Look at this series: 36, 34, 30, 28, 24, … What number should come next?

Question

Look at this series: 36, 34, 30, 28, 24, … What number should come next?

1. A. 20
2. B. 22 (Correct answer)
3. C. 23
4. D. 26

Correct Answer

Option B — 22

Detailed Solution & Explanation

The correct answer is 22.

Key Points

• Examine the differences: 36 → 34 is −2, 34 → 30 is −4, 30 → 28 is −2, 28 → 24 is −4.
• The pattern alternates −2, −4, so the next step is −2: 24 − 2 = 22.

Additional Information

• Always write the row of differences first. A row that repeats signals an alternating series; one that progresses signals a second-order series.
• A useful cross-check here: the terms pair off as (36, 34), (30, 28), (24, 22), with each pair falling by 6 from the last.
• The distractor 26 comes from assuming a constant −2 throughout, which fits only half the given terms.