Figures are grouped by a visual rule such as shape, count, shading, or arrangement. The student identifies a figure or group that does not fit. Pearson places this item family at OLSAT 8 Levels A–D in its scope chart. That chart describes available item types, not a guarantee about one student’s form.

How to solve figural classification questions

Check one feature at a time: number of figures, number of sides, fill, and position. State the rule that applies to three choices and fails for the fourth.

Original questions with visual answers

Original illustrated example · Level C

Which one is unlike the others?

Question diagram with four visual choices A through D
Look at each figure before opening the answer.
  1. Two circles
  2. Two squares
  3. Two triangles
  4. Three circles
Show the answer and visual explanation

Answer D: Three circles

The first three groups each have two shapes. The last has three.

Answer diagram highlighting choice D

Original illustrated example · Level D

Which set is different?

Question diagram with four visual choices A through D
Look at each figure before opening the answer.
  1. Two triangles and one circle
  2. Two squares and one circle
  3. Two stars and one circle
  4. One triangle and two circles
Show the answer and visual explanation

Answer D: One triangle and two circles

The first three have two matching shapes and one circle. The last has two circles.

Answer diagram highlighting choice D

What can go wrong?

A tempting outlier may look unusual in one feature while still matching the actual rule. After checking an answer, ask the student to describe why each distractor does not follow the rule. This makes the lesson about reasoning rather than memorizing a picture.

Practice this skill at the right level

Try a few illustrated examples before a mixed session. Younger students may need an adult to read directions aloud. The free OLSAT practice test includes visual items with illustrated choices and answer explanations. Find the typical grade-to-level match, then confirm the actual level with the school.

Assessment source: Pearson OLSAT 8 scope and sequence. Examples and illustrations on this page are independently created by OLSAT.net, not publisher items. Your school can confirm its actual level and administration plan.

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