Arrange the given “Ya…” words in dictionary order (A→Z). Words: (1) yashmak, (2) yacht, (3) yawl, (4) yawn.

Introduction / Context:
All items begin with “ya…”, so ordering depends on subsequent letters. We must compare each pair left-to-right and place the word with the earlier differing letter first. Length does not trump an earlier character difference.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Words: yacht, yashmak, yawl, yawn.
• Case-insensitive alphabetical order.

Concept / Approach:
After “ya…”, the next key letters are “c” (yacht), “s” (yashmak), “w” (yawl/yawn). Since c < s < w, “yacht” must be first, “yashmak” next, then the “yaw…” pair ordered among themselves.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Place (2) yacht first (…yac… beats …yas… and …yaw…).Then (1) yashmak (…yas…).Between “yawl” and “yawn”, compare letters after “yaw”: “l” vs “n”. Since l < n, (3) yawl precedes (4) yawn.

Verification / Alternative check:
Final order: 2 < 1 < 3 < 4. Any arrangement breaking the “c < s < w” grouping is incorrect.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
They invert “yawl”/“yawn”, or place a “yaw…” item before “yashmak” or “yacht”, violating letter priority.

Common Pitfalls:

• Sorting by length (e.g., shorter word first) instead of the first differing character.

Final Answer:
2, 1, 3, 4.