Matrix reasoning test

What does it measure?

Non-verbal reasoning with visual matrices. You identify the rules in a pattern and construct the missing element. This samples one aspect of cognitive ability rather than the full range measured by a comprehensive intelligence assessment.

Where does it come from?

The Open Matrices Item Bank (OMIB) was published by Koch, Spinath, Greiff and Becker in 2022. We use its open item bank and have adapted the presentation for this website.

How is the result calculated?

Our provisional forms contain 12, 22 or 36 tasks, with no time limit. The default 22-item form uses the original set 2. One point is awarded only when the constructed answer exactly matches the key. The other forms are our selections from the bank.

What can the result tell you?

These forms are pilots, not three separately validated tests. We report correct answers, not a normed IQ score or population percentile. Published item parameters are not used to estimate ability in the current scoring.

Languages and adaptations

The matrix tasks use visual elements rather than words. Instructions and explanations are translated for this website. A non-verbal format does not make performance independent of culture, prior practice or testing conditions.

Sources and further reading

Koch, M., Spinath, F. M., Greiff, S., & Becker, N. (2022). Development and Validation of the Open Matrices Item Bank. Journal of Intelligence, 10(3), 41. https://doi.org/10.3390/jintelligence10030041

• Koch et al. (2022)
• OMIB — original materials
• Source code and adaptations