Alphabet series: A, G, L, P, S, ? Determine the next letter by examining the jump sizes between alphabetical positions.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: U

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
This is a classic letter-series problem built on arithmetic jumps in alphabet positions. The task is to find a consistent step between consecutive letters and then extend that rule to predict the next item.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Series: A, G, L, P, S, ?
  • Alphabet index: A=1, …, Z=26.
  • Assume a steady change (increase) in position values.


Concept / Approach:
Convert each letter to its numeric position, compute the successive differences, and look for a consistent pattern. Apply the same increment to the last known term to get the answer.



Step-by-Step Solution:

Positions: A(1), G(7), L(12), P(16), S(19).Differences: +6, +5, +4, +3 (a decreasing increment by 1 each time).Next difference should be +2.Next letter = S(19) + 2 = 21 → U.


Verification / Alternative check:


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • W, X, Y require larger jumps (+4, +5, +6) that contradict the clearly shrinking step size.


Common Pitfalls:
Assuming a constant step size or skipping the numeric translation. Converting letters to numbers helps reveal simple arithmetic patterns instantly.



Final Answer:
U


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