What is the next number: 2, 6, 12, 20, 30, ?

Here's how to find it:

1. Find the differences between consecutive numbers:
   • 6 - 2 = 4
   • 12 - 6 = 6
   • 20 - 12 = 8
   • 30 - 20 = 10
2. Identify the pattern in the differences: The differences (4, 6, 8, 10) are increasing by 2 each time.
3. Determine the next difference: The next difference should be 10 + 2 = 12.
4. Add the next difference to the last number in the sequence: 30 + 12 = 42.