Embedded Figure: Meaning, Reasoning Questions and Answers, Examples

Embedded Figure: Meaning, Reasoning Questions and Answers, Examples

Team Careers360Updated on 19 Aug 2025, 09:36 PM IST

Embedded figure questions are an important part of non-verbal reasoning, where candidates are asked to identify a hidden shape or diagram inside a complex figure. These embedded figure reasoning questions test observation skills, accuracy, and visual perception. Many exams include embedded figures, reasoning, and embedded image reasoning problems, such as “in which of the following is the given figure embedded?” Practicing different types of embedded figure solutions helps in strengthening logical reasoning and thinking for exams like SSC CHSL, Banking, RRB, MAH MBA CET, UPSC, Defence, and other competitive exams. In this article, we will discuss the meaning, types, tricks, and practice sets of embedded figure reasoning to improve your preparation.

Approach to Solve the Questions Based on Embedded Figure Reasoning

This Story also Contains

  1. Patterns of the Embedded Figure Reasoning
  2. How to Deal With the Questions of Embedded Figures
  3. Practice Resources on Embedded Figures
  4. Question Weightage of Embedded Figures in Competitive Exams
  5. Embedded Figure Reasoning for Practice
  6. Non-Verbal Reasoning Topics
  7. Embedded Figure Questions for TANCET/ CUET
  8. Embedded Figures Questions for SSC CHSL/ SSC Stenographer/ SSC CPO EXAMS
  9. Embedded Figures Questions for SSC-CGL/ Railway Recruitment Board Exams
  10. Common Mistakes in Solving Embedded Figure Reasoning
  11. Embedded Figure Reasoning Tricks and Shortcuts
  12. Verbal Reasoning Topics
Embedded Figure: Meaning, Reasoning Questions and Answers, Examples
Embedded Figure: Meaning, Reasoning Questions and Answers, Examples

To solve the questions based on embedded figures, aspirants need to focus on the shape that needs to be identified and should be able to distinguish that particular shape from the background clutter in the main figure.

Patterns of the Embedded Figure Reasoning

The following are the patterns based on the embedded figure that we often see in the exams-

  1. A part of the complex figure will be given and the aspirants need to find out the embedded figure which is the part of the main figure. The embedded shape will be in the same orientation with no rotation.

  2. A part of the complex figure will be given and the aspirants need to find out the embedded figure which is the part of the main figure. The embedded shape will not be in the same orientation as it might be rotated to some extent.

  3. More than one part of the figure might be given which needs to be traced.

  4. Four figures in the options would be given and you need to identify the odd one out. The figure which is not embedded in the main figure will be the odd one out.

How to Deal With the Questions of Embedded Figures

To solve the questions of embedded figures, aspirants must have the following understanding-

  1. If more than one figure is hidden, start from the easiest one as it will boost confidence.

  2. If the rotation of the embedded figure is allowed then try to mentally rotate the figure and then look for it in the main figure. It will help in identifying the embedded figure with different orientations.

Practice Resources on Embedded Figures

a) A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal

b) Analytical Reasoning by M.K. Pandey

c) Logical and Analytical Reasoning by A.K. Gupta

d) Test of Reasoning by Edgar Thorpe

Practice Questions based on Embedded Figure

The candidate must attempt the embedded figure test available online and must practice an e-book of embedded figure reasoning questions with solutions pdf given below to ace the topic of embedded figure.
Embedded Figure Questions with Solutions PDF

Question Weightage of Embedded Figures in Competitive Exams

Embedded figure questions are found in reasoning ability tests of most of the competitive exams in India as shown below-

1) In certain Government exams like SSC, Railways, Defence etc., there will be 2 to 3 questions of embedded figures.

2) In CUET and other admission tests 1 to 2 questions are asked.

Embedded Figure Reasoning for Practice

1. Directions: Select one of the option figures that is embedded in the given figure (rotation is NOT allowed).

1718801022950

  1. 1718801023400

  2. 1718801022801

  3. 1718801022921(correct)

  4. 1718801024285

Solution-

The embedded figure will have the same orientation as the main figure. Only the third option figure is embedded in the given figure.

1718801026807

Hence, the third option is correct.

2. Directions: Select the option figure that is embedded in the given figure (rotation is not allowed).

  1. 1718801028021

  2. 1718801028338(correct)

  3. 1718801027871

  4. 1718801027959

Solution-

As rotation is not allowed, we will check which option figure fits in the question figure.
The figure in the second option is embedded in the question figure as shown below –

1718801025870

The figure in the second option resembles the question figure. Hence, the second option is correct.

3. Directions: Select the option figure that is embedded in the given figure (rotation is NOT allowed).

1718801027636

  1. 1718801028060

  2. 1718801028243

  3. 1718801028194(correct)

  4. 1718801028090

Solution-

Since the rotation of the figure is not allowed, let's check which option figure can exactly fit itself in the given question figure.

1718801028401

From the above, it is clear that the third option figure is embedded in the given question figure. Hence, the third option is correct.

4. Directions: Select the option figure that is embedded in the given figure (rotation is NOT allowed).

1718801023598

  1. 1718801026061

  2. 1718801022885

  3. 1718801022850

  4. 1718801022734(correct)

Solution-

Since the rotation of the figure is not allowed, let's check which option figure can exactly fit itself in the given question figure.

1718801022508

From the above, it is clear that the fourth option figure is embedded in the given question figure. Hence, the fourth option is correct.

5. Directions: Select the option figure that is embedded in the given figure (rotation is NOT allowed).

1718801025463

  1. 1718801025804(correct)

  2. 1718801024171

  3. 1718801023639

  4. 1718801025007

Solution-

Since the rotation of the figure is not allowed, let's check which of the option figures can exactly fit in the given question figure.

1718801026596

From the above, it is clear that the first option figure is embedded in the given question figure. Hence, the first option is correct.

Non-Verbal Reasoning Topics

The candidates who are preparing for the upcoming entrance and Government exams can also refer to the links given below and master the non-verbal reasoning ability section:

6. Directions: Select the option figure in which the given figure is embedded as its part (rotation is NOT allowed).

1718801022425

  1. 1718801022266

  2. 1718801022580

  3. 1718801024969(correct)

  4. 1718801023881

Solution-

Since there is a restriction on the rotation of the figure, we will check where the question figure can exactly fit itself in the given option figures. By comparison of all the option figures, the given question figure is embedded only in the third option figure.

1718801024938

Hence, the third option is correct.

7. Directions: Select the option figure in which the given figure is embedded. (Rotation is NOT allowed)

1718801022048

  1. 1718801025184

  2. 1718801022377(correct)

  3. 1718801025150

  4. 1718801023044

Solution-

Since the rotation is restricted. So, the embedded figure will have the same orientation as the main figure. By comparison of all the option figures, the given question figure is embedded only in the second option figure.

1718801022991

Hence, the second option is correct.

8. Directions: Select the option figure in which the given figure is embedded. (Rotation is not allowed.)

1718801024482

  1. 1718801024599

  2. 1718801022137(correct)

  3. 1718801023312

  4. 1718801024206

Solution-

As there is a restriction on the rotation of the figure, we will check where the question figure can exactly fit itself in the given option figures.
By comparison of all the option figures, the given question figure is embedded only in the second option figure.

1718801025338

Hence, the second option is correct.

9. Directions: Select the option figure in which the given figure is embedded (Rotation is NOT allowed).

1718801023084

  1. 1718801025985

  2. 1718801025271

  3. 1718801023530(correct)

  4. 1718801025694

Solution-

Since there is a restriction on the rotation of the figure, we will check where the question figure can exactly fit itself in the given option figures.
By comparison of all the option figures, the given question figure is embedded only in the third option figure.

1718801022309

Hence, the third option is correct.

10. Directions: Select the option figure in which the given figure is embedded. (Rotation is not allowed.)

1718801024559

  1. 1718801024525

  2. 1718801024840(correct)

  3. 1718801025838

  4. 1718801024246

Solution-

As there is a restriction on the rotation of the figure, we will check where the question figure can exactly fit itself in the given option figures.
By comparison of all the option figures, the given question figure is embedded only in the second option figure.

1718801023758

Hence, the second option is correct.

11. Directions: Select the option figure in which the given figure is embedded. (Rotation is not allowed.)

1718801023915

  1. 1718801025067

  2. 1718801024330

  3. 1718801023169

  4. 1718801024688(correct)

Solution-

As there is a restriction on the rotation of the figure, we will check where the question figure can exactly fit itself in the given option figures.

By comparison of all the option figures, the given question figure is embedded only in the fourth option figure.

1718801027416

Hence, the fourth option is correct.

12. Directions: Select the option figure in which the given figure is embedded. (Rotation is NOT allowed).

1718801027810

  1. 1718801027013

  2. 1718801026834

  3. 1718801026687

  4. 1718801027192(correct)

Solution-

Since there is a restriction on the rotation of the figure, we will check where the question figure can exactly fit itself in the given option figures.
By comparison of all the option figures, the given question figure is embedded only in the fourth option figure.

1718801027544

Hence, the fourth option is correct.

13. Directions: Select the option figure in which the given figure is embedded. (Rotation is NOT allowed)

1718801027610

  1. 1718801026909

  2. 1718801026944(correct)

  3. 1718801028128

  4. 1718801027123

Solution-

Since the rotation is restricted. So, the embedded figure will have the same orientation as the main figure. By comparison of all the option figures, the given question figure is embedded only in the second option figure.

1718801027933

Hence, the second option is correct.

14. Directions: Select the option figure in which the given figure is embedded. (Rotation is NOT allowed)

1718801026881

  1. 1718801027517(correct)

  2. 1718801027578

  3. 1718801027042

  4. 1718801026984

Solution-

Since the rotation is restricted. So, the embedded figure will have the same orientation as the main figure. By comparison of all the option figures, the given question figure is embedded only in the first option figure.

1718801024649

Hence, the first option is correct.

15. Directions: Select the option figure in which the given figure is embedded. (rotation is NOT allowed.)

1718801024893

  1. 1718801026027

  2. 1718801024107

  3. 1718801025575(correct)

  4. 1718801025499

Solution-

Since there is a restriction on the rotation of the figure, we will check where the question figure can exactly fit itself in the given option figures.
By comparison of all the option figures, the given question figure is embedded only in the third option figure.

1718801023945

Hence, the third option is correct.

16. Directions: Select the option in which the following figure is embedded. (Rotation is NOT allowed)

1718801025387

  1. 1718801025427(correct)

  2. 1718801025649

  3. 1718801025943

  4. 1718801026109

Solution-

Since the rotation is restricted. So, the embedded figure will have the same orientation as the main figure. By comparison of all the option figures, the given question figure is embedded only in the first option figure.

1718801025224

Hence, the first option is correct.

17. Directions: Select the option in which the following figure is embedded. (Rotation is NOT allowed)

1718801025096

  1. 1718801025307(correct)

  2. 1718801023834

  3. 1718801023363

  4. 1718801022191

Solution-

Since the rotation is restricted. So, the embedded figure will have the same orientation as the main figure. By comparison of all the option figures, the given question figure is embedded only in the first option figure.

1718801024768

Hence, the first option is correct.

18. Directions: Select the option in which the following figure is embedded (Rotation is NOT allowed).

1718801024726

  1. 1718801026320

  2. 1718801025037

  3. 1718801024800

  4. 1718801023123(correct)

Solution-

Since there is a restriction on the rotation of the figure, we will check where the question figure can exactly fit itself in the given option figures.
By comparison of all the option figures, the given question figure is embedded only in the fourth option figure.

1718801027162

Hence, the fourth option is correct.

19. Directions: Select the option figure in which the given figure is embedded (Rotation is NOT allowed).

1718801023795

  1. 1718801025738

  2. 1718801026271(correct)

  3. 1718801026227

  4. 1718801028675

Solution-

Since there is a restriction on the rotation of the figure, we will check where the question figure can exactly fit itself in the given option figures.

By comparison of all the option figures, the given question figure is embedded only in the second option figure.

1718801028620

Hence, the second option is correct.

20. Directions: Select the option in which the given figure is embedded. (Rotation is NOT allowed)

1718801027352

  1. 1718801027898

  2. 1718801028366(correct)

  3. 1718801027709

  4. 1718801027663

Solution-

Since the rotation is restricted. So, the embedded figure will have the same orientation as the main figure. By comparison of all the option figures, the given question figure is embedded only in the second option figure.

1718801028744

Hence, the second option is correct.

21. Directions: Select the option figure in which the given figure is embedded (Rotation is NOT allowed).

1718801027840

  1. 1718801028311

  2. 1718801028577(correct)

  3. 1718801028806

  4. 1718801027986

Solution-

Since the rotation is restricted. So, the embedded figure will have the same orientation as the main figure. By comparison of all the option figures, the given question figure is embedded only in the second option figure.

1718801026359

Hence, the second option is correct.

22. Directions: Select the option figure in which the given figure is embedded. (Rotation is not allowed.)

1718801022686

  1. 1718801026158

  2. 1718801025775

  3. 1718801026483

  4. 1718801025537(correct)

Solution-

As there is a restriction on the rotation of the figure, we will check where the question figure can exactly fit itself in the given option figures.
By comparison of all the option figures, the given question figure is embedded only in the fourth option figure.

1718801025902

Hence, the fourth option is correct.

23. Directions: Select the option in which the given figure is embedded. (Rotation is not allowed.)

1718801023677

  1. 1718801022655

  2. 1718801026415

  3. 1718801025614(correct)

  4. 1718801028279

Solution-

As there is a restriction on the rotation of the figure, we will check where the question figure can exactly fit itself in the given option figures.
By comparison of all the option figures, the given question figure is embedded only in the third option figure.

1718801028508

Hence, the third option is correct.

24. Directions: Select the option in which the given figure is embedded (Rotation is NOT allowed).

1718801026563

  1. 1718801023482(correct)

  2. 1718801024059

  3. 1718801023997

  4. 1718801027753

Solution-

Since the rotation is restricted. So, the embedded figure will have the same orientation as the main figure. By comparison of all the option figures, the given question figure is embedded only in the first option figure.

1718801024142

Hence, the first option is correct.

25. Directions: Select the option in which the given figure is embedded (Rotation is NOT allowed).

1718801023717

  1. 1718801026769

  2. 1718801027073(correct)

  3. 1718801026722

  4. 1718801026523

Solution-

Since the rotation is restricted. So, the embedded figure will have the same orientation as the main figure. By comparison of all the option figures, the given question figure is embedded only in the second option figure.

1718801028462

Hence, the second option is correct.

Embedded Figure Questions for TANCET/ CUET

1) Directions: Select the option figure in which the given figure is embedded as its part (rotation is NOT allowed).

1722792639431

1)
1722792674820

2)
1722792703219

3)
1722792731894

4)
1722792766872

Hint: Try fixing the question figure into one of the option figures.

Solution

Since there is a restriction on the rotation of the figure, we will check where the question figure can exactly fit itself in the given option figures. By comparison of all the option figures, the given question figure is embedded only in the third option figure.

1722792808032

Hence, the third option is correct.

2) Directions: Select the option figure in which the given figure is embedded. (Rotation is NOT allowed.)

1722792862799

1)
1722792894308

2)
1722792924330

3)
1722792959447

4)
1722792984832

Hint: Try fixing the question figure into one of the option figures.

Solution

Since there is a restriction on the rotation of the figure, we will check where the question figure can exactly fit itself in the given option figures.

By comparison of all the option figures, the given question figure is embedded only in the fourth option figure.

1722793025220

Hence, the fourth option is correct.

Embedded Figures Questions for SSC CHSL/ SSC Stenographer/ SSC CPO EXAMS

3) Directions: Select the option figure in which the given figure is embedded. (Rotation is NOT allowed)

1722793116181

1)
1722793144208

2)
1722793170057

3)
1722793197512

4)
1722793218905

Hint: Try fixing the question figure into one of the option figures.

Solution

Since the rotation is restricted. So, the embedded figure will have the same orientation as the main figure. By comparison of all the option figures, the given question figure is embedded only in the second option figure.

1722793265247

Hence, the second option is correct.

4) Directions: Select the option figure in which the given figure is embedded. (Rotation is not allowed.)

1722793301519

1)
1722793321834

2)
1722793343620

3)
1722793367922

4)
1722793396103

Hint: Try fixing the question figure into one of the option figures.

Solution

As there is a restriction on the rotation of the figure, we will check where the question figure can exactly fit itself in the given option figures.

By comparison of all the option figures, the given question figure is embedded only in the fourth option figure.

1722793446226

Hence, the fourth option is correct.

Embedded Figures Questions for SSC-CGL/ Railway Recruitment Board Exams

5) Directions: Select the option figure in which the given figure is embedded. (Rotation is NOT allowed)

1722793573639

1)
1722793598090

2)
1722793621295

3)
1722793649277

4)
1722793669626

Hint: Try fixing the question figure into one of the option figures.

Solution

Since the rotation is restricted. So, the embedded figure will have the same orientation as the main figure. By comparison of all the option figures, the given question figure is embedded only in the first option figure.

1722793716172

Hence, the first option is correct.

6) Directions: Select the option in which the following figure is embedded (Rotation is NOT allowed).

1722793754547

1)
1722793778531

2)
1722793803181

3)
1722793855313

4)
1722793891008

Hint: Compare the given question figure with all the option figures and identify the option figure in which the given question figure is embedded.

Solution

Since there is a restriction on the rotation of the figure, we will check where the question figure can exactly fit itself in the given option figures.

By comparison of all the option figures, the given question figure is embedded only in the fourth option figure.

1722793958725

Hence, the fourth option is correct.

Common Mistakes in Solving Embedded Figure Reasoning

Many aspirants make simple errors while attempting embedded figure questions in competitive exams. These mistakes usually happen due to rushing through the problem, overlooking rotations, or confusing similar-looking figures. Such errors can affect both accuracy and time management in reasoning tests. Below are some of the most common mistakes candidates must avoid while solving embedded figure reasoning.

Rushing Without Observing Details

  • Many candidates make the mistake of answering embedded figure questions in a hurry without carefully analyzing the figure.

  • In embedded figure reasoning, every small line, curve, or angle matters. Missing these details leads to wrong answers.

  • Always spend a few extra seconds scanning the figure before locking in your choice.

Confusing Similar-Looking Figures

  • One of the most common errors in embedded figures reasoning is getting trapped between two very similar-looking figures.

  • Examiners often include embedded image reasoning options that look almost identical to the given figure but differ slightly.

  • Focus on unique features (such as corners, curves, or shapes inside) instead of the overall look.

Ignoring Rotations or Flipped Figures

  • In many competitive exams like SSC, Bank, and Railway, embedded figures may appear rotated or mirrored.

  • Candidates often ignore this possibility and fail to identify the hidden figure.

  • If rotation is allowed, mentally rotate or flip the figure to check if it matches the option. This step is crucial in solving tough embedded figure questions.

Lack of Practice in Complex Embedded Figures

  • Simple embedded figure reasoning questions may seem easy, but complex figures require consistent practice.

  • Many aspirants lack speed and accuracy because they avoid practicing difficult embedded image reasoning sets.

  • Without solving multiple examples, candidates may struggle in exams like UPSC, SSC, and Banking, where embedded figures reasoning questions are common.

Embedded Figure Reasoning Tricks and Shortcuts

Solving embedded figure reasoning questions becomes easier when candidates use the right techniques. Simple tricks like breaking down the figure, using the elimination method, and focusing on unique parts of the design can save time and improve accuracy in exams. Below are some useful shortcuts and strategies to solve embedded figure reasoning quickly and effectively.

Step-by-Step Method to Identify Hidden Figures

  • Break down the main figure into small parts instead of looking at the entire image at once.

  • To solve the questions of embedded figures reasoning, aspirants must have the following understanding:

    • If more than one figure is hidden, start from the easiest one as it will boost confidence.

    • Compare sections of the main figure with the given figure gradually instead of in a glance.

  • This step-by-step approach improves accuracy in embedded figure questions with answers.

Elimination Method for Tough Embedded Image Reasoning Questions

  • In difficult embedded figure questions, directly finding the answer can be tricky.

  • Instead, eliminate options that clearly don’t match the given figure.

  • By using this shortcut, the chances of identifying the correct embedded figure solution increase significantly.

Focusing on Unique Parts of the Figure

  • Every embedded figure reasoning question has a unique element that differentiates it.

  • Instead of checking the entire figure, focus on a distinctive portion such as a corner, angle, or curve.

  • Spotting this unique part makes it easier to find the correct embedded image reasoning solution.

Time Management in Embedded Figure Reasoning

  • Competitive exams like SSC, IBPS, and Railway have strict time limits, so managing speed in embedded figure reasoning questions is vital.

  • Do not waste time on a single tough question—move to the next and return later if time permits.

  • Practicing mock tests with a timer will enhance both speed and accuracy in solving embedded figures reasoning.

Verbal Reasoning Topics

Verbal reasoning topics test a candidate’s ability to understand, analyze, and interpret written information logically. These questions are widely asked in exams like SSC, Banking, CAT, UPSC, and other competitive tests to check problem-solving and comprehension skills. Below are the major verbal reasoning topics that aspirants must cover for effective preparation.


About the Faculty
Tanu Gupta, with over a decade of experience as a reasoning faculty, specializes in preparing students for various entrance examinations and career development. Her extensive work with multiple educational platforms and institutions has honed her expertise in logical and analytical thinking. Her dedication to innovative teaching methods ensures these articles provide practical insights and expert guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Where can I find practice sets for embedded figures?
A:

There are many online resources such as practice sets, and mock tests available where one can practice to gain efficiency in embedded figures topics.

Q: Are embedded figures frequently asked in competitive exams?
A:

Yes, embedded figures are frequently asked under the reasoning aptitude section of competitive exams.

Q: What is the weightage of the questions of embedded figures in the exams?
A:

 In government job exams, aspirants can expect 2 to 5 questions.

Q: How to ace the topic of embedded figures during exams?
A:

To ace the embedded figures topic practice the maximum number of questions possible to gain a visual perception of the questions and develop problem-solving skills. Try to solve those questions first that are easier to determine and then revisit the challenging ones to manage time as well.

Q: What is the skill set required to solve the questions based on the embedded figures?
A:

Aspirants need to focus on the shapes that need to be identified from the background clutter. They need to mentally rotate the target shape to identify it in the background clutter. Practise as many questions as possible to develop visual perceptual skills.

Q: What is embedded figure?
A:

Embedded figure is a figure with the complex design would be given and in that complex figure, aspirants need to find the embedded figure being asked for.

Q: How do you solve embedded figures?
A:

To solve the questions based on Embedded figures, aspirants need to focus on the shape that needs to be identified and should be able to distinguish that particular shape from the background clutter in the main figure.

Q: What is the meaning of an embedded image?
A:

Embedded figures are those figures that are hidden inside another figure.