A different linear sequence starts: 19, 14, 9, 4. Write down the next number in this sequence.
How to approach this question
1. Identify the pattern in the sequence by finding the difference between consecutive terms.
2. Calculate 14 - 19.
3. Calculate 9 - 14.
4. Calculate 4 - 9.
5. Confirm the common difference.
6. Add the common difference to the last term (4) to find the next number.
Full Answer
This is another arithmetic sequence. We find the difference between consecutive terms:
14 - 19 = -5
9 - 14 = -5
4 - 9 = -5
The common difference is -5. To find the next term, we subtract 5 from the last term:
4 - 5 = -1.
The next number in the sequence is -1.
Common mistakes
✗ Incorrectly subtracting and getting 1 instead of -1.
✗ Adding 5 instead of subtracting.
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