Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: VWYZ
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
This question tests pattern recognition in letter groups from the English alphabet. Such questions are common in verbal and non-verbal reasoning sections where you must observe the relative positions of letters and identify which group breaks the underlying rule.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
The approach is to convert each letter into its alphabetical position and then look for a consistent numeric pattern. For example, A = 1, B = 2, C = 3 and so on up to Z = 26. Once the letter positions are known, we compare the differences between consecutive letters in each group to see which group behaves differently.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Convert KMNL to positions: K(11), M(13), N(14), L(12).Differences: 11 to 13 = +2, 13 to 14 = +1, 14 to 12 = -2.Step 2: Convert JLMK: J(10), L(12), M(13), K(11).Differences: 10 to 12 = +2, 12 to 13 = +1, 13 to 11 = -2.Step 3: Convert PRSQ: P(16), R(18), S(19), Q(17).Differences: 16 to 18 = +2, 18 to 19 = +1, 19 to 17 = -2.Step 4: Convert VWYZ: V(22), W(23), Y(25), Z(26).Differences: 22 to 23 = +1, 23 to 25 = +2, 25 to 26 = +1.
Verification / Alternative check:
In KMNL, JLMK and PRSQ the pattern of differences between letters is consistently +2, then +1, then -2. However, in VWYZ the pattern is +1, +2, +1, which clearly breaks the rule. Thus, VWYZ does not conform to the consistent structure that the other three groups share.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
KMNL: Perfectly follows the +2, +1, -2 pattern of letter movements in the alphabet.
JLMK: Also follows the same +2, +1, -2 pattern, so it belongs to the main group.
PRSQ: Again satisfies the +2, +1, -2 pattern and is consistent with the other two correct groups.
Common Pitfalls:
A common mistake is to focus on visual similarity of the letter groups instead of translating them to numerical positions. Another error is to check only part of the pattern and miss that all three correct groups share the exact same sequence of increments and decrements. Always check the full movement pattern for each option.
Final Answer:
The group of letters that does not belong to the pattern is VWYZ.
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