Difficulty: Medium
Correct Answer: ADIPY
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
Letter-series classification often relies on arithmetic applied to alphabet positions (A=1, B=2, …, Z=26). A particularly distinctive pattern is selecting letters that lie exactly at square-number positions in the alphabet, a property that stands out against “near-miss” or arbitrary jumps.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Map each letter to its numeric index and test for membership in {1, 4, 9, 16, 25}. The string that exclusively uses those indices exhibits a unique, coherent pattern.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Verification / Alternative check:
Inspect differences between successive letters: ADIPY follows +3, +5, +7, +9 (odd increments), another recognizable signature consistent with square steps from 1→4→9→16→25.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
They mix increments that do not map to consecutive square positions, breaking the intended rule.
Common Pitfalls:
Do not rely solely on visual similarity; always convert to numeric positions to reveal the hidden structure.
Final Answer:
ADIPY
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