Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: G
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
This is an odd-one-out question based on alphabet knowledge. The letters given are U, S, Q and G. The candidate must determine which letter does not fit the pattern followed by the others. These questions are designed to test quick recognition of sequences and relative positions in the alphabet rather than lengthy computation.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
The first idea is to convert letters to their numeric positions: U, S and Q might form a sequence, while G could be separate. We carefully calculate the positions and differences to see whether three of the letters are part of an arithmetic progression. If three letters show a consistent pattern, the fourth one that does not fit becomes the odd one out.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Alphabet positions: Q=17, S=19, U=21, G=7.Observe Q, S and U: their positions are 17, 19 and 21 respectively.The differences are S − Q = 2 and U − S = 2.Thus Q, S and U form a sequence of odd-numbered positions separated by a constant difference of +2.The remaining letter G is at position 7.Although 7 is also an odd number, it does not continue the same +2 progression that connects Q, S and U, because the pattern among those three uses higher positions and specific spacing.
Verification / Alternative check:
We can check whether including G in any three-letter combination yields a similar neat progression. For instance, G, Q and S produce 7, 17, 19, with differences of +10 and +2, which are inconsistent. G, S and U give 7, 19, 21 with differences of +12 and +2, also inconsistent. Only Q, S and U give a steady step of +2 between each pair, confirming that they share a common pattern and G does not.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
If we tried to select U, S or Q as the odd letter, we would have to claim that the remaining three letters form a tighter pattern. However, as shown, any set that includes G results in uneven jumps and lacks the clean arithmetic progression seen in Q, S and U. Hence, U, S and Q are the consistent group, leaving G as the strange one out.
Common Pitfalls:
Some candidates focus only on whether letters are vowels or consonants, or they may choose a letter just because it appears earlier in the alphabet. Others may overlook the importance of equal spacing in an arithmetic progression. To solve such questions reliably, always translate letters into positions and check for simple numeric patterns among subsets of three letters.
Final Answer:
G
Discussion & Comments