Find patterns in number sequences
Number Series is one of the most important topics in reasoning for competitive exams. It tests your ability to recognize patterns in sequences of numbers and predict the next term.
Number Series questions present a sequence of numbers that follow a specific pattern or rule. You need to identify the pattern and find the missing or next number. Patterns can involve arithmetic operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division), squares, cubes, prime numbers, Fibonacci-like sequences, or combinations of multiple operations.
Number Series appears in virtually every competitive exam — from banking (IBPS, SBI), SSC, CAT, to government job examinations. Mastering this topic can boost your reasoning score significantly, as these questions follow predictable patterns once you know what to look for.
1.Always start by finding the difference between consecutive terms
2.If differences aren't constant, find the differences of differences
3.For large jumps, think multiplication or squares/cubes
4.Practice recognizing perfect squares and cubes up to 30
5.Time yourself — aim for 30-45 seconds per question in exams
Typically 5-7 questions in the reasoning section of IBPS and SBI exams, worth 5-7 marks.
Start with differences between terms. If constant, it's arithmetic. If differences grow, check for squares, cubes, or multiplication patterns.
In competitive exams, each series has exactly one intended pattern. However, mathematically, multiple patterns might fit — exams use enough terms to make the pattern unambiguous.