Number sequences questions appear in almost every GL-style verbal-reasoning paper. Continue a numeric series: 2, 5, 11, 23, … Like every VR type, they stop being hard the moment your child has a fixed method — here it is.
What the question looks like
Continue a numeric series: 2, 5, 11, 23, … Papers typically include 3–5 of these per test, worth the same marks as any other question — which makes fast, reliable technique on the common types the highest-value preparation there is.
The method
Write the differences between terms underneath. If the differences aren't constant, take differences of the differences, or test ×2±k patterns. Two interleaved sequences (positions 1,3,5 vs 2,4,6) are a favourite trap.
Worked example
2, 5, 11, 23 — differences are 3, 6, 12 (doubling), so next difference is 24. Answer: 47.
The traps
Stopping at the first pattern that fits two terms; forgetting to check interleaved series.
How to practise this type
Little and often wins: five questions of this type daily for a week beats fifty in one sitting. Our free verbal-reasoning worksheets are organised by exact question type, and the Arena's VR mode gives instant feedback with XP. When the type feels automatic, fold it back into full timed mock papers so pacing develops alongside accuracy. For the full landscape, see the 21 VR types overview.