Alphabet series – complete the three-letter pattern Sequence: PMT, OOS, NQR, MSQ, ?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: LUP

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
In three-letter series questions, each position (first, second, third letter) often follows its own rule. Solving requires tracking three mini-sequences in parallel and then combining the results to form the missing term.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Terms: PMT, OOS, NQR, MSQ, ?
  • English alphabet positions: A=1 to Z=26.
  • Only one valid continuation is intended.


Concept / Approach:
Split each term into its three columns and inspect the movement in each column separately. Look for simple patterns like +1, −1, +2, or constant steps.



Step-by-Step Solution:

First letters: P(16) → O(15) → N(14) → M(13): decreasing by 1 each time, so next is L(12).Second letters: M(13) → O(15) → Q(17) → S(19): increasing by 2 each time, so next is U(21).Third letters: T(20) → S(19) → R(18) → Q(17): decreasing by 1 each time, so next is P(16).Combine the three results: L + U + P = LUP.


Verification / Alternative check:
Confirm the uniform steps: first column −1, second column +2, third column −1 throughout. All transitions fit, and LUP continues them consistently.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • LVP or LWP: the middle letter V or W would imply +4 or +6 in the second column, breaking the +2 pattern.
  • LVR: ends with R, but the third column should go Q→P (−1), not Q→R (+1).
  • MUP: would break the first column's −1 step (M should have already been used).


Common Pitfalls:
Treating each three-letter block holistically rather than column-wise; missing that each position evolves independently.


Final Answer:
LUP

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