Arithmetic progression
An arithmetic progression, or AP, is a sequence in which each term after the first is obtained by adding the same fixed number every time.
Practice This ConceptMain explanation
Teacher explanation
In an AP, the change from one term to the next stays constant throughout the sequence. That fixed change is called the common difference. CBSE questions usually test whether students can identify the pattern, write the next terms, and use formulas correctly after spotting this regular step.
Example
The sequence 4, 9, 14, 19, ... is an AP because each term increases by 5.
Simple analogy
Think of an AP as a staircase with equal steps.
Common confusion
Students sometimes treat any increasing sequence as an AP, even when the differences are not equal.
Exam tip
Always check the difference between consecutive terms before calling a sequence an AP.
Answer writing and exam use
1-mark use
Write the exact meaning of arithmetic progression in one clean line.
2-mark use
Define arithmetic progression and add one example or condition.
3-mark use
Explain arithmetic progression, show the method or example, and mention the common mistake.
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