Logical reasoning tests are a common part of modern recruitment, especially for graduate roles, professional services, and competitive corporate positions. For many candidates, they’re also one of the most intimidating stages of the hiring process. Tight time limits, unfamiliar question styles, and high stakes can make even confident problem-solvers doubt their ability.
The good news is that logical reasoning is not an innate talent you either have or don’t have. It’s a learnable skill. With the right understanding of how these tests work and a structured approach to practice, you can significantly improve both your accuracy and speed in these types of tests, even while under pressure.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to get better at logical reasoning for recruitment assessments. We’ll start by explaining what logical reasoning really is and the types of skills it tests. Then we’ll break down the main types of logical reasoning questions, show how assessments are structured, and show a proven improvement framework you can use every time you practise. You’ll also see worked examples, common traps to avoid, and a simple 7–14 day study plan to help you put everything into action.
You may also find it helpful to explore our resources on how to prepare for logical reasoning tests and try realistic logical reasoning tests alongside this guide.
What is logical reasoning, and what skills does it test?
Logical reasoning is the ability to analyse information, identify patterns or rules, and draw correct conclusions based on given constraints. In recruitment, tests are used to assess how well you can solve unfamiliar problems using logic rather than prior knowledge.
In the workplace, logical reasoning underpins everyday tasks such as analysing data, making decisions with incomplete information, spotting inconsistencies, and following structured processes. That’s why employers rely on logical reasoning assessments as a fair way to compare candidates.
Logical reasoning vs related skills
Logical reasoning is often confused with similar concepts, but there are key differences:
- Critical thinking focuses more on evaluating arguments, assumptions, and evidence quality.
- Abstract or diagrammatic reasoning usually involves shapes and visuals, but follows the same underlying logical principles.
- Numerical reasoning applies logic to numbers, while logical reasoning is typically non-numerical.
In practice, these skills overlap, but logical reasoning tests focus specifically on rule-based problem solving.
The logical reasoning skills map
Most logical reasoning questions test a combination of the following abilities:
- Pattern recognition: spotting changes, sequences, or relationships between elements
- Rule formation: identifying the underlying logic that governs a set of information
- Deduction and inference: determining what must be true based on given facts
- Working memory: holding multiple rules or constraints in mind at once
- Speed–accuracy balance: maintaining accuracy while working quickly under time pressure
Different questions emphasise different skills, which is why candidates often feel strong in one area but struggle in another.
You may struggle most with:
- Speed if you understand the logic but regularly run out of time
- Logic if you feel unsure what the rule is or keep changing your approach
- Attention to detail if you make careless errors or miss key constraints
Understanding which area needs work is the first step towards improving. You can explore more detail in our guide on how to prepare for logical reasoning tests.
Types of logical reasoning you’ll see in tests (and how they differ)
Logical reasoning assessments come in several formats, but most questions fall into a few recognisable types. Knowing how they differ helps you prioritise your practice and avoid common mistakes.
Deductive vs inductive reasoning
Deductive reasoning starts with general rules and asks what must logically follow. You’re given statements or conditions and must determine which conclusion is definitely true.
- Common pitfalls: choosing answers that could be true rather than must be true
- Key skill: strict rule application without assumptions
Inductive reasoning works in the opposite direction. You’re shown patterns or sequences and must infer the underlying rule.
- Common pitfalls: overfitting a rule that works once but not consistently
- Key skill: testing rules across all elements
These distinctions are explored in more depth in our resources on how to answer inductive reasoning tests and how to prepare for inductive reasoning tests.
Common logical reasoning question styles
You’re likely to encounter:
- Sequences and pattern grids: identify the missing element based on consistent changes
- Rules-based puzzles: apply multiple constraints to determine a correct outcome
- Statements-to-conclusions questions: evaluate which conclusions logically follow from a set of facts
How question “noise” works
Many questions include distractors — information that looks relevant but doesn’t affect the rule. Near-matches are designed to tempt you into choosing an answer that almost fits but breaks one condition.
What good performance looks like
Strong performance in logical reasoning tests comes from a clear, disciplined approach rather than rushing for the answer. High-scoring candidates quickly recognise the type of question they’re dealing with, apply the relevant rules consistently across all elements, and use those rules to eliminate incorrect options efficiently. Once the logic has been checked and verified, they commit to their answer confidently, avoiding unnecessary second-guessing that can lead to wasted time or careless errors.
How a logical reasoning assessment works
Typical structure
A logical reasoning assessment is designed to see how well you can make sense of new information and apply clear rules under time pressure. Most tests are taken online and use timed, multiple-choice questions. Each question presents a fresh scenario, pattern, or set of rules, so you’re always working with unfamiliar information rather than relying on prior knowledge. While some tests gradually increase in difficulty, it’s common for different question styles to be mixed throughout, which means you need to quickly recognise what each question is testing and adjust your approach accordingly.
What employers learn from the results
Employers use logical reasoning assessments to understand how candidates think, not just what answers they give. Your results provide insight into how quickly you can grasp new information, how accurately you apply logical rules, and how consistently you perform when time is limited. These qualities are closely linked to real workplace problem-solving, which is why logical reasoning tests are widely used across industries and job levels.
Pacing basics
Similarly to real-world problem solving, time pressure is a key part of logical reasoning assessments, so pacing plays a major role in your overall score. You’ll have a limited amount of time per question (usually between 30-90 seconds per question, dependant on the test provider) making it important to avoid getting stuck on particularly difficult problems. A steady approach, answering what you can confidently, moving on when necessary, and returning to questions if time allows — helps you make the most of the test and avoid losing easy marks.
Accuracy strategy
While working quickly is important, accuracy should never be overlooked. Many mistakes in logical reasoning tests come from avoidable issues such as misreading the question, overlooking a condition, or rushing the final check. Developing the habit of briefly verifying that your chosen answer fits all the given rules can help you reduce careless errors and improve your performance without increasing your speed.
Reducing these mistakes can improve your score just as much as learning new techniques. For more detail, see our guide on how to prepare for logical reasoning tests and explore realistic examples via our logical reasoning tests.
The improvement framework: a repeatable method to get better fast
Of course, practise tests help — but only if you practise deliberately. This framework gives you a repeatable method you can apply to every logical reasoning question.
Step 1: Identify the question type
Ask yourself:
- Is this question deductive or inductive?
- Am I finding a rule or applying one?
This determines how you approach the problem.
Step 2: Extract constraints and rules
Write down or mentally note:
- What must be true?
- What changes and what stays constant?
Avoid jumping to conclusions too early.
Step 3: Test hypotheses efficiently
When testing a rule:
- Change one variable at a time
- Check it against all elements
- Reject rules that don’t hold consistently
Step 4: Eliminate first, select second
Use the answer options actively:
- Eliminate those that break clear rules
- Work backwards from options if stuck
This is often faster than solving from scratch.
Step 5: Verification checklist
Before confirming your answer:
- Does it satisfy all constraints?
- Have I applied the rule consistently?
- Did I misread anything?
Don’t forget to build an error log after practising
After practice sessions, go through any mistakes and categorise them into an error log. Categories could include:
- Misread question
- Wrong rule
- Inconsistent application
- Rushed decision
Then drill into the specific weakness. This targeted approach is far more effective than random practice. You can find additional pattern-solving strategies in our guide on how to identify and solve logic patterns.
Worked examples and common traps
Understanding the theory behind logical reasoning is one thing, but seeing it applied in practice is what really builds confidence. Worked examples show you how to approach questions step by step and highlight the most common traps candidates fall into. By following a structured thinking process, you’ll learn not just to get the right answer, but to do so efficiently under time pressure.
Example 1: Pattern or sequence rule discovery
Imagine a sequence where shapes rotate 90° clockwise with each step, and shading alternates between filled and empty, and you are asked which shape comes next in the sequence. The correct answer must satisfy both rules. A common trap is choosing an option that fits the rotation but ignores the shading pattern. The key is to test each rule across the entire sequence before selecting an answer.
Example 2: Deductive reasoning
Consider the statement: “All managers are trained, and Alex is a manager.” The only valid conclusion is that Alex is trained. Candidates often fall into the trap of thinking other conclusions are correct, such as assuming all trained staff are managers. The critical step is distinguishing between what must follow and what could be true.
Example 3: Mixed-rule grid
Some questions combine multiple rules, such as changes in colour by row and number by column. A common error is trying to adjust two variables at once, which can lead to an answer that breaks one of the underlying constraints. By tackling one rule at a time and checking each option methodically, you can avoid this trap.
Common traps to watch for include options that nearly fit (“nearly correct”), ignoring a key constraint, assuming symmetry where none exists, or testing multiple variables simultaneously. Building a habit of checking each answer against every rule is a reliable way to catch these mistakes.
To see more detailed walkthroughs and step-by-step examples, refer to our guides on how to identify and solve logic patterns for job tests and how to answer inductive reasoning tests.
Quick verification checklist under time pressure:
Before finalising your answer, ensure all rules are applied, no constraints are overlooked, and assumptions haven’t been made beyond the information provided. This systematic approach helps minimise avoidable errors and improves both speed and accuracy in real assessments.
Logical Reasoning Tests: In Summary
Getting better at logical reasoning isn’t about tricks or shortcuts — it’s about understanding how the questions work, applying a consistent method, and reviewing your mistakes carefully.
To recap:
- Learn the main types of logical reasoning
- Use a structured problem-solving framework
- Practise under realistic time pressure
- Review errors and target weak areas
A simple 7–14 day plan
- Daily: 10–15 minute untimed drills focusing on one question type
- 2–3 times per week: Full timed logical reasoning sets
- After every session: Structured error review
Consistent, focused practice will improve your confidence and performance far more than rushing through large volumes of questions.
For further preparation, explore our full range of guides on how to prepare for logical reasoning tests, practise with realistic employer-style questions such as the Morgan Stanley inductive reasoning test, and sharpen your skills using our logical reasoning tests.
FAQs
Can logical reasoning skills be improved without practising full-length tests?
Yes. Targeted drills that focus on specific question types and reviewing mistakes can be very effective. Full-length tests are best used periodically to practise timing and stamina.
What are the most common mistakes candidates make in logical reasoning assessments?
Common mistakes include misreading constraints, choosing answers that nearly fit the rule, rushing verification, and spending too long on difficult questions.
How do employers use logical reasoning test results when making hiring decisions?
Employers use results to compare candidates fairly, assess problem-solving ability, and evaluate how consistently and accurately candidates perform under pressure.