Calculation and Logic- Coding and Decoding

Coding refers to the process by which a particular code, word, number, or pattern is encrypted based on some well-defined rules. Decoding is the process by which a pattern is decrypted to bring out its original form with the help of some given codes.

The coding and decoding processes are problems that are very popular in banking examinations. Through coding and decoding problems, the ability of the candidate to decipher the rule and pattern of a given set of numbers or alphabets and solve the positioning-related questions of those given set of numbers and alphabets. Thus, it can be stated that coding and decoding are based on the same rules but are exactly opposite to one another. While on one hand, coding refers to the search for a number or word/alphabet based on the clues in the form of some given set of patterns and rules, decoding is the exact opposite where a particular code must be decoded based on the findings from a common structure or pattern.

Different Forms of Coding

There are many forms of coding and each type is based on a characteristic of the pattern or code they have. They are;

  1. Letter to letter coding- In this method, the alphabets of a word are required to be coded by taking hints from a given pattern.

  2. Letter to number coding- In this form of coding, a word is allocated numerical code values, or a number is assigned to alphabetical code letters.

  3. Substitutional coding- through coding-decoding, appropriate terms are coded after encryption. 

  4. Chinese coding- In Chinese coding, in a few statements, the same words are coded in a different order, symbol, or character. To locate the code properly, the candidates must look for the same word in the different lines and figure out the code. 

  5. Conditional coding- In this type of coding, the candidates must apply all of the supplied necessities to become aware of the code of a particular word. This process is quite uncommon. 

  6. LSN coding- In the form of words, letters, and numbers, many words in many various statements are responsible for this form of coding. To crack the code, the candidates must look for the proper reasoning behind the employment of symbols, numbers, and letters.

  7. Clock coding- This coding requires the understanding of the clock numbers (1 to 12). The number between 1 to 12 are coded and all the potential answers to the question must be given according to those 12 numbers only. 

  8. Binary coding- The encoding of decimal numbers with the help of binary numbers (0 and 1 respectively is used in this form of coding.

Tips and Tricks to solve Coding-Decoding questions

To solve any question of coding or decoding, some steps are crucial to follow. These steps will ensure that the right path is taken towards attempting to solve the problem and understand the given clues to our maximum potential:

  1. Try reading the question carefully and focus on the important words and their given codes.

  2. Keep on trying different patterns to identify a pattern until you reach a proper logic in the pattern to support your answer.

  3. The process of elimination will be essential. One must always look to eliminate the ‘sure shot’ unnecessary options and focus only on the tentative options/patterns.

  4. Practice different papers and understand all the multiple ways by how different patterns and codes can be supported with logic and reasoning.

Calculations and Logic

Calculations and logic are used to apply appropriate methods which are paramount to turn a static set of data into a dynamic and accurate application that will have the ability to trigger workflow, self-update, and re-calculate. 

Using equations and formulas, calculations allow doing complex math on a given set of data and numerical figures. The solutions are useful to understand different quantitative figures, trends, outcomes, etc.

On the other hand, logic allows us to ensure that whatever decision we are taking towards trying to obtain a result, is right and valid for the application.

Conclusion

Coding and decoding are the two sides of the same coin. While one tries to take all options together and figure out the solution, the other tries to understand the logic or pattern behind a trend or given number/alphabet/word, etc. Coding and decoding are a major part of logical reasoning and are very important for the development of memory, intelligence, problem-solving skills, and communication skills. Coding can be categorized into many types based on the type of clue given. The coding and decoding are always backed by some form of logic and reasoning which enables us that we are going in the right direction to solve the question. The logic behind these patterns and arrangement of numbers, alphabets, and words must be figured out by studying the trends and patterns of the given clues.

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Frequently asked questions

Get answers to the most common queries related to the Kerala PSC Examination Preparation.

In which kind of job posts, coding, and decoding problems are in the syllabus?

Ans :Coding and decoding is a very important chapter to focus on in most banking jobs.

Coding and decoding questions fall under which section/chapter of the syllabus?

Ans :The coding and decoding problems are a chapter from the logical reasoning...Read full

What is logical reasoning?

Ans :Logical reasoning is the process or method of problem-solving with the help of common sense and basic logic about the given data set or...Read full

Why are coding and decoding important?

Ans :Coding and decoding are important processes for the development of memory, presence of mind and help a person develop take better decis...Read full