Identifying patterns is a core skill in math that helps you predict what comes next in a sequence of numbers or objects. For the TABE test, patterns usually follow a simple rule. You just need to figure out what that rule is.
There are two main types of patterns you'll see:
These patterns are made by adding or subtracting the same number over and over.
Example 1: A pattern of addition
Sequence: 2,5,8,11,...
The Rule: To get from one number to the next, you add 3. (2+3=5, 5+3=8, etc.)
Next Number: To find the next number, just add 3 to the last number: 11+3=14.
Example 2: A pattern of subtraction
Sequence: 20,18,16,14,...
The Rule: To get from one number to the next, you subtract 2. (20−2=18, 18−2=16, etc.)
Next Number: To find the next number, just subtract 2 from the last number: 14−2=12.
These patterns are made by multiplying or dividing by the same number over and over.
Example 1: A pattern of multiplication
Sequence: 3,6,12,24,...
The Rule: To get from one number to the next, you multiply by 2. (3⋅2=6, 6⋅2=12, etc.)
Next Number: To find the next number, just multiply the last number by 2: 24⋅2=48.
Example 2: A pattern of division
Sequence: 80,40,20,10,...
The Rule: To get from one number to the next, you divide by 2. (80÷2=40, 40÷2=20, etc.)
Next Number: To find the next number, just divide the last number by 2: 10÷2=5.
To find the pattern, look at the first two numbers. Ask yourself: "How do I get from the first number to the second?"
If the numbers are getting bigger, you are likely adding or multiplying.
If the numbers are getting smaller, you are likely subtracting or dividing.
Once you think you have the rule, check to make sure it works for the entire sequence.
Find the rule or the next term in each pattern.
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