CA Foundation · Quantitative Aptitude · Seating Arrangements
In a seating arrangement puzzle, which one of the following is the most efficient first step when the clues include one definite statement such as 'D sits at the extreme right end' and several relative statements such as 'A sits somewhere to the left of B'?
The best first step is to place the definite information in the diagram, because fixed positions give an anchor. Relative clues can then be fitted around it, which keeps the number of cases small and avoids redrawing the arrangement later.
- APlace the definite (fixed) information in the diagram first and then add the relative clues around itCorrect
- BStart with the relative clues and place the definite statement last
- CIgnore the definite statement until all other clues are used
- DPlace the persons in alphabetical order and adjust later
Explanation
Definite clues give fixed positions, which reduce the number of possibilities for all later clues. Relative clues only link persons to one another and cannot be placed with certainty until an anchor exists. Starting with relative clues leads to many cases that must be re-drawn later.
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