Reasoning – Sequential Output Tracing
What is Sequential Output Tracing?
These problems involve a machine logic or series of transformations performed in steps on an input. Your task is to trace or predict intermediate or final steps.
Types of Logic Used
1. Alphabetical sorting
2. Numerical arrangement
3. Word length or pattern-based swaps
4. Left-right positional shifts
Example Questions
- Input: mango apple banana cherry. Step 1: apple banana cherry mango → Step 2: banana cherry mango apple
Answer: What's Step 3? → cherry mango apple banana (Left rotation)
- Input: 64, 25, 81, 16. Step 1: 16, 25, 64, 81 → Sorted ascending. What is Step 2?
Answer: Final output depends on pattern.
Exam Tips
- Understand what happens between steps—not just the output.
- Track one element across steps to identify movement.
- Note position changes—are they swaps, rotations, insertions?
- Practice tracing all steps patiently; don’t skip.
Common Mistakes
- Assuming the logic too early without checking multiple transitions.
- Overlooking small shifts or cyclic movements.
- Missing changes applied alternately (e.g., left shift in one step, sort in next).
Quick Revision Checklist
- Label positions (1st, 2nd...) clearly.
- Use pencil/paper to visualize transformations.
- Work backward from output if stuck.
- Practice with word and number inputs both.
Summary: Sequential Output Tracing tests your ability to decode systematic transformation. By spotting the underlying mechanism, you can easily predict next steps and ace this section.