Chain of differences among three people: Amit was born 5 years before Rakesh, and Rakesh is 3 years younger than Anil. If Amit is now 17, how old is Anil?

Introduction / Context:
Age chains are solved by stepping differences forward or backward. Here we link three people via fixed gaps and use one absolute age to anchor the rest.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Amit (A) is 5 years older than Rakesh (R): A = R + 5.
• Rakesh is 3 years younger than Anil (N): R = N − 3.
• A = 17 (now).

Concept / Approach:
Express R and N in terms of A or vice versa, then compute.

Step-by-Step Solution:
1) From A = R + 5 and A = 17 ⇒ R = 12.2) From R = N − 3 ⇒ N = R + 3 = 15.

Verification / Alternative check:
Check gaps: A − R = 5 (17 − 12); N − R = 3 (15 − 12). All consistent.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
They violate one of the fixed differences when back-checked.

Common Pitfalls:
Reversing “younger than” vs “older than.” Carefully track sign and direction.

Final Answer:
15 years