An Anthropomorphic Solver for Raven's Progressive Matrices

Abstract

This report describes a computer program for solving Raven's Progressive Matrices (RPM), a multiple choice test of abstract reasoning introduced by Dr. John C. Raven in 1936. Each RPM problem consists of a grid (or matrix) of 2x2 or 3x3 cells with graphical content, where the cell content in the bottom right corner is omitted; the solver's task is to pick the missing content from a set of eight solution candidates. We argue these problems are not only mathematical, but also psychological in nature. Due to this and other considerations such as algorithmic transparency, the program makes use of a simple cognitive model. The program solves RPM problems in a fully automatic fashion, without taking the solution candidates into account. The input is an RPM problem represented as a vector graphics file; the output is a complete or partial solution for the missing entry, represented in the same format. Internally we use multi-layered structures which enable the perception of the problems' different organizational levels. The program was tested on sections C, D and E of the Standard Progressive Matrices(SPM) and produced correct solutions for 28 of the 36 considered problems