Seven boxes U, V, W, X, A, B and C are placed one above the other but not necessarily in the same order. V is placed second from the bottom. Only three boxes are placed between V and C. X is placed one below V. Only U is placed between C and W. A is placed one above C. How many boxes are placed between B and X?

Appeared in: DSSSB 6 September 2024

Explanation

The solution requires a step-by-step deduction based on the given positional clues to determine the final arrangement of the seven boxes.
Following the clues, V is at position 2 and X is at position 1.
Box C is placed at position 6 (three boxes above V).
Box A is at position 7 (one above C), and the sequence C-U-W places U at 5 and W at 4.
The last remaining box, B, occupies the last available spot, position 3.
Counting the boxes between B (position 3) and X (position 1) reveals one box, V, at position 2.

Option A: This is incorrect. The final arrangement shows only one box (V) is located between box B and box X.
Option B: This is incorrect. There is only one box, V, between B (at position 3) and X (at position 1).
Option D: This is incorrect. The logical deduction places only one box between B and X.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Logical Reasoning and Arrangement Puzzles 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 nurses.
Nurses use sequential thinking and problem-solving to prioritize tasks, follow multi-step procedures, and troubleshoot issues with patient care or equipment.
For example, setting up an IV infusion pump requires following a precise sequence of steps, much like solving this puzzle.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the type of question: it's a linear arrangement (stacking) puzzle.
Draw or visualize seven slots representing the positions (e.g., numbered 1 to 7 from bottom to top).
Start with the most definite clue. 'V is placed second from the bottom' is a fixed position, so place V at position 2.
Use the initial placement to solve relative clues. 'X is placed one below V' places X at position 1.
Continue to build the arrangement step-by-step, cross-referencing clues as you go.
Once the full arrangement is clear, re-read the final question ('How many boxes are placed between B and X?') and use your diagram to find the answer.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full DSSSB 6 September 2024

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