In a row of 5 persons, A is to the right of B, but to the left of C. D is to the right of C but to the left of E. Who is in the middle?

Appeared in: Daman & Diu Staff Nurse - 2018

Explanation

The first condition establishes the sequence B → A → C.
The second condition establishes the sequence C → D → E.
Combining these two sequences using the common person 'C' results in the final arrangement: B → A → C → D → E.
In a row of five people, the third person is in the middle position.
Based on the final arrangement, 'C' occupies the third position.

Option A: Based on the arrangement (B → A → C → D → E), 'A' is in the second position from the left, not the middle.
Option C: In the final sequence (B → A → C → D → E), 'D' is in the fourth position, which is to the right of the middle.
Option D: According to the final arrangement (B → A → C → D → E), 'B' is in the first position at the far left end of the row.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Logical Reasoning - Linear Arrangement as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
This question tests logical reasoning and the ability to synthesize information sequentially, a foundational skill for problem-solving.
While not a clinical question, the analytical skills required are directly applicable in nursing for tasks like interpreting patient charts, understanding treatment sequences, and prioritizing care based on multiple data points.
What if the first clue was 'A is to the left of B'? The arrangement would become A → B, and if all other clues remained the same, it would be impossible to form a single, non-contradictory line, indicating an issue with the premises.

How to Approach the Question

First, carefully read all the conditions provided in the question.
Translate each relational statement (e.g., 'to the right of', 'to the left of') into a small positional diagram or sequence (e.g., 'A is right of B' becomes B, A).
Look for a common person or element that can link your smaller sequences together.
Combine the pieces to form one single, continuous arrangement of all persons.
Once the final order is established, identify the middle position. For a row of 5, the middle position is the 3rd spot.
Select the person who occupies that middle spot as your answer.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full Daman & Diu Staff Nurse - 2018

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