In each set the operations on the first number give the second, on the second give the third, and so on. Which option follows the…

Question

In each set the operations on the first number give the second, on the second give the third, and so on. Which option follows the same set of operations as the given sets?

48 – 50 – 46 – 52; 37 – 39 – 35 – 41

1. A. 26 – 28 – 24 – 30 (Correct answer)
2. B. 21 – 23 – 29 – 27
3. C. 19 – 17 – 21 – 25
4. D. 15 – 13 – 9 – 19

Correct Answer

Option A — 26 – 28 – 24 – 30

Detailed Solution & Explanation

The correct answer is 26 – 28 – 24 – 30.

Key Points

• The step pattern is +2, −4, +6: 48→50→46→52 and 37→39→35→41.
• Applying it to 26: 26(+2)28(−4)24(+6)30, which matches option 1.

Additional Information

• Write the differences between consecutive terms in a row; a repeating cycle such as +2, −4, +6 shows up immediately.
• Confirm the cycle on the second given set before applying it, since a single set can fit several patterns.
• Alternating-sign steps are common in SSC series. If plain differences look irregular, check whether they alternate in sign before abandoning the approach.