Numeric patterns are sequences of numbers that follow a specific rule or pattern. Understanding numeric patterns helps us predict future numbers in the sequence and can be useful in various mathematical and real-world situations.
To identify a numeric pattern, look for the relationship between consecutive terms. Ask yourself:
Let's look at an example of each type of numeric pattern:
Find the next three terms in the sequence: 5, 8, 11, 14, ...
Answer: The common difference is 3. So, the next three terms are 17, 20, 23.
Find the next three terms in the sequence: 2, 6, 18, 54, ...
Answer: The common ratio is 3. So, the next three terms are 162, 486, 1458.
Find the next three terms in the Fibonacci sequence: 0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, ...
Answer: The next three terms are 8, 13, 21, since each term is the sum of the two preceding terms.
Here's a study guide to help you master numeric patterns: