Interactive test — coming soon
We're building a dedicated APMpractice test with full explanations. It isn't live yet. In the meantime, the free matrix reasoning test uses the same question format, so you can start practising the skill right now.
What it is
What is the Advanced Progressive Matrices?
The Advanced Progressive Matrices is the most difficult version of Raven's Progressive Matrices. It uses the same missing-piece format, but the patterns follow several rules at once and the options are harder to tell apart.
It was designed to spread out people who all score near the top of the Standard test. That makes it a favourite for graduate schemes and management selection, where employers need to separate strong candidates from very strong ones.
Who takes it
Who takes the APM?
The APM is used with high-ability teenagers and adults. You are most likely to meet it as part of a job application — especially for graduate, professional, and management roles — where it is usually timed.
What to expect
What to expect
- A short warm-up set to get you used to the format, then a longer set of 36 harder questions.
- Patterns that combine two or more rules in the same grid.
- A firm time limit — pace matters as much as accuracy.
- Answer options that are close together, so careful checking pays off.
How to prepare
How to prepare
- Master the single-rule patterns first, then practise grids that combine rules.
- Train under time pressure so you learn when to move on.
- Work through the hardest practice questions you can find.
- Check each answer against every rule before you commit.