Understanding the Dot Pattern Sequence

The question describes a pattern where each shape gains one additional dot compared to the previous shape in the series.

• The first shape has 1 dot.
• The second shape has 2 dots.
• The third shape has 3 dots.

The rule is that each subsequent shape adds one more dot. We can see this progression clearly:

• Shape 1: 1 dot
• Shape 2: 1 + 1 = 2 dots
• Shape 3: 2 + 1 = 3 dots

Determining the Next Shape

Following this established rule, the next shape in the series should have one more dot than the third shape.

Calculation for the next shape:

Number of dots in the next shape = Number of dots in the previous shape + 1

Number of dots in the next shape = \(3 + 1 = 4\)

Therefore, the next shape in the pattern should contain 4 dots.

Analyzing the Options

Let's look at the provided options:

1. Shape with 4 dots
2. Shape with 3 dots
3. Shape with 5 dots
4. Shape with 1 dot

Based on our analysis, the shape with 4 dots is the correct next element in the sequence.