Growing Squares

Growing Squares problems feature concentric or nested squares that increase in size at each step. The side length may increase by a constant amount (arithmetic progression) or by a constant ratio (geometric progression). You must calculate the next square's size.

10Worksheets
200+Practice Questions
MediumDifficulty
1-2 hoursHours to Master

Introduction to Growing Squares

Growing Squares problems feature concentric or nested squares that increase in size at each step. The side length may increase by a constant amount (arithmetic progression) or by a constant ratio (geometric progression). You must calculate the next square's size.

Prerequisites

Square geometry Concentric shapes concept Arithmetic and geometric progression Size measurement
Why This Matters: Growing Squares problems appear in 1-2 questions in SSC CGL and Banking PO exams. They test scaling and nested shape recognition.

How to Solve Growing Squares Problems

1

Step 1: Measure the side length of each square

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Step 2: Calculate the difference between consecutive sizes

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Step 3: If differences are constant → arithmetic progression

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Step 4: If ratios are constant → geometric progression

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Step 5: Apply the same change to the last square's size

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Step 6: The square is typically centered (concentric)

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Step 7: Select the square with the correct size

Pro Strategy: Squares are typically concentric (share same center). The progression can be arithmetic (add constant) or geometric (multiply by constant). The shape remains square; only size changes.

Example Problem

Example: Square side lengths: 20, 30, 40, 50. What is next side length? Solution: Step 1: Side lengths: 20, 30, 40, 50 Step 2: Differences: +10 each step Step 3: Next side length = 50 + 10 = 60 Answer: Square with side length 60

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

Growing Squares 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
1-2 questions
INSURANCE
1-2 questions

Ready to Master Growing Squares?

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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