Select the letter-cluster from among the given options that can replace the question mark (?) in the following series. MNK, NOJ,…

Question

Select the letter-cluster from among the given options that can replace the question mark (?) in the following series.

MNK, NOJ, OPI, PQH, ?

1. A. GFD
2. B. HJG
3. C. QRG (Correct answer)
4. D. IJH

Correct Answer

Option C — QRG

Detailed Solution & Explanation

The correct answer is QRG.

Key Points

• Read the clusters column-wise:
  • 1st letters: M, N, O, P → each +1 → next is Q
  • 2nd letters: N, O, P, Q → each +1 → next is R
  • 3rd letters: K, J, I, H → each −1 → next is G
• Combining gives Q R G.

Additional Information

• Mixed-direction series, where some columns advance while others retreat, are among the commonest constructions — always check each position separately rather than looking for one rule.
• Note also that the first two letters here are consecutive (M-N, N-O, O-P), a secondary pattern that confirms the answer.
• Converting letters to positions (A=1 … Z=26) turns each column into an arithmetic progression and makes the step obvious, especially where the alphabet wraps past Z or before A.

प्रश्न (हिन्दी में)

दिए गए विकल्पों में से उस अक्षर-समूह का चयन करें जो निम्नलिखित श्रृंखला में प्रश्न चिह्न (?) के स्थान पर आ सकता है।

MNK, NOJ, OPI, PQH, ?

1. A. GFD
2. B. HJG
3. C. QRG
4. D. IJH