The aim of this paper is to identify talented students in three-dimensional computer graphics programming using cognitive load measurement and spatial ability test. Eleven students from the department of computing undertook a spatial ability test, a performance and a cognitive load test using task and performance-based techniques and, perception surveys. The results are supportive of previous research studies in building expertise. Students with high spatial ability who performed well in the task of generating three-dimensional computer graphics with low cognitive load measures were identified as talented students in three-dimensional computer graphics programming. This study suggests that people with higher abstract thinking have better ability to transfer skills from similar domains.