To find the pattern in the sequence $7, 14, 8, 16, 10, 12, ?$, we can analyze the differences and possible relationships between consecutive terms.

1. Identify the pattern:

   • Consider separating the sequence into two interleaved subsequences:
     • Odd-positioned terms: $7, 8, 10, ?$
     • Even-positioned terms: $14, 16, 12$

2. Analyze the odd-positioned terms: $7, 8, 10, ?$

   • From 7 to 8, we add 1: $7 + 1 = 8$
   • From 8 to 10, we add 2: $8 + 2 = 10$
   • If the pattern continues by adding 1 more each time, the next number should be $10 + 3 = 13$.

3. Analyze the even-positioned terms: $14, 16, 12$

   • From 14 to 16, we add 2: $14 + 2 = 16$
   • From 16 to 12, we subtract 4: $16 - 4 = 12$
   • This suggests a pattern alternating between adding and subtracting: $+2, -4$.
   • If we follow this alternating pattern, the next step would be to add 6 (to reverse the alternating change): $12 + 6 = 18$. However, since we are focusing on filling the odd-position, this calculation is supplementary information.

4. Identify the missing number:

   • Based on the pattern identified for odd-positioned numbers, the missing number that completes the sequence is $13$.

Thus, the missing number in the sequence is 13.

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Would you like further details or have any questions? Here are a few related questions that can extend this topic:

1. How do you determine if a sequence has multiple valid patterns?
2. What are common types of numerical sequences and their general forms?
3. How can you identify the general term of a sequence?
4. What techniques can be used to solve more complex sequences with varying patterns?
5. How does recognizing arithmetic or geometric sequences help in solving problems?

Tip: Breaking down a sequence into separate patterns can often reveal hidden structures or rules, making complex problems more manageable.