Question

What will come in place of the question mark in the following numerical series?
6, 9, 14, 21, 30, ?

• A. 36
• B. 41
• C. 62
• D. 59

Hint:

When faced with a number series, always start by checking the differences between consecutive terms. If the first-level differences don't show a clear pattern, check the differences of the differences (second-level differences).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Comprehend the Problem:
This is a numerical sequence problem requiring pattern identification to determine the subsequent element.

Step 2: Applicable Method:
A standard technique for pattern discovery involves calculating the intervals between adjacent numbers.

Step 3: Analysis:
Examine the differences between consecutive numbers:


\(9 - 6 = 3\)

\(14 - 9 = 5\)

\(21 - 14 = 7\)

\(30 - 21 = 9\)

The calculated differences are 3, 5, 7, 9, forming a series of consecutive odd numbers. The next odd number in this progression is 11. To find the next term in the original sequence, add this difference to the last term (30).

Next term = \(30 + 11 = 41\).

Step 4: Conclusion:
The missing number in the sequence is 41.