Spatial reasoning tests assess a candidate's ability to look at a shape, visualise and interpret shapes in their 2-dimensional or 3-dimensional form. The types of questions included in a spatial reasoning test can consist of:
- Transforming shapes
- Shape matching
- Mirror images
- Shape rotations
- Maps
- Block counting
- Assemble/disassemble
Transforming shapes
These questions focus on the transformation of 2D shape nets into 3D shapes. Information is presented in the form of a 2D cube or cuboid net. Each side of the 2D cube net includes a colour or pattern. Candidates need to determine what each side of the 2D cube net will look like when folded to make the 3D cube, then select the correct answer from multiple-choice answers given.
Shape matching
Often known as pairs, information is provided in the form of groups of shapes. Candidates need to decide which groups of shapes match. To determine the correct answers, you need to consider the rotation of the shapes and the different shape layouts.
Mirror images
Mirror image questions require candidates to visualise the mirror images of 2 and 3D objects and then select which of the multiple-choice answers is correct. While these questions may initially seem straightforward, it is essential to take your time before selecting your answer.
Shape rotations
As the name suggests, questions are presented as shapes requiring candidates to use their spatial awareness to mentally rotate objects. Then to select which of the multiple-choice answers represents the correctly rotated shape.
Questions are made challenging as many of the shapes will include dots or markers on one or more sides. The correct answer will be the shape that has been rotated to include the correct placement of the dot or marker.
Maps
Some spatial reasoning tests include map-based questions. Information is given in the form of a map or a 2D plan. Candidates need to follow instructions to successfully navigate using the information provided.
Block counting
Block counting questions require candidates to determine how many blocks make up a given cube. The questions are made challenging as not all of the blocks will be visible in the cube. Candidates need to visualise and manipulate the blocks that aren't visible to determine the correct number, being mindful of the object's properties.
Assemble/disassemble
These questions draw on a candidate's ability to mentally take apart and reassemble 2D and 3D objects. Information is given as a collection of 2D shapes. Through manipulating the shapes, candidates need to select which of the images represents the correct shape once the parts are assembled.
Reverse questions can also be asked where candidates need to look at a 3D object, then pick which group of 2D shapes given as multiple choice answers represents the object when disassembled.