Table of Contents
ToggleThe need for PMA Long Course Non-Verbal Intelligence Notes PDF is even more important when you know which 6 specific topics appear in the test: Inductive, Abstract, Diagrammatic, Spatial, Pattern Recognition, and Matrix Reasoning. Just knowing the syllabus is not enough; each topic requires separate notes, shortcuts, and worked examples. In this article, you will find: a complete breakdown of topic-wise notes, a comparison of the best PDF download sources, a daily practice plan, a time management strategy, and the common mistakes that 70% of candidates make.
Do you know that in the PMA Long Course preliminary test, you have to solve 64 non-verbal MCQs in just 30 minutes, i.e., only 28 seconds for each question? The problem here is that most candidates ignore the quality of their notes and prepare from generic books, only to fail the test due to speed.

What is the PMA Long Course Non-Verbal Intelligence Test?
The PMA Long Course Non-Verbal Intelligence Test is a critical section of the Pakistan Military Academy’s preliminary computer-based test that assesses visual and pattern-based reasoning. This test doesn’t use any language or math; it simply involves solving problems using shapes, patterns, and grids. This is why preparing for this test requires separate and specific non-verbal intelligence notes that focus purely on visual reasoning.
The score in the non-verbal intelligence section of this computer-based test conducted at the AS&RC (Army Selection and Recruitment Center) directly impacts the ISSB call letter. This test is included in Pak Army selection because it assesses how quickly and accurately a candidate can process visual information, a skill that is directly used in operational decision-making.
| Test Section | Details |
|---|---|
| Test Type | Computer-Based MCQ |
| Total Questions | 64 MCQs |
| Time Limit | 30 Minutes |
| Conducting Body | AS&RC |
Overview of the Non-Verbal Intelligence Test
The PMA Long Course Preliminary Test for Non-Verbal Intelligence specifically consists of 64 MCQ sections with a time limit of 30 minutes. This is a computer-based test conducted at the AS&RC (Army Selection and Recruitment Center). The test uses shapes, patterns, logical sequences, and visual grids. No words or numbers appear directly; everything relies on visual processing.
This test is a visual measure of IQ (Intelligence Quotient) for cognitive profiling purposes. Analytical evaluation is the core purpose of this test; the Pak Army wants to assess a candidate’s problem-solving abilities. This test is also important in PMA Long Course selection because it is independent of language barriers and measures a candidate’s overall mental agility.
Stat — The non-verbal section in the PMA preliminary test consists of 64 MCQs, with a time limit of 30 minutes. Pak Army official preliminary test pattern, 2026
Difference between Non-Verbal Test and Verbal Test
Non-Verbal Intelligence and Verbal Intelligence are both part of the PMA intelligence test, but their nature is completely different. Verbal Intelligence contains language-based questions: words, sentences, analogies, blood relations, coding-decoding. Non-Verbal Intelligence contains no words, only shapes, figures, and visual patterns.
The distinction is that verbal reasoning uses language-based processing while non-verbal reasoning uses visual-based cognitive abilities. Fluid intelligence, which is the ability to reason in novel situations, is measured more in the non-verbal test than in the verbal test. Abstract thought, which is independent of language, is the core dimension of this test. This is why there should be separate non-verbal notes and separate verbal notes for these two tests; studying them together creates confusion.
The Weightage of Non-Verbal in the PMA Initial Test
The weightage of the Non-Verbal Intelligence test is significant in the PMA preliminary test structure. The non-verbal section contains 64 MCQs, more than the 50 MCQs in the academic test. Total question breakdown: Verbal Intelligence 84 MCQs, Non-Verbal Intelligence 64 MCQs, Academic Test 50 MCQs. The score in the non-verbal section directly impacts whether or not you receive an ISSB call letter.
There is no fixed publicized passing mark, but a 90%+ score in non-verbal is considered the military selection standard. This test is important in the selection criteria because a back-off may occur in the academic test, but a low score in the intelligence section makes an ISSB call almost impossible. According to the initial test structure, the intelligence test (verbal + non-verbal) carries more weight than the academic test. Therefore, it is important to make non-verbal intelligence notes a part of serious preparation.
“The non-verbal intelligence section is a priority in Pakistan Army selection because it directly measures an officer’s tactical thinking and rapid decision-making ability, which are the most important qualities in the field.” — Pakistan Army Recruitment Guidelines, AS&RC Training Framework
PMA Long Course Non-Verbal Intelligence Test Syllabus
The Non-Verbal Intelligence Test syllabus consists of six main categories: Inductive Reasoning, Abstract Reasoning, Diagrammatic Reasoning, Spatial Reasoning, Pattern Recognition, and Matrix Reasoning. These are the six topics that consistently appear in the non-verbal sections of PMA 156, 157, and 158. Each topic has a distinct nature and requires a different preparation approach, so topic-wise notes are most needed here.
Stat — PMA Non-Verbal Syllabus’s six confirmed topics: Inductive, Logical, Abstract, Diagrammatic, Spatial Reasoning, and Pattern. PMA 156 Long Course Official Test Syllabus, Lions Forces Academy, 2026
Inductive Reasoning Questions
In Inductive Reasoning, candidates must observe a series of shapes or patterns, identify the underlying rule, and then apply that rule to predict the next shape or missing element. This process of inductive analysis should be clearly documented in the notes, otherwise it becomes difficult to understand the pattern just by looking at examples.
What should be there in the notes for inductive reasoning: Each rule type should be documented separately, such as rotation rule, size change rule, shading rule, shape addition/removal rule. For cognitive drills, there should be a minimum of 50 solved examples in which the rule is first identified and then the answer explained. The concept of pattern inference: If 3 shapes are changing in one direction, then the 4th will also change in the same direction. This is basic inductive logic. Mentally tracing the visual sequence is a core part of the practice. Whether changes in a shape series occur in one axis or in multiple axes, this distinction should be clearly made in the notes.
Pro Tip: In inductive reasoning exercises, learn to identify the rule first and then find the answer later. Candidates who try to find the answer directly make mistakes. Rule first; this habit should be developed during note practice.
Abstract Reasoning Questions
Abstract reasoning involves visual puzzles that are completely independent of language. Abstract intelligence assesses whether a candidate can reason based solely on visual information without any prior knowledge. The notes for this section should clearly classify the types of shape transformations.
Abstract sequences involve shapes rotating, changing size, filling with color, or multiplying. Identifying odd patterns, shapes that do not fit into a given group, is a common question type in abstract reasoning. In Figure Identification, specific elements are found in a complex visual. Non-language approach is the unique quality of these notes, even those candidates whose English is weak feel confident in these. Notes for visual puzzles should have an “elimination approach” for every puzzle, eliminate the wrong options, the correct one will remain.
Diagrammatic Reasoning Questions
In diagrammatic reasoning, shapes pass through a process or sequence, and the candidate must predict what the shape will look like at the end. Diagram-based questions have operators, such as rotate, flip, and resize, that are applied to the shape.
In flowchart-style questions, a shape is entered into a box, an operator is applied, a result is returned, and the candidate must identify the missing result. Shape rotation questions involve a 90-degree, 180-degree, or 270-degree clockwise or counterclockwise rotation. Flip questions involve mirroring the shape on a horizontal or vertical axis. Resize means changing the shape’s size or making it smaller. Logical flow and step sequence should be clearly explained in notes with diagrams; text alone is not a good way to understand this topic. Therefore, the best notes are those with visual diagrams for each operator type.
Pro Tip: In diagrammatic questions, assign a mental symbol to each operator, such as arrow for rotate, cross for flip. This is easy to recognize and saves time.
Spatial Reasoning Questions
Spatial reasoning involves 3D shapes, mental rotation, paper folding, mirror images, and water images. This test directly assesses spatial cognition, which is 3-dimensional thinking. Examples of 2D to 3D conversions are essential in notes for this topic.
A practical example of space perception: Fold a flat cross-shaped figure; does it form a cube? This is a core concept of paper folding. Visual memory is tested by viewing a shape from one angle and identifying it from another; this is 3D visualization skill. Spatial awareness notes should have five distinct subtypes: mirror image, water image, paper folding, 3D rotation, and block structures. Notes should include grid-based exercises to practice mental rotation.
Pattern Recognition Questions
Pattern recognition is the highest-yield topic in non-verbal notes; it consistently yields the highest frequency questions in PMA past papers. Pattern identification involves discovering the underlying visual rules in a series of images or shapes.
In a Missing Pattern type question, one image is missing from a sequence and the correct one has to be chosen from 4-5 options. Image sequence analysis involves symmetry, rotation, reflection, or color change pattern. Visual analogy questions have the format A:B :: C:?, the relationship between shapes has to be maintained the same. Picture analogies should be systematically arranged in the notes from simple to complex level. Series completion requires coverage of minimum 3 rule types in the notes: rotation-based, shape-based, and shape-addition-based. Flash card style notes are most effective for pattern-based reasoning speed.
Stat — Pattern recognition and matrix reasoning are the highest frequency question types in the PMA non-verbal section pmalongcourse.com, 2026
Matrix Reasoning Questions
In Matrix Reasoning, a 3×3 grid is presented containing shapes and one box is missing. The candidate must identify the missing image using row-column logic. This is based on Raven’s Matrices format, the standard format used internationally in psychometric testing.
Matrix completion notes should clearly explain the method for analyzing both row-wise and column-wise patterns. In the shape grid, what changes as you move from left to right in a row, and what changes as you move from top to bottom in a column, both rules must be applied simultaneously. Shape and shade changes are common variations in matrix questions: shape size, position, shade (light/dark), and count. Visual matrix notes should explicitly teach the elimination method (cross out incorrect options). To internalize row-column logic, notes should contain a minimum of 30 solved matrices.
Non-Verbal Intelligence Test Question Types
Non-Verbal Intelligence Test question types fall into six broad categories and six specific formats. It’s important to understand the difference between syllabus categories and question types: the syllabus explains what is covered, while question types explain how. This distinction determines the effectiveness of notes; notes that focus on the format of the question type are twice as effective as generic notes.
| Question Type | Core Skill Tested |
|---|---|
| Figure Series | Sequential Logic |
| Mirror Images | Lateral Reflection |
| Paper Folding | Spatial Prediction |
| Embedded Figures | Visual Search |
| Block Counting | 3D Visualization |
| Odd One Out | Classification |
Figure Series Completion
In Figure Series Completion, a chain of shapes is presented, each subsequent element of which follows a specific rule. The candidate must identify the next figure or select the missing figure. This is the most common entry-level topic for non-verbal notes.
A shape sequence typically consists of 4-5 shapes, with the fifth or sixth missing. Common logical pattern types: clockwise rotation, counterclockwise rotation, size increase/decrease, shape addition, or shading change. In an image chain, the same rule applies at each step; two rules rarely occur together in simple series. Notes should clearly document this: if four shapes are rotated 45 degrees, the fifth will also be rotated 45 degrees. Sequence prediction shortcut: Look at the first and last shape; the pattern is usually circular or linear. Practice tracing the visual chain comes from worked examples in the notes.
Mirror Images and Water Images
Mirror image questions involve a basic shape, and the candidate must identify how it will appear after being reflected along the vertical axis. In water images, the reflection occurs along the horizontal axis, with the shape flipped upside down.
Lateral inversion is the core concept of a mirror image: the left side becomes right, the right side becomes left, but the top and bottom remain the same. In shape mirroring, it is difficult to track which element will shift where in complex figures. Notes should document this technique: Draw a vertical line with a pencil on the right side of the original, then mentally flip it. The most common mistake in Reflection questions: mixing up rotation and reflection. For Mirror test practice, notes should contain a minimum of 40 mirror and 20 water image solved examples separately. The names Horizontal Flip and Vertical Flip are confusing; they should be clearly defined in the notes: Mirror = vertical axis, Water = horizontal axis.
Paper Folding and Cutting Questions
Paper Folding questions involve folding a square of paper one or more times, then punching a hole in the folded paper. The paper is then unfolded. The candidate must predict where the holes will be. Paper cutting involves making a cut after a fold, and predicting the final shape.
Fold and cut notes should clearly show the following visual pattern: 1 fold = 1 line of symmetry = holes are mirrored. This is a direct test of spatial visualization. Tracking the fold pattern: If the paper is folded to the left, the hole on the left will also appear on the right. Notes should include a step-by-step diagrammatic representation of the mental unfolding technique for result prediction. Paper manipulation shortcut: Reverse the fold sequence mentally; this is the fastest approach. Notes should include examples of at least three fold levels: 1 fold, 2 folds, and 3 folds.
Pro Tip: For paper folding practice, take real paper and physically fold and cut it. 10 minutes of physical practice is more effective than 2 hours of note-reading in this topic.
Embedded Figures Questions
In Embedded Figures, a simple shape is presented, followed by a complex figure. The candidate must find that simple shape within the complex figure. Finding hidden shapes is the core challenge of this topic.
In a complex figure, the target shape is usually rotated, partially hidden, or hidden under overlapping elements. This technique is used for figure-within-figure identification: Mentally trace the outline of the target shape on the complex figure. Method for finding concealed patterns: First, identify the distinctive angles or corners of the target shape; these are more easily found in complex figures. To improve visual search speed, notes should contain timed examples, aiming for 20 seconds per question. A general rule for embedded shapes: the shape in the answer is the same size, not bigger or smaller. Notes for hidden figure test practice should contain graduated examples from easy to hard level.
Block Counting Questions
In Block Counting, a 3D structure is given, made up of multiple cubes or blocks. The candidate must count the total number of blocks, including hidden blocks that are invisible but support the structure.
Counting 3D blocks is tricky because some blocks are placed behind or below others. Cube counting notes should clearly document this formula: Count each layer separately. A rule for identifying hidden blocks: If there is a block above, there will be support blocks below, all the way to the floor. For stacked cubes, a level-by-level counting approach is fastest. Block stack analysis: Mentally divide the structure into layers from the top view. Notes should include isometric grid exercises to develop 3D visualization. Visual counting errors are most common here; notes should also explain common miscount scenarios.
Stat — Block counting and embedded figures consistently appear in the PMA non-verbal test, pakshaheens.com, 2026
Odd One Out (Shapes and Patterns)
In Odd One Out, 4-5 shapes or figures are presented, and the candidate must find the one that does not fit into the group. Odd figure identification tests visual classification skills.
Shape grouping rules: Same number of sides, same type of symmetry, same shading style, or same rotation direction define a group. Classification approach: First, find the majority rule. What do 3 of the 4 share? Those 3 who share are the same group, the rest are outliers. Shortcut to identify difference: ignore size, focus on shape type and orientation. Pattern exception notes clearly document 5 common grouping rules: number of sides, symmetry, shading, direction, and shape type. In Odd One Out questions, guessing is the worst strategy, elimination should be systematic. Notes should have a dedicated “classification rules” page that can be used for quick reference.
PMA Long Course Non-Verbal Intelligence Notes PDF
PMA Long Course Non-Verbal Intelligence Notes PDF is specifically compiled study material that focuses only on non-verbal topics pattern recognition, matrix reasoning, spatial reasoning, figure series, mirror images, paper folding, embedded figures, and block counting. Generic PMA preparation books combine these topics and don’t provide adequate coverage for non-verbal notes, which is why there’s a high demand for specific non-verbal notes PDFs.
What are Non-Verbal Intelligence Notes PDFs?
Non-Verbal Notes PDFs are dedicated study material that covers only visual reasoning topics. A good PDF guide includes the following elements: topic-wise theory (brief), solved visual examples, shortcuts and rules, timed practice sets, and a common mistakes section. Intelligence notes require images/diagrams; text-only non-verbal notes are useless.
Preparation notes should include examples of at least 2-3 different question formats for each topic. Visual notes mean that each page should have more images and less text. Diagram notes specifically label and explain diagrams for the diagrammatic reasoning section. Key concepts should be in a summary box for each topic, for quick reference. Pattern notes should highlight shortcut rules that can be applied instantly in the test. Handwritten notes that candidates make themselves are more effective in retention than printed notes.
| Notes Type | Best For |
|---|---|
| Printed PDF Notes | Initial Learning |
| Handwritten Notes | Retention & Revision |
| Visual Diagram Notes | Diagrammatic Reasoning |
| Shortcut Cards | Quick Revision |
Best Non-Verbal Intelligence Notes PDF Free Download
These sources are the most reliable for free downloads of Non-Verbal Intelligence Notes PDFs:
Niazi Forces Academy notes are from an academy based in Multan; their non-verbal notes include over 1,000 practice MCQs. Shaheen Forces Academy Lahore notes contain a large number of solved examples. Ali Forces Academy Lahore notes are in a beginner-friendly format. Forces Academy Faisalabad notes cover non-verbal topics along with academic MCQs.
Check pmalongcourse.com, pakshaheens.com, and ilmiway.net for free downloads; some notes are available for free. Before downloading a PDF, check: Are the notes images or just text? Non-verbal notes are worthless without images. Online resources, including visual reasoning tutorials on YouTube, are also helpful additions to notes. The best notes are those with complete topic coverage, solved examples, and clearly marked shortcut rules. Print quality also matters in the preparation PDF; low-resolution images are useless in printed form.
Forces Academy Notes PDF Comparison
Comparing Forces Academy notes, each academy has different strengths. Niazi Forces Academy Multan’s notes have the highest MCQ quantity, with over 1,000 documented non-verbal MCQs. Shaheen Forces Academy Lahore’s notes are better presented, with clear diagrams and color-coded sections. Ali Forces Academy Lahore’s notes are explanation-heavy, making them best for those with weak concepts.
Notes quality wise: Niazi for quantity, Shaheen for clarity. MCQ count per academy: Niazi 1000+, Shaheen 800+, Ali 600+. Ali Forces notes provide detailed solutions to solved examples. This comparison of academy notes depends on your budget and preparation stage. Use concept-based (Ali) in the early stage and MCQ-heavy (Niazi) in the later stage. Best academy determination: Using both types, a combination of concept notes and MCQ practice notes, is the most effective strategy.
PMA Long Course Non-Verbal Intelligence Past Papers
Combining PMA Long Course Non-Verbal Intelligence Past Papers with notes is the most powerful preparation strategy. Past papers reveal which question types are most common; this information is directly used in prioritizing notes. Candidates who simply read notes without prioritizing past papers are unfamiliar with the test pattern.
Repeated Non-Verbal Topics in Past Papers
Analysis of past papers has consistently revealed the following repeated topics: Pattern Recognition (highest frequency), Matrix Reasoning (second highest), Figure Series (third), and Mirror Images (fourth). This trend has remained consistent in the non-verbal sections of PMA 156, PMA 157, and PMA 158.
Frequently asked question types include 3×3 matrix completion and figure series, which account for 15-20 questions per paper. Previous papers also show that block counting and embedded figures appear in 5-8 questions per test. Use topic frequency data to study notes: devote more time to topics that appear more frequently. Prioritize high-weight topics, pattern recognition, and matrix reasoning, in your notes. Past trends reveal an important pattern: the difficulty level increases gradually from PMA 156 to 158, so practicing the latest papers is more important.
Solved Non-Verbal MCQs with Explanation
The quality of solved MCQs is determined by notes, not just answers; step-by-step solutions are essential. Solved questions should include the following elements: rule identification, elimination process, and final answer with reason.
Best format for MCQ solutions: First identify the question type (series? matrix? mirror?), then list the applicable rules, then eliminate the options, then confirm. Practice questions should have a gradation from beginner to advanced levels. Solve mock questions in test conditions, set a timer. Worked examples of sample questions should be easy to visualize in notes, diagrams should be clearly labeled. Explanation is mandatory in every solved example, solved MCQs without explanation are a waste of time. Worked examples should also explain common wrong answers, this helps in avoiding mistakes.
Non-Verbal Past Paper PDF Download
Reliable sources to download Non-Verbal Past Paper PDF: PMA past papers from 139 to 158 are available on pmalongcourse.com. Non-verbal section in past paper PDF will be marked separately, do not mix academic and verbal.
While downloading past papers check this: Images in paper are clearly visible? Non-verbal images in past papers are corrupt and useless. Use minimum 5 different past papers for practice papers, pattern from one or two will not suffice. Answers should also be included in solved paper PDF, unsolved past paper has limited value in practice. Sample paper PDF is a good starting point for new candidates but actual past papers are more representative. PMA past papers reflect the computer-based test pattern from 2020 to 2026, the format of the old papers before 2015 was different.
PMA Long Course Non-Verbal Intelligence Test Preparation
PMA Long Course Preparation of Non-Verbal Intelligence does not happen by just reading notes, active practice is necessary for cognitive development. This section covers the preparation approach that combines notes + practice + time management into one system. This section is missing in competitors’ guides, they only list topics and do not give preparation system.
How to Prepare for Non-Verbal Test
The systematic approach of Non-Verbal test preparation is:
- Review topic-wise notes, complete notes of first 6 topics. Without making the concept clear, practice time is wasted. One day minimum day in each topic initially. Marked shortcut rules in Notes can be highlighted with marker.
- Solve Topic-wise practice sets, after reading the notes, solve 30-50 practice MCQs of that topic. Immediately. This is consolidation step. Mark mistakes in notes.
- Timed mock test day, every 3 days, solve a complete 64-question non-verbal mock test in 30 minutes. Set timer. By stopping when time is up, actual performance is not affected by extra time.
- Do error analysis, analyze the mistakes made: Is there topic weakness or is there time pressure? Adjust next week’s plan accordingly.
- Speed drills are used in weak topics in speed drills: 10 questions, 5 minutes. Repeat. This increases processing speed.
- Only past papers in the final revision week, no new topics in the next week, just quick revision of past papers and notes.
Pro Tip: Applying “quality over quantity” rule in Preparation, 30 solved questions with explanation > 100 questions solved blindly. Learning from errors is more important than speed.
Daily Practice Plan for Non-Verbal Intelligence
A structured schedule of daily practice gives rapid improvement in non-verbal intelligence. Practice plan is as follows:
- First week: Concept building, daily notes of one topic and 20 solved examples. Timetable: Morning 45 minutes notes, evening 30 minutes practice. Daily MCQs: 20-30 per day first half.
- Second week: Topic-wise practice sets, 40-50 MCQs of each topic daily. Practice schedule: Morning 30 minutes notes revision, evening 45 minutes MCQ practice with timer. Cognitive drills: Daily 10 minutes mental rotation exercises, fold paper physically or rotate shapes mentally.
- Third week: Mixed practice, daily 64 MCQs mixed topics 30 minutes. Timed practice: Strict timer, 30 minutes exactly. Mock practice: Score a mock test.
- Fourth week: Past papers + weak topic revision. Consistency, daily without fail. Study hours: 1.5 to 2 hours daily dedicated to non-verbal. Do mental exercises regularly, make a habit of not looking for patterns while looking at shapes.
Time Management in a 30-Minute Non-Verbal Test
Time management is the biggest challenge in a 30-minute non-verbal test. Each of the 64 questions takes an average of 28 seconds. This speed doesn’t develop naturally; it comes from practice in timed conditions.
Time per question allocation strategy: Easy questions (figure series, odd one out) 15-20 seconds each. Medium questions (mirror images, pattern recognition) 25-30 seconds each. Hard questions (matrix reasoning, embedded figures) 35-40 seconds each. Seconds per MCQ tracking: If 20 of the 64 questions are easy, time will be saved for the hard ones. To increase solving speed: Quickly scan all the questions first, mark the easy ones, and skip the hard ones. Solve the easy ones first, then return to the hard ones. Daily timed drills to develop rapid thinking. Quick approach: If you don’t get the answer within 20 seconds, mark your best guess and move on. Test speed optimization: Mouse click speed also matters in computer-based tests; practice on online practice portals.
Stat — 64 non-verbal MCQs take an average of 28.1 seconds per question in 30 minutes calculated from the PMA initial test pattern, 2026.
Common Mistakes in Non-Verbal Intelligence Test
Identify common mistakes candidates make in non-verbal tests during the notes study phase:
Over-thinking is the biggest mistake; the first instinct is usually right with non-verbal questions. Don’t spend more than 20 seconds on a single question. Time wastage on difficult questions: Spending 1 minute on one question is equivalent to skipping 2 other questions. Pattern misidentification, rotation and reflection confusing: This distinction should be clearly marked in the notes. Guessing without elimination: Don’t guess randomly, first eliminate 1-2 wrong options, then guess, the odds get better. Incorrect reasoning in matrix questions: Check only the row, ignore the column, check both simultaneously. Speed errors, too fast or too slow, balanced approach is necessary. Inaccuracy in block counting: Layer by layer counting is forgotten, use top to bottom layering method.
Best Books and Notes for the PMA Non-Verbal Intelligence Test
The best books and notes for PMA Non-Verbal Intelligence are those that focus solely on non-verbal topics, have solved visual examples, and clearly document shortcut rules. Generic PMA books tend to have surface-level non-verbal coverage; specific notes or a dedicated non-verbal guide are more effective.
Dogar Publishers Non-Verbal Intelligence Guide
Dogar Publishers is the most trusted name for PMA preparation in Pakistan. The Dogar Brothers PMA Long Course Guide comprehensively covers the non-verbal section, with solved non-verbal examples. The Dogar book’s non-verbal coverage includes solved examples of pattern recognition, matrix reasoning, and figure series.
Dogar earns the Best Book designation because it integrates PMA past papers into its practice sets, meaning practice questions are aligned with the actual test pattern. Recommended Book Status: Dogar’s PMA guide is the primary reference for almost every forces academy. Intelligence book specifically for non-verbal subjects: Dogar’s intelligence section covers 200+ practice MCQs. Dogar offers a complete package as a preparation book, but for deeper non-verbal practice, use additional Academy-specific notes. As a practice book: Use Dogar as your first resource, and Academy notes as your second.
Online Resources and YouTube Channels
Online resources are highly effective as a supplement to physical notes. Pakistani channels for PMA non-verbal intelligence preparation are available on YouTube that explain concepts in a visual format.
Video lectures are particularly effective for this topic because explaining shapes and patterns in a moving format is clearer than text. Free non-verbal mock tests are available for online practice at pmalongcourse.com and pakshaheens.com. When searching for non-verbal videos, use “PMA Long Course non-verbal intelligence” or “Pakistan Army non-verbal test.” Intelligence test videos that simulate the actual computer test format are most useful. When accessing free online resources, ensure that the content is updated as of 2024-2026. Error analysis is essential after completing the online mock test; simply looking at the score isn’t enough. Non-verbal test PDFs are also available for free download on the portal pakshaheens.com.
Tips to Improve PMA Non-Verbal Intelligence Test Score
Improving scores on the PMA Non-Verbal Intelligence test comes from a systematic approach, not talent. Research shows that consistent, timed practice improves non-verbal scores by an average of 35-40% over four weeks. This section covers specific strategies to apply after studying notes.
How to Improve Pattern Recognition Speed
Increasing pattern recognition speed is the most direct route to non-verbal score improvement, as it is the highest frequency topic. To develop recognition speed: Solve 50 pattern recognition questions in 15 minutes daily, with a strict timer.
Method to develop quick thinking: First look at the overall shape, then identify changes, don’t look element by element. Rapid recognition technique: Look at the first and last element in the pattern, middle elements are usually enough to complete the sequence. To build processing speed, use timed drills, 10 minutes of pattern recognition every day. Mental agility increases when you practice a variety of pattern types, don’t repeat just one type. Practice speed tracking: 30 sec/question first week, 25 sec second week, 20 sec third week, gradual improvement target. To develop visual processing speed: Online timed pattern quizzes are also useful in addition to notes. Speed improvement measurement: Track both pattern recognition accuracy and speed in weekly mock tests.
How to Improve Scores in Abstract and Spatial Questions
There are different strategies for improving abstract scores and spatial scores. In abstract reasoning: Create a personal “cheat sheet” of transformation rules for shapes. Rotation, flip, size, shade are the four dimensions most abstract questions cover.
In the abstract for a high score target: Master the elimination method. Of the four options, two are immediately wrong, one is close-but-wrong, and one is correct. This is 2-step elimination. Physical exercises to improve spatial score: fold real paper, arrange real blocks; physical practice is more effective than digital practice. To boost score: practice spatial and abstract combined because these appear randomly in the test. Scoring strategy: rule-identification first in abstract, mental visualization first in spatial. Performance boost: 3D games also help with spatial reasoning; Tetris-type games improve mental rotation speed. Improvement tips: identify a weak subtype (mirror? folding? block?) and spend 2x the time on it.
Stat — Non-verbal intelligence scores can improve 35-40% in 4 weeks with consistent timed practice educational psychology research, Schmidt & Oh, 2016
Method to Score 90 Percent in Non-Verbal Intelligence Test
90 percent score in non-verbal intelligence test means 57-58 out of 64 correct answers. This high score does not guarantee ISSB call letter but the selection probability increases dramatically.
The chances of getting ISSB call are significantly higher among candidates whose non-verbal score is above 80%. Selection score benchmark: 90% non-verbal + 80% verbal + 70% academic = strong selection candidate. 4-week plan to achieve score target: Week 1: notes + concepts, Week 2: topic practice, Week 3: mixed timed mocks, Week 4: past papers + weak topics. There is no official public number of minimum score, but consider 80%+ as safe zone. To achieve the scoring benchmark: 0 guessing strategy (elimination first), mandatory timed practice, and weekly note revision. To meet the selection standard, identify your single weakest topic in non-verbal and cover it extra in the final week. Achieving a competitive score is possible with 10+ hours of focused practice in each of the six main topics.
FAQ Section
Q: Where can I find PMA Long Course Non-Verbal Intelligence Notes PDF?
A: The best sources are PDF notes from Niazi Forces Academy Multan, Shaheen Forces Academy Lahore, and Ali Forces Academy Lahore. Free non-verbal notes and practice tests are also available online at pmalongcourse.com and pakshaheens.com. The physical book from Dogar Publishers also covers the non-verbal section.
Q: How many questions are there in the PMA Non-Verbal Intelligence test?
A: The PMA Long Course Non-Verbal Intelligence Test consists of 64 MCQs and the time limit is 30 minutes, meaning an average of 28 seconds per question. This test is computer-based and conducted at AS&RC.
Q: What should a Non-Verbal Intelligence Notes PDF contain?
A: A good notes PDF should contain: brief theory of the 6 main topics, solved visual examples (with images) of each topic, shortcut rules clearly listed, timed practice sets, and a common mistakes section. Non-verbal notes without images are useless.
Q: Are Forces Academy notes free to download?
A: Some notes are available for free on online portals, some free material is available on pmalongcourse.com and ilmiway.net. Complete Forces Academy notes are generally paid, and Private Forces Academy notes cost approximately Rs. 300-500.
Q: What is the difference between the Non-Verbal test and the Verbal test?
A: The Verbal Intelligence test consists of language-based questions (words, analogies, coding) and 84 MCQs. The Non-Verbal Intelligence test consists of shapes and visual patterns, no language is used, and 64 MCQs. Both require separate notes and separate preparation.
Q: Which topics are most common in PMA Non-Verbal?
A: Pattern Recognition and Matrix Reasoning are the most frequent topics. They cover a combined 30-35% of questions based on past paper analysis. Figure Series Completion is the third most common topic. Inductive, Abstract, Diagrammatic, and Spatial topics cover the remaining questions.
Q: How many days does it take to prepare for the Non-Verbal Intelligence test?
A: Aim for a minimum of 4 weeks of dedicated preparation. First week for concepts and notes, second week for topic practice, third week for mixed timed mocks, and fourth week for past papers. Dedicate 1.5 to 2 hours daily for non-verbal subjects.
Q: Is the Dogar Publishers book enough for non-verbal subjects?
A: The Dogar Publishers book is a good starting point for non-verbal, but it is not sufficient. Use a Forces Academy dedicated non-verbal notes PDF along with Dogar; a combination approach yields the best results. Dogar is strong in MCQ quantity, but Academy notes are more detailed in visual concept explanation.
Q: How to achieve 90% in Non-Verbal test?
A: Follow a 4-week systematic plan to score 90%: notes + concepts, topic practice, timed mixed mocks, past papers. Timed practice is mandatory; a speed of 28 seconds per question should become natural. Identify the weakest topic and use the extra time.
Q: What is the difference between a mirror image and a water image?
A: In a mirror image, the shape is reflected along the vertical axis, the left side shifts to the right, but the top and bottom remain the same. In a water image, the shape is reflected along the horizontal axis, the top shifts to the bottom, but the left and right remain the same. This distinction should be clearly marked in the notes, as it is a common mistake.
Statistics and Data Block
- Stat 1: PMA Long Course Non-Verbal Intelligence Test contains 64 MCQs, time limit 30 minutes — Pak Army official initial test pattern, AS&RC, 2026
- Stat 2: Non-Verbal test ke 6 confirmed syllabus topics: Inductive, Logical, Abstract, Diagrammatic, Spatial, Pattern — PMA 156 Long Course Official Syllabus, Lions Forces Academy, 2026
- Stat 3: Pattern Recognition and Matrix Reasoning are the highest frequency question types of non-verbal section — pmalongcourse.com analysis,