Chapter 6 | The Abstract Reasoning Section of the UCAT

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Key information about the Abstract Reasoning section of the UCAT

  • This section evaluates pattern recognition, logical reasoning and problem-solving.
  • You will need to identify common patterns, shapes, colours, and arrangements within a set of abstract images.

The structure of the Abstract Reasoning section of the UCAT

UCAT SubtestQuestionsDurationScore Range
Abstract Reasoning5012 minutes300 – 900
This gives you around 15-24 seconds per question.

Question Types:

  • Type one involves identifying whether a given set of shapes belongs to Set A, Set B, or neither, after being presented with two sets of shapes (Set A and Set B) followed by five test shapes.
  • Type two requires determining the next shape in a sequence, where shapes alternate between two boxes.
  • Type three presents a statement with two sets of shapes, one of which has been altered to create a new set. The task is to apply the same change to a set of test shapes and then choose the correct option from four possibilities.
  • Type four resembles type one, but instead of individual test shapes, four test shapes are presented simultaneously, and the task is to decide which one belongs to Set A or B.

TOP tips and tricks to succeed in the Abstract Reasoning section of the UCAT

  • Begin by trying to identify a potential pattern within the set of shapes. Start with the simplest or least complicated square in the set, and then confirm the pattern by examining 2 or 3 other squares.
  • Once you’ve identified a pattern, write it down on your whiteboard to ensure you don’t forget it.
  • Patterns in Set B often mirror those in Set A but in reverse. Once you’ve figured out the pattern in Set A, verify if the reverse applies in Set B, potentially saving you time.
  • Use SCANS:
    • Shape
    • Colour/fill
    • Arrangement/Angles
    • Number
    • Symmetry
  • If you find yourself spending too much time on a question without identifying a pattern, it’s better to make an educated guess and move on to ensure you have time for other questions.

Example Abstract Reasoning question

SET A

SET B

Test Shape

  1. Set a
  2. Set b
  3. Neither

Test Shape

  1. Set A
  2. Set B
  3. Neither

Answers:

Set A’s rule: The outer shape must have more sides than the inner shape and the inner shape must have at least one curved side.

Set B’s rule: The outer shape must have fewer sides than the inner shape and the inner shape must have at least one straight side.

  • Set A.
  • Neither.

Relevance to medicine & dentistry

The abstract reasoning section assesses the ability to analyse different visual information, a skill crucial for interpreting medical images such as X-rays and MRI scans. Additionally, abstract reasoning proficiency correlates with problem-solving abilities, which are important in clinical decision-making and research.

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Keep in mind, Chapter 7 is coming soon…

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