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IQ Octopus

Quantitative Reasoning · Hard · 16 of 16

Number Series puzzle #16 (hard)

Which number comes next? Tap an option to check your answer, or show the answer for the step-by-step solution. Rule in play: alternating steps.

Plate 16 / 16 · Hard

Which number comes next?

3, 6, 10, 20, 24, ?

Tap the option you think is right, or show the answer.

Show the answer

The next number is 48 (option 2).

How to solve it

  1. The gaps do not follow one pattern, so look for two steps that take turns.
  2. The steps alternate: double, then add 4.
  3. The next step is to double: 24 × 2 = 48.
Fig. 1: Number Series #16, hard set. Tap an option to check it.

About this puzzle

Hard series add the two previous numbers, double and add a constant, double the gaps, or alternate two operations. It was generated by the same engine that builds the IQ Octopus test, from a fixed seed, so it stays the same every time you visit. In the real test, items like this are generated fresh for every attempt.

New to this format? Read how to solve them, or time yourself on 10 in a row with the practice test.

25 puzzles · about 12 min

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