Topics / Verbal Reasoning
Verbal reasoning: letter and word sequences
Letter sequences follow a pattern of steps along the alphabet, often alternating or running two patterns at once. Write out the alphabet and count carefully.
What is tested
- Letters moving by a fixed step
- Two interleaved sequences
- Letter and number combinations
Worked example
What comes next: B, D, F, H, ___?
- B to D is +2, D to F is +2, F to H is +2.
- H + 2 = J.
Answer: J
Exam-day checklist
- Write out A to Z with numbers if needed.
- Find the step between each pair.
- If the step changes, look for two interleaved patterns.
- Check you wrap around correctly after Z.
Common mistakes
- Miscounting the steps.
- Missing an alternating pattern.
- Forgetting Z wraps to A.
Try it yourself
1. Next: A, C, F, J, ___?
Show answer
O
The steps are +2, +3, +4, so the next is +5: J + 5 = O.
2. Next: Z, X, V, T, ___?
Show answer
R
Each letter goes back 2 places.
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