From the examples: “PENCIL” is coded as “? @ , = ; 7”, and “PAPER” is coded as “? 9 ? @ 5”. Using these consistent letter→symbol mappings, how will you code the word “CLIP”?

Introduction / Context:
We are given two worked examples showing how specific words translate into sequences of symbols and digits. Our task is to infer the underlying per-letter mapping and then apply it to a new word. This problem assesses pattern extraction and consistent substitution across multiple exemplars.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• “PENCIL” → “? @ , = ; 7”.
• “PAPER” → “? 9 ? @ 5”.
• Assume a one-to-one mapping (same letter always maps to the same symbol).
• We need the code for “CLIP”.

Concept / Approach:
Align letters with coded positions to deduce a mapping table. Then substitute for each letter of the target word in order. Consistency across both examples provides multiple confirmations for shared letters.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Every letter used in “CLIP” appears in the mapping derived above, and each mapping is confirmed by at least one of the two given examples. The order is preserved, satisfying the one-to-one rule.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• @ 7;? and @?;?: Start with “@” which is E, but the first letter is C.
• = 7?;: Swaps the last two symbols, which would map to “CLIP” as “= 7 ? ;” corresponding to “CL P I”, breaking the correct order for I and P.
• None of these: A correct option exists.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming different codes for repeated letters (violates consistency), reading punctuation as separators rather than actual symbols, and reversing letter order. Always align letters to positions and keep the mapping stable.

Final Answer:
= 7;?