If A = 1, Z = 26, then what is the value of the word “BAD”?

Appeared in: NORCET 5 Prelims - Sept 2023 (Shift-1)

Explanation

The problem uses a simple alphabetical coding system where each letter is assigned a number corresponding to its position in the alphabet (A=1, B=2, etc.).
The value of the word 'BAD' is calculated by summing the values of its individual letters.
B is the 2nd letter (value 2), A is the 1st letter (value 1), and D is the 4th letter (value 4).
The total sum is calculated as 2 + 1 + 4 = 7.

Option B: This is an incorrect sum. The value 9 does not result from adding the positional values of the letters in 'BAD' (2+1+4).
Option C: This is an incorrect sum. The value 10 is not obtained by adding the positional values of B, A, and D.
Option D: This is an incorrect sum. The value 11 does not match the sum of the positional values for 'BAD'.

Visual 1: Infographic - A chart showing the English alphabet from A to Z with their corresponding numerical values (1 to 26). This provides a quick reference for solving this type of problem.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Alphabetical Coding and Reasoning as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
While not a clinical skill, logical reasoning is a component of nursing entrance exams, testing a candidate's problem-solving and analytical abilities.
This type of question assesses attention to detail and the ability to follow a defined set of rules, which are crucial skills in nursing for tasks like medication calculation and protocol adherence.
What if the coding was reversed (Z=1, Y=2, ..., A=26)? The value of 'BAD' would be calculated differently. B is the 25th letter from the end, A is the 26th, and D is the 23rd. The sum would be 25 + 26 + 23 = 74.

How to Approach the Question

First, understand the rule given in the question: A=1 and Z=26. This establishes a direct relationship between a letter and its position in the alphabet.
Next, break down the target word 'BAD' into its individual letters: B, A, and D.
Assign the numerical value to each letter based on the established rule: B=2, A=1, D=4.
Perform the required operation, which is addition in this case. Sum the values: 2 + 1 + 4.
Calculate the final sum, which is 7, and select the matching option.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full NORCET 5 Prelims - Sept 2023 (Shift-1)

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