastically reduce the time you spend per question.
- Time Management
The test is time-pressured. Don’t aim for perfection on every question. Instead:
Keep track of time
Move on if stuck—guess if necessary
Avoid spending more than 90 seconds on a single question
- Use the Process of Elimination
Eliminate clearly incorrect answers. Often, two or three options will break the established pattern, making the correct answer easier to spot.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overanalyzing Patterns: The rules are usually simple. Don’t create overly complex logic.
Panicking Under Pressure: Stay calm; patterns are meant to be solvable.
Rushing Through Practice: Quality practice trumps quantity. Analyze your mistakes.
Relying on Memory: Unlike other tests, abstract reasoning doesn’t benefit from memorization—it rewards logical consistency and visual analysis.
The SHL Abstract Reasoning Aptitude Test is designed to assess a key skill valued across industries: the ability to think logically and adaptively in the face of unfamiliar problems. While the test can seem intimidating at first, consistent practice, a solid strategy, and a calm mindset will greatly increase your chances of success.
Whether you’re applying for a graduate position, a leadership role, or a technical post, strong performance in this test can distinguish you as a high-potential candidate.