Since $\ce{-CN}$ shows strong −I effect, there will be δ+ charge on the carbon adjacent to it. Similarly, $\ce{-NO2}$ shows strong −I and –M effects. So, I proposed that π-electrons are being donated to the electron-deficient parts:
But the answer given in my book has $\ce{-CN}$ group at the third position to $\ce{-NO2}$ group. Can someone please tell me where I have got my concepts wrong?