Non-Verbal Reasoning • Topic 4 of 5

Embedded Figures

You must find a given simple figure hidden inside a complex one. The target must appear complete, the same size, and in the same orientation. Scan the complex figure for the target's distinctive corner or line, then verify the whole shape is present without distortion.

The rules for a valid match

  • The target must appear complete — every line present.
  • It must be the same size — not scaled up or down.
  • It must be in the same orientation — not rotated or mirrored (unless the question explicitly allows it).
target complex figure (target highlighted)
The hidden triangle keeps its exact shape, size and orientation inside the complex figure.
Fast scan. Pick the target's most distinctive feature (a unique angle, a notch, a particular corner) and hunt for just that in the options — then confirm the rest of the shape is intact. Reject any option where the target is rotated, resized or broken.

✅ Solved examples

1. For an embedded figure, may the target be rotated?
No — same size and orientation, unless the question allows rotation.
2. What is the fastest scan strategy?
Look for the target's most distinctive feature (a unique angle or notch).
3. If the candidate shape is larger than the target, is it valid?
No — size must match.
4. The target must appear how within the complex figure?
Complete and undistorted.

✏️ Practice — try these, take hints as needed

1. Must the embedded figure keep its size?
Yes/no.
—
—
Yes
2. Should you look for a unique feature first?
Efficiency.
—
—
Yes
3. Is a mirrored version of the target acceptable?
Orientation.
—
—
No
4. A partial match counts?
Must be complete.
—
—
No
5. Distorted target valid?
Same shape.
—
—
No

📝 Topic test — 8 questions

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