If the numbers 93, 204, and 256 are arranged in ascending order, which of the following is correct?

Introduction / Context:
This question tests basic understanding of ordering numbers. While it looks simple, such questions are important in early parts of aptitude tests and can also appear in data interpretation where quick recognition of ascending and descending order matters.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Numbers: 93, 204, 256.
• We need to list them in ascending order.
• All numbers are positive integers and are compared on the usual number line.

Concept / Approach:
Ascending order means arranging numbers from smallest to largest. We compare their magnitudes. Since all three numbers have different sizes, we identify the smallest, the middle, and the largest.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Compare 93 and 204. Since 93 is a two digit number and 204 is a three digit number, 93 is smaller than 204.Step 2: Compare 204 and 256. Both are three digit numbers, but 204 has smaller hundreds and tens portions than 256, so 204 is smaller than 256.Step 3: Combine these observations: the numbers in increasing order are 93, then 204, then 256.Step 4: Write in inequality form: 93 < 204 < 256.

Verification / Alternative check:
On a mental number line, numbers grow as we move to the right. 93 is less than 100, 204 is a little above 200, and 256 is above 250, so clearly the order 93, 204, 256 is correct.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• 256 < 204 < 93: This reverses the true magnitude relationship, placing the largest number first.
• 204 < 256 < 93: This incorrectly places 93, the smallest number, at the end.
• 256 < 93 < 204: This puts the largest number first and does not represent ascending order.

Common Pitfalls:
Although this problem is straightforward, in timed tests candidates sometimes misread the symbols or quickly tick a choice without carefully checking the order of all three numbers. It is wise to read inequalities slowly and confirm that each symbol points from smaller to larger in ascending order questions.

Final Answer:
The correct ascending order is 93 < 204 < 256.