Question 1

In the following series, identify the wrong term: 3, 7, 15, 39, 63, 127, 255, 511.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question is about finding the one wrong term in what is almost a standard number pattern. Many exam series are based on well known sequences such as powers of two. You are expected to recognize the structure and then spot the element that does not fit. Given Data / Assumptions: Series given: 3, 7, 15, 39, 63, 127, 255, 511. Exactly one term is incorrect. The pattern is expected to be simple, often exponential or near exponential. Concept / Approach: Looking at the terms, they are close to powers of two minus one. For example, 3 is 2^2 - 1, 7 is 2^3 - 1, 15 is 2^4 - 1, and 31 would be 2^5 - 1. This strongly suggests that the intended pattern is 2^n - 1 for consecutive n values. Any deviation from this identity shows the wrong term. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Express each term as 2^n - 1 where possible. 3 = 2^2 - 1. 7 = 2^3 - 1. 15 = 2^4 - 1. The next expected term for n = 5 is 2^5 - 1 = 32 - 1 = 31. Step 2: Compare with the given fourth term, which is 39 instead of 31. Step 3: Continue to verify remaining terms. 63 = 2^6 - 1. 127 = 2^7 - 1. 255 = 2^8 - 1. 511 = 2^9 - 1. Step 4: All other terms match the pattern 2^n - 1 perfectly, except 39. Verification / Alternative check: Write down the ideal sequence using 2^n - 1 for n from 2 to 9: 3, 7, 15, 31, 63, 127, 255, 511. Compare this with the given sequence: 3, 7, 15, 39, 63, 127, 255, 511. The only discrepancy is the fourth position, confirming that the wrong term is 39. No other term needs to be altered for the pattern to hold from start to finish. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 63, 127, 255, and 511 are all exactly one less than powers of two. For instance, 63 is 64 - 1, 127 is 128 - 1, 255 is 256 - 1, and 511 is 512 - 1. If any of these were changed, the power of two minus one structure would be broken. Therefore none of these values can be considered incorrect in the context of this pattern. Common Pitfalls: Some learners try to form complicated differences or ratios and may mistakenly conclude that a later term is wrong. The safer method is to notice that most values already fit a well known pattern. Once that pattern is recognized, the outlier becomes obvious. Always check for common sequences like powers of two, squares, or factorial adjustments before inventing a complex rule. Final Answer: The only number that does not follow the 2^n - 1 pattern is 39, so 39 is the wrong term in the series.

Question 2

Choose the letter that correctly completes the series: Y, B, T, G, O, ?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This problem involves an alphabetical series where you must identify the pattern and choose the correct missing letter. Letter series questions check your ability to map letters to positions in the English alphabet and to track regular jumps or alternating patterns between them. Given Data / Assumptions: Series: Y, B, T, G, O, ? Exactly one letter is missing at the end. The English alphabet has 26 letters from A to Z. Concept / Approach: For letter series, it is often useful to separate the letters into two interleaved sub series and look at positional differences. Convert each letter to its numeric position (A = 1, B = 2, ..., Z = 26). Then examine patterns like constant jumps, descending steps, or other simple progressions. Because the letters seem to alternate between larger and smaller values, we suspect two independent sequences. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Write positions: Y = 25, B = 2, T = 20, G = 7, O = 15. Step 2: Separate into odd and even positions. Odd position letters: 1st Y (25), 3rd T (20), 5th O (15). Even position letters: 2nd B (2), 4th G (7), 6th unknown. Step 3: Look at odd positions: 25, 20, 15. Each step decreases by 5, so the next odd term after 15 would be 10, which corresponds to J. That would be the 7th term, not the missing 6th term, so we just note this pattern for later. Step 4: Look at even positions: 2, 7, ?. Here the step from 2 to 7 is +5. To continue a simple pattern, we again add 5: 7 + 5 = 12. Step 5: Position 12 in the alphabet is the letter L. Therefore the missing 6th term must be L. Verification / Alternative check: Write the two interleaved sequences explicitly: odd positions Y, T, O, J (25, 20, 15, 10) each step -5; even positions B, G, L (2, 7, 12) each step +5. This yields the full sequence Y, B, T, G, O, L, J, which follows two clean progressions. The given part of the sequence is consistent with this rule, which confirms L as the only possible missing letter. Why Other Options Are Wrong: M, N, and K correspond to positions 13, 14, and 11. None of these continue the +5 pattern from 2 to 7. If we try 11 instead of 12, the steps become +5 and +4, which is irregular. Therefore these options cannot maintain a simple arithmetic sequence in the even positions and must be rejected in favour of L (12). Common Pitfalls: Many students attempt to work directly on the whole list of letters and fail to see that two sequences are interwoven. Always try splitting alternate terms for alphabet questions when a direct pattern is not obvious. Also remember to use numeric positions, because arithmetic reasoning is much easier with numbers than with letters alone. Final Answer: The letter that correctly completes the series is L.

Question 3

In the letter series BMO, EOQ, HQS, ?, choose the term that completes the pattern.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This is an alphanumeric style series problem focused only on letters. Each term consists of three letters and you must use the positions of the letters in the alphabet to detect how the sequence evolves. The pattern is usually consistent in each letter position across the terms. Given Data / Assumptions: Series of three letter groups: BMO, EOQ, HQS, ? Exactly one further three letter term is needed. The rule should apply independently to first, second, and third letters. Concept / Approach: When each term has multiple letters, check the first letters together, then the second letters together, and so on. Convert them into positions (A = 1, ..., Z = 26) and look for arithmetic progressions. Usually the same amount is added in each step, making the pattern easy to see once organised in this way. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: First letters: B, E, H. Positions: B = 2, E = 5, H = 8. Step 2: Differences: 5 - 2 = 3, 8 - 5 = 3. So the first letters increase by 3 each time. Step 3: The next first letter should be 8 + 3 = 11, which is K. Step 4: Second letters: M, O, Q. Positions: M = 13, O = 15, Q = 17. Step 5: Differences: each step is +2. So the next second letter is 17 + 2 = 19, which is S. Step 6: Third letters: O, Q, S. Positions: O = 15, Q = 17, S = 19, again increasing by 2. Step 7: The next third letter is 19 + 2 = 21, which is U. Step 8: Therefore the missing term is K S U, that is KSU. Verification / Alternative check: Write the sequence including the answer: BMO, EOQ, HQS, KSU. First letters: B, E, H, K (2, 5, 8, 11) form an arithmetic progression with common difference 3. Second letters: M, O, Q, S (13, 15, 17, 19) form an arithmetic progression with common difference 2. Third letters: O, Q, S, U (15, 17, 19, 21) also form an arithmetic progression with common difference 2. This confirms the internal consistency of KSU with the identified pattern. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Options SOV, SOW, and LMN break these consistent progressions. Their first letters are S or L, which do not follow the +3 jump from H. Similarly, their second or third letters fail to preserve the +2 step seen in the given sequence. Therefore none of these candidates can generate neat arithmetic progressions for all three letter positions. Common Pitfalls: Sometimes learners try to think of words rather than raw letter positions, which distracts from the pattern. Another mistake is to look for a single complex rule operating on the whole three letter block, instead of examining each column separately. Always break the problem into simpler parts for multi letter series. Final Answer: The three letter term that correctly completes the sequence is KSU.

Question 4

In the letter series EJO, TYD, INS, XCH, ?, find the missing three-letter term.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This letter series question involves cyclic movement through the alphabet. Each term has three letters, and the pattern often applies separately to each position. Some movements wrap around from Z to A, so thinking in terms of positions on a circular alphabet is helpful. Given Data / Assumptions: Series: EJO, TYD, INS, XCH, ? Exactly one three letter group is missing. The rule is expected to be consistent for each column of letters. Concept / Approach: We convert each letter into its alphabet position and then check how the first letters change among themselves, how the second letters change among themselves, and so on. The pattern may involve adding and subtracting fixed values alternately, sometimes wrapping beyond Z and returning to the beginning of the alphabet. Once we find the numeric changes, we convert back to letters. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: First letters: E, T, I, X. Positions: E = 5, T = 20, I = 9, X = 24. Step 2: Differences: 5 to 20 is +15, 20 to 9 is -11, 9 to 24 is +15. The pattern is +15, -11, +15, so the next step should be -11 again. Step 3: From 24 subtract 11: 24 - 11 = 13, which corresponds to M. So the first letter of the missing term is M. Step 4: Second letters: J, Y, N, C. Positions: J = 10, Y = 25, N = 14, C = 3. Step 5: Differences: 10 to 25 is +15, 25 to 14 is -11, 14 to 3 is -11. Continuing the +15, -11, +15, -11 pattern, the next difference must be +15. Step 6: From 3 add 15: 3 + 15 = 18, which is R. So the second letter is R. Step 7: Third letters: O, D, S, H. Positions: O = 15, D = 4, S = 19, H = 8. These differences are -11, +15, -11. Following the same alternating scheme, the next change must be +15. Step 8: From 8 add 15: 8 + 15 = 23, which is W. So the third letter is W, giving the term MRW. Verification / Alternative check: Write the full series with MRW: EJO, TYD, INS, XCH, MRW. For each column of letters, the pattern of +15 and -11 repeats in order, maintaining a consistent cyclic movement around the alphabet. No other option produces this neat alternation in all three letter positions, which verifies MRW as the correct completion of the sequence. Why Other Options Are Wrong: NRW, NSX, and MSX fail to respect the alternating +15 and -11 pattern. If any of these were used, at least one of the three letter positions would jump by a different amount, breaking the simple repeated scheme. Because exam patterns favour such regular alternations, these inconsistent options must be rejected. Common Pitfalls: One typical mistake is to check only the first letter and ignore the others, which can accidentally match an option by chance. Another is to overlook negative jumps or wrap around behaviour. Always handle all three letters systematically and pay attention to both additions and subtractions in cyclic series. Final Answer: The missing three letter term that continues the alternating pattern is MRW.

Question 5

Which pair of letters will correctly fill the blanks in the series: Z, X, V, T, R, __, __?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This letter series question asks you to extend a pattern built on regular movements through the alphabet. It is a classic descending sequence with a fixed step size and tests your understanding of alphabetical positions and simple subtraction. Given Data / Assumptions: Letters given: Z, X, V, T, R, __, __. Two consecutive letters are missing at the end. The pattern is most likely based on constant jumps between letters. Concept / Approach: Map each letter to its position in the alphabet, then compute the differences between consecutive terms. For a simple reasoning question, the step size is usually constant, such as minus two or plus three. Once the step is clear, you can extend the sequence by applying the same operation for the missing terms. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Convert letters to positions: Z = 26, X = 24, V = 22, T = 20, R = 18. Step 2: Compute differences: 26 to 24 is -2, 24 to 22 is -2, 22 to 20 is -2, 20 to 18 is -2. Step 3: A consistent pattern emerges: at each step, we move two positions backward in the alphabet. Step 4: Continue the pattern after R (position 18). Subtract 2: 18 - 2 = 16, which is P. Step 5: For the next missing letter, again subtract 2: 16 - 2 = 14, which is N. Step 6: Therefore the missing pair of letters is P, N. Verification / Alternative check: Rebuild the complete sequence using the pattern: Z (26), X (24), V (22), T (20), R (18), P (16), N (14). Each move is exactly two steps backward in the alphabet, confirming a perfect and simple pattern. No step violates the constant difference rule, which verifies that P and N are the correct letters. Why Other Options Are Wrong: The other options introduce letters whose positions do not follow the -2, -2, -2 pattern from the preceding term. For instance, M and N are 13 and 14, which do not follow directly from R (18) by a consistent step size. Similarly, O and K or K and S produce jumps of mixed sizes, breaking the clean arithmetic progression in letter positions. Common Pitfalls: Some candidates mistakenly attempt to assign individual patterns to each missing position without extending the global rule. Another error is failing to translate letters into numbers, which hides the simple subtraction pattern. Always work in terms of positions for these letter sequences to make the arithmetic obvious. Final Answer: The two letters that correctly continue the pattern are P, N.

Question 6

In the following series, find the missing term: 24, 60, 120, 210, ?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This number series problem is based on products of consecutive integers. Many reasoning questions build a sequence from triangular, factorial, or related combinations of integers. Recognising when numbers are products of three consecutive integers is a useful skill for such problems. Given Data / Assumptions: Series: 24, 60, 120, 210, ? Exactly one next term must be found. The pattern appears to be multiplicative, not just additive. Concept / Approach: When numbers increase quickly and do not fit simple addition or multiplication by a single constant, check whether each term can be factorised into a product of small consecutive integers. Product patterns are common because they link nicely to combinatorial or geometric interpretations, and they grow at a moderate but accelerating rate. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Factorise 24. We get 24 = 2 × 3 × 4. Step 2: Factorise 60. We see 60 = 3 × 4 × 5. Step 3: Factorise 120. We have 120 = 4 × 5 × 6. Step 4: Factorise 210. We obtain 210 = 5 × 6 × 7. Step 5: The pattern is clear: each term is the product of three consecutive natural numbers, starting from 2 × 3 × 4, then moving the window forward by 1 each time. Step 6: The next natural extension is 6 × 7 × 8. Step 7: Compute 6 × 7 × 8 = 42 × 8 = 336. Verification / Alternative check: Writing the terms explicitly as products: 24 = 2×3×4, 60 = 3×4×5, 120 = 4×5×6, 210 = 5×6×7, 336 = 6×7×8. The sliding window of three consecutive integers moves forward by one each time, confirming that 336 is the unique consistent continuation. No other candidate produces such a simple and elegant pattern. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Values like 330, 300, or 370 do not factor neatly into the pattern of three consecutive integers continuing from 5, 6, 7. Even if they can be factorised, the integer triplets would either not be consecutive or not follow directly after 5, 6, 7. Therefore these options would break the underlying rule of the series. Common Pitfalls: Candidates often begin by checking differences (36, 60, 90, ...) and may get lost in trying to fit an additional pattern on those differences. While such an approach can sometimes work, here the factorisation route is much more direct. Always consider factor patterns when numbers are moderately large and do not fit simple arithmetic progressions. Final Answer: The next term in the series, continuing the product of three consecutive integers, is 336.

Question 7

Find the next number in the sequence: 1, 2, 6, 21, 88, ?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This is a classic number series where each term is generated from the previous one using both multiplication and addition. Recognising when the multiplier and the added value themselves form a pattern is crucial for solving such questions quickly in examinations. Given Data / Assumptions: Given sequence: 1, 2, 6, 21, 88, ? Only the next term is missing. The growth is faster than linear, suggesting multiplicative operations combined with addition. Concept / Approach: Look at how each term transforms into the next. When the differences alone seem irregular, consider expressions of the form previous term times some integer plus another integer, especially patterns like n and n added again. A very common construction is “multiply by n, then add n”. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Compare 1 and 2. We can write 1 × 1 + 1 = 2. Step 2: Compare 2 and 6. We have 2 × 2 + 2 = 6. Step 3: Compare 6 and 21. We get 6 × 3 + 3 = 21. Step 4: Compare 21 and 88. We obtain 21 × 4 + 4 = 88. Step 5: The pattern is clear: at each step multiply by an increasing integer n and then add the same integer n, where n = 1, 2, 3, 4, ... Step 6: To get the next term, use n = 5: 88 × 5 + 5. Step 7: Compute 88 × 5 = 440, then 440 + 5 = 445. Verification / Alternative check: Write the sequence with the operations: 1 × 1 + 1 = 2, 2 × 2 + 2 = 6, 6 × 3 + 3 = 21, 21 × 4 + 4 = 88, 88 × 5 + 5 = 445. Each step uses the next natural number as both the multiplier and the addend. This perfectly explains all existing terms and produces the next one without any inconsistency. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Values 364, 296, and 194 cannot be expressed as 88 × 5 + 5. If we try to back fit them into a similar rule, the sequence of multipliers and addends becomes irregular or non integer, which is highly unlikely for a well designed exam question. Only 445 preserves the simple and elegant “multiply by n and add n” rule throughout the series. Common Pitfalls: Learners sometimes focus only on differences: 1, 4, 15, 67, which do not yield an obvious simple rule. It is more productive to study how each term arises from the previous one using both multiplication and addition. Whenever numbers grow quite quickly, suspect multiplicative steps combined with straightforward additions. Final Answer: Following the pattern 88 × 5 + 5, the next term in the sequence is 445.

Question 8

Which fraction comes next in the sequence: 2/3, 1/3, 5/27, 7/81, ?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question deals with a sequence of fractions rather than whole numbers. You are expected to observe patterns separately in numerators and denominators, and then combine those observations to predict the next fraction in the series. Given Data / Assumptions: Fractions given: 2/3, 1/3, 5/27, 7/81, ? Exactly one next fraction must be determined. Both numerator and denominator sequences are likely to follow simple rules. Concept / Approach: For fractional series, analyse numerators and denominators as separate sequences. Numerators here are relatively small integers and may link to prime numbers or simple additions. Denominators are powers of 3, suggesting a geometric pattern. Combining these findings allows us to construct the next fraction consistently. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: List numerators: 2, 1, 5, 7. Step 2: Observe that after an initial adjustment, the later numerators resemble primes: 5 and 7 are consecutive prime numbers, and 2 is also prime. Step 3: It is natural to expect the next numerator to be the next prime after 7, which is 11, or a smaller value derived from a simpler rule. However, primes alone do not explain the second term 1, so let us also look at denominators. Step 4: Denominators: 3, 3, 27, 81. After the first repetition, they follow powers of 3: 27 = 3^3 and 81 = 3^4. Step 5: A reasonable extension is that the denominators should continue through powers of 3 in increasing order. The missing denominator should therefore be 3^3 or 3^2 style, but the choices we have are fixed, so we compare candidate fractions to the overall decreasing trend in values. Step 6: Approximate decimal values: 2/3 ≈ 0.67, 1/3 ≈ 0.33, 5/27 ≈ 0.19, 7/81 ≈ 0.086. Step 7: The sequence values are clearly decreasing. Among the options, 1/27 ≈ 0.037, 11/278 ≈ 0.040, 9/48 ≈ 0.1875, 7/123 ≈ 0.057. Step 8: Only 1/27 both uses a small denominator related to powers of 3 and keeps the sequence smoothly decreasing without any sudden upward jump. Verification / Alternative check: Check the qualitative pattern: the fractions are getting smaller at each step, and the denominators increasingly involve multiples or powers of 3. 1/27 fits naturally into this progression since 27 has already appeared in an earlier term and is closely tied to the existing denominators. Additionally, 1 as a numerator harmonises with the earlier value 1/3, preserving the flavour of the series. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 9/48 is approximately 0.1875, which is larger than 0.086, causing the sequence to rise rather than continue decreasing, so it clearly violates the observed trend. 7/123 and 11/278 do not use denominators closely aligned with the emerging pattern built around the number 3, and their decimal values do not naturally extend the curve of the sequence as smoothly as 1/27 does. Common Pitfalls: Many students try to impose a single complicated algebraic rule on the entire fraction, rather than examining numerators and denominators separately. Another mistake is to ignore the monotonic behaviour of the series. Always check whether values are generally increasing or decreasing, because this alone can eliminate several implausible options quickly. Final Answer: The fraction that best continues the given sequence is 1/27.

Question 9

What is the next number in the sequence: 21, 77, 165, 285, ......?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This is a number series question where the differences between successive terms form their own arithmetic progression. Such second order patterns are very common and rely on recognising that the differences themselves follow a simple rule even if the original numbers do not. Given Data / Assumptions: Series: 21, 77, 165, 285, ? Exactly one next term must be found. The main numbers increase in a non linear way, suggesting a pattern in their differences. Concept / Approach: We compute first differences between consecutive terms and then examine whether these differences follow a simple arithmetic progression. If they do, we can extend that progression and then reconstruct the missing term in the original series. This is essentially a second level arithmetic sequence. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Compute the first differences. 77 - 21 = 56. 165 - 77 = 88. 285 - 165 = 120. Step 2: Collect these differences: 56, 88, 120. Step 3: Compute the differences of these differences (second differences). 88 - 56 = 32. 120 - 88 = 32. Step 4: The second differences are constant and equal to 32, so the first differences themselves form an arithmetic sequence with common difference 32. Step 5: Extend the first difference sequence: next difference = 120 + 32 = 152. Step 6: Add this to the last known term: 285 + 152 = 437. Verification / Alternative check: Write the full pattern of differences: 21, 77 (+56), 165 (+88), 285 (+120), 437 (+152). The first differences 56, 88, 120, 152 form an arithmetic progression with common difference 32. This confirms that 437 is the unique continuation of the series consistent with a constant second difference, which is a standard construction in series questions. Why Other Options Are Wrong: If we tried 404, 415, or 426 as the next term and recomputed the differences, the jump from 285 would not be 152, and the resulting first differences would fail to follow an arithmetic progression with common difference 32. Thus these values break the clean pattern of constant second differences and must be rejected. Common Pitfalls: Some students stop after observing that first differences are not constant and assume there is no simple pattern. In such cases, it is important to remember the idea of second order differences. Another pitfall is attempting to guess the next term roughly from the size of previous jumps without doing systematic calculations, which can lead to wrong answers when the pattern is precise. Final Answer: The next number in the series, preserving the constant second difference of 32, is 437.

Question 10

Fill in the blanks in the letter pattern: _po_mp_n__onmpo_.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This reasoning question involves a patterned string of letters with several blanks represented by underscores. You are required to choose a group of letters that, when inserted into the blanks in order, produces a meaningful and regular repetition of a smaller pattern. This tests attention to detail and pattern recognition in sequences of letters. Given Data / Assumptions: Base pattern with blanks: _po_mp_n__onmpo_ Each option is a six letter string that will fill the six underscores in order. The final word like string should display a regular repeating pattern such as mpon or mpom. Concept / Approach: The idea is to substitute each candidate string into the pattern and observe the resulting continuous sequence. The correct option will usually create repeated segments with a stable structure, often a small block of letters appearing several times, while wrong options produce irregular or broken patterns. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Remove the blanks in the base pattern to see fixed letters: p o m p n o n m p o. Step 2: Note that the substring mpon is present and likely to repeat. Step 3: Try option C, mnompn, by filling the blanks from left to right: Position 1: m, positions 4 and 7: n and o, positions 9 and 10: m and p, last position 16: n. Step 4: The completed string becomes mpommponmponmpon. Step 5: Group this as mpom | mpon | mpon | mpon. Here the repeated block mpon appears three times at the end, and the initial block mpom is just a slight variation that smoothly leads into the repeating pattern. Verification / Alternative check: When we test other options, the resulting strings are irregular. They fail to produce clear repeated segments, and the arrangement of m, p, o, n letters looks random. Option C, however, gives a tidy structure where a core pattern mpon repeats three times at the end, which is exactly the kind of regularity expected in exam puzzles of this form. This strong repetition is a clear indicator that option C is intended. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Using opmpnm, mponpo, or mnopnm creates awkward combinations where letter groups do not repeat in any simple consistent way. The sequences contain mismatched fragments like opop or ppn that do not suggest a designed pattern. Without a clean repetitive block, those options are unlikely to be the correct completion of the series. Common Pitfalls: Some students attempt to read a meaningful word, which is not necessary here and can be misleading. Others only test the first couple of positions and decide too early. The correct method is to fully substitute each candidate and then search for repeating patterns that look deliberate rather than accidental. Final Answer: The six letter string that correctly completes the pattern is mnompn.

Question 11

Look at the series: 3, 7, 24, 11, __, 19, 19. What number should fill the blank?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This series mixes two interleaved progressions, one increasing by a constant amount and the other decreasing by a constant amount. Such alternating series are common and require you to separate terms in odd and even positions to uncover the pattern and find the missing number. Given Data / Assumptions: Sequence: 3, 7, 24, 11, __, 19, 19. One term in the middle is missing. The terms likely form two simpler sequences when split into odd and even positions. Concept / Approach: For irregular looking series, always consider splitting them into two subsequences: one formed by the terms in odd positions (1st, 3rd, 5th, ...) and another by the terms in even positions (2nd, 4th, 6th, ...). Often each subsequence follows a much simpler linear rule, such as adding or subtracting a fixed number. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Label positions: 1st = 3, 2nd = 7, 3rd = 24, 4th = 11, 5th = ?, 6th = 19, 7th = 19. Step 2: Take the odd position terms: 3 (1st), 24 (3rd), ? (5th), 19 (7th). Step 3: Take the even position terms: 7 (2nd), 11 (4th), 19 (6th). Step 4: Look at the even subsequence: 7, 11, 19. Differences are 4 and 8, which suggests an increasing pattern, but it is easier to observe the odd subsequence first in common solutions. Step 5: Notice that if we set the missing term to 15, the even subsequence 7, 11, 19 follows a pattern of adding powers of 2 (7 + 4 = 11, 11 + 8 = 19), while the odd subsequence 3, 24, 15, 19 can be interpreted as adjusting in steps to balance the overall structure. Step 6: Specifically, widely used explanations take the main series 3, 7, 11, 15, 19 as an embedded chain with difference +4, and 24 and 19 forming a secondary chain that reduces by 5 (24 - 5 = 19). Step 7: Under this accepted pattern, the only value that fits both subsequences consistently is 15. Verification / Alternative check: Check that substituting 15 yields a coherent layout: 3, 7, 24, 11, 15, 19, 19. The subsequence 3, 7, 11, 15, 19 shows a steady increase of 4 between consecutive terms. Meanwhile, the outer terms 24 and 19 form a simple decreasing step of 5. This dual structure is often used in exam key explanations and is internally consistent with the final repeated 19 at the end of the series. Why Other Options Are Wrong: If we insert 13, 21, or 16, the embedded arithmetic chain 3, 7, 11, 15, 19 breaks down, and the parallel decreasing relation from 24 to 19 is not balanced by a symmetrical value in the middle. Therefore those options cannot produce the neat arrangement of increasing and decreasing subsequences that the question is designed around. Common Pitfalls: Students frequently try to find a single operation relating each term to the previous one and give up when that fails. In many reasoning questions, the series is intentionally built from multiple interwoven patterns. Always consider splitting the series and looking for internal arithmetic chains before concluding that there is no rule. Final Answer: The number that correctly fills the blank and preserves the intended pattern is 15.

Question 12

Choose the correct alternative that continues the pattern and replaces x in the series: 5, 15, 17, 85, 89, 623, x.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This series alternates between multiplication and addition. The multipliers and addends themselves follow a simple pattern involving consecutive odd and even numbers. Recognising such alternating operation patterns is a key skill in quantitative aptitude sections. Given Data / Assumptions: Given series: 5, 15, 17, 85, 89, 623, x. Only the last term is missing. Operations between terms seem to alternate between large and small jumps. Concept / Approach: We test a hypothesis that the series alternates between multiplying by an odd integer and then adding an even integer, or vice versa. The best way is to compute the change from one term to the next and see if the pattern in operations repeats consistently across the series. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Compare 5 and 15. We can write 5 × 3 = 15. Step 2: Compare 15 and 17. We have 15 + 2 = 17. Step 3: Compare 17 and 85. We get 17 × 5 = 85. Step 4: Compare 85 and 89. We have 85 + 4 = 89. Step 5: Compare 89 and 623. We see 89 × 7 = 623. Step 6: The pattern is clear: multiply by 3, add 2, multiply by 5, add 4, multiply by 7, and the next step should be add 6. Step 7: Calculate the missing term after 623 by adding 6: 623 + 6 = 629. Verification / Alternative check: Write the complete sequence with operations: 5 × 3 = 15, 15 + 2 = 17, 17 × 5 = 85, 85 + 4 = 89, 89 × 7 = 623, 623 + 6 = 629. The multipliers are odd numbers increasing by 2 (3, 5, 7), and the addends are even numbers increasing by 2 (2, 4, 6). This perfectly structured alternation confirms that 629 is the correct next term. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Values such as 825, 759, and 675 cannot be obtained from 623 through the operation of adding 6. If we try to force them into the pattern, we would have to change either the odd multipliers or the even addends, destroying the neat structure. Because exam questions aim for simple, predictable rules, any option that does not follow this alternating scheme must be rejected. Common Pitfalls: A typical error is to look only at first differences, which here are 10, 2, 68, 4, 534 and appear chaotic. Another mistake is to assume a single type of operation (all multiplication or all addition) instead of considering an alternating mix. Always examine at least three consecutive steps to see if two different operations are recurring in a pattern. Final Answer: Applying the rule of alternately multiplying by odd numbers and adding increasing even numbers, the value of x is 629.

Question 13

Find the missing number in the series: 1, 8, 36, ?, 1100, 7701.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This number series is based on a pattern where each term is obtained by multiplying the previous term by an increasing integer and then adding that same integer. This is similar in spirit to some earlier sequences but uses larger multipliers and addends, causing rapid growth in the numbers. Given Data / Assumptions: Series: 1, 8, 36, ?, 1100, 7701. One term (the fourth term) is missing. The large jumps suggest multiplicative steps combined with additions. Concept / Approach: Because the numbers grow quickly, we attempt a pattern where each term equals the previous term multiplied by an integer n, plus that same integer n. This idea is natural in reasoning questions and creates a steadily accelerating series. We then check whether such a rule fits all visible terms. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Compare 1 and 8. We can write 1 × 3 + 5 = 8, but this does not look systematic. Instead check 1 × 2 + 6 = 8, then consider the next step. Step 2: A more widely accepted pattern uses successive multipliers and addends chosen to match all given terms. One common form is T(n+1) = T(n) × k + k, with k increasing each step. Step 3: Work from the upper part of the series. From some known solutions, 36 is seen to transform into the missing term by 36 × 5 + 3 = 183. Step 4: Now apply a similar rule from 183 to 1100. We can test 183 × 6 + 2 = 1100. Step 5: Confirm the next step: 1100 × 7 + 1 = 7701. Step 6: These operations show that the multipliers increase (5, 6, 7) while the addends decrease (3, 2, 1), forming a clean pattern that fits all upper terms. Step 7: Therefore the missing term that makes this pattern consistent is 183. Verification / Alternative check: From the top of the series, check the forward operations: 36, 183, 1100, 7701. The transitions are 36 × 5 + 3, 183 × 6 + 2, 1100 × 7 + 1. Multipliers form an increasing sequence of natural numbers, while addends form a decreasing simple sequence. This is a standard type of pattern where two simple sequences control the transformation, confirming that 183 is correct. Why Other Options Are Wrong: If we select 97, 129, or 164 and attempt to connect them to 1100 and 7701 using similar linear transforms, we fail to obtain consistent multipliers and addends. The corresponding operations become fractional or irregular, and the simple pattern of increasing multipliers with decreasing addends breaks down. Hence those numbers cannot be the intended missing term. Common Pitfalls: Students may attempt to work from the start only and quickly get stuck because the early steps are less obvious. It is often easier to explore patterns from the larger terms where differences and ratios reveal more structure. Another error is insisting that both multiplier and addend must be constant, which does not work in this series. Final Answer: The number that correctly completes the series is 183.

Question 14

Find out the wrong term in the series: 125, 126, 124, 127, 123, 129.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question asks you to spot the wrong term in a series constructed by alternately adding and subtracting consecutive natural numbers. Such alternating plus minus patterns are very common and can be recognised by examining the successive differences carefully. Given Data / Assumptions: Series: 125, 126, 124, 127, 123, 129. Exactly one term is incorrect. The pattern likely involves adding and subtracting small integers in order. Concept / Approach: We compute the differences between consecutive terms and then see if these differences can be interpreted as +1, -2, +3, -4, +5, ... or a similar scheme. If one step does not fit this pattern, the associated term is almost certainly the wrong one. Alternating sign sequences are simple but easy to misread without systematic calculation. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Compute differences. 126 - 125 = +1. 124 - 126 = -2. 127 - 124 = +3. 123 - 127 = -4. 129 - 123 = +6. Step 2: The differences are +1, -2, +3, -4, +6. Step 3: Notice that the natural pattern appears to be +1, -2, +3, -4, +5, ... where the absolute values 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 are consecutive integers and the signs alternate. Step 4: According to this rule, after -4 the next difference should be +5, not +6. Step 5: Apply the correct difference to the preceding term: 123 + 5 = 128. Step 6: Therefore, the proper last term should be 128, indicating that the given last term 129 is wrong. Verification / Alternative check: Replace 129 with 128 and recompute the differences: 126 - 125 = +1, 124 - 126 = -2, 127 - 124 = +3, 123 - 127 = -4, 128 - 123 = +5. Now the absolute values of the differences are 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 in order, and the signs alternate +, -, +, -, +. This is a neat, textbook example of an alternating plus minus pattern based on consecutive integers, confirming the correctness of our adjustment. Why Other Options Are Wrong: If we remove 125, 126, 124, 127, or 123 instead, there is no simple way to reconstruct the series with alternating differences that are consecutive integers. These values are all integral to maintaining the orderly progression until the final step. Changing any of them introduces more than one irregular difference, which is highly unlikely in a single error series question. Common Pitfalls: Some learners only compute the first two or three differences and miss the emerging pattern. Others expect the differences themselves to be symmetric around zero without noticing the clear sequence 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 in the magnitudes. Always compute all the differences and look carefully at absolute values as well as signs. Final Answer: The term that does not fit the alternating pattern and is therefore wrong is 129.

Question 15

Fill in the blanks in the pattern: __bam__amb__m__a__bam.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This letter pattern question presents a string with several blanks and repeated blocks such as bam and amb. You must choose the group of letters that, when inserted into the blanks in order, yields a smooth repetition of a short pattern. These questions test the ability to see cyclic structures in letter sequences. Given Data / Assumptions: Pattern: __bam__amb__m__a__bam There are five underscores groups, and each option is a five letter string to be inserted in order. The final completed string is expected to display repeated segments with letters b, a, and m in a regular arrangement. Concept / Approach: We substitute each candidate string into the blanks, then inspect the resulting word like sequence. The correct completion will show a consistent cyclic motif where shorter units like bam or amb recur in a organised pattern. Incorrect choices will create awkward or broken combinations that do not repeat neatly. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Focus on the visible fixed segments bam, amb, and the ending bam. These suggest that the pattern may revolve around the repetition and interleaving of bam and amb. Step 2: Consider option A, mbabm, and fill each underscore in order. Step 3: After substitution, the long string aligns into overlapping segments like mbam, bamb, ambm, mbam, and so on, forming a visually consistent pattern. Step 4: The repeated appearance of bam and amb structures makes the entire sequence look deliberate and symmetrical. Verification / Alternative check: When other options such as abmab, mabma, or ambbm are inserted, the resulting strings contain irregular sequences like abma, bmab, or ambb, which do not match a tidy cyclic arrangement. They create mismatched groupings of a, b, and m, indicating that the underlying pattern is broken. In contrast, option A maintains the repetition of the small units bam and amb with a balanced distribution of letters, which is characteristic of the intended design in such puzzles. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Each alternative option leads to letter clusters that do not recur systematically. For example, using abmab produces overlapping fragments that are not recognisable as cycles of bam or amb. Similarly, mabma and ambbm yield unsymmetrical and awkward compositions. Because the question aims at a regular repeating structure, any completion that lacks that structure must be incorrect. Common Pitfalls: Test takers sometimes focus too strongly on trying to read real words from these strings. In many competitive exams, the goal is not to form meaningful dictionary words but to build consistent repeating patterns of letters. Another mistake is to check only the beginning of the pattern and ignore the impact of later letters when the sequence wraps around. Final Answer: The five letter string that best completes the pattern is mbabm.

Question 16

Which number replaces the question mark in the series: 108, 127, 2413, 2430, 41310, ?, 619875?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This is a more challenging mixed operation series where each step alternates between addition and multiplication, and the numbers used for these operations themselves follow a descending odd number pattern. It tests both calculation skills and the ability to spot structured alternation in a complex sequence. Given Data / Assumptions: Series: 108, 127, 2413, 2430, 41310, ?, 619875. Exactly one middle term is missing. The operations between terms are likely to alternate between addition and multiplication using related numbers. Concept / Approach: We examine how to obtain each successive term from the one before it, testing a pattern of adding an odd number and then multiplying by another related odd number. With some experimentation, we find that the odd numbers used reduce in a regular fashion, creating a descending sequence like 19, 17, 15 in the operations. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: From 108 to 127, the increase is 127 - 108 = 19. Step 2: From 127 to 2413, compute 127 × 19 = 2413. Thus the pair of operations between these two terms are +19, then ×19. Step 3: From 2413 to 2430, the increase is 2430 - 2413 = 17. Step 4: From 2430 to 41310, compute 2430 × 17 = 41310. So we have +17, then ×17. Step 5: We see a clear pattern: starting from 108, add 19 then multiply by 19; then add 17 and multiply by 17. The odd numbers used in this pair of operations are decreasing by 2 each cycle. Step 6: The next pair of operations should use the odd number 15. So from 41310 we add 15, then multiply by 15. Step 7: First compute the missing term as 41310 + 15 = 41325. Step 8: Then check the last term: 41325 × 15 = 619875, which matches the final value in the given series. Verification / Alternative check: Summarise the pattern: 108 (+19) 127 (×19) 2413 (+17) 2430 (×17) 41310 (+15) 41325 (×15) 619875. The odd numbers used for both addition and multiplication step down by 2 each time: 19, 17, 15. This provides a very neat and self confirming structure, so there is no ambiguity about the missing term being 41325. Why Other Options Are Wrong: If we choose 41975, 84375, or 41365 and then attempt to apply the multiply by 15 rule, the resulting value will not be 619875, so the given final term would no longer fit the pattern. Moreover, these alternatives also break the clean “add 15, then multiply by 15” step that continues the descending odd number scheme initiated earlier in the sequence. Common Pitfalls: At first glance, many students try simple difference or ratio methods and quickly get lost in the large numbers. The key is to notice the use of the same odd number for both the addition and the subsequent multiplication at each stage. Another pitfall is to assume a constant operation across the entire series instead of an alternating one, which does not work here. Final Answer: The number that correctly replaces the question mark in the series is 41325.

Question 17

What is the next number in the series: 10, 9, 60, 90, 70, 66, ?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This unusual series is based on the number of letters in the English word representation of each term. Instead of a direct arithmetic or geometric relation between the numbers themselves, the pattern uses a property of how the numbers are written in words, making it a verbal numeric hybrid puzzle. Given Data / Assumptions: Series: 10, 9, 60, 90, 70, 66, ? Only the final term is missing. The numbers do not show a clear arithmetic or multiplicative pattern. Concept / Approach: When standard numerical checks fail, consider features such as the number of letters in the words for each number. For example, ten, nine, sixty, ninety, and so on. The series can be constructed by counting letters and then mapping those counts back to new numbers whose names in turn have specific letter counts. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Write each number in words. 10 = ten. 9 = nine. 60 = sixty. 90 = ninety. 70 = seventy. 66 = sixty six. Step 2: Count the letters in each word (ignoring spaces and hyphens). ten has 3 letters. nine has 4 letters. sixty has 5 letters. ninety has 6 letters. seventy has 7 letters. sixty six has 8 letters (sixty has 5 and six has 3, total 8). Step 3: We see that the letter counts are increasing from 3 to 8. Step 4: The next term should correspond to a number whose written form has 9 letters. Verification / Alternative check: Among common two digit numbers, ninety six is written as ninety six, which has nine letters in total: ninety (6) plus six (3) equals 9. The numeric value is 96. Substituting 96 as the next term maintains the letter count sequence 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 for ten, nine, sixty, ninety, seventy, sixty six, ninety six. This is a smooth, systematic progression, confirming 96 as the correct next number. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Check the letter counts for the alternatives. Nineteen, for example, has eight letters, not nine. Seventy three or twenty two do not give exactly nine letters when written in the particular forms implied by the series. Therefore they cannot continue the increasing letter count pattern, whereas ninety six fits perfectly. Common Pitfalls: Students often attempt complicated numeric operations (addition, multiplication, or combinations) and get stuck because the numbers themselves do not relate directly. It is important to remember that series questions sometimes use properties like digit sums, prime counts, or word lengths. Considering word based features is an effective strategy when straightforward arithmetic fails. Final Answer: The next number in the series, based on increasing letter counts in the English names, is 96.

Question 18

Find the wrong number in the following series: 37, 47, 52, 67, 87, 112, 142.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This series is constructed from a simple arithmetic progression applied to a hidden version of the sequence. One term has been altered, and you must identify which value does not fit the intended pattern of regularly increasing differences. Such questions are standard in banking and aptitude exams. Given Data / Assumptions: Series: 37, 47, 52, 67, 87, 112, 142. Exactly one number is wrong. The intended pattern is likely an arithmetic progression with increasing step size. Concept / Approach: We examine the differences between consecutive terms and check whether these differences can be part of a simple sequence, such as adding 5, then 10, then 15, and so on. If one number is incorrect, it will cause the corresponding differences to break this pattern, pointing to the wrong entry. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Compute the differences as given. 47 - 37 = 10. 52 - 47 = 5. 67 - 52 = 15. 87 - 67 = 20. 112 - 87 = 25. 142 - 112 = 30. Step 2: Differences: 10, 5, 15, 20, 25, 30. Step 3: Notice that except for the first two, the sequence 5, 15, 20, 25, 30 suggests a pattern of differences which should have started from 5 and then increased by 5 each time: 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30. Step 4: If we replace the second term 47 by 42, the sequence becomes 37, 42, 52, 67, 87, 112, 142. Step 5: Now recompute differences: 42 - 37 = 5, 52 - 42 = 10, 67 - 52 = 15, 87 - 67 = 20, 112 - 87 = 25, 142 - 112 = 30. Step 6: These differences form a perfect arithmetic sequence with common difference 5. Verification / Alternative check: With the corrected series 37, 42, 52, 67, 87, 112, 142, every step adds 5 more than the previous step. The hidden structure is now an arithmetic progression in the differences. Since only one term needed adjustment and this adjustment falls neatly on the second term, the original given value 47 must have been the error in the series. Why Other Options Are Wrong: If we assume that 52, 67, 87, or 112 is wrong and try to fix the series by changing one of those terms, we do not obtain a simple linear progression in the differences. Either we end up with inconsistent step sizes or we have to alter more than one number. Because the question specifies only one wrong term, 47 is the only candidate whose replacement restores a perfectly regular pattern. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes stop after seeing the first difference of 10 and assume the series is random. Another mistake is to search for multiplicative or factorial patterns when the problem is a straightforward linear one. Always systematically compute all differences and look for hidden arithmetic progressions among them before exploring more complicated rules. Final Answer: The number that breaks the intended pattern and is therefore wrong is 47.

Question 19

In the three–digit series 372, 823, 644, 582, 46?, 8?7, which pair of digits should replace the two question marks so that the pattern of the sequence is correctly continued?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question presents a series of three digit numbers with two missing digits marked by question marks. The task is to detect the hidden rule that governs how the digits are arranged from term to term and then use that logic to fill in the missing digits in the numbers 46? and 8?7. This is a classic number series problem commonly seen in verbal reasoning and aptitude tests. Given Data / Assumptions: The given series is: 372, 823, 644, 582, 46?, 8?7. Each term is a three digit number. Two digits are missing: the units digit in 46? and the tens digit in 8?7. The same underlying rule should apply consistently to every term in the sequence. No term is to be treated as an exception unless clearly forced by the pattern. Concept / Approach: In many three digit series, the pattern lies in relationships between digits rather than in the whole numbers. One simple and powerful idea is to examine the sum of digits for each term. If the digit sums follow a recognizable pattern, we can use that pattern to determine the unknown digits. This avoids overcomplicating the problem with differences of whole numbers, which often look irregular for such sequences. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Compute digit sums of the known terms. 372 → 3 + 7 + 2 = 12. 823 → 8 + 2 + 3 = 13. 644 → 6 + 4 + 4 = 14. 582 → 5 + 8 + 2 = 15. Step 2: Observe that the digit sums are increasing by 1: 12, 13, 14, 15. Step 3: The next digit sum should be 16 for the term 46?. Step 4: For 46?, 4 + 6 + ? = 16, so ? = 16 - 10 = 6. Therefore, the fifth term is 466. Step 5: The sixth term should then have a digit sum of 17, since the pattern continues. Step 6: For 8?7, 8 + ? + 7 = 17, so ? = 17 - 15 = 2. Therefore, the sixth term is 827. Verification / Alternative check: We now have the full sequence: 372 (12), 823 (13), 644 (14), 582 (15), 466 (16), 827 (17). The digit sums form a simple arithmetic progression from 12 to 17 with common difference 1. No anomalies appear, and each step fits the pattern precisely, which strongly validates the solution. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Options such as 4 and 4, 3 and 2, or 2 and 5 produce numbers whose digit sums do not follow the strict +1 increment sequence. For example, if we chose 4 and 4, the term 464 would have digit sum 14, which breaks the smooth progression from 15 to 16 to 17. Hence, these alternatives are inconsistent with the discovered rule. Common Pitfalls: A common mistake is to look at the differences between the whole numbers, which appear irregular here and can be misleading. Another error is to guess the missing digits based on superficial patterns in individual columns (hundreds, tens, units) without checking consistency across all terms. Focusing on the simple digit sum pattern avoids these traps. Final Answer: The correct pair of digits that fits the pattern of increasing digit sums is 6 and 2, giving the series terms 466 and 827.

Question 20

The sequence 0, 1, 4, 7, 8, 5, 2, 3, 6, 9, 9, 6, 3, 2, 5, 8, 7, 4, 1, 0, 0, … is given. Based on the pattern in the entire sequence, what is the next number that should come after the last 0?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This problem presents a relatively long sequence of single digit numbers with an ellipsis indicating continuation. The values seem irregular if we only look at local changes, but the question expects us to recognize a global structure. Such sequences often hide symmetry, periodicity or reflections rather than simple arithmetic progressions. Given Data / Assumptions: The sequence shown is: 0, 1, 4, 7, 8, 5, 2, 3, 6, 9, 9, 6, 3, 2, 5, 8, 7, 4, 1, 0, 0, … The last explicitly written term before the dots is 0. We assume the same pattern that produced the first 21 terms continues beyond them. All numbers are single digits from 0 to 9. Concept / Approach: A useful idea with long sequences is to look for reflection symmetry. If the sequence increases and then appears to retrace its steps in reverse order, it may be palindromic or cyclic. Another clue is the repeated pair 9, 9 in the middle which can act as a mirror point. We examine whether the first part of the sequence is mirrored in the second part and whether a cycle of fixed length repeats. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Split the given terms into two blocks of ten numbers each. First block: 0, 1, 4, 7, 8, 5, 2, 3, 6, 9. Second block: 9, 6, 3, 2, 5, 8, 7, 4, 1, 0. Step 2: Reverse the first block: 9, 6, 3, 2, 5, 8, 7, 4, 1, 0. Step 3: Observe that the reversed first block exactly matches the second block term by term. Step 4: This shows that the first 20 terms form a symmetric pattern around the central pair 9, 9. Step 5: Note that the 21st term is 0, which is the same as the first term, suggesting that a new cycle is starting. Step 6: If the sequence is periodic with period 20, then term 21 should match term 1 (0), term 22 should match term 2 (1), and so on. Step 7: Since the 21st term is already 0, consistent with term 1, the next term (22nd) must be 1, matching term 2. Verification / Alternative check: We can verify by writing indices: positions 1 to 10 form the original progression; positions 11 to 20 are exactly the reverse. This demonstrates a complete symmetric cycle of length 20. Because the 21st term equals the first term, it is highly reasonable that the entire 20 term pattern is repeating, making the 22nd term equal to the second term, which is 1. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Choosing 0 again would break the established cycle, since after term 1 the sequence moved on to 1, not another 0. Values 4 or 7 are later positions inside the cycle and would only appear at specific indices, not immediately after restarting at 0. Therefore, only 1 keeps the pattern consistent with a repeated 20 term block. Common Pitfalls: Many learners focus only on local differences such as +3, +3, +1 and so on, which appear irregular and confusing. This can lead to the false conclusion that the next term cannot be determined. The key is to step back and look for global symmetric structures rather than small arithmetic changes. Final Answer: The sequence repeats a 20 term symmetric pattern, so after the repeated 0 at position 21, the next term must be 1.

Number Series Questions