Abstract
Relational reasoning, crucial for analogy, language, and mathematics, involves complex rule acquisition whose mechanisms remain largely unknown. We hypothesized that mastering component rules enhances learning of more complex integrated relational rules. We created an analog of a math task where shapes represent integers, colors represent sign, and spatial arrangement depicts comparison. We randomly assigned participants into four groups, manipulating pre-training to mastery on one sub-rule prior to training on the full task. Mastery in pre-training was a significant predictor of overall success. Interleaved practice of sub-rules without pre-training appeared most effective, yet low overall mastery after extensive trials suggests significant interference between sub-rules.