CogAT Nonverbal Figure Matrices Questions and Answers

Question 1

Observe the 2x2 matrix. The top row shows a transformation. A large square containing a small circle becomes a large circle containing a small square. Following this same rule, what does the large triangle containing a small star in the bottom row become?

Accepted Answer

A large star containing a small triangle.

Answer

The rule established in the top row is that the outer shape and the inner shape swap roles. The large outer shape becomes the small inner shape, and the small inner shape becomes the large outer shape. Applying this to the bottom row, the large triangle becomes the small inner shape, and the small star becomes the large outer shape.

Question 2

In a standard Figure Matrix problem, a 2x2 grid is presented with one empty cell. What is the primary task for the test-taker?

Accepted Answer

To determine the relationship between the figures in the first row and apply that same relationship to the second row to find the missing figure.

Answer

The core of a Figure Matrices question is to discern the logical transformation or relationship between the first pair of figures (horizontally) and then apply that identical logic to the third figure to correctly identify the missing fourth figure.

Question 3

The top row of a figure matrix shows a black square rotating 90 degrees clockwise to become the second figure. The bottom row starts with a white circle that has a dot at its northernmost point. Which of the following figures correctly completes the matrix?

Accepted Answer

A white circle with a dot at its easternmost point.

Answer

The rule is a 90-degree clockwise rotation. The color and shape of the object do not change in this specific transformation. Therefore, the white circle with a dot at the top (north) will rotate 90 degrees clockwise, moving the dot to the right side (east).

Question 4

A figure matrix displays the following relationship in the top row: a single solid arrow pointing up becomes three solid arrows pointing up. In the bottom row, there is a single hollow square. Which answer choice completes the analogy?

Accepted Answer

Three hollow squares.

Answer

The transformation rule is a change in quantity (from one to three) while maintaining the original shape and fill style (hollow/solid). Therefore, a single hollow square becomes three hollow squares.

Question 5

Which of the following describes the fundamental skill assessed by the Nonverbal Figure Matrices section of the CogAT?

Accepted Answer

The ability to infer relationships and apply them to new situations using geometric shapes and figures.

Answer

The Figure Matrices subtest specifically measures a student's ability to reason with non-verbal, figural content. It requires them to identify relationships, patterns, and transformations among shapes and then apply this understanding to a new set of figures.

CogAT Practice Test

CogAT Practice Test

CogAT Nonverbal Figure Matrices Questions and Answers