Find the next two numbers in the series. Sequence: 42, 40, 38, 35, 33, 31, 28, ____ , ____
Verbal Reasoning
Number Series
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
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A25 22
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B26 23
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C26 24
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D25 23
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E26 22
Answer
Correct Answer: 26 24
Explanation
Introduction / Context:This is a decreasing series with a repeating difference pattern. Spotting a cycle of differences is a key skill in quantitative reasoning series problems.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Sequence provided: 42, 40, 38, 35, 33, 31, 28
- Find the next two terms.
Concept / Approach:Compute consecutive differences and look for a cycle.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Differences: 42→40 (-2), 40→38 (-2), 38→35 (-3), 35→33 (-2), 33→31 (-2), 31→28 (-3).Pattern repeats: -2, -2, -3, -2, -2, -3, …After 28 (which resulted from a -3), the cycle restarts with -2 and -2.Next: 28 - 2 = 26.Then: 26 - 2 = 24.Verification / Alternative check:Plugging 26 and 24 maintains the -2, -2, -3 cycle if we look ahead to the subsequent step (which would be -3).
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- 25 22 / 26 23 / 25 23 / 26 22: Each breaks the required -2, -2 continuation after the -3 step.
Common Pitfalls:Many test-takers apply a constant difference or misread the cycle order. Always list differences explicitly and check for periodicity.
Final Answer:26 24