Select the figure which will complete the problem figure matrix.

The correct answer is Option (4) → 

Note: The given answer is as per the official NTA Answer Key. However, the question has two possible answers, i.e. both Option (4) and Option (2), as explained below.

Two rules fit the three given cells. The picture shows the matrix completed by each rule: by multiplying on the left, by adding on the right.

By multiplying (left picture), the missing cell has 6 circles:

• Going across a row multiplies the number of circles by 3 (1 to 3), and going down a column multiplies it by 2 (1 to 2)

• The missing cell has \(2\times3=6\) circles, set out as two columns of three, which is Option (4)

By adding (right picture), the missing cell has 4 circles:

• Going across a row adds 2 circles (1 to 3), and going down a column adds 1 (1 to 2)

• The missing cell has \(2+2=3+1=4\) circles, which is Option (2)

Tip for students: When a question has two possible answers, mark the one you worked out yourself. If NTA’s answer key gives a different answer, challenge it when NTA opens the window for challenges.