Question 1

Spelling and usage – which of the following is a correctly written compound word?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests your understanding of how English compound words are correctly written and hyphenated. Compound words can appear as open compounds (two separate words), closed compounds (one word), or hyphenated compounds. Exam questions often present several near correct spellings and ask you to pick the correctly formed compound according to standard usage. Given Data / Assumptions: Each option shows a phrase where two or more words may need to be combined or hyphenated. We assume standard modern English spelling as used in school textbooks and formal writing. Only one option should represent a well established compound spelling; the others should contain errors in spacing or hyphenation. Concept / Approach: Self evident is a classic example of a hyphenated compound adjective when used before a noun, as in a self-evident truth. In this role, self and evident combine into a single descriptive unit and are joined with a hyphen. Other compounds in the list are either incorrectly punctuated or split into two words when standard usage prefers a different form. The correct answer will be the one that matches established dictionary spelling. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Examine option D Self-evident. This matches the familiar phrase self-evident truth, where the compound acts as a single adjective and is written with a hyphen. Step 2: Consider option A Spur of the moment-decision. Standard usage for this idea is a spur-of-the-moment decision, with hyphens joining spur, of, and the to form one compound adjective before decision. The hyphen in the given option incorrectly links moment and decision rather than the earlier words. Step 3: Look at option B Thirty one. When writing the number between twenty-one and ninety-nine in words, the standard form uses a hyphen: thirty-one. The space instead of a hyphen makes this spelling nonstandard. Step 4: Option C Quickly-running uses a hyphen between an adverb and a participle. In modern English, adverb plus participle combinations like quickly running are normally written without a hyphen. Step 5: Option E Hard ware splits hardware into two words. In standard usage, hardware is a single closed compound noun referring to physical computer components or tools. Verification / Alternative check: You can quickly verify these choices with the way they appear in textbooks and standard dictionaries. Phrases like self-evident truth and thirty-one students appear frequently in academic writing. In contrast, you will rarely see quickly-running with a hyphen in serious writing. Additionally, spur-of-the-moment decision is well known as a three word hyphenated compound before decision, which is different from the incorrect placement shown in option A. These checks confirm that only self-evident is correctly punctuated as a compound word in the list provided. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A misplaces the hyphen; it should connect the words in the descriptive phrase spur-of-the-moment, not moment with decision. Option B omits the required hyphen in thirty-one, which is standard for compound numbers in that range. Option C uses an unnecessary hyphen between an adverb and a verb form, which is typically considered incorrect in modern English grammar guides. Option E unnecessarily splits hardware into two words, even though dictionaries treat it as a single compound noun. Common Pitfalls: Hyphenation rules can be confusing because many compounds gradually change form over time, moving from open to hyphenated to closed. However, exam questions usually focus on well established patterns such as hyphenated self compounds (self-evident, self-aware) and hyphenated numbers between twenty-one and ninety-nine. A useful tip is to study lists of common hyphenated adjectives and closed compound nouns so that forms like self-evident and hardware become instantly recognisable. Final Answer: The correctly written compound word among the options is Self-evident.

Question 2

Voice – identify the sentence that is written in active voice.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests your understanding of active and passive voice in English. In the active voice, the subject of the sentence performs the action. In the passive voice, the subject receives the action, and the doer may appear in a by phrase. Recognising voice is important in editing, writing, and many competitive exams that test grammar and sentence transformation skills. Given Data / Assumptions: Each option is a simple sentence describing an action with a clear subject and object. Active voice structure is generally Subject plus Verb plus Object. Passive voice structure is Object plus form of be plus past participle plus by plus Agent. Exactly one sentence must be active; the others should be passive. Concept / Approach: In active voice, the grammatical subject is the doer of the action. For example, Naveen changed the car tire has Naveen as the subject performing the action changed. In passive voice, the original object becomes the subject, and the original subject appears in a by phrase, as in The car tire was changed by Naveen. To solve the question, you need to identify which sentence keeps the doer as the subject without a be plus past participle pattern. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Look at option A: Naveen changed the car tire. The structure is clear: Subject Naveen, verb changed, object the car tire. The subject is performing the action, so this is active voice. Step 2: Examine option B: That movie was seen by Sarala. Here, That movie is the subject, was seen is a be form plus past participle pattern, and by Sarala shows the doer. This is passive voice. Step 3: Analyse option C: The money was withdrawn by Rahul. Again, The money is the subject that receives the action, was withdrawn is passive, and by Rahul names the person who did it, so this is passive voice. Step 4: Check option D: The game was won by Naveen. The game receives the action, and by Naveen shows who performed it, so this too is passive voice. Step 5: Option E claims that none of the sentences is in active voice, but we have already seen that option A is clearly active, so option E cannot be correct. Verification / Alternative check: To verify, convert the passive sentences back into active voice. That movie was seen by Sarala becomes Sarala saw that movie. The money was withdrawn by Rahul becomes Rahul withdrew the money. The game was won by Naveen becomes Naveen won the game. Each of these active forms has the same pattern as option A: Subject plus Verb plus Object. The fact that A already matches this pattern confirms that it is an active sentence, while the others require transformation from passive into active. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option B uses the classic passive structure was seen by, which signals that the subject is not the agent. Option C uses was withdrawn by, again clearly passive. Option D uses was won by, with the game as the receiver of the action rather than the doer. Option E is incorrect because there is at least one active voice sentence present, namely option A. Common Pitfalls: Some learners focus only on word order and may think that any sentence starting with a human name is active. However, real identification requires you to look at the verb form and check whether there is a be verb plus past participle and a by phrase. Those features almost always indicate passive voice. A simple trick is to see if you can add by someone after the verb without making the sentence strange; if you can, the structure is probably passive already. Final Answer: The sentence written in active voice is Naveen changed the car tire.

Question 3

Lifespan development – the term senescence is another name for which type of aging?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question comes from psychology and human development. The term senescence is often used in textbooks to describe changes that occur in the body and mind as people grow older. Understanding the precise meaning of senescence helps you distinguish normal age related changes from changes caused by illness or lifestyle, which is essential in subjects like developmental psychology, gerontology, and health science. Given Data / Assumptions: Senescence refers to aging, but the question asks which category of aging it matches. Primary aging refers to normal, gradual, and universal changes that happen simply because time passes. Secondary aging refers to changes caused by disease, poor lifestyle, or environmental factors. Terms like inward aging and outward aging are not standard scientific categories and likely serve as distractors. Concept / Approach: In developmental psychology, senescence is usually defined as primary aging, meaning the normal biological changes that occur in all individuals as part of the aging process. These changes are largely due to genetic programming and the natural wear of cells over time. Examples include reduced skin elasticity, slower reaction times, and gradual decline in some sensory abilities. Secondary aging, by contrast, includes changes caused by smoking, chronic illness, accidents, or other avoidable factors. The correct option should match this textbook understanding of senescence. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that senescence is used in psychology texts to describe normal biological aging in adults. Step 2: Identify primary aging as the term used for universal age related changes that occur in all people regardless of lifestyle. Step 3: Note that secondary aging refers to pathological or avoidable changes resulting from disease or negative environmental influences. Step 4: Recognise that inward aging and outward aging are not standard scientific categories and are therefore unlikely to be correct. Step 5: Conclude that the best match for senescence is primary aging. Verification / Alternative check: Think about common examples from textbooks. Wrinkling of the skin, age related decline in hearing, and the natural slowing of reflexes are described as primary aging or senescence because they occur in almost everyone over time. In contrast, lung damage from long term smoking or memory loss from a specific disease are classified as secondary aging because they depend on individual life events and can sometimes be prevented. When authors use the term senescent changes, they usually mean these normal, inevitable, and broadly predictable changes, not the avoidable or disease related ones. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A inward aging is not a recognised technical term in standard developmental psychology and seems to suggest internal changes without precise definition. Option C secondary aging refers to age related changes that are due to illness, lifestyle, or environment and is distinguished from senescence in many texts. Option D outward aging again is not a standard category and would suggest only visible changes, which is not how scientists classify aging. Option E sudden aging contradicts the gradual nature of senescence, which takes place slowly over years. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes confuse primary and secondary aging because both occur in older adults. A useful memory tip is that primary aging equals senescence, the basic biological aging that everyone experiences, while secondary aging is tied to specific causes that may be reduced with healthy habits and medical care. In multiple choice questions, look for key textbook phrases you have seen before, such as primary aging, when senescence is mentioned. Final Answer: Senescence is another name for primary aging.

Question 4

One word substitution – that which cannot be heard.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: One word substitution items require you to replace a descriptive phrase with a precise single word. Here the phrase that which cannot be heard applies to sounds or signals whose volume or frequency is beyond human hearing. The question tests your knowledge of common English prefixes and how they change the meanings of words. Given Data / Assumptions: The base concept is hearing, so the core root is related to audio or sound. The phrase cannot be heard implies a negative form built from this root. Some options are deliberately unrelated to hearing and focus instead on eating or digestion. You must pick the word that combines the correct root with a suitable negative prefix. Concept / Approach: The adjective audible means able to be heard. In English, the prefix in often negates adjectives of Latin origin, turning possible into impossible or accurate into inaccurate. Thus, inaudible means not audible or cannot be heard. Edible and digestible refer instead to eating, not to hearing, and disedible is not a standard English word. Recognising the pattern audible and inaudible allows you to choose the correct one word substitution quickly. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify that the key idea is about hearing, not eating or digesting. Step 2: Recall that audible means able to be heard. This matches the positive version of the phrase can be heard. Step 3: Understand that the question asks for the negative form, something that cannot be heard. Step 4: Recognise that adding the prefix in to audible forms inaudible, which directly means not audible. Step 5: Check that inaudible is a standard dictionary word used to describe extremely soft sounds or ultrasonic frequencies. Verification / Alternative check: Consider sample sentences. The teacher's voice was barely audible at the back of the hall shows the positive form. If the sound cannot be heard at all, we say The sound was inaudible. In technical contexts, frequencies above the human hearing range are described as ultrasonic and therefore inaudible. There is no standard word disedible in English, and edible and digestible clearly refer to food. This checking confirms that inaudible is the only option that satisfies the phrase that which cannot be heard. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A Audible means can be heard, which is the opposite of the required meaning. Option B Edible means safe or suitable to be eaten and has no connection with sound. Option C Disedible is not a recognised standard English word and also tries to use the wrong root. Option E Digestible refers to something that can be digested by the stomach and again is about food, not hearing. Common Pitfalls: Learners sometimes rely on the negative sounding prefix dis for many words, but English uses different negative prefixes depending on the origin of the word, such as in, un, im, and dis. For adjectives like audible and visible, the standard negative forms are inaudible and invisible, not disaudible or disvisible. Studying common root and prefix pairs will save time and improve accuracy in vocabulary questions of this kind. Final Answer: The correct one word substitution for that which cannot be heard is inaudible.

Question 5

One word substitution – a place where monks live as a secluded community.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This one word substitution question relates to religious vocabulary, especially Christian monastic life. The phrase a place where monks live as a secluded community points to a specific kind of religious residence. Knowing the correct term is useful when reading history, literature, and news related to religious orders and communities. Given Data / Assumptions: The focus is on monks, who are male members of certain religious orders that live together under a rule. The phrase secluded community suggests a relatively closed or separate way of life. Several options are church related but refer to different institutions or roles, such as cathedrals and dioceses. The correct answer should specifically name the residence or complex where monks live together. Concept / Approach: A monastery is a building or group of buildings where monks live, work, and worship as part of a religious community, often separated from ordinary society. Cathedrals are large and important churches that serve as the seat of a bishop. A convent is a religious house often associated with nuns, although some traditions use the term more broadly. A diocese is a geographical region under the authority of a bishop, and a parish is a local church community. Therefore, only monastery matches the description of a secluded community specifically for monks. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify monks as male members of a religious order who often take vows and live together under a rule. Step 2: Recall that the standard English term for their residence is monastery. Step 3: Examine option A Monastery and see that it fits perfectly: it is a place where monks live, pray, and work as a community. Step 4: Consider option B Cathedral, which refers to a main church building, usually in a city, not necessarily a secluded living community. Step 5: Look at option C Convent, which in many contexts is used for communities of nuns rather than monks, though both are religious houses. Step 6: Note that Diocese and Parish describe administrative areas or communities of believers, not the actual residence complex of monks. Verification / Alternative check: Think of famous examples. Mount Athos in Greece is known for its monasteries, where monks live in relative seclusion. When travel guides describe these places, they call them monasteries, not cathedrals or dioceses. A cathedral such as Notre Dame in Paris is a major church in a city and is not primarily a secluded, residential community for monks. A convent is similar in structure but associated mostly with communities of women religious. This comparison confirms that monastery is the precise term for the place described in the question. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option B Cathedral is a principal church building and may be surrounded by city life rather than seclusion; it is not defined as a living community for monks. Option C Convent refers mainly to a residence for nuns, so it does not match the wording that specifically mentions monks. Option D Diocese is a territory or district under a bishop's pastoral care, not a building or community house. Option E Parish refers to the local community of believers and their parish church, not to the cloistered residence of monks. Common Pitfalls: Many learners confuse monastery and convent because both are religious houses. A simple way to remember the distinction is to associate monastery primarily with monks and convent primarily with nuns. Also remember that cathedral, diocese, and parish relate more to church administration and worship spaces than to monastic community life. Paying attention to the specific group mentioned in the description helps you choose the most accurate term. Final Answer: The place where monks live together as a secluded community is called a monastery.

Question 6

Writing skills – the sentence that states the main idea of the paragraph is called what?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question comes from basic paragraph writing and composition skills. When you write a paragraph, one sentence usually captures the central idea or main point that the rest of the sentences support. Knowing the correct term for this sentence helps you understand instructions in writing classes and exam questions about structure and organisation. Given Data / Assumptions: The focus is on a single paragraph, not on an entire essay or research paper. The sentence in question states the main idea that all other sentences in the paragraph should support or explain. Thesis is a term often used at the essay level, while topic sentence is used at the paragraph level. Supporting detail sentences give examples or explanations but do not state the overall main idea. Concept / Approach: In standard writing terminology, the sentence that clearly states the main idea of a paragraph is called the topic sentence. It often appears at or near the beginning of the paragraph and guides the reader by telling what the paragraph will discuss. A thesis statement, by contrast, expresses the central idea of an entire essay or paper and is usually found in the introduction. Therefore, while both concepts are related, only topic sentence is the correct label at the paragraph level described in the question. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify that the question refers to the sentence that states the main idea of the paragraph, not of the whole essay. Step 2: Recall that in paragraph structure, the main idea sentence is called the topic sentence. Step 3: Recognise that thesis is usually used for the main idea of an entire essay or research paper. Step 4: Understand that supporting detail sentences provide facts, examples, or explanations to support the topic sentence but do not state the main idea themselves. Step 5: Choose topic sentence as the only option that precisely matches the description. Verification / Alternative check: Consider a sample paragraph about the benefits of reading. A possible topic sentence might be Reading every day strengthens the mind and improves language skills. The remaining sentences might give examples, statistics, or explanations. At the level of the whole essay, you might have a broader thesis statement such as Regular reading is one of the most effective ways to improve personal and academic success. This thesis covers multiple paragraphs, while each paragraph has its own topic sentence. This example confirms that topic sentence is the correct term for the sentence that states the main idea of a single paragraph. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A Thesis usually refers to the main claim or argument of an entire essay, research paper, or dissertation, not a single paragraph. Option C Both thesis and topic sentence is incorrect because the question clearly specifies the level of a paragraph, and thesis applies at a larger level. Option D None of the above is wrong because topic sentence is exactly the commonly accepted term in writing instruction. Option E Supporting detail sentence refers to sentences that offer evidence or elaboration, which follow and support the topic sentence rather than stating the main idea themselves. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes confuse thesis and topic sentence because both deal with main ideas. A simple memory aid is to associate thesis with the whole essay and topic sentence with each paragraph. In standard five paragraph essay structures, you might have one thesis and three or more topic sentences. When exam questions mention the main idea of a paragraph, you should think immediately of the phrase topic sentence. Final Answer: The sentence that states the main idea of the paragraph is called the topic sentence.

Question 7

Word origin – in Italian, the word OPERA literally means what?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This vocabulary question focuses on the origin and literal meaning of the word opera. Although many people associate opera only with a type of musical performance, the term comes from Italian and has a more basic meaning. Understanding this origin helps you see how some artistic terms are connected to everyday words in other languages. Given Data / Assumptions: Opera is an Italian word widely adopted into English to describe a form of musical drama. The question asks for its literal meaning in Italian, not its modern English usage. Italian is a Romance language derived from Latin, and many of its words are related to Latin roots used in English. The correct answer should match the original sense as used in Italian and Latin, where opera is the plural of opus. Concept / Approach: In Italian, opera comes from Latin opus, meaning work. Opera originally referred to works or a work, especially a work of art or a major effort. Over time, it began to be used specifically for a large musical and dramatic work that combines singing and orchestral music. Thus, while English speakers think of opera mainly as a kind of musical performance, the literal Italian meaning remains work. Other options like word, energy, or force are not supported by the historical root of the term. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that the Latin word opus means work, particularly a significant artistic or literary work. Step 2: Understand that opera is historically the plural form of opus in Latin and is used in Italian as a noun meaning work or piece of work. Step 3: Check option B Work and see that it aligns directly with this Latin and Italian origin. Step 4: Review option A Word, which relates instead to the Latin verbum, not to opus or opera. Step 5: Look at options C, D, and E, which suggest energy, force, and song; these may be associated with the feel of a performance but not with the actual root meaning. Verification / Alternative check: Think of related English words. Opus is used in phrases like Opus 35 to label a specific work by a composer. These numbering systems come from the Latin for work. The term magnum opus means great work, used for an artist s or writer s most important creation. Opera house is literally the house where such works are performed. Understanding that both opus and opera are linked forms of the same Latin root makes it clear that work is the literal meaning in Italian and Latin, even though in modern English, opera refers to a particular musical genre. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A Word has a different Latin root and does not match the history of opera. Option C Energy and option D Force may describe qualities of a performance but are not part of the etymology. Option E Song reflects one aspect of an opera performance, since it includes singing, but it is not the literal meaning of the Italian term. Common Pitfalls: Exam takers sometimes pick Song because opera performances involve singing, or Word because the shapes of opera and word look somewhat similar in English. However, in etymology questions, it is safer to rely on known Latin roots such as opus for work. Learning a few common Latin and Greek roots can greatly improve your ability to answer these types of questions and also help you guess meanings of unfamiliar academic vocabulary. Final Answer: In Italian, the word OPERA literally means work.

Question 8

Psychology – the aha experience is known as which type of learning?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question belongs to basic psychology, specifically the chapter on learning. The aha experience describes the sudden moment when a problem seems to solve itself in your mind, and the answer becomes clear all at once. Understanding what this experience is called in psychological terms helps you connect textbook theories to real life problem solving situations. Given Data / Assumptions: The phrase aha experience refers to a sudden flash of understanding or solution. The question asks you to match this experience with one of several learning theories. Options include vicarious learning, latent learning, and insight learning, all of which are standard textbook terms. Trial and error learning is another known method, but it involves gradual improvement, not sudden realisation. Concept / Approach: Insight learning is the type of learning in which a solution appears suddenly after a period of mental preparation or observation, without gradual step by step trial and error. The classic experiments by Wolfgang Kohler with chimpanzees solving problems to reach bananas are often cited as examples: after some time, the animal suddenly arranges boxes or joins sticks in a new way. This sudden clarity in understanding is what psychologists refer to as insight, and the subjective feeling is the aha experience. Therefore, the correct answer must be insight learning. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that the aha experience refers to a sudden moment of realisation when a solution or pattern becomes clear. Step 2: Identify insight learning as the learning theory that explains such sudden problem solving without a long visible chain of small improvements. Step 3: Examine option C insight learning and see that it directly matches this definition. Step 4: Review option A vicarious learning, which refers to learning by observing others, not by sudden internal realisation. Step 5: Review option B latent learning, which refers to learning that occurs without immediate reinforcement and becomes visible only when there is motivation. Step 6: Check option D trial and error learning, which involves trying many solutions until one works; this process is gradual and does not capture the sudden aha moment. Verification / Alternative check: Think about your own experience with a puzzle or mathematics problem. Sometimes, after setting the problem aside for a while, the solution suddenly appears in your mind and you say Aha, now I see it. You did not necessarily test many possibilities step by step in that moment; instead, your mind reorganised the information suddenly. Psychology textbooks use exactly this type of situation to illustrate insight learning in contrast to trial and error learning, where you would repeatedly test different approaches until one succeeds. Observing a friend solving a problem and learning from that would illustrate vicarious learning, not the inner aha experience. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A Vicarious learning involves watching others and learning from their behaviour and consequences, for example learning not to touch a hot stove after seeing someone else get burned. Option B Latent learning refers to knowledge acquired without reinforcement that may not be immediately shown in behaviour until there is a need or reward. Option D Trial and error learning is a method where many attempts are made, and errors gradually decrease as the correct response is discovered through practice. Option E None of the above is wrong because insight learning is a standard and widely accepted term for the aha experience. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes confuse latent learning and insight learning because both involve some internal mental processes. A useful distinction is that insight is about the sudden restructuring of a problem leading to an instant solution, while latent learning is about stored knowledge that becomes visible when required. When you see the phrase aha experience in exam questions, you should directly think of insight learning. Final Answer: The aha experience in problem solving is known as insight learning.

Question 9

In English idioms and everyday usage, the expression "a big draw" most nearly means which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The phrase "a big draw" is a common English expression that appears in newspapers, advertisements, and spoken language. Questions like this test your knowledge of idiomatic vocabulary, which is very important for competitive exams and real life communication. Understanding such idioms helps you interpret headlines like "The singer was a big draw at the festival" correctly. Given Data / Assumptions: - We are given the idiomatic expression "a big draw". - We must choose the option that best matches its meaning in normal modern English. - Options describe different types of events or qualities: a game without result, a huge attraction, a keen contest, a lovely spectacle, a disappointing event. Concept / Approach: In idiomatic usage, "a big draw" refers to something or someone that attracts a large number of people. For example, a famous cricketer or a popular singer can be described as a big draw because people come mainly to see them. The key idea is strong attraction and the power to pull in crowds. Therefore, the option that mentions "a huge attraction" is the one that matches this sense exactly. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Focus on the word "draw" in the phrase, which in this context refers to attracting people, not drawing with a pen or a match ending with equal scores. Step 2: Connect "big" with something major or strong in effect, so "a big draw" suggests very strong power to attract. Step 3: Compare each option: only "a huge attraction" talks directly about attracting people. Step 4: Confirm that other options either talk about contests or match results, which belong to a different meaning of "draw". Verification / Alternative check: Consider typical sentences: "The star player was a big draw for the tournament" clearly means that many spectators came mainly because of that player. Replacing "a big draw" with "a huge attraction" keeps the meaning intact. Replacing it with "a game without result" or "a keen contest" changes the meaning completely, because those relate to sports results, not to popularity. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - a game without any result: refers to a match that ends in a draw with no winner, a different sense of "draw". - a keen contest: describes a close or intense competition, not an attraction. - a lovely spectacle: might be beautiful, but it does not necessarily imply drawing large crowds. - a disappointing event: is opposite in sense to something that attracts many people. Common Pitfalls: Candidates often confuse the sports meaning of "draw" (no winner) with this idiomatic meaning. Always pay attention to the whole phrase and the context. In headlines about shows, performers, or fairs, "big draw" almost always means "huge attraction". Final Answer: "A big draw" means a huge attraction.

Question 10

In standard English grammar, the usual word order in a simple affirmative sentence is which of the following patterns?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests your understanding of basic English sentence structure. In many exam passages, questions, and instructions, the order in which subject, verb, and object appear is extremely important for clarity. Knowing the standard or most common pattern helps you both recognise correct sentences and correct faulty ones. Given Data / Assumptions: - The question asks about "standard English sentence order". - It clearly refers to the normal structure of simple, affirmative, declarative sentences. - The elements involved are Subject (S), Verb (V), and Object (O). - Several different orders are given as options. Concept / Approach: In English, the most common word order in simple statements is Subject–Verb–Object. For example, "Ravi (Subject) eats (Verb) apples (Object)." The subject is the person or thing doing the action, the verb expresses the action or state, and the object receives the action. Other orders appear in questions, imperatives, and poetry, but the basic pattern for normal statements remains SVO. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall a simple model sentence such as "The child kicked the ball." Step 2: Identify the subject "The child", the verb "kicked", and the object "the ball". Step 3: Note the order: Subject first, then Verb, then Object. Step 4: Match this pattern with the given options and select Subject–Verb–Object. Verification / Alternative check: Check a few more sentences: "Birds sing songs" (SVO), "Students read books" (SVO), "Doctors treat patients" (SVO). In each case, subject comes first, followed by verb, then object. Other orders like VSO or OVS appear mainly in questions or rare stylistic constructions, not as the basic rule for affirmative sentences. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - Verb–Subject–Object: appears in some questions (for example, "Does Ravi eat apples") but not in basic statements. - Verb–Object–Subject and Object–Verb–Subject: do not represent normal English statement structure and would create awkward or incorrect sentences if used routinely. - Object–Subject–Verb: also breaks the natural pattern and would confuse the reader or listener. Common Pitfalls: Some learners mix English rules with those of their mother tongue if that language uses a different order such as Subject–Object–Verb. It is important to remember that English places the finite verb directly after the subject in most statements. Keeping SVO in mind will help you in error detection, sentence transformation, and writing tasks. Final Answer: The standard English sentence order is Subject–Verb–Object.

Question 11

Choose the correct word to complete the sentence: "The fireworks exhibition had awesome ______ on the crowd and the night sky."

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question checks your ability to distinguish between easily confused English words, especially "affect" and "effect". These words appear very frequently in essays, reports, and exam answers. Using the wrong one can change the meaning of a sentence or make the writing look careless. The sentence given is about a fireworks exhibition and its impact on the crowd and the night sky. Given Data / Assumptions: - Sentence: "The fireworks exhibition had awesome ______ on the crowd and the night sky." - We need a noun that describes the impact or result produced by the exhibition. - Options include "affects", "defects", "effects", "show", and "results". Concept / Approach: In standard usage, "effect" is usually a noun meaning result, outcome, or impact, while "affect" is usually a verb meaning to influence. The structure "had awesome _____" requires a noun object. Therefore, the correct word is "effects". It expresses that the fireworks created powerful visual and emotional results for the crowd and on the sky. The other words either have different meanings or do not fit grammatically. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the verb phrase "had awesome" and recognise that it must be followed by a noun. Step 2: Recall that "effect" (usually a noun) means result or impact, while "affect" (usually a verb) means to influence. Step 3: Change "effect" to plural "effects" to agree with "awesome" describing several kinds of impact, such as colours and emotions. Step 4: Confirm that "The fireworks exhibition had awesome effects on the crowd and the night sky" sounds natural and correct. Verification / Alternative check: You can test each option in the sentence. "Had awesome affects" is wrong because "affects" is a verb and cannot be used as the object of "had" here. "Had awesome defects" changes the meaning to flaws, which does not match a positive description. "Had awesome show" is ungrammatical, because "show" is a countable noun and would need an article. "Had awesome results" is grammatically possible but does not capture the usual collocation used for fireworks, where "effects" is the common word for visual impact. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - affects: usually a verb, not a noun in this context. - defects: means faults or flaws, which is negative and does not match "awesome". - show: would require an article such as "an awesome show" and still would not pair smoothly with "had". - results: possible but less natural than "effects" when describing visual and emotional impact of fireworks. Common Pitfalls: Many learners mix up "affect" and "effect" because they sound similar. A useful memory aid is: "Affect" is an Action (verb) and "Effect" is an End result (noun). Remembering this simple pattern helps you choose correctly in most contexts. Final Answer: The correct word is "effects": "The fireworks exhibition had awesome effects on the crowd and the night sky."

Question 12

In linguistics, what are the smallest units of meaning in a language (that is, the smallest elements that carry meaning) called?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question comes from basic linguistics, the scientific study of language. Examinations often test whether you can distinguish between sound units and meaning units. Understanding these terms helps in fields such as language teaching, reading skills, and speech therapy, and it also supports better vocabulary learning strategies. Given Data / Assumptions: - We are asked about "smallest units of meaning in a language". - The focus is on meaning, not sound alone. - Options include phonemes, morphemes, syntactic rules, pragmatic cues, and syllables. Concept / Approach: A morpheme is the smallest unit in a language that carries meaning. For example, in the word "unhelpful", "un", "help", and "ful" are three morphemes.Each part adds meaning: negative, base idea of help, and having the quality of. Phonemes, on the other hand, are the smallest units of sound that can distinguish words, such as the "p" sound and "b" sound in "pat" and "bat". Syntactic rules, pragmatic cues, and syllables are larger or different kinds of units and do not match the definition in the question. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Focus on the phrase "smallest units of meaning" and underline the key word "meaning". Step 2: Recall that morphemes are the smallest meaningful parts of a word, such as prefixes, roots, and suffixes. Step 3: Compare this with phonemes, which are only sound units and may not carry meaning by themselves. Step 4: Eliminate options that refer to rules or sentence level concepts like syntax and pragmatics. Verification / Alternative check: Take the word "cats". It has two morphemes: "cat" (the animal) and "s" (plural marker). The "s" changes meaning from one to more than one, so it is a morpheme. At the same time, the word contains several phonemes, the individual sounds, but the single sound "k" or "t" alone does not have meaning in English. This proves that morphemes, not phonemes, are the smallest meaningful units. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - phonemes: smallest units of sound that can distinguish words, but they usually do not carry meaning alone. - syntactic rules: patterns for how words are arranged in sentences; these are not basic units but rules of combination. - pragmatic cues: signals related to context, politeness, or implied meaning; they are higher level features, not smallest units. - syllables: units of pronunciation that may contain one or more morphemes; they are not defined by meaning. Common Pitfalls: Many learners confuse phonemes and morphemes because both are described as "smallest units" in different contexts. Always connect phonemes with sound and morphemes with meaning. Keeping this distinction clear will help you in questions on phonetics, spelling patterns, and word formation. Final Answer: The smallest units of meaning in a language are called morphemes.

Question 13

Which of the following sentences is a clear example of a complex sentence in English grammar?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests your ability to recognise sentence types, especially complex sentences. In English grammar, understanding the difference between simple, compound, and complex sentences is essential for good writing and for answering transformation and error detection questions in exams. A complex sentence combines an independent clause with one or more dependent clauses. Given Data / Assumptions: - We must pick one sentence that is complex. - A complex sentence contains one main (independent) clause and at least one subordinate (dependent) clause. - The options include sentences with and without subordinating conjunctions like "when". Concept / Approach: A complex sentence is built when a subordinate clause is attached to a main clause using subordinating conjunctions such as when, because, although, if, and since. The subordinate clause cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. In contrast, a compound sentence connects two independent clauses with a coordinating conjunction like and or but. A simple sentence has only one independent clause. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Examine option b: "My dad laughed when I told a joke." This contains main clause "My dad laughed" and subordinate clause "when I told a joke". The word "when" introduces the dependent clause. Step 2: Check whether "when I told a joke" can stand alone as a full sentence. It cannot, so it is a dependent clause. Step 3: Confirm that the presence of one independent and one dependent clause makes sentence b complex. Step 4: Analyse the other options and notice that they either have only one clause or two independent clauses joined by "and", making them simple or compound rather than complex. Verification / Alternative check: Option a, "The cricket match was cancelled yesterday", has one subject and one predicate, which makes it a simple sentence. Options c, d, and e each contain two independent clauses joined by "and", for example "He sang" and "she danced". Two independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction form compound sentences, not complex ones. Only option b clearly shows the structure main clause plus dependent clause. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - The cricket match was cancelled yesterday: simple sentence with one clause, no subordination. - He sang and she danced: two independent clauses joined by "and", so compound sentence. - She cooked dinner and he washed the dishes: again two independent clauses, so compound sentence. - The sun set and the stars appeared: also a compound sentence with two independent clauses joined by "and". Common Pitfalls: Many learners confuse compound and complex sentences because both have more than one verb. The key is to look for subordinating conjunctions and check whether one clause depends on the other for complete meaning. Whenever you see words like when, because, although, or if introducing a clause, there is a strong chance that the sentence is complex. Final Answer: The sentence "My dad laughed when I told a joke" is the complex sentence.

Question 14

In the sentence "The wind is variable today", which option gives the best synonym for the word "variable" as it is used here?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests your vocabulary skills, especially your ability to choose the right synonym based on context. The word "variable" can have several meanings in different fields, such as mathematics or statistics, but here it appears in a simple weather related sentence. You must understand it in that everyday context rather than a technical one. Given Data / Assumptions: - Sentence: "The wind is variable today." - The context is weather and wind conditions over a day. - We are asked for a synonym of "variable" in this context. - Options are mild, shifting, steady, chilling, and weak. Concept / Approach: When used to describe wind or weather, "variable" means changing in direction, speed, or strength, rather than remaining steady. It suggests that the wind is not constant, but keeps altering. Among the options, "shifting" is closest to this sense, because it clearly expresses the idea of change, especially change in direction or pattern. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Focus on how "variable" is used with "wind", which hints at changes in conditions rather than temperature or intensity alone. Step 2: Recall that "variable" in weather reports often means that wind direction or speed keeps changing throughout the day. Step 3: Compare each option: "shifting" directly suggests changing direction; other options describe temperature, strength, or constancy. Step 4: Select "shifting" as the option that best preserves the meaning of "variable" here. Verification / Alternative check: Test the synonym in the original sentence: "The wind is shifting today" makes sense and clearly tells us that the wind is not steady. If we use "mild", the sentence changes to "The wind is mild today", which focuses on strength, not change. "Steady" is nearly the opposite of "variable". "Chilling" talks about temperature, and "weak" refers to low strength, neither of which captures the idea of frequent change. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - mild: describes gentle strength or low intensity, not change over time. - steady: suggests something that is constant, the opposite of "variable". - chilling: focuses on making you feel cold and does not express variation. - weak: means not strong; again, it does not say anything about change in direction or speed. Common Pitfalls: Many learners see "variable" and immediately think of "weak" or "mild" because they connect it with unfamiliar or less intense conditions. However, in weather descriptions, it is better to remember that "variable" is about change and unpredictability, not simply strength. Paying attention to context words like "wind" can guide you to the correct synonym. Final Answer: In this sentence, "variable" is best replaced by "shifting".

Question 15

Which of the following is an example of expository writing, that is, writing that explains, informs, or describes facts about a topic?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests your understanding of different modes of writing, especially expository writing. In school and college, you frequently read and write different kinds of texts: stories, poems, reports, essays, and reviews. Correctly identifying whether a text is expository, narrative, descriptive, or persuasive is an important reading skill and a frequent exam topic. Given Data / Assumptions: - We are asked to select an example of expository writing. - Expository writing aims to explain, inform, or describe facts, processes, or ideas in a clear and logical way. - The options include a novel, a nonfiction book, a poem, a movie review, and a short story, all related to the Civil War topic. Concept / Approach: Expository writing usually presents facts, explanations, or information without focusing mainly on storytelling or personal opinions. Typical examples include textbooks, informative articles, reports, and explanatory essays. In contrast, a novel or short story is narrative, a poem is often lyrical or expressive, and a movie review is mostly evaluative and opinion based, even though it may contain some information. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify which option is most clearly written to explain facts about the Civil War rather than to tell a story or express feelings. Step 2: Notice that a nonfiction book about the history and causes of the Civil War matches this purpose exactly. Step 3: Recognise that a novel, poem, or short story uses narrative or poetic techniques and is not mainly expository. Step 4: Recognise that a movie review focuses on judging and evaluating a film, which is more persuasive or critical than expository. Verification / Alternative check: If you imagine reading each type of text, the nonfiction book about the history and causes of the Civil War would probably contain dates, facts, explanations of reasons, and analysis of events. It would clearly try to teach you something about the topic. The novel and short story would focus on characters and plot. The poem would focus on emotional or artistic expression. The movie review would give opinions about acting, direction, and quality of the film. Thus, only option b fits the expository purpose strongly and directly. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - A novel about a young girl: narrative fiction, mainly storytelling. - A poem about soldiers: poetic and expressive in nature, not primarily expository. - A movie review: evaluative and opinion based, often persuasive. - A short story: another example of narrative fiction focusing on characters and events. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes think that any nonfiction or any text containing facts is automatically expository. However, the key is the main purpose. If the primary goal is to explain, inform, or describe a topic objectively and systematically, then it is expository. If the main goal is to tell a story or to convince the reader, it falls into other categories. Here, the nonfiction history book is clearly informational in purpose. Final Answer: The expository example is a nonfiction book about the history and causes of the Civil War.

Question 16

In strict music terminology, a song is usually defined as a piece of music that always includes which essential element?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question comes from basic music terminology and tests how precisely you understand the word "song". In casual everyday speech, people sometimes call any piece of music a song, even if it has no words. However, in more careful usage and in many exams, the term has a narrower, clearer meaning. Recognising that difference helps you answer this question correctly. Given Data / Assumptions: - The question talks about "strict music terminology". - We have to choose the element that a song always includes by definition. - Options include a musician, a tymbal, words or lyrics, a chorus, and an orchestra. Concept / Approach: In music theory and traditional usage, a "song" is a vocal composition that combines music with words. The key idea is that a song is meant to be sung. If a piece is purely instrumental, many musicians will call it a "piece", "composition", or "instrumental track", not a song. Therefore, the defining element that must be present is words or lyrics. Other elements, such as musicians, instruments, or a chorus, are common but not essential in every case. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Concentrate on the phrase "always includes", which means the element must be present in every example of a song in the strict sense. Step 2: Notice that some songs are performed by only one singer and one instrument, so neither an orchestra nor a chorus is truly essential. Step 3: Understand that musicians are always needed to perform, but a "song" as a composition is defined by its structure, not by how many people perform it. Step 4: Recognise that words or lyrics are the core feature that separates songs from purely instrumental pieces, so they are the essential element. Verification / Alternative check: Imagine different examples: a folk singer alone with a guitar, a pop singer using a backing track, a choir singing a hymn, and a child singing a nursery rhyme. All of these have words. Now think of a piano solo or a violin concerto; these are well known musical works but are not called songs in strict terminology because they have no lyrics. This contrast confirms that words or lyrics are what a composition must include to be classed as a song. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - a musician: necessary for performance, but a song as a composition can exist even before anyone performs it. - a tymbal: a specific instrument, not present in most songs. - a chorus: common in many songs but not present in every song, for example, some traditional ballads and art songs have no repeating chorus. - an orchestra: many songs use only a single instrument or a small band, not a full orchestra. Common Pitfalls: Because people casually say "listen to this song" for any track, it is easy to forget the stricter definition. In exam situations, always assume that technical terms are being used carefully. When you see a question about "song" and "always", think of lyrics and singing rather than any kind of instrumental track. Final Answer: In strict usage, a song always includes words or lyrics.

Question 17

In SQL and relational databases, what does the HAVING clause do in a SELECT statement that uses GROUP BY?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests your understanding of basic SQL, which is very useful for computer science, data analysis, and many technical exams. Specifically, it asks about the role of the HAVING clause in a SELECT query that uses GROUP BY. Confusing HAVING and WHERE is a common mistake, so clear understanding is essential. Given Data / Assumptions: - The focus is on the HAVING clause in SQL. - We assume the presence of a GROUP BY clause, which creates groups of rows based on one or more columns. - Options describe different relationships between HAVING, WHERE, rows, columns, and groups. Concept / Approach: In SQL, the WHERE clause filters individual rows before grouping, while the HAVING clause filters groups after the GROUP BY operation. You can think of HAVING as a kind of "WHERE for groups". This makes HAVING useful when you want to keep only those groups that meet a certain condition, often involving aggregate functions like COUNT, SUM, AVG, MAX, or MIN. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall the order of operations in a SELECT statement: FROM, WHERE, GROUP BY, HAVING, SELECT list, ORDER BY. Step 2: Note that WHERE applies to each row before any grouping happens. Step 3: Recognise that HAVING is evaluated after GROUP BY, when groups have been formed and aggregate values are available. Step 4: Match this description with the option that says HAVING acts like a WHERE clause but is used for groups rather than rows. Verification / Alternative check: Consider an example: you want to list only those departments where the number of employees is greater than five. You might write "SELECT department_id, COUNT(*) FROM employees GROUP BY department_id HAVING COUNT(*) > 5". Here, HAVING filters groups of rows (each department group) based on the aggregate COUNT(*). If you tried to use WHERE COUNT(*) > 5, it would fail, because WHERE cannot use aggregate functions in that way. This confirms that HAVING is specifically designed for group level filtering. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - Acts like a WHERE clause but is used for columns rather than groups: incorrect, HAVING is not about columns versus rows but about groups versus individual rows. - Acts like a WHERE clause but is used for rows rather than columns: simply describes WHERE itself, not HAVING. - Acts exactly like a WHERE clause in every situation: false, because WHERE and HAVING are evaluated at different stages and cannot always be interchanged. - Filters rows before any grouping is applied: this describes WHERE, not HAVING. Common Pitfalls: Many learners treat HAVING and WHERE as interchangeable, which leads to errors when using aggregate functions. A useful memory trick is: WHERE filters rows, HAVING filters groups. If a condition does not involve aggregate functions and you want to remove rows early, use WHERE. If a condition depends on aggregated values, use HAVING after GROUP BY. Final Answer: The HAVING clause acts like a WHERE clause but is used for groups rather than individual rows.

Question 18

Which of the following sentences correctly contains a relative pronoun introducing a relative clause?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question checks whether you can recognise a relative pronoun and the relative clause it introduces. Relative pronouns such as who, whom, whose, which, and that are very important for joining ideas and adding extra information about a noun. Many questions on clause structure and sentence improvement depend on these concepts. Given Data / Assumptions: - We must select the sentence that actually uses a relative pronoun. - A relative pronoun introduces a clause that describes a noun, often called an adjective or relative clause. - The options contain words like that and whom, but not all of them are used as relative pronouns. Concept / Approach: A relative pronoun typically comes just after the noun it describes and starts a clause that gives more information about that noun, for example "The man who lives next door" or "The book that I bought yesterday". In the correct structure, if you remove the relative clause, the main sentence still makes sense, but with less information. In this question, we must look for such a pattern. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Examine option c: "The girl whom you met yesterday is my sister." Step 2: Identify the noun "The girl" and the clause "whom you met yesterday". The word "whom" introduces the clause and refers back to "girl". Step 3: Check whether removing the relative clause gives a complete sentence: "The girl is my sister" is still meaningful, so "whom you met yesterday" is additional information. Step 4: Conclude that "whom" is a relative pronoun here and option c is the correct choice. Verification / Alternative check: Look at the other options. In "That is my book bag", the word "That" is a demonstrative pronoun pointing to an object, not a relative pronoun introducing a clause. "Some boys are coming for tuition" and "My cousin lives in Delhi" have no relative clauses at all. "Those are not your things" also uses "Those" as a demonstrative pronoun, not as a relative pronoun. Therefore, only option c fits the definition given in the question. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - That is my book bag: "That" simply points to an object; it does not start a describing clause. - Some boys are coming for tuition: there is only one clause and no relative pronoun. - Those are not your things: again, "Those" is demonstrative, not relative. - My cousin lives in Delhi: simple sentence with no relative clause. Common Pitfalls: Students often think that any sentence with the word "that" contains a relative pronoun. However, "that" can function as a demonstrative, complementiser, or relative pronoun, depending on its position and role. A good test is to see whether the word starts a clause that gives extra information about a noun, and whether the clause can be removed while leaving a complete core sentence. Final Answer: The correct sentence with a relative pronoun is "The girl whom you met yesterday is my sister."

Question 19

In English vocabulary, the verb "partition" means to divide or split something into separate parts. Which of the following words is most nearly its opposite in meaning?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests your knowledge of antonyms, that is, words with opposite meanings. The target word is "partition", which appears in everyday contexts such as partitioning a room or partitioning a hard drive. Understanding its meaning and opposite helps you in vocabulary sections of competitive exams and in reading technical as well as general texts. Given Data / Assumptions: - The given meaning of "partition" is to divide or split something into parts. - We must choose a word that expresses the opposite action. - Options include "mark off", "divide", "attach", "separate", and "split". Concept / Approach: If "partition" means to break or divide something into pieces or sections, then its opposite will mean to join pieces together or to bring separate parts into a whole. Among the options, "attach" clearly suggests joining or connecting one thing to another. The other options are either synonyms or near synonyms of "partition". Therefore, "attach" is the correct antonym. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Restate the meaning of "partition": to divide, separate, or split something. Step 2: Look for a word that expresses joining rather than dividing. Step 3: Notice that "attach" means to join, connect, or fix one thing to another. Step 4: Confirm that other options like "divide", "separate", and "split" are similar in meaning to "partition" and therefore cannot be the opposite. Verification / Alternative check: Imagine an example: you have a large hall. If you partition the hall, you build walls or screens so that it becomes several smaller rooms. The opposite action would be to remove partitions and attach or join sections so that it again becomes one large space. In technical language, if you partition a hard drive, you divide it into parts; the opposite would be to merge or attach those parts. This mental picture clearly supports "attach" as the antonym. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - mark off: means to set boundaries or separate an area, which is similar to partition, not opposite. - divide: directly expresses splitting into parts, almost the same as partition. - separate: again, to put things apart, which is a synonym, not an antonym. - split: another word for breaking into pieces, similar in meaning. Common Pitfalls: Sometimes candidates quickly select a familiar word like "divide" or "separate" without carefully reading that the question asks for the opposite meaning. Remember to check whether the question is asking for a synonym or an antonym. A good strategy is to mentally write a sentence with the original word and then reverse the action in your mind to see what opposite verb fits logically. Final Answer: The opposite of "partition" in this context is "attach".

Question 20

Which of the following choices presents a logically sound argument, that is, an argument with valid reasoning and acceptable premises?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question comes from basic logic and critical reasoning. It asks you to recognise a sound argument. In logic, an argument is sound when its reasoning is valid and its premises are true or at least acceptable in the given context. Such questions are important in exams because they train you to distinguish correct reasoning from faulty reasoning. Given Data / Assumptions: - Each option contains a small argument with premises and a conclusion. - We must identify the one that follows a valid logical pattern and uses premises that can be accepted within the scenario. - Option a discusses teachers in one school and clothing. - Option b discusses turtles, reptiles, and a snake. - Option c discusses two authors and the speaker's desire. Concept / Approach: To find a sound argument, first check whether the reasoning is valid: if the premises are true, must the conclusion also be true. Then consider whether the premises are at least reasonable within the scenario. Option a has the logical form: All A are B; x is not B; therefore x is not A. This is a form of reasoning similar to modus tollens in set terms, and it is valid. The premises are specific to one school and can be treated as acceptable for this problem. By contrast, option b gives invalid reasoning, and option c gives a conclusion that does not follow from the premises at all. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Analyse option a: "All teachers in this school wear sarees. Mrs. Gomati does not wear a saree. Therefore, Mrs. Gomati is not a teacher in this school." If all teachers in this school are saree wearers and she does not wear one, then she cannot be a teacher there. The conclusion follows from the premises. Step 2: Analyse option b: "All turtles are reptiles. The snake is not a turtle. Therefore, the snake is not a reptile." Here the reasoning says: All A are B; x is not A; so x is not B. This is invalid, because the snake could still be a reptile through some other path. Step 3: Analyse option c: "Amitav Ghosh is an author. Arundhati Roy is an author. Therefore, I want to be an author." The conclusion about "I want to be an author" has no logical connection to the premises. Step 4: Reject "All of the above" and "None of the above" because only option a meets the condition of sound reasoning. Verification / Alternative check: For option a, try to imagine a situation where the two premises are true but the conclusion is false. If all teachers in the school wear sarees and a person does not wear one, that person cannot be in the set of teachers in that school. This means the conclusion must hold whenever the premises hold, so the reasoning is valid. Options b and c clearly fail this test. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - Option b: invalid reasoning because it denies only one sufficient condition and then denies the broader category, which does not follow. - Option c: the conclusion about desire is unrelated to the premises about authorship. - Option d: incorrect because not all given arguments are sound. - Option e: also incorrect because option a is a sound argument. Common Pitfalls: Students often confuse a valid argument with a true conclusion. Remember that logic cares primarily about the structure. An argument is valid if, assuming the premises are true, the conclusion must be true. It becomes sound when the premises are in fact true or at least acceptable in the context. Here, option a illustrates a clean valid pattern that can be accepted as sound for exam purposes. Final Answer: The sound argument is: "All teachers in this school wear sarees. Mrs. Gomati does not wear a saree. Therefore, Mrs. Gomati is not a teacher in this school."

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