DSSSB 14 August 2024
Reasoning
Hard

Refer to the following number and symbol series and answer the question that follows. Counting to be done from left to right only. (Left) 2 & 6 @ 8 $7 & 4 0 9 # 1 * 8 @ 0 9 1 (Right) How many such symbols are there each of which is immediately preceded by an odd number but not immediately followed by an even number?

Appeared in: DSSSB 14 August 2024

Explanation

  • The question requires finding symbols that are preceded by an odd number and NOT followed by an even number.
  • The series is: 2 & 6 @ 8 $ 7 & 4 0 9 # 1 * 8 @ 0 9 1.
  • Let's analyze the pattern 'Odd Number - Symbol - Not an Even Number'.
  • The sequence '9 # 1' is the only one that fits this pattern.
  • Here, the symbol '#' is preceded by '9' (an odd number) and followed by '1' (an odd number, which is not an even number).
  • No other symbol in the series satisfies both conditions simultaneously.

Why Other Options Were Wrong

  • Option B: This is incorrect. A thorough check of the series reveals only one symbol that meets the specified criteria, not three.
  • Option C: This is incorrect. Only one symbol (#) matches the conditions. A common error is to misinterpret one of the conditions, for example, overlooking the 'not' in the second condition.
  • Option D: This is incorrect because the symbol '#' clearly satisfies both conditions: it is preceded by the odd number '9' and followed by the odd number '1'.

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: Symbol and Number Series Analysis as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
  • This type of question does not have direct clinical relevance as it is from the General Intelligence and Reasoning section of the exam.
  • However, it tests attention to detail, logical thinking, and the ability to follow complex instructions accurately.
  • These cognitive skills are crucial for nurses in clinical practice for tasks like correctly administering medication, interpreting patient data, and following multi-step protocols without error.
How to Approach the Question
  • First, carefully read the entire series and the question to understand the conditions.
  • Break down the conditions into simple rules. Rule 1: The character before the symbol must be an odd number. Rule 2: The character after the symbol must NOT be an even number.
  • Scan the series from left to right, focusing only on the symbols: &, @, $, &, #, *, @.
  • For each symbol, check the character immediately to its left. If it's not an odd number, eliminate that symbol and move to the next one.
  • If the preceding character is an odd number, then check the character immediately to its right. If it is an even number, eliminate the symbol. If it is not an even number (i.e., it's an odd number or another symbol), then you have found a match.
  • Count the total number of matches and select the corresponding option.
Concept Tested & Keywords
  • Concept Tested: Logical Reasoning: Symbol and Number Series Analysis
  • Stem keywords: number and symbol series, preceded by, followed by, odd number, even number
  • Lead-in keywords: How many

Question ID

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