Assuming that the first three terms of an arithmetic sequence are $x, \frac{1}{x}, 1$ and $x<0$.
I seem to be unable to figure out what the first term is. I know that $a_n = a_1+d(n-1)$ but how do we work out the common difference in order to calculate $a_1$.
Is there anyway to calculate this recursively perhaps, given that we know the value of $a_3$.
I've tried manipulating the arithmetic formula above to figure this out but seem to be stuck. Can someone please point me in the right direction without flat-out giving the answer away?