In a certain code language, 'ROUTINE' is written as 'QMRPDHX'. How will 'SPECIAL' be written in the same language?

Appeared in: NHM UP Staff Nurse-2023 shift 1st

Explanation

The core logic is a sequential subtraction pattern applied to the alphabetical position of each letter.
The first letter is shifted back by 1 position, the second by 2, the third by 3, and so on.
Applying this pattern (S-1, P-2, E-3, C-4, I-5, A-6, L-7) correctly yields the code 'RNBYDUE'.
For subtractions that go below 1 (e.g., C(3)-4 = -1), the alphabet wraps around from Z (26). So, -1 corresponds to Y (25).

Option A: This option has 'U' as the fifth letter and 'D' as the sixth, which is an incorrect placement. The correct pattern gives 'D' as the fifth letter (I-5) and 'U' as the sixth (A-6).
Option B: This option incorrectly swaps the second and third letters ('B' and 'N'). The correct sequence is R, N (from P-2), B (from E-3).
Option C: This option incorrectly swaps the fourth and fifth letters ('B' and 'Y') and also the last two letters ('E' and 'U'). The correct sequence is R-N-B-Y-D-U-E.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Logical Reasoning - Coding-Decoding by Letter Position as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
While not a clinical question, this type of logical reasoning is a component of many nursing entrance and competitive exams.
Strong problem-solving and pattern recognition skills are essential for nurses in clinical practice for tasks like interpreting patient data trends, identifying subtle changes in condition, and troubleshooting equipment.
What if the pattern was addition instead of subtraction? If the pattern was +1, +2, +3..., 'ROUTINE' would be 'SQWXOMJ'. The same logical process of identifying and applying the rule is used.

How to Approach the Question

First, analyze the relationship between the given word ('ROUTINE') and its code ('QMRPDHX').
Write down the letters of the alphabet and their corresponding numerical positions (A=1, B=2, etc.).
For each letter in the original word, calculate the difference in position to its corresponding letter in the code. Look for a consistent pattern (e.g., adding/subtracting a constant, or a sequence of numbers).
In this case, you'll find the pattern is subtracting 1, then 2, then 3, and so on.
Once the pattern is confirmed, apply the exact same rule to the new word ('SPECIAL').
Carefully perform the calculations for each letter, paying attention to 'wrap-around' cases where you go past 'A' (e.g., C-4 becomes Y).

Concept Tested & Keywords

QAuiBjknCtAqMlpTL5corx

Practise the full NHM UP Staff Nurse-2023 shift 1st

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