A mixed fraction and decimal number series is given with one term missing. Examine the pattern in 3/5, 1.4, 11/5, ?, 19/5, 4.6 and choose the correct alternative that completes the series.

Introduction / Context:
This series mixes fractions and decimals in a simple pattern. The given sequence is 3/5, 1.4, 11/5, ?, 19/5, 4.6. The challenge is to interpret all terms consistently and then identify the missing number using a clear arithmetic relationship. Such questions check whether candidates can recognise a basic progression even when the format of the numbers changes.

Given Data / Assumptions:
Series: 3/5, 1.4, 11/5, ?, 19/5, 4.6.
The numbers can be converted between fraction and decimal forms.
There should be a single arithmetic pattern, likely a constant increment.
Only one option will preserve the pattern when placed in the missing position.

Concept / Approach:
We convert all terms to decimals so that increments become easier to spot. 3/5 is 0.6, 1.4 remains 1.4, 11/5 is 2.2, 19/5 is 3.8, and 4.6 stays 4.6. Now the series becomes 0.6, 1.4, 2.2, ?, 3.8, 4.6. This strongly suggests an arithmetic progression with a constant difference, which we can calculate by subtracting consecutive terms.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Write the sequence in decimals: 0.6, 1.4, 2.2, ?, 3.8, 4.6. Difference from 0.6 to 1.4: 1.4 - 0.6 = 0.8. Difference from 1.4 to 2.2: 2.2 - 1.4 = 0.8. The common difference is 0.8. Add 0.8 to 2.2 to find the missing term: 2.2 + 0.8 = 3.0. Next, 3.0 + 0.8 = 3.8 and 3.8 + 0.8 = 4.6, which match the later terms. Thus, the missing term is 3.0, or simply 3. Therefore, the correct answer is 3.

Verification / Alternative check:
We verify the full arithmetic progression: 0.6, 1.4, 2.2, 3.0, 3.8, 4.6. The difference is 0.8 at every step. Converting back to fractions, 3.0 is 3, consistent with the format of the series. No other candidate value maintains this uniform increment, which confirms that 3 is the only valid missing term.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A: 14/5 equals 2.8, which would create a difference of only 0.6 from 2.2 and 1.0 to 3.8, breaking the constant 0.8 increment.
Option B: 3.2 gives a jump of 1.0 from 2.2 and 0.6 to 3.8, again inconsistent.
Option C: 16/5 is 3.2 and has the same issue as 3.2 in terms of uneven differences.
Option E: 17/5 equals 3.4, which does not maintain a uniform step size with neighbouring terms.

Common Pitfalls:
Candidates may be reluctant to convert between fractions and decimals, missing the simplicity of the underlying arithmetic progression. Others may attempt to see a more complex pattern instead of testing basic constant differences. Familiarity with common fraction to decimal conversions can save valuable time and reduce errors on such series questions.

Final Answer:
The term that keeps the constant increment of 0.8 throughout the series is 3, so the correct option is 3.