Guide to Inductive Reasoning Tests

Table of Contents

Introduction

Inductive reasoning tests simulate situations where you’re required to use both creativity and intelligence. These tests are based on visual patterns or sequences that you must analyze and relate to an underlying “rule” in order to choose the correct answer from a set of options.

You typically have around 30 seconds to answer each question. This is the average time you’ll need to stay on pace and complete the test on time—but keep in mind that timing can vary significantly depending on the test provider.

Below, you’ll find sample questions along with the correct answers and explanations that walk you through the reasoning behind each solution. Use these to build a solid foundation for your inductive reasoning test prep.

If you’re looking for a broader overview of the different types of aptitude tests used by companies and public institutions during the selection process, check out our Practical Guide to Aptitude Tests: A General Overview of all Test Types . It includes detailed explanations, examples, and tips for solving the most common question types—numerical, logical, abstract, and verbal.

To sharpen your skills even further, try our  free aptitude test simulator, which gives you access to a pool of over 11,000 questions drawn from real assessments used by employers and organizations to evaluate new candidates.

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What Is Inductive Reasoning?

Inductive reasoning tests are a very common type of aptitude (or psychometric) test used to assess your general intelligence and creativity. They are specifically designed to measure your ability to learn and apply new information.

To score well on this type of test, you’ll need to sharpen your logical thinking skills and become familiar with the most common logical rules and patterns these tests are built around.

In an inductive reasoning test, you’ll typically be shown a series of diagrams arranged in a sequence or matrix, and asked to identify the “constant rules” that govern the pattern—often within a set time limit.

Examples of Inductive Reasoning Questions

Below are two sample inductive reasoning questions. The style of these questions closely matches—if not exactly mirrors—what you’re likely to encounter in a real test.

Use these questions (along with the explanations of how the correct answers are reached) to familiarize yourself with this format and boost your final score.

Questions and Answers

  • Question 1 with solution

Read the following and answer the question: there are two types of reasoning: deductive and inductive. How many of the following arguments are deductive?

Argument 1: Those who think they can judge others are foolish; Maria is constantly judging her friends; therefore, we cannot say Maria is intelligent.

Argument 2: Every dog I’ve ever owned had an excellent sense of smell; Cetto, my grandfather’s dog, is a great truffle hunter; Sibyl, my aunt’s poodle, always finds the hidden treat in the yard; therefore, dogs have an incredible sense of smell.

Argument 3: I bet on ten and lost; I bet on thirty and lost; I bet on two and lost; therefore, I’m not lucky when it comes to gambling.

Argument 4: Anyone preparing to visit a foreign country should also learn about its customs and traditions; Michael, who’s been planning his trip to Indonesia for two months, shouldn’t forget to learn about local table manners.

A) All of them
B) Three
C) Two
D) One
E) None

Correct answer: C - Argument 1 is deductive: it starts with a general rule, applies it to a specific case (Maria), and draws a conclusion. Argument 2 is inductive: it generalizes from specific examples to a broad statement about all dogs. Argument 3 is also inductive, drawing a general conclusion about luck from a few personal experiences. Argument 4 is deductive: it applies a general rule to a specific case (Michael) and reaches a logical conclusion. Therefore, two of the four arguments are deductive.
  • Question 2 with solution
Ragionamento induttivo - Domanda

Which image completes the sequence?

Ragionamento induttivo - Risposte
Correct answer: B - An X-shaped figure is accompanied by a series of black and white dots. The two sets of dots are independent and follow a similar pattern. In each frame, a black dot is added counterclockwise to the corners of the X shape until all four corners are filled. Then a dot is removed, continuing counterclockwise. The white dots follow the same pattern, but in a clockwise direction. By examining the changes before and after, the image with the question mark should resemble frame 2, with one additional black dot (bringing the total to four) and one additional white dot in the top-right corner.
  • Question 3 with solution
Ragionamento induttivo - Domanda

Which image completes the sequence?

Ragionamento induttivo - Risposte
Correct answer: E - All the triangles gradually shift position in a counterclockwise direction and move outward. A good strategy for solving this puzzle is to break the figure down into its basic components (i.e., individual triangles) and focus on one element at a time.
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How to Prepare for the Inductive Reasoning Test

Here are several key suggestions to keep in mind before taking an inductive reasoning test:

Practice—a lot. As with many things in life, practice is essential. You should give yourself ample time to prepare properly before the test and assess your skills to know whether you genuinely have a shot at doing well or are just hoping for luck. Practicing in advance will also help you improve your reaction times, allowing you to complete the test more efficiently and increase your overall score. Our free aptitude test simulator includes hundreds of inductive reasoning questions and is designed to automatically generate a sequence of problems tailored to help you build your skills and achieve the best possible result.

Don’t rush—take the time you need. Time management is crucial for completing this and any other test. At the same time, you shouldn’t try to force yourself to go fast, or you’re bound to make mistakes. Speed should come naturally as a result of consistent practice. So, start practicing for free now with thousands of questions, and take your time to decipher each visual pattern. Only then will you truly improve your chances of answering each question correctly.

Stay calm and focused. Especially if the test is timed, one of the best ways to remain calm during the inductive reasoning test is by practicing ahead of time. There’s no need to panic if you don’t immediately see the answer to a question. Our database includes over 11,000 questions that have been used in actual aptitude tests. Start practicing inductive reasoning questions today—through repetition, you’ll learn how to break down any pattern that might appear in the test during your upcoming assessment.

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One Last Tip

For a comprehensive overview of the different types of aptitude tests commonly used by companies and organizations during the hiring process, check out our Practical Guide to Aptitude Tests: A General Overview of all Test Types. It offers clear explanations, sample questions, and step-by-step instructions to help you tackle the most common question types—whether numerical, logical, abstract, or verbal.