What are some common patterns? For example, with shapes and objects, patterns include rotations, reflections, and translations. In counts or numbers, the pattern may be changing by division, multiplication, addition, or subtraction of the same or similar factor.
Rule out options if you are given a multiple-choice format. You can also eliminate patterns that do no exist.
There may be multiple patterns occurring. Focus on one sub-pattern at a time and follow it through. For example, what pattern are the dots forming?
Your thinking will be concentrated on sub-patterns. You may have followed a sub-pattern and forget the pattern when you trace another. Mark it down and then move on so you can come back to it.
Determine what facts are relevant in the statement.
Everything you need is in the statements. Filter out extraneous information and personal beliefs. A statement may have an assumption that is contradictory, but the statements to the proof are deducted from that reason.