Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: QRS
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
This question tests your understanding of alphabetical order and direction of movement within letter groups. You are asked to select the odd group of letters from four options. Three groups follow a similar pattern in terms of whether the letters go forward or backward in the alphabet, and one group breaks this pattern. This type of problem frequently appears in the series and coding section of aptitude exams.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- The letter groups are NML, EDC, QRS, and WVU.- All groups consist of three consecutive letters in some order.- The pattern is likely related to moving forward or backward through the alphabet.
Concept / Approach:
A reliable approach for such questions is to write down the alphabetical positions and see whether the letters are arranged in increasing or decreasing order. If three groups are in one direction and one is in the opposite direction, that opposite one will be the odd group. The concept is simple but requires careful attention to avoid mistakes in letter positions.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: NML uses letters N, M, L. Positions are 14, 13, 12. This is a decreasing sequence.Step 2: EDC uses letters E, D, C. Positions are 5, 4, 3. Again, a decreasing sequence.Step 3: QRS uses letters Q, R, S. Positions are 17, 18, 19. This is an increasing sequence.Step 4: WVU uses letters W, V, U. Positions are 23, 22, 21. This is a decreasing sequence.Step 5: Three groups NML, EDC, and WVU are in strictly decreasing alphabetical order, whereas QRS is in increasing order.
Verification / Alternative check:
You can also check quickly by reciting alphabet segments aloud. For example, you say N, M, L backward, E, D, C backward, and W, V, U backward, but Q, R, S is naturally spoken forward, which highlights the difference.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
NML: Decreases step by step.EDC: Also a decreasing sequence.WVU: Another decreasing sequence.
Common Pitfalls:
Students sometimes look at whether letters are consecutive but forget to check direction. All four groups are consecutive sequences, but only direction separates the odd group from the others.
Final Answer:
The odd group is QRS because it is arranged in increasing alphabetical order, unlike the other three groups which are decreasing.
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