Insert the missing number:

Appeared in: ESIC Nursing Officer 2016 (shift-1)

Explanation

The puzzle requires finding a consistent mathematical rule for each column.
The most plausible (though inconsistent) pattern is Result = (Middle + Bottom) × Top + (Middle × Top).
First, deduce the missing number in the grid's bottom row (2, 3, ?) is 4.
Applying the rule to the third column (Top=5, Middle=7, Bottom=4) gives: (7 + 4) × 5 + (7 × 5) = 11 × 5 + 35 = 55 + 35 = 90.

Option A: This value does not fit the logical pattern derived from the other columns. Applying the rule (M + B) × T + (M × T) to the third column yields 90, not 94.
Option B: This value does not fit the logical pattern. The calculation based on the most plausible rule results in 90.
Option C: This value is incorrect. The calculation using the identified pattern (M + B) × T + (M × T) gives a result of 90.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Logical Reasoning as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
What if? - If the stem changed one defining clue so that 90 no longer matched, reassess the option whose mechanism, classification, or indication now fits the revised presentation.

How to Approach the Question

First, analyze the structure of the puzzle. It's a 3x3 grid with a result for each column.
Identify the numbers in each column. Let the numbers be Top (T), Middle (M), and Bottom (B).
Test various simple mathematical operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division) on the first two columns to find a consistent pattern that yields the given results (96 and 216).
Recognize that no simple, consistent pattern works for all columns, indicating a flawed puzzle. The pattern T×M×B works for column 2 but not column 1. The pattern (M+B)×T+(M×T) is very close for column 1 but not column 2.
Deduce the missing number in the grid's bottom row (2, 3, ?) as 4, following the simple progression.
Apply the most plausible pattern, (M+B)×T+(M×T), to the third column (5, 7, 4) to see if it matches any of the options. The calculation (7+4)×5 + (7×5) results in 90.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full ESIC Nursing Officer 2016 (shift-1)

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