To be successful in the 11+ non-verbal reasoning exam children must be able to:

• Identify shape connections, including finding a common pattern of shapes, solving analogies, finding the odd shape out, or finding a shape most like another
• Solve codes, including finding the link between part of a shape and its code
• Complete a shape, including solving matrices, and adding or merging shapes
• Use spatial reasoning skills to answer questions about nets of cubes, rotate shapes, reflected shapes, 2D to 3D shapes, and combing shapes

11+ non-verbal reasoning papers are designed to test a children's ability to:

• Process graphic or pictorial information
• Apply logical thinking and problem-solving
• Use spatial awareness (how objects relate to each other in space)
• Find and follow patterns and rules
• Apply maths skills such as rotation, reflection, and symmetry
• Work systematically

11+ non-verbal reasoning papers can be written in two formats: multiple-choice or standard. For multiple-choice, children need to choose their answer from a set of options and mark it on a separate answer sheet. For standard format tests, children must write their answers directly onto the question paper.

The 11+ non-verbal reasoning exam is timed, typically lasting between 45 minutes and one hour. It is important for children to work through practice materials in both timed non-timed environments to support both learning and exam-day preparation.