Free full CPM practice
Build a fresh 36-question test
Every sitting follows the CPM-style A, Ab, and B progression, draws from the full original practice bank, and reshuffles the six answer choices. There is no strict time limit.
What it is
What is the Coloured Progressive Matrices?
The Coloured Progressive Matrices — also spelled Colored Progressive Matrices — is one of the three versions of Raven's Progressive Matrices. Like the others, it shows a pattern with one piece missing and asks you to choose the piece that completes it.
What makes it different is colour. The questions are printed on a coloured background to hold attention and make the task clear. It is the easiest version and is designed for people who would find the standard black-and-white test too hard or too abstract.
Who takes it
Who takes the CPM?
The CPM is used with children aged roughly 5 to 11, with older adults, and with people who have a learning difficulty or a language barrier. Because it uses no words, it works across languages and reading levels.
What to expect
What to expect
- Around 36 questions, arranged in three short sets that get gradually harder.
- Colourful patterns rather than plain black-and-white grids.
- Simple, clear rules at the start that build up step by step.
- Usually no strict time limit — the focus is on understanding, not speed.
How to prepare
How to prepare
- Start with easy pattern questions to build confidence with the format.
- Practise naming what changes across a row and down a column.
- Keep sessions short and calm — the CPM is designed to be approachable.
- Move on to the Standard version once these feel easy.