DSSSB 13 August 2024
Reasoning
Hard

Refer to the following letter and symbol series and the question that follows. Counting to be done from left to right only.
(Left) C#S*LBGC&TEDA@UKRGY#E (Right)
How many such symbols are there each of which is immediately preceded by a vowel but not immediately followed by a vowel?

Appeared in: DSSSB 13 August 2024

Explanation

  • The question requires finding a specific three-character pattern: Vowel, then Symbol, then a character that is NOT a vowel.
  • The series is: C#S*LBGC&TEDA@UKRGY#E.
  • First, identify all symbols: #, *, &, @, #.
  • Next, check the character before and after each symbol.
  • The only symbol preceded by a vowel is '@' (preceded by 'A').
  • However, '@' is followed by 'U', which is also a vowel. This fails the second part of the condition ('not immediately followed by a vowel').

Why Other Options Were Wrong

  • Option A: This is an incorrect count. There are no instances that match the required pattern in the series.
  • Option B: This is incorrect. A common error is to identify the pattern 'A@U' and count it because the first condition (preceded by a vowel) is met, while ignoring the second condition (not followed by a vowel).
  • Option D: This is an incorrect count. There are no instances that match the required pattern in the series.

Related Visual

Visual explanation — Related Visual
Clinical Relevance
  • Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Logical Reasoning: Alphanumeric Series Analysis as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
  • While not a clinical question, this type of logical reasoning is a foundational skill for nursing practice.
  • It hones attention to detail, which is crucial for accurately reading medication charts, patient IDs, and complex instructions, thereby preventing errors.
  • Nurses must often follow multi-step protocols (e.g., medication administration, wound care) where missing a single condition or step can have significant consequences for patient safety.
How to Approach the Question
  • First, carefully read the question to fully understand the conditions. Break down the required pattern: (1) a symbol, (2) immediately preceded by a vowel, (3) NOT immediately followed by a vowel.
  • Identify the set of vowels (A, E, I, O, U) for quick reference.
  • Scan the entire series from left to right and locate every symbol.
  • For each symbol you find, look at the character immediately to its left. If it's not a vowel, you can immediately discard this symbol and move to the next one.
  • If the preceding character IS a vowel, then proceed to check the character immediately to its right.
  • If this following character is NOT a vowel, you have found a successful match. Add one to your count.
Concept Tested & Keywords
  • Concept Tested: Logical Reasoning: Alphanumeric Series Analysis
  • Stem keywords: letter and symbol series, immediately preceded by a vowel, not immediately followed by a vowel
  • Lead-in keywords: How many
  • Negative lead-in flag: The condition includes a negative constraint ('not immediately followed by').

Question ID

QbJBv2p3O2DnY0t1SAMITm

Practise the full DSSSB 13 August 2024

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

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