Unit 13 · Spatial Reasoning
Hidden Tile Patterns — What Is Under the Mat?
Lesson 1 of 2
Tile-and-mat questions are a Selective spatial staple: four identical tiles in different orientations, with the centre covered — deduce what is hidden, not what looks plausible.
Hidden-corner tile puzzles appear regularly on Selective TS — near-certain marks when you compare visible symbols on each tile instead of guessing from the options.
The examiner checks whether you can identify the identical 2×2 tile, match symbols across the four orientations, and read off the four hidden inner cells without contradicting any visible symbol.
A 4×4 design is built from four identical tiles. A mat covers the four inner corners (one corner from each tile). Four 2×2 answer grids (A–D) show possible hidden patterns.
Best approach: Pick one fully visible tile and list its four cells. Match symbols on visible corners across the four quadrants to fill each hidden cell. Eliminate any option that disagrees on even one symbol.
Question
Anisha made a design using four identical tiles. Her mother put a black colour mat in the middle of the design as shown below.

Which option correctly shows what is hidden under the black mat?
Select an answer to see the explanation.
Give Your Child the Best Chance at Selective Entry
Join NSW families preparing their children for the Selective Schools Placement Test with the most realistic online Selective practice tests available. First tests free—no credit card required.
Claim Your Free Selective Practice Tests