Puzzle #1: Disappearing Triangles
Easy · Progression · target time about 10 seconds
Which option completes the pattern?
How to solve it (answer: A)
The rule
From one panel to the next, the count goes down by one.
Step by step
- The panels show seven solid triangles, six solid triangles, five solid triangles, and four solid triangles.
- From one panel to the next, the count goes down by one.
- So after four solid triangles comes three solid triangles.
Tip: Find what changes by the same amount each step, then check that the amount holds in every row.
Why the wrong options look right
The wrong options keep most of the pattern and change the number of shapes or the fill, so each one looks finished at a glance. Check both before you choose.
- Option B: It goes the wrong way: each step removes one triangle.
- Option C: Every triangle in the grid is solid, but this one is hollow.
- Option D: It goes the wrong way: each step removes one triangle. Every triangle in the grid is solid, but this one is hollow.
About progression puzzles
Something changes by the same step across a row. Read the guide to progression puzzles for the method and the common traps.
More progression puzzles
- #4 · EasyGrowing Crosses
- #8 · EasyLosing Sides
- #12 · MediumCircles Minus Two
- #16 · HardBigger With Fewer Sides
- #21 · MediumPolygon Countdown
- #22 · HardFewer Shapes Each Step
This was one progression puzzle
The Cogniva test has 20 puzzles across four pattern types and gives you a free score band in about 7 minutes.
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