Raven's Progressive Matrices Test 2024: Questions, Strategies & Online Practice

The Raven Test, also known as Raven's Progressive Matrices Test, is a nonverbal exam designed to examine fluid intelligence and abstract reasoning abilities- the ability to solve novel problems non-dependent on existing knowledge.

It is considered the most researched general mental ability test (GMT), from which many abstract reasoning tests (including the Matrigma Test) were developed. 

All Raven's matrices test questions require completing a missing shape according to a displayed pattern, with questions becoming increasingly more difficult as you progress.

The Raven APM test consists of 23 questions to be answered in 40 minutes. On each question, your task is to identify the displayed pattern in a 3X3 matrix and select the correct tile to complete it.

These are the type of matrices questions you can expect:

💡Quick Solving Tip: This type of matrices question is an example of the Progression rule- the object changes, or rather progresses with every step throughout the row or the column (the direction may vary).

💡Quick Solving Tip: In motion rule questions, the objects move (change their position) with each step. Usually, the motion is of one or more of the objects inside a frame. To identify the movement of the inner object, it is useful to compare the outer object or frames across either the rows or columns.

💡Quick Solving Tip: In rotation rule questions, the figures in the matrix rotate in a determined pattern across either rows or columns.

💡Quick Solving Tip: In construction rule questions, two objects from the same row or column are combined to form the third object. In simple matrices, this combination might look just like a simple addition equation.

The RSPM test consists of easier questions than the Advanced version and is often used to evaluate entry-level job candidates. During this test, you have to answer 43 questions in 47 minutes, with questions getting harder as you progress.

Questions at the beginning of this test may have a slightly different format than the advanced matrices:   

💡Quick Solving Tip: Since SPM aim to assess clear thinking and logical problem-solving abilities, independent of language proficiency, focus on identifying patterns and relationships between the elements in each matrix. Look for trends in shape, size, orientation, and shading.

See more Raven's Progressive Matrices Questions

Raven's test-scoring methodology is more complex than the typical calculation of the number of correct answers scores.

Each item has a level of difficulty and discrimination that is factored into the scoring. For example, suppose you answered properly the more difficult and discriminating questions in the test. In that case, you will obtain higher marks than a candidate who properly answered the easier and less discriminating ones.

To calculate your SPM/ APM score, you'll first be given a theta score, which is the basic prediction of your capability. The theta scores range from -4.000 to +4.000. Scores at the bottom of the scale (-4.000) suggest someone with extremely low ability, while scores at the top (+4.000) suggest someone with extremely high ability.

In the second step, your theta score is transformed to percentiles for easier comprehension and comparison. Getting a percentile score of 62%, for example, means your score is equal to or higher than 62% of the people (in your comparison group) who took the test. 

Raven’s Colored Progressive Matrices was designed for people with general lower ability because of age - very old or young test-takers, or because of mental disabilities.

This version is similar to the SPM, only shapes appear mainly on a colored background to make them visually stimulating. It contains the two first sets from the Standard Matrices with an additional set of 12 items inserted in between the two.

Learn more about CPM questions

You can absolutely prepare yourself for the Raven’s SPM and APM, and we highly recommend practicing before taking it. Many of the Raven questions appear to be difficult at first look, but there are standard rules that repeat throughout the test that you can learn to identify quickly.

Raven's progressive matrices test is used for both clinical purposes and as a pre-employment screening tool since it allows  evaluating test takers' ability to analyze new information and solve problems regardless of prior knowledge. Even though the test appears to be unrelated to your actual job, it is an important stage in the hiring process.

Candidates applying for the following positions will likely be given the Raven Advanced Progressive Matrices Test:

• Management, senior, and executive positions (VP, Director, CEO, etc.)
• Technical roles (such as maintenance mechanic)
• Airline Pilot 
• Financial Analyst

Since the APM also indicates employees' potential, it is often used to select applicants for graduate positions as well. For other entry-level positions, the Raven Standard Progressive Matrices Test might be used. 

If you are applying for a pilot position or any senior position that requires good leadership skills, you are likely to receive the Raven Test along with the Hogan Assessment- a series of mainly behavioral questionnaires. 

Some of the main companies and organizations that use the Raven Progressive Matrices Test are Walmart, Amazon, Vestas, Anglo-American, and recruitment agencies for government roles.

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