Understanding Dictionary Order

Arranging words in dictionary order means putting them in alphabetical order. We compare words letter by letter from left to right. The word with the letter that comes earlier in the alphabet at the first point of difference will come first.

Step-by-Step Word Arrangement

Let's arrange the given words: Niggle, Nested, Night, and Nippy.

We will compare the words letter by letter:

1. Compare the first letter: All words start with 'N'. This doesn't help us determine the order yet.
2. Compare the second letter:
   • Niggle: 'i'
   • Nested: 'e'
   • Night: 'i'
   • Nippy: 'i'
   The letter 'e' comes before 'i' in the alphabet. So, "Nested" comes first among all the words.
3. Compare the third letter (for the remaining words starting with 'Ni'): The remaining words are Niggle, Night, and Nippy.
   • Niggle: 'g'
   • Night: 'g'
   • Nippy: 'p'
   The letter 'g' comes before 'p' in the alphabet. So, "Nippy" will come after "Niggle" and "Night".
4. Compare the fourth letter (for words starting with 'Nig'): The words remaining are Niggle and Night.
   • Niggle: 'g'
   • Night: 'h'
   The letter 'g' comes before 'h' in the alphabet. So, "Niggle" comes before "Night".

Final Dictionary Order

Based on the letter-by-letter comparison, the words are arranged in the following dictionary order:

1. Nested
2. Niggle
3. Night
4. Nippy

The question asks for the word that appears third when arranged in order of the dictionary. Looking at our ordered list, the third word is "Night".

Therefore, the word that will appear third when arranged in order of dictionary is Night.

Revision Table: Mastering Dictionary Order

Additional Information: Importance of Alphabetical Skills

Understanding alphabetical order, also known as dictionary order, is a fundamental skill in language learning and daily life. It is essential for:

• Using dictionaries and encyclopedias effectively.
• Organizing lists (names, files, etc.).
• Finding information quickly in indexes and directories.
• Playing word games.

Practicing arranging words helps improve vocabulary and spelling skills. The process involves careful observation and comparison of individual letters within words.