Find the next two numbers in the series. Sequence: 42, 40, 38, 35, 33, 31, 28, ____ , ____

Introduction / Context:This is a decreasing series with a repeating difference pattern. Spotting a cycle of differences is a key skill in quantitative reasoning series problems.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Sequence provided: 42, 40, 38, 35, 33, 31, 28
• Find the next two terms.

Concept / Approach:Compute consecutive differences and look for a cycle.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:Plugging 26 and 24 maintains the -2, -2, -3 cycle if we look ahead to the subsequent step (which would be -3).

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• 25 22 / 26 23 / 25 23 / 26 22: Each breaks the required -2, -2 continuation after the -3 step.

Common Pitfalls:Many test-takers apply a constant difference or misread the cycle order. Always list differences explicitly and check for periodicity.

Final Answer:26 24