Tips to solve Alphanumeric series: CAT Logical Reasoning

Alphanumeric series forms an integral part of logical reasoning and pattern recognition in various competitive exams, including CAT. These series consist of a sequence of letters, numbers, or a combination of both, arranged in a particular order based on a defined pattern. Understanding these series is crucial to solving problems related to sequence identification, code-breaking, and data analysis. This article aims to delve into the intricate details of alphanumeric series, unraveling the underlying patterns and providing comprehensive insights into decoding and solving these sequences effectively.

What is an Alphanumeric Series?

As the name suggests, Alpha and numeric, is a series that is a mixture of both alphabets and numbers. Symbols also sometimes come in alphanumeric series. Hence we can say that an Alphanumeric series is a combination of alphabet, number, and symbol.

An example of an alphanumeric series is – *A 5 9 I N & E @ # U 1 &**

Questions from the alphanumeric series mostly come in the preliminary phase of all Government exams. Alphanumeric series questions are simple to answer, and candidates could expect at least 1-3 questions from them on the exam.

Tips and Tricks to Solve Alphanumeric Series-based Questions

There is a range of types from which questions may be there in alphanumeric series. These types are

Missing Series:

A series of alphabets and numbers may be there in a certain pattern, and applicants need to fill in the blank area with the necessary element.

Alphabet-Number-Symbol:

These questions are also there in a format in which a series of alphabets, numbers, and various types of symbols (such as &, *, $, etc.) are present, and questions are set according to them.

Only Alphabetic Series:

A series arranged in a particular way with either a missing element or questions with sub-parts made up of only alphabets and no numbers are asked.

Only Numerical Series:

In an exam, candidates may be asked only about numerical series that are arranged in a particular pattern. This type of question may be asked in the form of a rearrangement of numbers or digits, with the number in ascending, descending, or any other order.

Let’s discuss a few tips and tricks that may help in solving questions on alphanumeric series:

1) In pattern-based series, first, analyze the given alphanumeric series and try to figure out the hidden pattern that is being followed. Generally, the pattern may involve a change in succeeding or preceding terms of the number or alphabet.
2) In abrupt series, a series which consists of number-symbol-alphabet, no pattern usually comes in observation. Candidates must proceed to the subset of questions and answer them immediately.
3) To confirm that no errors are there, recheck the full series after obtaining an answer for the missing number series.

Solved Sample Questions

Listed below are a few sample questions from the Alphanumeric series to help you strengthen your concept.
Directions (1–4): Based on the arrangement below, answer the following questions
N # P 3 H R $ 5 % G 6 K M & I D @ L F 2

Q1.

If the symbols followed by consonants interchange their positions within the group, then which element is fourth from the right end?
(a) @
(b) &
(c) L
(d) D
(e) None of these
Correct Option – c
Analysis:
Given series – N # P 3 H R $ 5 % G 6 K M & I D @ L F 2
After operation – N P # 3 H R $ 5 G % 6 K M I & D L @ F 2
So, the fourth element from the right end = L

Q2.

How many vowels in the above arrangement are preceded by a symbol?
(a) One
(b) Two
(c) Three
(d) None
(e) Four
Correct Option – a; “I” is preceded by “&”.

Q3.

Which is the Third element to the left of the Fifth element from the right?
(a) &
(b) K
(c) D
(d) M
(e) 6
Correct Option – d; the Fifth element from the right is D and the third to its left is M

Q4.

If all the symbols in the arrangement are removed, which element will be 7th from the left end?
(a) 5
(b) K
(c) 6
(d) M
(e) G
Correct Option: e
Explanation: If we remove all the symbols (#,$,%,&,@), the remaining elements are N, P, 3, H, R, 5, G, 6, K, M, I, D, L, F, 2. Counting 7 elements from the left end, we get to the letter G.
Directions (5–6): Missing element in the series

Q5.

Find the missing term in the given below series ABD EFI JKO ?
(a) RSX
(b) TUZ
(c) PQV
(d) QRW
Correct Option: c

Q6.

Find the missing term in the given below series
CEG ? OQS UWY
(a) JLN
(b) HJL
(c) KMO
(d) IKM
Correct Option: d
Directions (7–8): Answer the following questions using the numerical series given below
534 442 768 283 209

Q7.

When all the digits in each of the given numbers are arranged in ascending order, which number becomes the highest?
(a) 534
(b) 442
(c) 768
(d) 283
(e) 209
Correct Option: c
Explanation: When the digits are set in ascending order within the number, the new numbers born are:
534 – 345
442 – 244
768 – 678
283 – 238
209 – 029

Q8.

When the digits within the number are multiplied with each other, the product of which number is the lowest?
(a) 534
(b) 442
(c) 768
(d) 283
(e) 209
Correct Option: e
Explanation: Any number multiplied by 0 will give the answer 0, which is the least.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of decoding alphanumeric series is pivotal for excelling in various competitive exams, aptitude tests, and problem-solving challenges. The ability to discern patterns, analyze relationships, and apply logical reasoning plays a crucial role in unraveling complex sequences. Developing a systematic approach to tackle alphanumeric series enhances cognitive abilities and fosters a sharper analytical mindset. With practice and a clear understanding of different patterns, one can confidently navigate and solve diverse alphanumeric series problems.