Want to know what to expect on the OLSAT?
The best way to prepare is by using sample questions that reflect the real test format. On this page, you'll find free OLSAT practice questions designed to show the types of questions students are likely to see on test day. These examples help build familiarity, reduce anxiety, and improve performance.
"From verbal analogies to number patterns, cognitive tests challenge how students think. I provide tools and techniques that make those challenges manageable and even fun."
Ariav. OLSAT Test Expert at TestPrep-Online
Get a sneak peek at the types of questions your child will encounter on the Otis-Lennon School Ability Test (OLSAT). We'll explore the different types of questions together, including:
All of these questions are designed to be relevant to your child's current grade level, so you can feel more confident and prepared as they take the test. Levels A, B and C are read to the test-taker as this test is not a measure of reading.
Understanding each OLSAT level is crucial for proper test preparation. Let's explore sample questions from each level to give you a clear picture of what to expect.
These questions test a child's ability to listen and follow instructions. The instructor reads directions aloud, and the student must choose the correct answer based on those directions.
Mark the picture that shows a spaceship first and alien second and an astronaut last.
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Let’s break down the question step by step. We are asked to find the picture that shows:
Now look at each picture from left to right, just like reading a sentence.
So, Option C is the correct answer because it matches the exact order described in the question.
TestPrep-Online Tutor's Tip:
Practice Tip: I like to mix up toys or flashcards (like a spaceship, alien, and astronaut) and ask my child to line them up in the correct order as I describe. This hands-on activity builds sequencing confidence and makes abstract directions feel more concrete and fun!
OLSAT Picture Analogies: These use images instead of words and students must recognize relationships between pairs of pictures.
By using pictures instead of words. Students must identify which image doesn't belong with the rest
The two pictures on the top go together in a certain way. Choose the picture that goes with the bottom picture in the same way that the pictures on top go together.
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Let’s look at the top two pictures first: they show two drama masks — one happy and one sad.
These masks go together because they are opposites in emotion — one represents happiness and the other represents sadness. So we’re looking for the same kind of relationship with the bottom picture.
Now look at the bottom-left picture: a hot cup of tea.
We need to find something that is the opposite of hot — just like how sad is the opposite of happy.
Let’s go through the answer choices:
So the correct answer is the glass of ice — it’s the opposite of the hot tea, just like the sad mask is the opposite of the happy one.
Moving up to the next level of difficulty, OLSAT Sample Questions Level B introduces new concepts...
Arithmetic Reasoning- These questions involve solving math problems presented in word format and the word problems are read aloud.
Jayden and Marin bought a total of 8 lollipops at the candy store as displayed in the picture below. They each ate 2 lollipops and their friend Madeline ate one lollipop. How many lollipops are left?
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Let's solve this fun lollipop problem together!
Imagine Jayden and Marin went to the candy store and bought a total of 8 yummy lollipops.
Here's what happened next, step-by-step:
Finding out how many lollipops Jayden and Marin ate: Jayden ate 2 lollipops and Marin also ate 2 lollipops. To find out how many they ate together, we add their lollipops: 2 lollipops (Jayden)+2 lollipops (Marin)=4 lollipops. So, 4 lollipops are gone!
Adding Madeline's lollipop: Their friend Madeline came along and ate 1 more lollipop. Now we need to add Madeline's lollipop to the ones Jayden and Marin already ate: $4 \text{ lollipops (Jayden & Marin)} + 1 \text{ lollipop (Madeline)} = 5 \text{ lollipops}$. So, a total of 5 lollipops have been eaten.
Figuring out how many are left: We started with 8 lollipops in total. If 5 of them have been eaten, to find out how many are left, we subtract the eaten lollipops from the total: 8 lollipops (total)−5 lollipops (eaten)=3 lollipops.
So, Jayden and Marin still have 3 lollipops left to enjoy later! The correct answer is C.
TestPrep-Online Tutor's Tip:
My main goal is building confidence and process understanding. I always start by reading the problem aloud with the child, ensuring they process the words. Then, we break it into smaller chunks with guiding questions: "How many did they start with?", "How many did Jayden eat?", "How many eaten altogether?". I encourage visualizing or drawing (e.g., drawing lollipops and crossing them out). We also emphasize keywords like "total" (addition) and "gone" (subtraction). Finally, I celebrate their effort and understanding, even with mistakes, to foster problem-solving skills and future confidence.
Picture Classification: Requires identifying the image that doesn't belong in a set
Which picture does not belong
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Let's look at this picture puzzle together! This group of objects includes things that make music, like instruments you might play in a band or orchestra. But wait! The headphones don't belong. They're not musical instruments. They just help us hear music. That's why B is our answer!
As students progress to OLSAT Sample Questions Level C, they encounter more complex questions that build upon previous skills.
Aural Reasoning:This type of question assesses a student's ability to listen to, understand, and visualize information presented verbally
Mark the picture that has a small triangle pointing up which is to the right of a large triangle pointing down- there is also a star to the left of a small circle.
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Let's solve this shape puzzle step by step in a fun way!
We're looking for a special pattern of shapes - like a treasure map! Here's what we need to find:
Looking at all our choices:
That's why C is our answer - it's the only one that has all our shapes in just the right places!
TestPrep-Online Tutor's Tip:
"When I help kids with questions like this, I always say, 'Let’s break it down like a detective!' First, we underline or say out loud exactly what we're looking for — in this case, a small triangle pointing up, a big triangle pointing down, and a star to the left of a circle. Then, I show them how to scan each picture slowly, one at a time, checking for each piece of the clue — just like checking off items on a treasure map. I remind them it’s okay to eliminate wrong ones — crossing them out builds confidence. The key is not to rush and to trust their eyes and brain to work together. With practice, they’ll feel more sure of their answers!"
Figural Classification questions test your ability to categorize geometric shapes based on their characteristics or properties
Look at the figures below they go together in a certain way one of the figures does not belong can you point to that figure
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The correct answer is D
Let's look at this fun shape puzzle together! 🌟
We're playing a little game of "spot the difference" with stars inside of stars. Think of it like Russian nesting dolls, but with stars! Here's the fun part:
That's what makes D special and why it's our answer - it's the only one with just two stars instead of three. It's like finding the pattern that doesn't follow the family rule!
Think of it as finding which group of stars is wearing a different outfit from all the others. Choice D stands out because it's wearing something different - it has one less layer!
The transition to OLSAT Sample Questions Level D marks an important milestone, as students begin working independently rather than having questions read to them.
Antonyms: Tests vocabulary knowledge by asking for words with opposite meanings.
The opposite of timid is _____
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Let's explore each word and understand why A "confident" is the correct opposite of "timid":
Definition: Sure of oneself; having a feeling of self-assurance; brave and bold
This is the opposite of timid because while timid people hold back and feel unsure, confident people feel sure of themselves and step forward boldly
Definition: Worried, nervous, or uneasy about something
This is actually similar to timid, not opposite, as both involve feeling nervous or uncertain
Definition: Very enthusiastic and eager; full of energy and enthusiasm
While this is a positive emotion, it's not specifically the opposite of timid, as you can be both excited and timid at the same time
Definition: Being nervous or timid in the company of other people
This is actually a synonym (means the same thing) as timid, not an opposite
The correct answer is "confident" because it represents the complete opposite characteristics of being timid: while timid means being hesitant, fearful, and lacking confidence, confident means being self-assured, brave, and sure of oneself.
TestPrep-Online Tutor's Tip:
"When I teach kids vocabulary questions like this, I say, 'Let’s play the opposite game!' First, we make sure they really understand the meaning of the word — in this case, timid means shy, nervous, or unsure. Then I ask them, ‘What kind of person is the total opposite of that?’ We talk it out — someone who’s bold, brave, and sure of themselves. That helps them look at the choices and match the meaning, not just guess. I also remind them: if two words feel too similar, they’re probably not opposites. This way, they build confidence and learn to trust their thinking!”
Pattern Matrix- Involves completing a matrix by identifying patterns among figures.
The pictures in the box go together in a certain way. Something belongs in the empty space. Choose the picture that goes in the empty space.
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The correct answer is C
The shapes in this puzzle are arranged in a special way. Let's look at the patterns:
Looking at the answer choices, only choice C follows both of these patterns:
The other answer choices don't match both the increasing side count across the row and the consistent shapes/colors down the column.
That's why the correct answer is C - it's the only one that fits both of the patterns we see in the puzzle.
In OLSAT Level D, 3rd graders take their first Quantitative Reasoning test. It includes Number Series, Numeric Inference, and Number Matrix questions.
Numeric Inference requires deducing the rule governing a set of numbers.
Did you know...
The numbers in the box go together by following the same rule. Decide what the rule is, and then choose the number that goes where you see the question mark.
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The numbers in the boxes are following a specific rule. Let's look closely:
In the first box, the numbers are 10 and 17.
If we subtract the first number from the second number, we get 7 (17 - 10 = 7).
In the second box, the numbers are 21 and 28.
Again, if we subtract the first number from the second number, we get 7 (28 - 21 = 7).
Do you see the pattern? The numbers in each box are related by adding 7 to the first number to get the second number.
Now, let's look at the last box with the question mark.
The first number in that box is 7.
If we follow the same rule and add 7 to 7, we get 14.
Therefore, the correct answer that should go in the last box is 14.
Does this make sense? The key is recognizing that the numbers in each box are related by adding 7 to the first number. Let me know if you have any other questions!
TestPrep-Online Tutor's Tip:
"When helping kids with number patterns, I tell them, 'Let’s find the hidden rule!' First, I have them focus on the first two numbers and ask, ‘What happens when we do something to the first number to get the second?’ In this case, we subtract the smaller number from the larger one. Once they spot that, we move to the next set of numbers to check if the rule works again.
I guide them to stay calm and check each box step-by-step. For this problem, I tell them, ‘Now, look at the third box. You already know that adding 7 to the first number is the rule. So what’s 7 plus 7? That’s 14!’ Once they understand the rule, they’re set to tackle any similar problems confidently."
Did you know....
Practice tests help identify knowledge gaps. By taking OLSAT practice tests, you can pinpoint specific areas where you need more study, allowing you to focus your efforts more efficiently. This targeted approach to studying can lead to significant improvements in your overall test performance.
Building upon the foundations established in earlier levels, OLSAT Sample Questions Level E introduces more sophisticated logical reasoning tasks.
If Stewart is taller than Bobby, and Reuben is shorter than Bobby, then we know that:
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The correct answer is A "Stewart is taller than Reuben".
Here's why:
Now let's explain why the other answer choices are incorrect:
The key is using the given information to logically deduce the correct relationship between the heights of the three people. By understanding that Stewart is taller than Bobby, and Reuben is shorter than Bobby, we can conclude that Stewart must be taller than Reuben.
Figural Analogies- Requires understanding the relationship between two figures and applying it to another pair.
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The correct answer is B.
Here's the step-by-step logic:
The other options don't follow the same pattern:
So B is the correct answer because it's the only one that applies the same 90-degree counterclockwise rotation and addition of a triangle, just like the transformation from the first to the second figure.
TestPrep-Online Tutor's Tip:
When tackling non-verbal reasoning, especially transformations, I teach kids to become "shape detectives." First, we isolate the first pair of shapes. I ask: "What exactly changed from the first shape to the second?" We look for rotation (which way and how much?), reflection, size changes, or added/removed parts. Once we identify all the transformations for the first pair, we write them down or say them aloud. Then, we apply those exact same rules to the third shape, one by one. I encourage drawing the intermediate steps if it helps. This systematic approach, focusing on breaking down the transformation and applying it consistently, builds confidence and accuracy, turning a daunting visual puzzle into a solvable logic problem.
Number Series- Involves identifying the next number in a sequence.
What comes next:
5 0 5 1 5 2 5 3 5 ?
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The correct answer is A
The pattern in this sequence is alternating between the number 5 and a number that is 1 greater than the previous number.
The sequence goes:
5, 0, 5, 1, 5, 2, 5, 3, 5, ?
We can see the pattern is:
5, 0 (+1), 5, 1 (+1), 5, 2 (+1), 5, 3 (+1), 5, ?
The next number in the sequence should be 1 greater than the previous number, which is 3.
So the missing number is 4.
The explanation is:
The sequence alternates between 5 and a number 1 greater than the previous number
The last two numbers in the sequence are 5 and 3
The next number should be 1 greater than 3, which is 4
Therefore, the correct answer is 4
By the time students reach OLSAT Sample Questions Level F, they are expected to handle complex abstract thinking and advanced pattern recognition.
Verbal Classification- Involves grouping words based on common characteristics.
Which word does not go with the other four?
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The correct answer is A
The word "Observe" does not fit the pattern of the other words shown, which are all related to forecasting, predicting, or anticipating future events.
"Observe" implies focusing on the present or past, rather than making predictions or forecasts about the future, which the other words like "Predict", "Forecast", "Foresee", and "Anticipate" are referring to.
The other words are all related to different aspects of looking ahead and trying to understand or prepare for future outcomes, whereas "Observe" is more focused on examining the current or past situation.
Figure series is a sequence of figures with a pattern. The next figure is missing.
Look at the pictures in the boxes in the beginning of the row. They go together in a certain way. Something belongs in the empty box. What is the picture that belongs in the empty box?
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The correct answer is E
Okay, so I can see that each frame in the row is divided into two parts - the left side has some smaller shapes, and the right side has a circle. As we go from left to right, a few things are happening:
On the left side, the number of smaller shapes is decreasing by 1 each time. So the first frame has 7 shapes, the next has 6, then 5, and the last one should have 4 shapes.
On the right side, the circle is being divided into more and more equal sections, in a clockwise direction. The first frame has the circle undivided, then each next frame adds another line dividing the circle into one more equal part.
Putting these patterns together, the missing frame should have 3 shapes on the left side, and the circle on the right should be divided into 5 equal sections.
TestPrep-Online Tutor's Tip:
For these visual pattern questions, I teach kids to look for two things changing: the top section and the bottom section. We analyze the top first: "How do the stars change from one box to the next?" (e.g., one disappears). Then, the bottom: "What's happening with the circle and the line?" (e.g., the line rotates). Once we've identified both patterns, we predict what comes next for each part and then look for the option that perfectly matches both predictions. This systematic, two-part approach helps them break down complex patterns confidently.
Number Matrixes involve completing a matrix by identifying numerical patterns.
The numbers in the box go together in a certain way. Choose the number that goes where you see the question mark.
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The correct answer is E
Let's organize this step by step:
Pattern Rules:
Row Pattern Examples:
Column Pattern Examples:
Finding the Missing Number:
Therefore, 27 is the correct answer since it works for both the row pattern and column pattern.
TestPrep-Online Tutor's Tip:
When faced with number grids, I teach kids to look for patterns in every direction: across rows and down columns. We ask: "What's the relationship between the numbers in this row? Are they adding, subtracting, or something else?" Then, "Does that same rule apply to the next row?" We repeat for columns. Identifying a consistent rule that works both ways helps confidently predict the missing number.
At the most advanced level, OLSAT Sample Questions Level G challenges students with sophisticated verbal, non-verbal, and quantitative reasoning tasks.
Sentence Arrangement: Measures the skill of organizing words into coherent sentences.
If the words below were arranged to make the best sentence, then which letter would the last word of the sentence begin with?
been private has selling American for nothing had yet companies changed criticized many online data
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The correct answer is the letter “C”.
The sentence reads: Many American companies had been criticized for selling private data online, yet nothing has changed.
TestPrep-Online Tutor's Tip:
For jumbled sentences, I guide students to find the "who" or "what" (subject) and the "did what" (verb) first. Then, we build around that core, looking for words that describe or connect. We try different arrangements, speaking them aloud to hear what sounds natural. The goal is to create a grammatically correct and logical sentence, then pinpoint the last word's starting letter.
Pattern Matrix- Select the figure that completes the pattern in the matrix
Choose the shape that matches the pattern of the given matrix:
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The correct answer is (E)
Two Main Rules:
Note: In the upper-right frame, the star and circle overlap (circle covers the star)
Eliminating Wrong Answers:
Therefore, E is the correct answer as it's the only option that follows both movement rules for the circle and star.
This last free sample question is all about the rules.
The numbers in the box follow the same rule. Find the rule being used and then choose the missing number.
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The correct answer is E
Pattern Rule:
First Box Pattern:
Second Box Pattern:
Question Mark Box:
Therefore:
The pattern is consistent across all boxes:
To help ensure comprehensive preparation across multiple assessment types, If you want more practice questions try our OLSAT-NNAT Bundle. This combined approach can be particularly beneficial since many gifted programs use multiple tests for evaluation.
Boost Your Child's Gifted and Talented Test Scores! Get instant access to comprehensive OLSAT and NNAT practice materials.
The OLSAT (Otis-Lennon School Ability Test) is commonly used to assess a child's reasoning and problem-solving skills. Schools often use it to determine eligibility for gifted and talented programs.
The OLSAT includes verbal and non-verbal questions. These may involve analogies, pattern recognition, arithmetic reasoning, figure classification, aural reasoning, and number series, depending on your child’s grade level.
The best way is through realistic practice using OLSAT-style sample questions. Focus on building familiarity with question types, improving focus and stamina, and encouraging logical thinking. Try our free sample questions or choose a full OLSAT PrepPack for your child's level.
This depends on your school district, but many gifted programs look for scores in the 97th to 99th percentile. It's important to check with your school for their specific requirements.
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