Path & Movement
An element follows a defined trajectory — along edges, diagonals, or through grid cells.
Understanding this pattern
Path patterns move an element through space along a predictable trajectory. A dot might slide along the edges of a square, traverse a diagonal, or snake through grid cells. The movement can be linear (constant direction), bouncing (reverse at edges), or following a predetermined route. Predicting the next position requires understanding the path rule.
Example Question
Pattern Rule
Two elements (X and O) move along parallel vertical paths in alternating directions. Frame 1: X at top-left, O at top-right. Frame 2: X moves down one step to middle-left, O moves down one step to middle-right. Frame 3: Both reach center — X and O overlap in the middle. Frame 4: X continues down to middle-left, O continues down to middle-right (now O is below center, X is below center). Frame 5: X at bottom-left, O at bottom-right. The sequence is symmetric: positions descend together to center (frames 1→3), then descend further apart (frames 3→5). Frame 6 should complete the cycle by returning both elements to the center overlap.
Explanation
Option E shows both elements at center overlap, matching the next position in the descending path (frame 6). Option A shows X at top-left and O at top-right — this is frame 1, one full cycle behind. Option B shows X at middle-left and O at middle-right (split, not overlapping) — this is frame 2 or frame 4, out of phase. Option C shows X at top-left and O at center-right — elements are on different rows, breaking the parallel descent rule. Option D shows X at bottom-left and O at bottom-right — this repeats frame 5 instead of advancing.
How to spot it
- An element appears in a different position each frame
- The positions form a line, diagonal, or edge-following pattern
- Movement direction may reverse when hitting a boundary
Common traps
- Assuming linear movement when the element bounces off edges
- Miscounting the number of positions per step (1 cell vs 2 cells)
- Not recognizing that the path wraps around (exits right, enters left)
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