What is the next number in the series: 39, 32, 31, 24, 23, 16 ...?

To determine the next number in the series: 39, 32, 31, 24, 23, 16, it's essential to observe the pattern present in the sequence.

Firstly, let's examine the differences between consecutive numbers:

• From 39 to 32, the difference is -7.

• From 32 to 31, the difference is -1.

• From 31 to 24, the difference is -7.

• From 24 to 23, the difference is -1.

• From 23 to 16, the difference is -7.

There is a clear pattern where every alternate number in the sequence decreases by 7, while the intervening numbers decrease by 1.

Following this pattern, after 16, the next logical step would be to continue with the reduction by 1, as the last operation was a decrease of 7 followed by a decrease of 1. Therefore, subtracting 1 from 16 results in 15, which aligns perfectly with the established sequence.

This systematic approach in recognizing the pattern of decrease is vital for solving such numerical sequences effectively.