A, B, C, D, and E are sitting in a row. C is to the immediate left of D, and B is at one end. Who is in the middle?

Appeared in: NORCET -4 , 2023

Explanation

The question is a logical reasoning puzzle involving seating arrangements.
To solve it, a missing piece of information ('A is between B and C') is assumed, which is common for this puzzle type.
Combining the constraints 'B is at one end', 'A is between B and C', and 'C is to the immediate left of D' results in the unique sequence: B, A, C, D, E.
In this five-person arrangement, the third position is the middle, which is occupied by C.

Option A: Based on the derived sequence (B, A, C, D, E), A is in the second position, not the middle.
Option C: In the final arrangement (B, A, C, D, E), D is in the fourth position, not the middle.
Option D: E is at the fifth position (the right end) in the sequence (B, A, C, D, E), not the middle.

Visual 1: Diagram - A simple diagram showing five numbered boxes in a row, with the letters B, A, C, D, E placed in them sequentially to illustrate the final arrangement and highlight 'C' in the middle (3rd) position.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Logical Reasoning - Seating Arrangement as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
This question assesses logical reasoning and problem-solving skills, which are essential for nurses in prioritizing tasks, managing patient care, and making sound clinical judgments under pressure.
While not a clinical question, the ability to deduce conclusions from a set of constraints is a core competency in diagnostics and care planning.
What if the question stated 'A is to the immediate left of C' instead of 'A is between B and C'? The arrangement would change. 'B' at one end, and the blocks 'AC' and 'CD' would combine to 'ACD'. The sequence would be B, E, A, C, D or B, A, C, D, E. The answer would become ambiguous again, highlighting the importance of precise information.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify that this is a seating arrangement puzzle. Note the number of people (5) and the shape (a single row).
List all the given conditions or constraints. Here: 1. C is to the immediate left of D. 2. B is at one end.
Recognize that the given information is insufficient to form a unique arrangement. In an exam, this often implies a standard unstated assumption or a flawed question. The most logical assumption is a linking statement, such as 'A is between B and C'.
Combine the constraints step-by-step. Use blocks for fixed pairs (like 'CD') or groups (like 'BAC').
Start with the most definitive clue, which is 'B is at one end'. Test the possibilities by placing this block first.
Deduce the final sequence by fitting all the pieces together. Once the full arrangement is clear, identify the person in the middle position (position 3 out of 5).

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full NORCET -4 , 2023

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.