Matrix rules

Strategy card

A matrix item combines independent rules across rows and columns.

Step 1: Separate features: shape, color, fill, size, number, position.
Step 2: For each feature, find its rule (constant, progression, one-of-each).
Step 3: Combine the rules to describe the missing cell.
Step 4: Eliminate options that break even one rule.

Tip: Distractors are usually one feature off. Check every feature.

Worked example

Which figure completes the matrix?

A: 3 yellow hearts
B: 3 purple hearts (the answer)
C: 2 purple hearts
D: 3 blue hearts
E: purple heart

Why: Every row has one of each color (purple, blue, yellow), so the last row needs the one that is missing. Each column keeps its own number of shapes (1, 2, 3, left to right). So the missing figure is the 3 purple hearts.

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: Ask your child to build their own 3×3 puzzle. Parent guide

Next lesson: Paper folding