CCAT Spatial Reasoning Questions: Real Samples & Top Solving Tips
Spatial reasoning questions are usually what CCAT test-takers struggle with the most.
And when taking into account the super-tight time limit the CCAT has, it makes these questions way more difficult.
So today, you’ll learn everything about solving these CCAT spatial reasoning questions.
Let’s dive right in:
What Are Spatial Reasoning Questions?
Spatial reasoning questions measure your ability to mentally picture objects in 2 or 3 dimensions and draw conclusions about those objects from limited information. Spatial reasoning question types include map reading, understanding patterns, matching parts, rotating blocks, mirror images, and many more.
That said, the CCAT test includes only three specific types of spatial reasoning questions, and we’ll talk about them in detail further below.
How Many CCAT Spatial Reasoning Questions Appear on the Test?
The CCAT includes 11 spatial reasoning questions (out of 50 questions in total), making it more than 20% of all questions.
(There are 18 math questions and 17 verbal reasoning questions in comparison)
So, you must get at least several of the spatial reasoning questions right to score high on the test.
The problem is that answering these questions can be time-consuming. Especially if you see them for the first time or struggle with spatial reasoning questions in general.
But here’s the thing:
If you learn specific solving tactics, you can knock them down one after another and save plenty of time on the test (more on these tactics later).
Take a free CCAT practice test with 8 spatial reasoning questions.
What Type of Spatial Reasoning Questions You’ll See on the CCAT?
You’ll face three types of spatial reasoning questions on the CCAT:
- Next in Series
- Odd One Out
- Matrices
Let’s dive into each of them to find out what you’re up against.
Next in Series Questions
In each Next in Series question, you’re given three, four, or five figures. These form a series that follows a specific rule.
Now:
You’ll see three types of “Next in Series” questions that differ in their format and structure. Here’s a quick overview of each one:
- The last object is unknown and is marked with a question mark. You’re asked to determine the figure that should substitute for the question mark.
- The unknown object is in the middle of the series and is also marked with a question mark. You need to determine the figure that matches the question mark’s position by the pattern.
- There is no question mark in the question. Your task is to determine the figure that should continue the series.
Let’s see an example for the first type mentioned above:
Choose the image that completes the pattern
Odd One Out Questions
In Odd One Out questions, you’re given five different figures. Your task is to determine which of the figures doesn’t match the characteristics of the other four. This figure will be the odd one out.
Let’s see it in action in the following sample question:
Choose the odd one out.
Matrices Questions
On matrices questions, you’ll be presented with an incomplete series of symbols. Your task is to identify the missing symbol from several alternatives.
The symbols have no meaning, but the series always follows a logical sequence, from left to right and/or top to bottom.
Check out the following CCAT matrices sample question:
Which of the following boxes should replace the question mark (?) to complete the pattern?
Take this CCAT sample test for more realistic CCAT spatial reasoning practice questions (as well as other CCAT question types).
Why Is It Important to Practice Your Spatial Reasoning Skills Before Taking the CCAT?
Imagine you start your test, and the first question you get is a Matrix question (or one of the other tough CCAT question types) that you’ve never seen before.
It will probably take you 20-30 seconds just to understand what they want from you. And before you know it, you’ll need to move on to the next question because you don’t have time to stall.
But if you familiarize yourself with these CCAT spatial reasoning questions and learn how to solve them before you take the test, you avoid getting caught off guard.
This, in turn, increases the chances of answering more questions correctly and scoring high.
Visit this CCAT test prep guide to get focused preparation tips for the CCAT.
Why Does Your Future Employer Care About Your Spatial Reasoning Skills?
Spatial reasoning is one of the most fundamental reasoning abilities and it’s highly correlated to cognitive aptitude.
Cognitive aptitude is usually considered a strong predictor of long-term job performance. That’s why employers, such as Vista Equity Partners and dozens of other large companies, use the CCAT to evaluate this aptitude in their job candidates.
Also, good spatial reasoning skills directly relate to strong problem-solving and critical thinking abilities, which are almost always in demand in workplaces.
Additional Helpful CCAT Practice Resources
Want to try more CCAT spatial reasoning sample questions or even get a complete preparation kit for the entire test?
JobTestPrep’s CCAT practice includes five full-length (50 questions – 15 minutes) CCAT simulations and 24 dedicated spatial reasoning drills. All questions come with step-by-step explanations.
This includes solving tips and shortcut techniques for every spatial reasoning question to help increase your solving speed and accuracy.
Additionally, there’s a free CCAT sample test to give you a taste of the real exam.
Take a free CCAT sample test and get full-length CCAT simulations to help you pass the test.
Three CCAT Spatial Reasoning Tips to Answer Faster and Get More Questions Right
- Every CCAT spatial reasoning question has at least one to two distinctively wrong answers. Use the elimination technique to quickly rule them out and make it easier to choose the correct one.
- Every solution has a logic behind it that follows certain rules. For example, the CCAT matrix questions have five common rules (although not all five appear in each question). Once you master these specific rules, you can recall them quickly during the test and save precious seconds.
- Don’t practice generic spatial reasoning questions. The internet is packed with spatial reasoning practice questions and tests. The problem is that the CCAT spatial reasoning questions consist only of three specific question types (explained above). So, to get the most out of your prep time and learn only what matters, strive to practice only these particular question types.
Looking for more cognitive aptitude test questions? Check the free practice tests on this page.