To solve number sequences (or “strings” of numbers), you need to identify the pattern or rule that connects the numbers. Here’s how you can approach it:

• Observe the sequence carefully.
• Check if the numbers are increasing (rising) or decreasing (going down).
• If the numbers are rising, the pattern likely involves addition (+) or multiplication (*).
• If the numbers are dropping, the pattern likely involves subtraction (-) or division (/).
• Find the exact operation and number that fits the pattern.
• Use this pattern to predict the next number.

Example sequence: 10, 15, 25, 40, ?

Step 1: Look at the numbers: 10, 15, 25, 40

Step 2: Are the numbers rising or dropping?
10 → 15 (+5), 15 → 25 (+10), 25 → 40 (+15)
The numbers are rising.

Step 3: Since the numbers are rising, we check addition or multiplication.

Step 4: Check the differences: +5, +10, +15 — this is increasing by 5 each time.

Step 5: Predict the next increase: 15 + 5 = 20

Step 6: Add 20 to the last number: 40 + 20 = 60

Answer: The next number is 60.

So, the pattern is adding an increasing number by 5 each step: +5, +10, +15, +20, …

Summary:

• If numbers increase, try + or *
• If numbers decrease, try – or /
• Look for constant or changing differences or ratios to find the pattern.