Difficulty: Medium
Correct Answer: aabbb
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
In letter-series completion, multiple blanks usually mask a short repeating unit. Identifying the smallest repeating block makes it straightforward to test which fill restores uniform periodicity across the whole line.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Try each candidate, then partition the completed string into equal blocks. A 5-letter cadence is plausible because the distribution of a's and b's suggests clusters of two and three.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Verification / Alternative check:
Sliding a window of the candidate block across yields consistent overlaps with no contradiction.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Common Pitfalls:
Testing only the first few positions and overlooking end-to-end periodicity, or inserting letters out of order.
Final Answer:
aabbb
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