Matrix rules
Strategy card
Matrices can hide two or three rules at once.
- Step 1: Find the rule across rows (shape, color, count…).
- Step 2: Find the rule down columns.
- Step 3: Look for "each one appears once in every row" patterns.
- Step 4: Build the missing picture in your head, then find it.
Tip: Each row may contain one of each shape, like Sudoku.
Worked example
Which figure completes the matrix?
- A: big blue diamond
- B: small green diamond
- C: big green diamond (the answer)
- D: big outlined green diamond
Why: Each column keeps its own color (blue, green, left to right). Each row keeps its own size (small, big, top to bottom). So the missing figure is the big green diamond.
Your turn
Your turn 1 of 3
Which figure completes the matrix?
Your turn 2 of 3
Which figure completes the matrix?
Your turn 3 of 3
Which figure completes the matrix?
Keep practicing
Grown-ups: Point out grid patterns on tiles, calendars and fabrics. Parent guide
Next lesson: Paper folding