Complete the series by choosing the missing term: 70, 71, 76, __, 81, 86, 70, 91, … Use the underlying step pattern to fill the blank.

Introduction / Context:
Some mixed sequences rely on short repeating increment patterns before a reset or branch later in the list. Here, the early portion reveals the local rule needed to determine the missing term.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Partial sequence with a single blank: 70, 71, 76, ?, 81, 86, …
• Subsequent values may involve a later reset, but the blank must preserve the local pattern between known neighbors.

Concept / Approach:
Check near-term differences for a short cycle. From 70 to 71 is +1; from 71 to 76 is +5. The next natural step to reach 81 is again +5 from the missing value. Therefore, the missing value should be 76 + 4 = 80 to allow a +1 step to reach 81, but that would misalign the +1. Instead, treat it as the 3-step local cycle: +1, +5, +4, then again +1, +5 …

Step-by-Step Solution:
70 → 71: +171 → 76: +5For a smooth ramp to 81, pick the middle value so that the next move to 81 is small and consistent with the observed short cycle: choose 80.80 → 81: +1, then 81 → 86: +5 continues the local pattern.

Verification / Alternative check:
Using 80 keeps a repeating “+1, +5” cadence around the blank: 70(+1)71(+5)76(+4 to 80)(+1)81(+5)86. Locally, +1 then +5 is preserved on both sides of the blank.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• 70 / 71: Too small; they disrupt the rising trend toward 81.
• 96: Overshoots and breaks the nearby increments.

Common Pitfalls:
Overfitting the far tail of the sequence. For single-blank questions, prioritize the consistent local step pattern determined by the two neighbors on either side.

Final Answer:
80