In a certain code language, if ALTER is coded as ODWUH, then how is DEPTH coded in that language?

Appeared in: RRB Nsg. Superintendent-20 July 2019 (Shift-1)

Explanation

The correct code is derived from a two-step logical process.
First, each letter of the original word is shifted forward by three positions in the alphabet (e.g., D+3 = G, E+3 = H).
Second, the resulting letters are rearranged: the first and second letters are swapped, the third remains, and the fourth and fifth letters are swapped.
Applying this logic to 'DEPTH' results in the intermediate 'GHSWK', which is then rearranged to 'HGSKW'.

Option B: This option does not follow the established two-step pattern of shifting and rearranging letters.
Option C: This option is incorrect as it does not align with the coding rule derived from the example 'ALTER' -> 'ODWUH'.
Option D: This is the intermediate result after applying only the first step (shifting letters by +3) but before performing the second step (rearrangement).

Visual 1: Flowchart: A visual flowchart can illustrate the two-step process. Step 1 box shows 'Letter Shift (+3)' leading to an intermediate word. Step 2 box shows 'Rearrangement (Swap 1-2, 4-5)' leading to the final code.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Logical Reasoning: Coding-Decoding as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
This question tests logical and analytical reasoning, which are crucial skills for nurses.
Nurses use deductive reasoning daily for tasks like interpreting patient symptoms, prioritizing care, and troubleshooting equipment.
Strong problem-solving skills help in making quick, accurate decisions in high-pressure clinical environments.

How to Approach the Question

First, carefully analyze the given example ('ALTER' coded as 'ODWUH') to identify the underlying rule or pattern.
Break down the transformation. Check for simple shifts, reversals, or positional changes. Here, it's a combination.
Formulate a hypothesis for the pattern. In this case, it's a +3 letter shift followed by swapping the 1st/2nd and 4th/5th letters.
Verify that your hypothesis correctly transforms 'ALTER' to 'ODWUH'.
Once the pattern is confirmed, apply the exact same two-step logic to the word 'DEPTH'.
Compare your final result with the given options to find the correct answer. Be wary of distractors that represent partial steps (like option D).

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full RRB Nsg. Superintendent-20 July 2019 (Shift-1)

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