In the number series 2, 4, 7, 9, 12, 14, the next term is _______. – UGC NET Question

This series alternates between adding 2 and adding 3. Starting with 2, we have 2 + 2 = 4, 4 + 3 = 7, 7 + 2 = 9, 9 + 3 = 12 and 12 + 2 = 14. The pattern shows that after a +2 step comes a +3 step. Therefore, the next term should be 14 + 3 = 17, which preserves this alternation.

Option A:
Option A gives 16, which would correspond to adding 2 to 14 and repeating the same increment twice in a row. This violates the established alternation between +2 and +3. Hence, 16 is not consistent with the rule.

Option B:
Option B yields 17, which is obtained by adding 3 to 14 and correctly follows the alternation pattern. The series 2, 4, 7, 9, 12, 14, 17 remains structured as a repeating cycle of +2 and +3. Therefore, 17 is the correct next term.

Option C:
Option C suggests 18, which would require adding 4 to 14 and introducing an increment not seen anywhere else in the series. This makes the pattern unclear and irregular. Thus, 18 cannot be accepted.

Option D:
Option D offers 19, which is 5 more than 14 and again breaks the consistent use of 2 and 3 as increments. Choosing 19 would destroy the simple alternating pattern. Therefore, 19 is not the right answer.