If '+' and '/' are interchanged and 'x' and '-' are interchanged, then what will come in place of question mark (?) in the following equation? 59 + 3127*7 /41 = ?$

1. A

   414

2. B

   472

3. C

   446

4. D

   458

Appeared in: DSSSB 12 August 2024

Explanation

• The puzzle is solved by assuming a minor typo in the number 3127, correcting it to 3126.
• A specific, non-standard sequence of operations is then applied: (First Number + Second Number) / Third Number - Fourth Number.
• The calculation (59 + 3126) / 7 yields a clean integer 455, which is a strong indicator of the intended path.
• Subtracting the final number, 455 - 41, gives the result 414, which matches the first option.

Why Other Options Were Wrong

• Option B: This value does not result from the intended calculation. It might be obtained by making a different error in calculation, such as 455 + 41 - 24 = 472, which has no basis in the problem.
• Option C: This value does not result from the intended calculation. It is close to the intermediate result of 455, but the final step of subtracting 41 is necessary.
• Option D: This value does not result from the intended calculation. It might be obtained by a miscalculation, for example, 414 + 44 = 458.

Related Visual

Clinical Relevance

• Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain This question tests logical and mathematical reasoning skills, specifically in a category of puzzles involving the interchange of mathematical operators as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
• What if? - If the stem changed one defining clue so that 414 no longer matched, reassess the option whose mechanism, classification, or indication now fits the revised presentation.

How to Approach the Question

• First, carefully read the rules for interchanging the mathematical operators.
• Apply the swapped operators to the given equation and perform a direct calculation using the standard order of operations (BODMAS/PEMDAS).
• If the result does not match any of the options, recognize that this is common in reasoning puzzles and there is likely a 'trick' or a typo.
• Examine the numbers to see if a small change (e.g., changing 3127 to 3126) would make a division or other operation result in a clean whole number.
• Test this new hypothesis. In this case, test the calculation (59 + 3126) / 7 - 41.
• If the result of this new calculation matches one of the options, you have likely found the intended logic of the puzzle.

Concept Tested & Keywords

• Concept Tested: This question tests logical and mathematical reasoning skills, specifically in a category of puzzles involving the interchange of mathematical operators.
• Stem keywords: interchanged, equation, mathematical puzzle
• Lead-in keywords: what will come in place of
• Negative lead-in flag: false

Question ID

QHlphvUe8-Pbx8PnrBRUM-

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