Select the pair which follows the same pattern as the set of pairs given below. CEA: FHD, KMI: NPL

Appeared in: DSSSB October 2024

Explanation

The correct pair follows the same logical pattern as the examples CEA:FHD and KMI:NPL.
The established pattern is a consistent forward shift of +3 for each corresponding letter in the pair.
In SUQ:VXT, S (19) + 3 = V (22), U (21) + 3 = X (24), and Q (17) + 3 = T (20).
This perfectly matches the +3 shift rule identified from the question's examples.

Option A: The pair FIC:LNP does not follow a consistent +3 shift. The shifts are F(+6)→L, I(+5)→N, and C(+13)→P.
Option B: The pair MOL:PRP is inconsistent. While the first two letters follow the +3 shift (M→P, O→R), the last letter has a +4 shift (L→P).
Option C: The pair TVX:SRO involves backward shifts (subtraction), not the forward +3 shift. For example, T(20) shifts by -1 to become S(19).

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Logical Reasoning: Alphabetical Analogy as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
This question tests logical and analytical reasoning, a critical skill for nurses in problem-solving and decision-making during patient care.
While not a clinical topic, the ability to identify patterns and apply rules systematically is foundational to interpreting diagnostic data, following protocols, and managing complex patient situations.
What if the pattern was a reverse alphabetical shift? If the pattern was -3, then for the pair 'FHD', the corresponding letters would be 'CEA' (F(6)-3=C(3), H(8)-3=E(5), D(4)-3=A(1)).

How to Approach the Question

First, analyze the given example pairs (CEA:FHD, KMI:NPL) to identify the underlying logical rule or pattern connecting them.
Convert the letters to their numerical positions in the alphabet (A=1, B=2, etc.) to make the pattern easier to spot. Notice that C→F is 3→6, E→H is 5→8, and A→D is 1→4. This reveals a consistent '+3' shift.
Confirm this '+3' pattern with the second example pair (KMI:NPL). K→N is 11→14, M→P is 13→16, I→L is 9→12. The pattern holds.
Now, systematically apply the identified '+3' rule to each of the four answer options.
Eliminate options that do not consistently follow the '+3' rule for all three letter positions.
Select the option that perfectly matches the rule, which in this case is SUQ:VXT (S+3=V, U+3=X, Q+3=T).

Concept Tested & Keywords

QWlWA4dr4gARVDIb6h0VbL

Practise the full DSSSB October 2024

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