This article provides an overview of arithmetic number series, important topics to prepare, recommended books, and tips & strategies to solve number series questions in SSC and railway exams.
An arithmetic number series consists of a sequence of numbers that follow a logical pattern based on basic arithmetic operations. Detecting this underlying logic is key to solving number series questions that are commonly asked in quantitative aptitude sections of competitive exams like SSC and railways.
Important Details
| Key Topics | Useful Tips |
|---|---|
| Arithmetic progressions, geometric progressions, alternating series, combination of multiple series | Analyze difference between terms, use options to eliminate, avoid complicated calculations, know math concepts thoroughly |
| Recommended books - RS Aggarwal, Abhijit Guha, Sarvesh K Verma | Practice previous years papers from Kiran Prakashan book |
Understanding Arithmetic Number Series
An arithmetic number series consists of a sequence of numbers where a fixed number is added or subtracted to arrive at the next term. For example: 4, 9, 14, 19, 24 is an arithmetic progression where 5 is constantly added.
Key Topics to Prepare
Some important number series topics to prepare for competitive exams include:
- Arithmetic progressions - numbers are added or subtracted by a fixed amount
- Geometric progressions - each term is derived by multiplying or dividing the previous term by a constant
- Alternating series - consist of two different series in alternating manner
- Combination of multiple series - single series containing more than one pattern
Tips to Solve Number Series Questions
Here are some useful strategies to solve arithmetic number series questions accurately and quickly:
| Tips | Examples |
|---|---|
| Analyze difference between consecutive terms to find the logic | If difference is same, it's an A.P. |
| Use options to eliminate wrong patterns | If an option does not fit the series, discard it |
| Avoid complicated calculations by observing patterns | Sequence can go - odd numbers, squares, cubes etc. |
Recommended Books
Some useful books to refer for practising number series questions are:
- RS Aggarwal - Quantitative Aptitude
- Abhijit Guha - Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Exams
- Sarvesh K Verma - Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT
- Kiran Prakashan - Bank PO Quantitative Aptitude Chapterwise Solved Papers
These books cover all types of number series and arithmetic concepts through solved examples and practice questions.
Online Test Series
Attempting online test series for number series questions is highly recommended. Some benefits include:
- Structured courses with daily study plans
- All topics covered as per latest exam pattern
- Detailed solutions provided for all questions
- Performance improvement tracking
Conclusion:
Number series form an integral part of the quantitative aptitude section. Having conceptual clarity and knowing different patterns is key to solving these questions. Regular practice using recommended books and online test series is essential for success.
FAQ:
Q1: How do you identify patterns in number series questions?
A1: Analyze the difference between consecutive terms to detect patterns like fixed difference for A.P., fixed product for G.P. or any other observable sequence.
Q2: What are the types of number series?
A2: Major types of number series include - arithmetic progressions, geometric progressions, alternating series, combination of multiple series within one sequence.
Q3: How can options help in solving number series?
A3: The answer options provided can be used to eliminate series that do not match the given pattern, narrowing down viable choices.
Q4: Which books are best for practising number series?
A4: Recommended books for extensive practice of number series questions are - RS Agarwal Quantitative Aptitude, Sarvesh K Verma Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT.
Q5: Why take online test series for number series?
A5: Online test series help through structured courses, detailed solutions, performance analysis, flexibility etc. aiding efficient exam preparation.
Q6: How much time should one devote to number series preparation?
A6: Regular practice through books and online tests for at least an hour daily is advisable for developing speed and accuracy in solving number series questions.
