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Number Patterns: Finding the Rule

In one line: A number pattern is a list of numbers that follows a rule, so once you find the rule you can work out what comes next.

Why it works

Spotting number patterns helps children skip count, learn times tables faster and check their own answers. It is also the first step towards algebra, where we describe rules using letters instead of words. In everyday life, patterns show up in house numbers, calendars and saving pocket money each week.

Think of it like: A number pattern is like a staircase where every step is the same height. If you know how big one step is, you can predict exactly where the next step will be, even before you climb it. (Where this breaks: Real stairs only go up and every step is the same size, but number patterns can also go down, and some patterns have jumps that grow bigger each time, such as doubling (2, 4, 8, 16).)

Worked example

Find the next two numbers in this pattern: 3, 7, 11, 15, __, __

  1. Look at the first two numbers: 3 to 7 is a jump of +4.
  2. Check the next jumps: 7 to 11 is +4, and 11 to 15 is +4.
  3. The jump is the same every time, so the rule is 'start at 3 and add 4 each time'.
  4. Apply the rule: 15 + 4 = 19.
  5. Apply it again: 19 + 4 = 23.

Answer: The next two numbers are 19 and 23.

Common mistakes

  • Checking only the first jump and guessing the rule — always check every jump in the pattern before deciding.
  • Adding when the pattern is actually going down — look at whether the numbers get bigger or smaller first, and subtract if they shrink.
  • Assuming every pattern adds the same amount — if the jumps keep changing, test whether the numbers are being doubled or multiplied instead.
  • Writing the jump instead of the next number (for example writing 4 instead of 19) — remember to add the jump to the last number in the list.

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What comes next? 5, 10, 15, 20, __

Questions parents ask

What year do kids learn number patterns?

Children start with skip counting in steps of 2, 5 and 10 around Year 1 in Australia and the UK (Kindergarten to Grade 1 in the US). Between Years 2 and 4 (Grades 2 to 4 in the US) they learn to find and describe rules, including patterns that go down and patterns with bigger steps such as 3s, 4s and 25s.

How can I help my child with number patterns at home?

Make up short patterns together and take turns guessing the rule, such as counting up in 3s on a car trip. Ask your child to say the rule out loud, like 'add 4 each time', because explaining it builds real understanding.

What is the 'rule' in a number pattern?

The rule is the instruction that turns one number into the next, such as 'add 5' or 'double it'. A full rule also says where the pattern starts, for example 'start at 3 and add 4 each time'.

Why does my child find patterns that go down harder?

Most early counting goes upwards, so children often add by habit. Encourage them to first ask 'Are the numbers getting bigger or smaller?' before working out the jump.