UCAT Abstract Reasoning: Mastering Patterns with the SCANS Strategy!

The Abstract Reasoning section of the UCAT is all about identifying patterns and relationships in a series of shapes. To ace this section, you need a reliable method to quickly and effectively decode these patterns. That’s where the SCANS Strategy comes in! 🧠✨

Here’s your step-by-step guide to understanding and applying this powerful technique.

🔍 What Is the SCANS Strategy in UCAT Abstract Reasoning?

SCANS is a systematic approach to pattern recognition that breaks down the possible elements of abstract reasoning questions. Each letter stands for a key feature to examine in the shapes:

• S – Shape

• C – Colour

• A – Arrangement

• N – Number

• S – Size

By using SCANS, you ensure you’re checking all the essential aspects that could form the rule for a pattern. It’s your ultimate checklist for success! ✅

🛠️ How to Apply the SCANS Strategy in UCAT Abstract Reasoning

1️⃣ S – Shape 🟦🔺🔴

• Look at the type of shapes used. Are they consistent? Do they vary?

• Common Patterns:
  🔹 All shapes are the same (e.g., triangles).
  🔹 Shapes alternate between two types (e.g., circles and squares).
  🔹 Certain shapes only appear in specific positions.

💡 Tip: Count how many different shapes are present — this might reveal the rule.

2️⃣ C – Colour 🎨

• Check if the shapes are colored. Does color follow a specific rule?

• Common Patterns:
  🔹 Specific colors for specific shapes (e.g., only squares are red).
  🔹 Alternating colors between shapes.
  🔹 The number of colored shapes per group stays consistent.

💡 Tip: If colors are present, they often interact with other features like shape or number.

3️⃣ A – Arrangement 🧩

• Look at how the shapes are arranged within each box.

• Common Patterns:
  🔹 Shapes are aligned in a specific direction (e.g., left to right).
  🔹 Shapes form a symmetry (e.g., mirrored or rotational).
  🔹 Shapes are placed in a specific order based on size, color, or type.

💡 Tip: Use your finger or the whiteboard to trace symmetry or movement.

4️⃣ N – Number 🔢

• Count the shapes in each box. Does the number stay the same or change?

• Common Patterns:
  🔹 A fixed number of shapes in every set.
  🔹 The number increases or decreases by a specific amount.
  🔹 Shapes are grouped in pairs or triples.

💡 Tip: If nothing else stands out, always count! Numbers often hide in plain sight.

5️⃣ S – Size 📏

• Check if the size of the shapes changes.

• Common Patterns:
  🔹 Shapes increase or decrease in size systematically.
  🔹 A large shape is always paired with a small shape.
  🔹 Sizes alternate between big and small.

💡 Tip: Compare shapes directly to spot size differences quickly.

🚀 How to Use SCANS in UCAT Abstract Reasoning Practice

1️⃣ Start with the First Box:
Begin by scanning the first set of shapes systematically using SCANS. Look at one feature at a time.

2️⃣ Compare Across Sets:
Compare Set A and Set B (or shapes in a sequence). Identify where they differ or stay consistent.

3️⃣ Test Possible Rules:
Form a hypothesis based on SCANS. For example, "All triangles are red, and all circles are blue."

4️⃣ Check Against the Pattern:
Apply your rule to all the shapes. If it holds true, you’ve found the pattern! 🎯

5️⃣ Refine If Necessary:
If your first rule doesn’t work, go back to SCANS and focus on a different feature.

💡 Why SCANS Works in UCAT Abstract Reasoning

SCANS gives you a structured approach to decode patterns, saving you time and reducing overwhelm. Instead of randomly guessing, you systematically check every possible feature — ensuring you don’t miss any hidden rules!

🏆 Top Tips for SCANS Success in UCAT Abstract Reasoning

💡 Practice Makes Perfect: Train your brain to use SCANS automatically by practising regularly.
⏱️ Time Management: Don’t get stuck on one question — if you can’t spot the pattern in 20 seconds, make an educated guess and move on.
🎯 Look for Common Patterns: Many UCAT patterns repeat frequently, so familiarise yourself with them during practice.
🖊️ Use the Whiteboard: Jot down features or rules to organise your thoughts.

🌟 Final Words of Encouragement in UCAT Abstract Reasoning🌟

Abstract reasoning may seem tricky initially, but with the SCANS strategy, you’ll have a systematic and reliable way to tackle every question. Stay calm, practice consistently, and remember: every pattern has a solution — and you’ve got the tools to find it! 🚀💪

Now go out there and ace the Abstract Reasoning section like a pro! 🏆✨