Odd One Out — Among IJKL, PONM, HGFE, and DCBA, identify the sequence that is arranged in increasing alphabetical order while the others are strictly decreasing.

Introduction / Context:
Alphabetical order (ascending vs descending) is a frequent basis for odd-one-out questions on letter sequences.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Options: IJKL, PONM, HGFE, DCBA.
• Ascending means each next letter has a higher alphabet index; descending means lower.

Concept / Approach:
Check the direction of progression in each 4-letter block.

Step-by-Step Solution:
IJKL: I to J to K to L is ascending.PONM: P to O to N to M is descending.HGFE: H to G to F to E is descending.DCBA: D to C to B to A is descending.

Verification / Alternative check:
Count step signs; IJKL alone has all positive steps.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• PONM: descending order.
• HGFE: descending order.
• DCBA: descending order.

Common Pitfalls:
Overthinking with letter positions; the direction check is sufficient.

Final Answer:
IJKL