The Matrigma test is a timed, non-verbal online assessment built around 3×3 matrix puzzles. You see a grid of shapes with one tile missing, then choose the option that completes the pattern. Employers use it to measure abstract reasoning, learning potential, and problem solving under time pressure.
- Use a fixed scan order: rows → columns (then diagonals only if needed).
- Most questions use 1–2 rules: one for the main shape, one for a marker (dot/arrow/fill).
- Win on speed by eliminating options fast once two features are confirmed.
- Check count (dots/sides/lines) first.
- Check rotation (often 90° steps).
- Check position/movement (corner-to-corner or around a mini-grid).
- Check overlay/cancellation (combine or “XOR” shapes).
What is the Matrigma test?
Matrigma is a matrix reasoning assessment. Each question presents a 3×3 grid of shapes and symbols, with one missing tile. Your task is to infer the pattern rules and pick the missing tile from multiple choice answers.
It is designed to be non-verbal, so it reduces reliance on language and focuses on abstract reasoning. If you are also preparing for language-heavy tests, practise with our verbal reasoning questions.
What you will see on screen
Most Matrigma-style tests look simple, but the speed requirement makes them challenging. A typical question includes:
- A 3×3 matrix with one missing tile (often the bottom-right cell).
- Multiple choice answer options (often 6).
- A visible timer or an overall time limit that forces quick decisions.
The best preparation is not memorising rules. It is building a repeatable solving routine and practising with realistic visuals. If you are applying to finance or banking roles, combine this with our guides to banking online tests and finance job assessments.
How scoring typically works
Employers usually care about one thing: how accurately you solve items under time pressure compared to other candidates. Some Matrigma versions adjust difficulty as you go, so it helps to stay calm and accurate early on.
The exact report format varies by employer, but the target is consistent: solve quickly, avoid careless errors, and don’t overthink a rule that already fits multiple rows and columns.
A fast method to solve matrix questions
Use this routine to keep your thinking structured, especially when the matrix uses multiple rules.
- Scan rows first. Compare tile 1 → tile 2 → tile 3 in Row 1, then repeat for Row 2.
- Scan columns second. Many matrices work both horizontally and vertically—this confirms or rejects your hypothesis.
- Track variables only. Focus on what can change: count, position, rotation, shading/fill, shape type, add/remove.
- Assume two rules. One controls the base shape, another controls a marker (dot, line, arrow, fill).
- Eliminate options fast. Once two features are fixed (e.g., circle + 5 dots), remove anything that violates either feature.
This approach works on other matrix-style assessments too. If your employer uses SHL, you’ll see similar multi-rule logic patterns in abstract reasoning items: SHL tests explained.
Common Matrigma rules to spot quickly
Most items can be solved using a small set of recurring patterns. Train yourself to check these first:
- Rotation: a shape rotates by a fixed angle each step (often 90°).
- Movement: an object moves around corners or within a mini-grid.
- Counting: the number of elements changes (dots, sides, lines).
- Overlay: tile 3 combines elements from tiles 1 and 2.
- Cancellation (XOR): elements appearing in both tiles cancel out, leaving what appears once.
- Alternation: a property toggles (fill on/off, diagonal direction, orientation).
- Distribution: each symbol appears a fixed number of times per row/column.
Common traps (and how to avoid them)
- Overfitting: if a rule works for only one row, it’s usually a trap. Confirm with a second row or a column.
- Skipping the simplest variable: check counts and rotations before inventing a complex rule.
- Missing a second rule: if the base shape fits but options still conflict, look for a marker (dot/line/fill) rule.
- Spending too long: if you can’t explain it quickly, use elimination and move on.
If you want a wider strategy for timed screens, bookmark our assessment tips page and practise across formats so speed becomes natural.
Free Matrigma practise questions (3 realistic items)
The questions below are designed to feel representative: clean rules, realistic distractors, and strong time pressure. Each question has exactly one correct answer.
Choose the option that completes the 3×3 matrix. The missing tile is the bottom-right cell.
Answer: D
In each row and column, the third tile shows the shapes that appear in exactly one of the first two tiles. If a shape appears in both, it cancels out. In Row 3, (plus + triangle + square + circle) compared with (plus + triangle + circle) leaves only the square.
Choose the option that completes the 3×3 matrix. Track the shape type, arrow direction, and dot count.
Answer: B
Rule 1 (shape): the grid alternates circle and square like a checkerboard, so the missing tile is a circle. Rule 2 (arrow): each step right rotates the arrow 90° clockwise, and each step down also rotates 90° clockwise, so the missing arrow points right. Rule 3 (dots): dot count increases by 1 each step right and each step down, so the bottom-right tile has 5 dots.
Choose the option that completes the 3×3 matrix. Track the filled half, the diagonal direction, and the corner dot.
Answer: A
Fill rule: in each column, the filled half alternates as you move down (Column 1 left, right, left. Column 2 top, bottom, top. Column 3 right, left, right). So the missing fill is right column.
Diagonal rule: Column 1 uses \, Column 2 uses /, Column 3 uses \, so the missing diagonal is \. Dot rule: moving right in each row shifts the dot one corner clockwise, so the final dot returns to top-left.
FAQ
It is very similar in format. Both use 3×3 visual matrices where you infer a rule and choose the missing tile. The best preparation is repeated exposure to common rule types and timed practise.
Use a fixed scan order (rows, columns; diagonals only if needed), learn a shortlist of rules (rotation, movement, counting, overlay, cancellation), and practise under a strict timer. Combine this with broader strategy from assessment tips.
If you are stuck, eliminate options that violate an obvious rule (wrong shape, wrong count, wrong diagonal), then choose from what remains. Under time pressure, smart elimination is essential.
Overfitting a rule to one row. Always confirm the same rule works in another row or a column before committing.
Many matrix tests rely mostly on shape, position, and pattern changes—not colour. Colours in practise materials improve visual clarity, but you should always solve using the underlying logic.
In most online tests, simple note-taking is fine. Jot down quick variables like dot count or rotation steps, but keep it minimal so you don’t lose time.
Common combinations include numerical reasoning, verbal reasoning, logical reasoning, and sometimes an interview platform. Use our free drills for numerical reasoning, verbal reasoning, and logical reasoning. If you have an AI interview step, see HireVue explained.
Do short timed sets, review mistakes immediately, and repeat the same rule types until you recognise them instantly. Then expand to mixed sets to train switching between rules.
Many finance and banking processes use aptitude screening to assess learning speed and structured thinking. Pair your matrix prep with banking online tests and finance job assessments.
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