How to Recognise and Solve Maths Patterns Easily
The concept of patterns in maths plays a key role in mathematics and is widely applicable to both real-life situations and exam scenarios. Recognising, understanding, and using patterns boosts problem-solving skills, makes learning enjoyable, and helps students tackle questions efficiently, especially in competitive exams like Olympiads and CBSE board tests.
What Is Patterns in Maths?
A pattern in maths is a repeated sequence or arrangement of numbers, shapes, symbols, or objects, where a specific rule or logic operates throughout. You’ll find this concept applied in number sequences (like 2, 4, 6, 8), visual tessellations, and even in algebra, geometry, and nature.
Types of Patterns in Maths
| Pattern Type | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Number Pattern | Sequence where numbers follow a rule | 3, 6, 9, 12… (add 3) |
| Repeating Pattern | Same unit repeats | A, B, A, B, A, B… |
| Growing (or Shrinking) Pattern | Each term increases or decreases by a rule | 1, 2, 4, 8, 16… (double each time) |
| Shape/Geometric Pattern | Shapes repeat or transform | ⬜️, ⬜️⬜️, ⬜️⬜️⬜️ ... |
| Logic Pattern | Rule based on operations or properties | Odd-Even-Odd-Even... |
How to Recognise a Pattern
- Examine the elements in the pattern closely.
- Look for consistent changes (e.g., add, multiply, color alternation).
- Write down the difference or ratio between terms, if numerical.
- Predict the next term using your observation.
- Double-check by applying the rule to earlier terms.
Step-by-Step Illustration: Solving a Pattern Question
Let’s find the missing term in the pattern: 5, 10, 20, ___, 80
1. Look for a relationship between numbers.2. 10 ÷ 5 = 2, 20 ÷ 10 = 2, so each number is double the previous one.
3. Next term is 20 × 2 = 40.
4. Check: 40 × 2 = 80.
5. Final Answer: 40.
Common Pattern Questions in Exams
- Find the next number in the sequence: 7, 14, 21, ___
- Identify the rule in the pattern: 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, ___
- What comes next: 🔵🔴🔵🔴🔵 ___
- Fill the blanks: 100, 90, ___, 70, 60 (Rule: Subtract 10 each time)
Patterns in Real Life & Exams
Patterns are everywhere! You see them in the stripes on a zebra, the petals of a flower, or even in your daily schedule. In maths exams (especially in number patterns and logical reasoning sections), questions based on patterns are very common. Spotting patterns quickly is a proven way to gain marks in Olympiads and school board papers.
Practice Pattern Problems
- List the next three terms: 4, 8, 12, ___, ___, ___
- Circle the odd pattern out: 6, 12, 18, 26, 30
- If the sequence follows +5 each time, what comes after 35?
- In a square pattern: 🟦🟩🟦🟩___, what is the 7th shape?
Frequent Errors and Misunderstandings
- Confusing repeated patterns with growing patterns.
- Missing the operation sign in a sequence (+, -, ×, ÷).
- Assuming all patterns increase, forgetting shrinking (decreasing) patterns exist.
- Not checking if the rule fits every step.
Relation to Other Concepts
The idea of patterns in maths connects closely with arithmetic progression, sequences and series, symmetry, and even types of Patterns in Maths. Mastering pattern recognition helps you spot shortcuts and understand tougher algebraic and logical thinking topics.
Tips for Solving Patterns Fast
- Check both addition and multiplication between numbers.
- Draw or write down the pattern visually for shapes.
- Use a difference or ratio table if stuck.
- Practice with timed quizzes. For kids, “skip counting” is a great way to get faster.
- Review solved examples on Vedantu for more pattern strategies.
We explored patterns in maths—from definition, types, examples, and links to other topics, plus exam shortcuts and frequent errors. Continue practicing with Vedantu’s worksheets and live classes to master patterns and boost your maths skills!
