In a certain code, MONKEY = 576113, how is DONKEY coded?

Appeared in: HPSSC - 2015

Explanation

The question uses a fixed substitution cipher where each letter corresponds to a specific number.
From 'MONKEY' = 576113, we deduce the codes: M=5, O=7, N=6, K=1, E=1, Y=3.
The word 'DONKEY' shares the letters 'ONKEY' with 'MONKEY'.
The code for 'ONKEY' must therefore be 76113.
The correct answer must end in 76113, which makes 476113 the only logical choice, establishing that D=4.

Option A: This option suggests the code for 'O' is 5. However, the code for 'MONKEY' (576113) clearly establishes that 'O' is coded as 7.
Option C: This option suggests the code for 'Y' is 5. The original code for 'MONKEY' (576113) establishes that 'Y' is coded as 3.
Option D: This option suggests the code for 'Y' is 4. The original code for 'MONKEY' (576113) establishes that 'Y' is coded as 3.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Logical Reasoning: Coding-Decoding (Substitution Cipher) as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
This is a logical reasoning question and does not have direct clinical relevance.
However, the underlying skill of pattern recognition is crucial in nursing for tasks like interpreting ECG strips, identifying trends in vital signs, and recognizing symptom clusters.
What if? If the question stated MONKEY = 576113 and K=2, the entire premise would be inconsistent, indicating a more complex coding rule (e.g., involving position or vowels) rather than a simple substitution.

How to Approach the Question

First, analyze the example provided ('MONKEY' = 576113) to understand the coding rule. Write down the letter-to-number mapping for each character.
Next, look at the word you need to code ('DONKEY') and identify any letters that are common with the example word.
Use the established mapping for the common letters ('ONKEY') to determine that portion of the new code.
Examine the options provided. Eliminate any options that contradict the mapping you've already established.
The remaining option will reveal the code for the new letter ('D') and will be the correct answer.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full HPSSC - 2015

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