Find the Next Code: MHZ, NIW, OKT, PNQ, (?) — determine the 3-letter continuation by analyzing per-column shifts.

Introduction / Context:
Three-letter codes can evolve via independent arithmetic progressions on each column. Identify those step sizes and extend them.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Codes: M H Z, N I W, O K T, P N Q, ?
• Column shifts appear regular but asymmetric.

Concept / Approach:
Compute column-wise movements (A=1 … Z=26):

Step-by-Step Solution:
Col1: M→N→O→P: +1 each → next Q.Col2: H→I (+1), I→K (+2), K→N (+3): step sizes +1, +2, +3 → next +4 → R.Col3: Z→W (−3), W→T (−3), T→Q (−3): constant −3 → next −3 → N.Hence the next code is Q R N.

Verification / Alternative check:
The strictly increasing +1/+2/+3 pattern in column 2, paired with constant −3 in column 3, uniquely yields QRN.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• RRN, QRM, QQN: each violates at least one of the column progressions.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming equal steps in all columns; only column 1 is constant +1, column 2 accelerates, column 3 stays −3.

Final Answer:
QRN