ADF Abstract Reasoning Explained: How To Improve Your Score

What is abstract reasoning?

Abstract reasoning assesses your ability to identify patterns and relationships in unfamiliar information. The purpose is not to test what you already know. Instead, it tests how quickly you can recognise logic and apply it to solve problems.

This matters because many military roles require personnel to learn new information quickly, identify patterns, solve unfamiliar problems and make decisions using limited information.

Why Defence uses abstract reasoning

Military environments often require people to process information they have never seen before, such as new procedures, technical systems, unexpected situations and operational problems.

The ability to identify structure and logic quickly can be extremely valuable. That is why abstract reasoning remains a common component of aptitude testing.

The biggest mistake candidates make

Most candidates look at the entire image and try to guess the answer. This usually produces poor results.

Strong candidates break questions down into smaller parts and look for specific changes. Instead of asking what the picture looks like, ask what changed.

Common abstract reasoning rules

Rotation

A shape rotates by a fixed amount each step.

Reflection

A shape may be mirrored horizontally, vertically or diagonally.

Addition

New shapes or elements are added each step.

Subtraction

Elements disappear in a logical order.

Movement

Objects may move around the image.

Alternation

Some questions use alternating rules such as pattern A, pattern B, pattern A, pattern B.

A simple approach to solving questions

Step 1

Identify what changes. Look for position, direction, number, size and shape.

Step 2

Check whether the change is consistent.

Step 3

Predict the next change before looking at the options.

Step 4

Find the option that matches your prediction.

Why candidates struggle

• They move too quickly.
• They guess too early.
• They focus on complexity instead of simple changes first.
• They do not practise enough.

Can abstract reasoning be improved?

Yes. This is one of the most trainable aptitude areas. Candidates who practise consistently often see substantial improvement because they begin recognising common structures and recurring patterns.

What initially appears random gradually becomes familiar.

How to practise effectively

Focus on understanding

Do not simply complete questions. Understand why the answer is correct.

Learn pattern categories

Recognise rotation, reflection, addition, subtraction, movement and alternation.

Review mistakes

Wrong answers often provide the fastest learning opportunities.

Practise consistently

Short regular sessions are usually more effective than occasional marathon study sessions.

Frequently asked questions

Is abstract reasoning difficult?

Many candidates find it challenging initially because it is unfamiliar. Most improve with practice.

Is abstract reasoning intelligence?

Not exactly. It measures pattern recognition and problem-solving ability rather than knowledge.

Can I improve quickly?

Most candidates improve noticeably once they learn common pattern types and complete enough practice questions.

What is the best way to practise?

Regular exposure combined with reviewing mistakes and understanding pattern rules.

Should I guess if I am unsure?

If time is running out, an educated guess is generally better than leaving a question unanswered.

Final advice

Abstract reasoning often feels difficult because candidates are trying to solve problems they have never encountered before. The key is understanding that most questions follow predictable rules.

Stop looking at the picture as a whole, start looking for changes, learn the common pattern categories and practise consistently. For many Defence applicants, abstract reasoning is the area where preparation produces the biggest improvement.