sequential

Everyday

1. Coming one after another in a fixed order. tree →
2. Done step by step, finishing one step before starting the next. tree →
3. (maths, computing) Following a sequence or pattern, like numbers that go up by one each time. tree →

In the lessons

In maths, sequential numbers are like 4, 5, 6, 7; in computing, sequential steps are carried out in order, which is the first idea of a program. In stories and history, sequential events are told in time order. Everyday use: tickets with sequential numbers, sequential instructions in a recipe. Phrases: «in sequential order», «sequential steps», «sequentially numbered».

Examples

• The pages are numbered in sequential order. tree →
• Our coding lesson showed that a computer follows sequential instructions. tree →
• The raffle tickets had sequential numbers from 101 to 150. tree →
• Put the pictures of the story in sequential order. tree →
• The recipe gives sequential steps: mix, pour, then bake. tree →
• The house numbers on our street are not sequential, which confuses the postman. tree →
• We read the chapters sequentially, not jumping ahead. tree →

Note

Adjective; noun «sequence». It means «in order», not just «many». In a maths problem «sequential numbers» usually means consecutive whole numbers (each one more than the last): three sequential numbers add to 3 times the middle one, e.g. 6+7+8=21.