Select the figure from among the given options that can replace the question mark (?) in the following series.

Appeared in: DSSSB 13 August 2024

Explanation

The question requires identifying the next figure in a visual series based on a rotational pattern.
The core element, a darkened spoke on an eight-pointed star, rotates 45 degrees counter-clockwise with each step.
The sequence of positions is: Bottom-Right (4:30) → Bottom (6:00) → Bottom-Left (7:30) → Left (9:00).
Following this pattern, the next position must be a 45-degree counter-clockwise rotation from the Left (9:00) position, which is the Top-Left (10:30) position.

Option B: This option shows the darkened spoke at the left (9 o'clock) position, which is a repetition of the fourth figure in the series, not the next logical step.
Option C: This option shows the spoke at the top (12 o'clock) position. This would represent a 90-degree rotation from the previous figure, which breaks the established 45-degree rotation pattern.
Option D: This option shows the spoke at the bottom-left (7:30) position. This is the position from the third figure in the series and would imply a reversal of the pattern's direction.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Non-verbal reasoning involving rotational patterns in a series as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
This question type is not directly related to clinical nursing tasks but assesses critical thinking and pattern recognition.
These cognitive skills are essential for nurses when analyzing patient data, recognizing trends in vital signs, and making quick, logical decisions in complex situations.
What if the rotation was clockwise? If the rotation was 45 degrees clockwise, the sequence would be 4:30 → 3:00 → 1:30 → 12:00, and the answer would be different.

How to Approach the Question

First, carefully observe the series of figures and identify the element that changes from one frame to the next. Here, it's the position of the darkened spoke.
Trace the movement of this element across the first few figures to establish a pattern. Note both the direction (clockwise or counter-clockwise) and the magnitude (angle) of the change.
In this series, the spoke moves one position counter-clockwise each time, which is a 45-degree rotation.
Apply this established rule to the last given figure to predict the appearance of the missing figure.
The last figure has the spoke at the 9 o'clock position. A 45-degree counter-clockwise rotation places it at the 10:30 position.
Finally, select the option that matches your prediction.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Qa_QStzcd9XmLnrvH_6EQa

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.