Data Pattern Puzzles

Representing data is in part about algorithmically generated patterns. Understand the pattern to better understand the data representation. These puzzles give an active introduction to data representations though their underlying patterns.

These data pattern puzzles are suitable for primary school upwards.

What do you have to do?

Work out the pattern and so what the missing next pattern in the sequence is.

Why does it matter?

Choosing the right representation of data matters as it affects how the algorithms that apply to the data actually work.

Puzzle 1: Red squares

Puzzle 2: Circle Diamond Triangle

Puzzle 3: Diamonds

Puzzle 4: Squares and dots

Puzzle 5: Circles plus one

Puzzle 6: Diamonds and numbers

Puzzle 7: Lines and Ovals

Puzzle 8: Circles and Arrows

Puzzle 9: Square of Circles

Puzzle 10: Coloured shapes

These puzzles were inspired by the “Without Words” maths puzzles of James Tanton.

More Computer Science linked puzzles …

EPSRC supports Teaching London Computing and cs4fn through research grant EP/W033615/1.