Non-Verbal Reasoning

    Pattern Completion

    Complete missing parts of patterns

    Practice Pattern Completion Now →

    Pattern Completion is a non-verbal reasoning format in which an incomplete figure, grid or tiled design is shown with one section removed, and you must choose the option that restores the pattern exactly. Exam setters build these figures from a small number of repeatable ideas: 90-degree rotational symmetry, mirror symmetry about a vertical or horizontal axis, continuing borders and shaded-cell progressions. SSC CGL and CHSL usually cut a corner or quarter from a square design, NDA and CDS favour rotational grids, and AFCAT and Intelligence Bureau papers mix in line-continuation figures where the correct piece must join every stroke that touches the gap. Working through the practice set below trains you to check the cut edges first, then confirm symmetry, which is the fastest reliable route to the answer under exam time pressure.

    What is Pattern Completion?

    A pattern completion question shows a figure, matrix or design with one part missing. You compare the answer choices and select the piece that preserves every line, shape, shade and direction around the gap. The quickest method is to inspect the cut edges before judging the whole picture.

    Why is it Important?

    Pattern completion is a common non-verbal reasoning topic in SSC, NDA, CDS, AFCAT and intelligence tests. It measures visual comparison, spatial reasoning and the ability to detect symmetry under time pressure.

    Key Techniques

    • Trace every line that reaches the edge of the missing area
    • Check whether the full design uses mirror or rotational symmetry
    • Compare shaded cells, dots and symbols separately from outlines
    • Reject any option that adds or removes a border element
    • Confirm the chosen piece at every touching edge, not just one side

    Common Patterns

    •Missing quarter of a square figure
    •Rotationally symmetric grids
    •Mirror-image designs
    •Repeating tiles and shaded cells
    •Curved or straight line continuation

    💡 Pro Tips

    1.Start with the answer choices and eliminate pieces whose edge lines cannot connect

    2.Check orientation carefully—a correct shape in the wrong rotation is still incorrect

    3.Use the overall symmetry only after the boundary details match

    4.Practise easy questions for accuracy before moving to timed sets

    📋 Exams Where Asked

    SSC CGL/CHSLNDACDSAFCATIntelligence Bureau

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What are pattern completion questions?

    They are non-verbal reasoning questions in which part of a figure or design is missing. You choose the option that correctly continues its lines, shapes, shading and symmetry.

    How do I solve pattern completion questions quickly?

    Check the edges around the missing section first. Eliminate options whose lines, curves or shaded areas do not connect, then use mirror or rotational symmetry to confirm the answer.

    Which exams include pattern completion questions?

    Pattern completion regularly appears in non-verbal reasoning sections for SSC CGL and CHSL, NDA, CDS, AFCAT and Intelligence Bureau examinations.

    Practice Pattern Completion Now →

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