Consider the sequence 2, 5, 3, 8, 6, ___. The pattern alternates adding increasing odd numbers and subtracting 2. What number comes next? (Choose the correct option)

Step-by-step solution

1. Observe that the sequence alternates between adding a number and subtracting 2: $2+3=5$, $5-2=3$, $3+5=8$, $8-2=6$.
2. The added numbers form the odd sequence 3,5,7,…; the next added number should be 7.
3. Add this to the last term: $6+7=13$.
4. Hence the correct answer is $13$.

Concept tested: Identify alternating addition–subtraction pattern

Published 10 October 2026 · How this solution was prepared and checked