Alternating Shapes

Alternating Shapes problems present a series where two or more shape types alternate in a fixed sequence. Common patterns include circle-square-circle-square (alternating), circle-square-triangle-circle (cyclic), or alternating between filled and hollow versions of the same shape.

10Worksheets
200+Practice Questions
BeginnerDifficulty
1 hourHours to Master

Introduction to Alternating Shapes

Alternating Shapes problems present a series where two or more shape types alternate in a fixed sequence. Common patterns include circle-square-circle-square (alternating), circle-square-triangle-circle (cyclic), or alternating between filled and hollow versions of the same shape.

Prerequisites

Basic shape recognition (circle, square, triangle, star) Understanding of alternating patterns Cyclic sequence recognition
Why This Matters: Alternating Shapes problems appear in 1-2 questions in SSC CGL and Banking PO exams. They test pattern recognition of cyclic sequences.

How to Solve Alternating Shapes Problems

1

Step 1: List the shapes in the sequence

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Step 2: Look for repeating pattern (A,B,A,B... or A,B,C,A,B,C...)

3

Step 3: Determine the pattern length (period)

4

Step 4: Identify which shape comes next based on the cycle

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Step 5: If alternation includes fill pattern (solid vs hollow), track both

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Step 6: Select the figure with the correct shape and fill

Pro Strategy: Write out the sequence of shapes. Identify the repeating cycle. The pattern length is usually 2 (alternating) or 3 (cyclic). Apply the cycle to find the next shape.

Example Problem

Example: Circle, Square, Circle, Square, ___. What comes next? Solution: Step 1: Shapes: C, S, C, S Step 2: Pattern alternates C and S Step 3: Last shape = Square Step 4: Next shape = Circle Answer: Circle

Pro Tips & Tricks

  • Practice regularly to build speed and accuracy
  • Understand the concept before memorizing formulas
  • Start with easier problems and gradually increase difficulty

Exam Importance

Alternating Shapes is an important topic for various competitive exams. Here's how frequently it appears:

SSC CGL
1-2 questions
BANKING PO
1-2 questions
RAILWAYS RRB
2-3 questions
INSURANCE
1-2 questions

Ready to Master Alternating Shapes?

Start with Worksheet 1 and work your way up to expert level! Each worksheet includes:

20 practice questions
Detailed solutions
Step-by-step explanations
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