Puzzle #18: Spinning Orbiting Arrow
Hard · Rotation · target time about 29 seconds
Which option completes the pattern?
How to solve it (answer: C)
The rule
In each row, the arrow turns 135° counterclockwise and moves one place counterclockwise around the ring at each step.
Step by step
- Look at the top row and name what changes from panel to panel.
- The middle row follows the same step.
- Apply the same step to the bottom row: next comes an arrow pointing down and left at the bottom.
- Check both rules: only one option fits them both.
Tip: Follow one tip of the shape and note how far it turns or moves between panels.
Why the wrong options look right
The wrong options keep most of the pattern and change the angle or the position on the ring, so each one looks finished at a glance. Check both before you choose.
- Option A: It turns the wrong way. Each step turns 135° counterclockwise.
- Option B: It turns 90° counterclockwise instead of 135° counterclockwise.
- Option D: It forgets that the place changes too: the arrow moves one place counterclockwise around the ring.
- Option E: It turns the wrong way. Each step turns 135° counterclockwise. It also misses the place rule.
- Option F: It turns 90° counterclockwise instead of 135° counterclockwise. It forgets that the place changes too: the arrow moves one place counterclockwise around the ring.
About rotation puzzles
A shape turns or moves by a fixed angle. Read the guide to rotation puzzles for the method and the common traps.
More rotation puzzles
- #2 · EasyTurning L Shape
- #6 · EasyTriangle Around the Ring
- #10 · MediumFewer Turning Ls
- #14 · MediumOrbiting L Shape
- #23 · MediumQuarter-Turn L
- #24 · MediumArrow at 135 Degrees
This was one rotation 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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