What should be looked at first to find simplified Boolean expression from a Karnaugh map?

Correct option is D

In a Karnaugh Map (K-map), the goal is to group adjacent 1s (minterms) into the largest possible power-of-two groups (1, 2, 4, 8, etc.).

To achieve the most simplified Boolean expression, one must start by looking for the largest groupings first, which are Octets (groups of 8 adjacent 1s). These eliminate the maximum number of variables, resulting in simpler terms.

Important Key Points:

1. Octets simplify the expression the most by eliminating three variables in a 4-variable K-map.
2. Larger groupings reduce the number of terms and variables in the simplified output.
3. The order of preference is: Octets → Quads → Pairs → Singles for best simplification.

Knowledge Booster:

• Quads: Groups of 4 adjacent 1s; eliminate two variables. Used when Octets are not available.
• Singles: Individual 1s that cannot be grouped further; provide least simplification.
• Pairs: Groups of 2 adjacent 1s; eliminate one variable; used only when larger groups are not possible.