How to Improve at Spatial Relations on IQ Tests

The best IQ tests examine many aspects of your intelligence. One of the most commonly used IQ tests is The Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Adults, 3rd Edition (WAIS-III). This test measures verbal skills, nonverbal skills, processing speed and working memory. For each domain, there are mental and physical exercises you can do to improve performance.

Improve Spatial Efficiency

• Time yourself putting together puzzles. An IQ test measures spatial skills not only in terms of skill, but also in regards to speed and efficiency. Working on your speed of solving puzzles will help maximize this element of spatial relations.

Focus on 3-D Puzzles

• Build complex 3-D puzzles and models as a way to improve your overall visual spatial skills. A good IQ test measures not only your two-dimensional drawing, copying and pattern completion abilities, but also your ability to quickly and correctly construct complex 3-D designs.

Visual Spatial Categorizing

• Sorting complex items into visual categories is key to showing strong visual spatial skills on an IQ test. Practice noticing similarities and patterns among items, designs and puzzles. Try to come up with new and interesting ways to sort and organize the items. Remember that time is key. Once you have mastered your organizational skills, practice shifting between your visually spaced out categories.