In the number series 4, 6, 9, 13, 18, the next term is _______. – UGC NET Question

The differences between successive terms are 2, 3, 4 and 5, increasing by 1 each time. The next difference should therefore be 6. Adding 6 to 18 gives 24. Thus, 24 is the correct next term that extends the pattern of gradually increasing differences.

Option A:
Option A is 22, which yields a difference of 4 from 18, repeating an earlier step instead of moving to 6. This breaks the consistent growth of the differences. Hence, 22 is not correct.

Option B:
Option B is 23, corresponding to a difference of 5 from 18. Although 5 appears earlier, the structure demands 6 next, not another 5. Therefore, 23 is unsuitable.

Option C:
Option C is 25, giving a difference of 7 from 18. That jumps beyond the expected increase of 6 and disrupts the smooth progression of 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. Hence, 25 does not fit.

Option D:
Option D equals 24, producing the required difference of 6. The resulting difference sequence 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 is perfectly coherent. This makes 24 the correct continuation.