Question 1

Four words are given; choose the one which is incorrectly spelt: Accurate, Business, Sedentery, Jewellery.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Spelling questions test your familiarity with standard English spellings, especially for commonly used words where silent letters or unusual endings often cause confusion. In this item, you are given four everyday words and must identify the one that is not spelt according to standard English usage. Such questions are frequent in competitive exams because they quickly reveal whether a candidate reads widely and pays attention to details. Given Data / Assumptions: - The four options are "Accurate", "Business", "Sedentery", and "Jewellery". - Only one of these is incorrectly spelt. - The correct forms of these words are established in standard dictionaries of English. - You must know or recall the standard spelling rather than rely only on how familiar a word looks at first sight. Concept / Approach: The correct spellings are: "accurate" for something correct and precise, "business" for commercial activity or work, "sedentary" for a lifestyle involving much sitting and little physical activity, and "jewellery" for ornaments made of precious metals and stones (British spelling). In the options, "Sedentery" has been deliberately misspelt with the ending "ery" instead of "ary". Recognising patterns like "-ary" in adjectives helps you catch such errors quickly in the examination. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Check "Accurate". This is a common word meaning correct or exact; the spelling with "ccu" and "ate" is standard. Step 2: Check "Business". It is correctly spelt with "busi" followed by "ness". There is no extra "z" or odd vowel. Step 3: Check "Sedentery". You might recall the adjective "sedentary". The final sound is "tary", not "tery". Step 4: Check "Jewellery". In British English, "jewellery" with double "l" is correct. In American English, "jewelry" is also accepted, but "Jewellery" is not wrong here. Step 5: Conclude that "Sedentery" is the only wrong spelling among the options. Verification / Alternative check: You can check related forms: "sedentary lifestyle" is a common collocation in health articles. You never see "sedentery lifestyle". Meanwhile, "business studies", "accurate information", and "gold jewellery" are all common phrases whose spellings are seen constantly in textbooks, newspapers, and digital content. This cross checking from memory reinforces that "Sedentery" is incorrect. Why Other Options Are Wrong or Right: - "Accurate": Correct spelling; no letters are misplaced. - "Business": Correct spelling; learners sometimes misplace the "i" and "e", but this option is fine. - "Jewellery": Correct British spelling with double "l". Only "Sedentery" is wrong; the correct form should be "sedentary". Common Pitfalls: A common mistake is to doubt the spelling of "Jewellery" because of variations between British and American English. Exams in India typically follow British spelling unless clearly stated otherwise, so "Jewellery" is perfectly acceptable. Another pitfall is trusting your first impression rather than remembering patterns that adjectives ending in "ary" often share, such as "necessary", "primary", and "sedentary". Final Answer: The incorrectly spelt word is Sedentery; the correct spelling should be "sedentary".

Question 2

Four words are given; choose the one which is incorrectly spelt: Chaufer, Committee, Veterinary, Repentance.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This is another spelling based vocabulary question. The goal is to identify the one incorrect spelling out of four commonly used English words. Spelling questions often rely on double consonants, silent letters, or unusual vowel combinations, which can easily confuse candidates who have not seen the words in print often enough. Correct spelling is important for formal communication and professional exams, which is why these items feature regularly in language sections. Given Data / Assumptions: - The options provided are "Chaufer", "Committee", "Veterinary", and "Repentance". - Exactly one of these forms is wrong according to standard English spelling. - You must identify which word has been altered or misspelt specifically for the test. Concept / Approach: The correct spellings are as follows: "chauffeur" for a professional driver of a car, "committee" for a group of people appointed for a specific function, "veterinary" for anything related to the medical care of animals, and "repentance" for sincere regret or remorse. In the options, "Chaufer" is the incorrect form of "chauffeur". The original French derived spelling preserves "chauffeur" with a double "f" and the "eur" ending, which is easy to forget if you have only heard the word, not seen it written. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Examine "Committee". The standard spelling has a double "m" and double "t". The option "Committee" is correct. Step 2: Examine "Veterinary". This matches the correct spelling used for veterinary doctors and veterinary science. Step 3: Examine "Repentance". It is correctly formed from the verb "repent" plus the suffix "ance". Step 4: Examine "Chaufer". This looks like the word "chauffeur" but is missing letters and the correct pattern. Step 5: Conclude that "Chaufer" is the deliberately misspelt option. Verification / Alternative check: Think of typical phrases: "a committee meeting", "veterinary clinic", "feeling repentance for past mistakes", and "chauffeur driven car". Only the last one uses the French style spelling "chauffeur". If you attempt to use "chaufer driven car", it clearly looks incomplete and is not used in standard writing. Cross comparison with newspaper or book usage reinforces that "Chaufer" is invalid. Why Other Options Are Wrong or Right: - "Committee": Correct; candidates often worry about the double consonants, but they are placed accurately here. - "Veterinary": Correct; all vowels and consonants are in the right order. - "Repentance": Correct; a very common abstract noun formed properly. - "Chaufer": Incorrect; the correct spelling is "chauffeur". Common Pitfalls: Learners may overthink words like "committee" because of the double letters and wrongly mark them as incorrect, especially if they rarely write the word. Another pitfall is ignoring foreign origin words such as "chauffeur", "bureau", or "fiance". These often retain their original spellings and can feel strange. Regular reading and practice with such words helps in avoiding these mistakes in future exams. Final Answer: The incorrectly spelt word is Chaufer; the correct spelling should be "chauffeur".

Question 3

The sentences P, Q, R, and S describe how books are our unfailing friends. Choose the most logical order to form a coherent paragraph.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This is a sentence arrangement question that tests your ability to construct a coherent paragraph from jumbled sentences. The theme of the passage is the value of books as loyal friends who support human beings emotionally. To answer correctly, you must read all four labelled sentences and identify which sequence provides a smooth logical flow, from general idea to supporting details and finally to a broader conclusion. Given Data / Assumptions: The four sentences are: - Q: Books are never failing friends. - P: They never desert us even when all fair weather friends have deserted us. - R: They dispel the dark clouds of gloom from our minds and increase our happiness if we are already happy. - S: Through the ages, the scriptures and other great books have provided immeasurable solace to the wounded and strife torn humanity. We assume that all four belong to one paragraph and that no sentence is to be discarded. Concept / Approach: In paragraph arrangement, the best strategy is to look for the topic sentence, pronoun references, and examples that naturally follow a general statement. Here, sentence Q introduces the key idea: books as unfailing friends. Sentences P and R explain how books behave like such friends by describing what they do for us. Sentence S finally gives a broad historical example about scriptures and their role for humanity. This suggests a movement from general statement to explanation and then to a big picture illustration. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the opening sentence. Q explicitly names the subject “Books” and calls them never failing friends, so it is ideal as an introduction. Step 2: Check sentences that refer back to books with pronouns like “they”. P starts with “They never desert us”, clearly referring to “Books” from Q, so P should follow Q. Step 3: R also begins with “They” and expands on how books dispel gloom and increase happiness. This is another supporting detail that follows naturally after P. Step 4: S shifts to “Through the ages, the scriptures and other great books…”, which functions as a broader historical illustration and therefore fits well as the closing sentence of the paragraph. Step 5: Combine the order as Q P R S, which corresponds to option "QPRS". Verification / Alternative check: Read the full paragraph in the chosen order: "Books are never failing friends. They never desert us even when all fair weather friends have deserted us. They dispel the dark clouds of gloom from our minds and increase our happiness if we are already happy. Through the ages, the scriptures and other great books have provided immeasurable solace to the wounded and strife torn humanity." This reads smoothly and logically, with no abrupt shifts. Other sequences either start with pronouns without antecedents or break the flow between explanation and historical example. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - "QRSP": Places S before P, jumping from abstract help for humanity back to personal friendships, which feels backward. - "PRSQ": Starts with P, where "They" has no clear antecedent, making the opening confusing. - "RSPQ": Again begins with "They" and then jumps, leaving the reader wondering who "They" are until very late. Common Pitfalls: Many students ignore pronoun reference and pick options solely based on content. Always check whether a sentence that begins with "They" or "These" has a clear subject introduced earlier. Also, consider the natural order from concept to illustration, not the other way around. Recognising the role of a topic sentence is essential in such questions. Final Answer: The most logical and coherent order is QPRS, where Q introduces books as unfailing friends, P and R give supporting details, and S provides a final historical illustration.

Question 4

The sentences P, Q, R, and S describe an incident involving Lakshmi and a robber. Choose the most logical order to form a coherent paragraph.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This sentence arrangement question presents four labelled sentences about Lakshmi and a robber entering her room at night. Your task is to reconstruct the narrative in a logical order so that the story flows naturally from the robber's entry to Lakshmi's reaction and the robber's eventual retreat. Narrative ordering requires attention to time sequence markers and cause effect relationships between actions. Given Data / Assumptions: The sentences are: - Q: One night the robber did enter her room but Lakshmi did not make any sound. - R: She just kept a tight hold of the knife and pretended to be sound asleep. - P: When the robber was near her bed, she stood up suddenly, brandishing the knife. - S: The robber was taken aback and with a loud cry, he ran out. We assume S1 and S6 are not provided here and that only these four need to be ordered. Concept / Approach: Stories usually follow a chronological pattern: situation introduction, character reaction, climax, and outcome. First, the robber must actually enter the room. Then Lakshmi's silent preparation takes place, followed by the decisive confrontation, and finally the robber's frightened escape. Pronouns and logical connectors like "when" also signal which sentences connect directly. Identifying this natural sequence helps in placing the sentences in the correct order. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Start with the event that begins the action. Sentence Q tells us that one night the robber did enter her room and Lakshmi kept silent. This clearly belongs near the beginning. Step 2: After the robber enters, Lakshmi's immediate strategy is described in R: she holds the knife tightly and pretends to sleep. It logically follows Q. Step 3: Sentence P begins with "When the robber was near her bed", which must happen after he has entered and after she has prepared herself with the knife. Therefore P follows R. Step 4: Sentence S describes the result of her sudden action: the robber is shocked and runs out. This must be the concluding sentence, following P. Step 5: Thus the order is Q R P S, corresponding to option "QRPS". Verification / Alternative check: Read the combined paragraph in your chosen sequence: "One night the robber did enter her room but Lakshmi did not make any sound. She just kept a tight hold of the knife and pretended to be sound asleep. When the robber was near her bed, she stood up suddenly, brandishing the knife. The robber was taken aback and with a loud cry, he ran out." The story now flows smoothly from start to finish without gaps or confusion. This confirms the correctness of the order. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - "SQRP": Starts with the robber's reaction before we even know what Lakshmi did, which destroys the narrative build up. - "PRQS": P relies on the robber already being near the bed, but Q and R have not yet established this situation if you start with P. - "PSQR": Again begins with the confrontation before showing the entry or preparation, which feels abrupt and incomplete. Common Pitfalls: A frequent mistake is to choose the sentence with the most dramatic action as the opening line. However, in narrative questions, you should always look for the earliest event in time, then match subsequent sentences according to cause and effect. Paying attention to temporal cues like "when the robber was near her bed" helps you recognise that certain sentences cannot come first. Final Answer: The correct logical sequence is QRPS, which forms a coherent and chronological story of Lakshmi's brave reaction to the robber.

Question 5

Convert the sentence from Active to Passive voice: "I will write an essay." Choose the correct passive form.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Voice change questions test your command of English grammar, especially your ability to move between active and passive constructions without changing the essential meaning, tense, or aspect of the sentence. Here, you are asked to convert "I will write an essay" from active voice to passive voice. The subject, object, and auxiliary verb must all be adjusted correctly while preserving the original future tense. Given Data / Assumptions: - Active sentence: "I will write an essay." - Subject in active voice: "I". - Object in active voice: "an essay". - Tense and aspect: simple future ("will write"). - Requirement: Express the same idea in passive voice without changing the time reference or meaning. Concept / Approach: To form the passive, the object of the active sentence becomes the subject of the passive sentence, and the original subject may appear at the end, introduced by "by". For simple future tense, the passive structure is: "will be" + past participle of the main verb. Therefore, "will write" becomes "will be written", and "an essay" moves to the front as the new subject. The agent "I" appears at the end as "by me" if we choose to mention it. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the verb phrase and tense in the active sentence: "will write" is simple future. Step 2: Move the object "an essay" to the subject position in the passive sentence. Step 3: Form the passive auxiliary: "will be" plus "written", the past participle of "write". Step 4: Place the original subject "I" after the verb phrase, using the preposition "by". Step 5: Combine to get "An essay will be written by me." Verification / Alternative check: Check each option for tense consistency. The original sentence is in simple future, so the passive must also be simple future. "An essay will have been written by me" (option A) is future perfect, which changes the time reference. "An essay has been written by me" (option C) is present perfect, and "An essay had been written by me" (option D) is past perfect. Only "An essay will be written by me" keeps the same time meaning as the original sentence. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - Option A: Uses "will have been written", which expresses completion before a future point, not the simple plan or intention expressed in the original sentence. - Option C: Indicates an action completed in the recent past, not a future action. - Option D: Refers to an action completed before another past event and is not equivalent to the future tense of the original. Common Pitfalls: Candidates often ignore the tense in the original sentence and pick any grammatically correct passive form. Always match the tense and aspect first. Also, do not change the meaning by adding or removing time references. Remember the general formula: simple future active "will + base verb" becomes passive "will be + past participle". Final Answer: The correct passive voice form is An essay will be written by me.

Question 6

Convert the sentence from Direct to Indirect speech: Neha said, "Need I write a letter?" Choose the correct reported form.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question assesses your understanding of converting direct speech, especially questions, into indirect or reported speech. The original sentence uses a modal question beginning with "Need I". When reporting such a sentence, you must adjust the word order, pronouns, and sometimes the auxiliary verb, while keeping the sense of the question intact. The reporting verb "said" is typically changed to "asked" when a question is reported. Given Data / Assumptions: - Direct speech: Neha said, "Need I write a letter?" - The speaker is Neha and she is asking a question about obligation. - The reporting verb in indirect speech should reflect that a question was asked. - The tense sequence usually shifts one step back when the reporting verb is in the past. Concept / Approach: In indirect speech, yes or no type questions often use "if" or "whether" to introduce the subordinate clause. "Need I write a letter?" essentially means "Do I have to write a letter?" or "Must I write a letter?". When converting this to reported speech with a past reporting verb, "Need I" changes to "she had to" in indirect form, since obligation expressed in the present often becomes past obligation in reported speech. The correct structure becomes "Neha asked if she had to write a letter." Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Change the reporting verb "said" to "asked" because she is asking a question. Step 2: Remove quotation marks and introduce the reported clause with "if". Step 3: Change the pronoun "I" to "she" to match the subject Neha. Step 4: Convert "Need I write" to its indirect equivalent. Present sense of obligation becomes "had to". Step 5: Combine everything to form "Neha asked if she had to write a letter." Verification / Alternative check: Examine the options: Option A uses "have to", which does not show the backshifting of tense after a past reporting verb. Option B converts it to a continuous form "had been writing", which changes the meaning from asking permission or obligation to talking about a past ongoing action. Option C, "asked of writing a letter", is grammatically incorrect and does not report a question properly. Only option D preserves the idea of obligation and follows correct indirect speech rules. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - Option A: "have to" maintains a present tense form, ignoring the usual tense backshift after a past reporting verb like "said". - Option B: "had been writing" suggests that the action was already happening, which is not implied in the original question about obligation. - Option C: The structure "asked of writing a letter" is incorrect and does not follow standard indirect question patterns. Common Pitfalls: Learners may forget that questions are turned into statements in indirect speech and must follow normal word order instead of inversion. Another frequent error is to ignore modal changes such as "must" to "had to" or "need I" to "had to". Always identify the function of the question first (here, asking whether she is required to write a letter) and then choose the reported form that keeps that function intact. Final Answer: The correct reported speech form is Neha asked if she had to write a letter.

Question 7

In the passage about the quest for a happy life, choose the correct word for the blank: "The quest for a _____ life engrosses every human being on this earth."

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question is part of a cloze passage about the universal human search for happiness. Cloze tests assess vocabulary, reading comprehension, and your ability to detect logically and semantically appropriate words in context. The sentence under consideration reads: "The quest for a _____ life engrosses every human being on this earth." You need to select the adjective that best captures the central theme of the whole passage, which is about happiness, individual definitions of a good life, and philosophical reflections on pleasure. Given Data / Assumptions: - The sentence speaks about a "quest", which implies searching or striving for something desired. - The noun following the blank is "life". - Later sentences mention "a happy life" being defined in an individualistic way, and the role of hedonists in connecting happiness with physical appetites. - The options are "simple", "sad", "happy", and "real". Concept / Approach: The passage focuses on happiness as the central goal of human beings. The phrase "quest for a happy life" is idiomatic and commonly used in philosophical and everyday discussions. While a simple or real life may also be desirable, the context explicitly later uses the expression "a happy life" and discusses how different people define happiness. Therefore, the blank at the start sets up the theme of the whole passage, and the only choice that aligns perfectly with the rest of the text is "happy". Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Read the sentence in isolation: "The quest for a _____ life engrosses every human being on this earth." Step 2: Consider "sad". A sad life is not something people actively quest for; this conflicts with the positive sense of "quest". Step 3: Consider "simple". Many people may want a simple life, but the later part of the passage repeatedly uses the term "happy life", not "simple life", as the main theme. Step 4: Consider "real". A real life may sound philosophical, but again it does not match the focus on happiness discussed later. Step 5: Consider "happy". This fits both common usage and the repeated references to happiness in the subsequent sentences. Verification / Alternative check: Read the first two lines of the full passage with "happy": "The quest for a happy life engrosses every human being on this earth. Everyman tends to define a happy life in a distinctly individualistic fashion." The repetition of "happy life" in both sentences creates cohesion and makes logical sense. If you insert "simple" or "real" in the first blank, the second line becomes less connected and the central theme becomes unclear. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - "simple": Does not link directly with the later philosophical discussion about happiness and hedonism. - "sad": No one searches for a sad life, so it conflicts with the idea of a quest and with basic human psychology. - "real": Although interesting, it is not supported by the rest of the passage, which is explicitly about "happy life". Common Pitfalls: Some students select "simple" because they associate it with peace and contentment. However, cloze tests require you to consider the wider context. Always read the surrounding sentences; the repeated focus on "happy life" is a clear hint that the first blank should also contain "happy". Memorising frequent collocations such as "quest for a happy life" can also help in similar questions. Final Answer: The word that best completes the sentence is happy, giving the phrase "The quest for a happy life engrosses every human being on this earth."

Question 8

In the passage about the quest for a happy life, choose the correct word for the blank: "Every man tends to define a happy life in a _____ individualistic fashion."

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This cloze test sentence follows the introductory line about the universal quest for a happy life. It explains how different people conceptualise happiness. The sentence is: "Every man tends to define a happy life in a _____ individualistic fashion." The missing adverb must describe how individualistic this definition is. Understanding the subtle meanings of the adverbs provided in the options is crucial for choosing the correct answer. Given Data / Assumptions: - The phrase "individualistic fashion" indicates that the approach is personal and unique to each person. - The blank needs an adverb qualifying the degree or manner of individualism. - The options are "distinctly", "identically", "similar", and "serious". - The passage discusses hedonists and thinkers, suggesting a philosophical tone. Concept / Approach: "Distinctly" means clearly, obviously, or recognisably. In this context, "distinctly individualistic" suggests that each person's idea of a happy life is clearly their own and differs from others. "Identically" means exactly the same, which contradicts the idea of individualism. "Similar" is an adjective, not an adverb, and does not grammatically fit before "individualistic fashion". "Serious" is also an adjective and does not describe the manner properly. Therefore, only "distinctly" fits both grammatically and logically. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Note the structure: "in a _____ individualistic fashion." The blank must be an adverb modifying "individualistic fashion". Step 2: Check "distinctly". It is an adverb and combines naturally with "individualistic". Step 3: Check "identically". It means "in exactly the same way", which clashes with the concept of individualism. Step 4: Check "similar". It is an adjective and does not fit grammatical structure or meaning here. Step 5: Check "serious". Also an adjective and does not pair naturally with "individualistic fashion" in this context. Verification / Alternative check: Insert "distinctly" and read the line: "Every man tends to define a happy life in a distinctly individualistic fashion." This sounds natural and emphasises individuality. Try "identically": "in an identically individualistic fashion" is both grammatically awkward and logically contradictory, since "identically" suggests sameness while "individualistic" implies uniqueness. The other options fail on grammar and do not improve the passage. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - "identically": Contradicts the idea of individual differences and produces a self defeating phrase. - "similar": Incorrect word form; an adjective cannot fill this adverbial role directly. - "serious": Does not describe the type of individualism or the manner in which happiness is defined. Common Pitfalls: Many candidates ignore parts of speech and only focus on meaning. In cloze tests, both grammar and meaning matter. Check whether the blank needs a noun, verb, adjective, or adverb, and then filter the options accordingly. Words like "distinctly" frequently collocate with adjectives such as "different", "individualistic", or "separate", which helps in making a quick but accurate decision. Final Answer: The correct word is distinctly, giving the phrase "in a distinctly individualistic fashion".

Question 9

In the passage about the quest for a happy life, choose the correct word for the blank: "_____ have attempted to define a happy life in various terms."

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: In this part of the cloze passage, the author comments on how different people have tried to define what a happy life means. The sentence is: "_____ have attempted to define a happy life in various terms." You must choose the noun that best represents people engaged in philosophical or reflective analysis of life, happiness, and meaning. The passage is not about a narrow academic field but about general human attempts to understand happiness. Given Data / Assumptions: - The subject of the sentence is a group of people who propose definitions of a happy life. - The tone of the passage is philosophical and general, not technical or strictly scientific. - Options are "Professors", "Thinkers", "Researchers", and "Scientists". - The next part of the passage mentions "Hedonists", which is a philosophical group, supporting a broader human context rather than a specific profession. Concept / Approach: The noun "thinkers" is a general term for philosophers, intellectuals, and reflective people who engage in deep thought about abstract ideas, including happiness. "Professors" and "researchers" are professional designations usually tied to academic institutions or specific fields of study. "Scientists" focus on empirical investigation. Since the sentence talks about defining a happy life "in various terms", the most suitable and inclusive choice is "Thinkers". Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify that the people mentioned are engaged in abstract, philosophical activity rather than in strictly scientific research. Step 2: Evaluate "Professors". They are academic teachers, but the passage is not limited to academic staff. Step 3: Evaluate "Researchers". This suggests structured investigation, often empirical, which is too narrow for the broad philosophical context. Step 4: Evaluate "Scientists". They focus on natural or physical sciences, not primarily on philosophical definitions of happiness. Step 5: Evaluate "Thinkers". This word captures philosophers, writers, and all reflective people who have offered theories about happy living. Verification / Alternative check: Read the passage with "Thinkers": "Thinkers have attempted to define a happy life in various terms. Hedonists have a simple notion that happiness lies in the gratification of physical appetites." The sequence now feels natural: first general thinkers, then a particular group (hedonists). Inserting "Scientists" or "Researchers" makes the tone shift toward a technical, empirical discussion, which does not match the philosophical flavour of the later sentences. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - "Professors": Too narrow and tied to academic roles; non professors have also shaped ideas about happiness. - "Researchers": Emphasises formal study rather than broad philosophical reflection. - "Scientists": Linked mainly with science, not with ethical or philosophical speculation about happiness. Common Pitfalls: Candidates sometimes choose a more formal sounding noun like "researchers" or "scientists" because it appears intelligent. However, in cloze tests, you must match the overall tone and subject of the passage. Here the text clearly belongs to moral philosophy, so "thinkers" is the most appropriate and flexible term. Final Answer: The correct word is Thinkers, giving the sentence "Thinkers have attempted to define a happy life in various terms."

Question 10

In the passage about the quest for a happy life, choose the correct word for the blank: "Hedonists have a _____ notion that happiness lies in the gratification of physical appetites."

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This sentence belongs to the same philosophical passage about happiness and human desires. It reads: "Hedonists have a _____ notion that happiness lies in the gratification of physical appetites." Hedonism is the doctrine that pleasure, especially physical pleasure, is the highest good. The blank must be filled with a word that correctly describes the character of this belief. The key is to understand that hedonistic ideas about happiness are very straightforward and focused on bodily pleasure. Given Data / Assumptions: - Hedonists emphasise pleasure of the senses as the main or only component of happiness. - Their doctrine is not complicated or multi dimensional; it centres on gratification of appetites. - The options are "complex", "distinct", "varied", and "simple". - The rest of the passage contrasts different views of happiness, suggesting evaluation of these notions. Concept / Approach: The phrase "simple notion" is commonly used to describe a belief that is straightforward, perhaps even too narrow. Hedonists see happiness almost purely as pleasure, which is conceptually simple. "Complex notion" would suggest a rich and multi layered philosophical theory, which does not match hedonism in this basic description. "Distinct" and "varied" are adjectives that do not convey the idea of simplicity or narrowness in focus. Therefore, "simple" is the most natural choice. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Understand hedonism: it is the view that pleasure or happiness equals satisfaction of physical desires. Step 2: Consider "complex notion". This would suggest that hedonists hold a highly intricate view, which contradicts the straightforward formula "happiness equals pleasure". Step 3: Consider "distinct notion". This only means "clearly different", not necessarily simple, and does not improve the sentence meaning. Step 4: Consider "varied notion". This would mean the idea changes or has many forms, again inconsistent with the clear definition provided. Step 5: Choose "simple notion", which matches both the directness of hedonist thinking and the structure of the sentence. Verification / Alternative check: Insert "simple" into the sentence: "Hedonists have a simple notion that happiness lies in the gratification of physical appetites." This reads naturally and emphasises that their view, while clear, may be too one dimensional. Other adjectives make the sentence either confusing or inconsistent with what we know about hedonism. The overall argument of the passage is more persuasive with "simple". Why Other Options Are Wrong: - "complex": Misrepresents hedonism as something intricate when the given description shows it is direct and focused. - "distinct": Adds almost nothing to the meaning; any philosophical view might be distinct without implying anything about its content. - "varied": Suggests multiple changing ideas, but the sentence presents a single fixed belief about physical appetites. Common Pitfalls: Some candidates overthink and choose "complex", imagining that philosophical notions are always complicated. However, the sentence itself signals simplicity by reducing happiness to gratification of appetites. Always align your choice with both world knowledge and the precise wording of the sentence, rather than choosing the most impressive sounding adjective. Final Answer: The correct word is simple, giving the phrase "Hedonists have a simple notion that happiness lies in the gratification of physical appetites."

Question 11

In the passage about the quest for a happy life, choose the correct word for the blank: "that happiness lies in the _____ of physical appetites."

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This final sentence in the hedonism related part of the passage reads: "Hedonists have a simple notion that happiness lies in the _____ of physical appetites." Hedonism connects happiness with the satisfying of bodily desires. The missing noun must describe the act of satisfying or fulfilling these appetites. Understanding the nuances of each option will guide you to the correct choice. Given Data / Assumptions: - The phrase "physical appetites" refers to bodily desires such as hunger, thirst, and sexual desire. - The sentence describes hedonism, which links happiness to satisfaction of such desires. - Options are "gratification", "simplification", "purification", and "identification". - The structure "lies in the _____ of" expects a noun that indicates an action related to these appetites. Concept / Approach: The noun "gratification" means the act of satisfying a desire or need and the pleasure that results from this satisfaction. This fits perfectly with the hedonistic focus on pleasure through fulfilled physical desires. "Simplification" means making something simpler, not satisfying it. "Purification" involves cleansing or making something pure, often in moral or religious contexts. "Identification" is about recognising or establishing identity. Only "gratification" directly describes satisfying appetites. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Interpret the sentence: Hedonists believe happiness is found when physical desires are fully satisfied. Step 2: Evaluate "gratification". It is widely used in phrases like "instant gratification", meaning immediate satisfaction, especially of physical desires. Step 3: Evaluate "simplification". This relates to processes or ideas becoming less complex, not to the state of having desires fulfilled. Step 4: Evaluate "purification". This suggests making something pure or free from impurities, which might even oppose indulgence in physical appetites. Step 5: Evaluate "identification". This refers to recognising someone or something, unrelated to appetites. Verification / Alternative check: Insert each option into the sentence. "Happiness lies in the gratification of physical appetites" is a well known and meaningful phrase. The others create awkward or illogical expressions such as "simplification of physical appetites" or "purification of physical appetites", which do not actually convey hedonistic behaviour or beliefs. Therefore, "gratification" is the only option that completes the idea correctly. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - "simplification": Does not describe fulfilling desires and gives no sense of pleasure or satisfaction. - "purification": Often associated with moral or spiritual cleansing, sometimes by denying appetites rather than satisfying them. - "identification": Refers to recognising something, which has no link to the concept of satisfying physical desires. Common Pitfalls: Candidates can be tempted by words that seem sophisticated without checking if they make sense in the context. Always ask whether the completed sentence reflects real world usage and logical meaning. Learning collocations such as "gratification of desires" or "gratification of appetites" provides a strong clue in such questions. Final Answer: The correct word is gratification, giving "that happiness lies in the gratification of physical appetites."

Question 12

In a certain code language, "PUNISHED" is written as "288" and "TAILOR" is written as "225". Using the same pattern, how is "RELEASED" written?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This reasoning question presents a coding pattern where words are replaced by numbers. You are given two examples: "PUNISHED" is written as "288" and "TAILOR" as "225". You must discover the hidden rule and apply it to the word "RELEASED". Such questions test both numerical and alphabetical reasoning, especially your skill in mapping letters to their positions in the English alphabet and manipulating those values. Given Data / Assumptions: - Code for "PUNISHED" is 288. - Code for "TAILOR" is 225. - Letters correspond to their alphabetical positions: A=1, B=2, C=3, ..., Z=26. - The same coding rule applies to "RELEASED". - We expect a single number as the code output, not a multi digit sequence per letter. Concept / Approach: A common approach in such puzzles is to calculate the sum of alphabets in a word and then apply a simple operation like multiplication or squaring. Let us test this hypothesis. First, find the numerical positions of letters in "PUNISHED" and add them. If that sum is 96, then 96 * 3 equals 288. The same for "TAILOR" gives a sum of 75, and 75 * 3 equals 225. This suggests the rule: code value = 3 * (sum of alphabetical positions of all letters in the word). Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Write down alphabet positions for PUNISHED: P=16, U=21, N=14, I=9, S=19, H=8, E=5, D=4. Step 2: Add them: 16+21+14+9+19+8+5+4 = 96. Multiply by 3 to get 96 * 3 = 288, which matches the given code. Step 3: Check the pattern with TAILOR: T=20, A=1, I=9, L=12, O=15, R=18. Sum = 20+1+9+12+15+18 = 75. Step 4: Multiply by 3 to get 75 * 3 = 225, which again matches the given code. The rule is confirmed. Step 5: Apply the same rule to RELEASED: R=18, E=5, L=12, E=5, A=1, S=19, E=5, D=4. Step 6: Sum these: 18+5+12+5+1+19+5+4 = 69. Step 7: Multiply by 3: 69 * 3 = 207. Verification / Alternative check: Once you have the rule, always verify with the given examples before answering. Both "PUNISHED" and "TAILOR" follow the exact pattern of code = 3 * sum of letter positions. No other simple rule fits both numbers so neatly. The result 207 for "RELEASED" therefore follows logically from a confirmed pattern, not a guess. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - 237, 225, and 243 do not result from 3 * 69. They would require different multipliers or additional steps, which would break consistency with the original examples. - 225 is already used for "TAILOR", and if reused here with no justification, it would create ambiguity in the code language. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes attempt over complicated patterns such as squares, cubes, or differences between letter positions. Always try simple ideas first: sum, average, or multiplication. Another error is miscalculating letter positions or making arithmetic mistakes. Carefully write out positions and double check your addition and multiplication. A systematic approach reduces such errors in exam conditions. Final Answer: According to the pattern, "RELEASED" is coded as 207 in that language.

Question 13

The sentences S1 and S6 are fixed: "There were shots as I ran." and "Staying submerged was only too easy with so much clothing and my army boots." Arrange the sentences P, Q, R, and S in the most logical order to complete the paragraph.

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Introduction / Context: This question presents a short narrative about a person escaping while shots are being fired. The first and last sentences, labelled S1 and S6, are fixed. You must arrange the middle sentences P, Q, R, and S in correct order. Such para jumbles test your understanding of narrative flow, cause and effect, and temporal sequence in storytelling. Given Data / Assumptions: - S1: "There were shots as I ran." - S6: "Staying submerged was only too easy with so much clothing and my army boots." The middle sentences are: - S: "I ducked down, pushed between two men and ran for the river." - Q: "I tripped at the edge and went in with a splash." - R: "The minute I came up I took a breath and plunged down again." - P: "The water was icy, but I stayed until I thought my lungs would burst." We assume this is one continuous incident of running, jumping into a river, and hiding under water. Concept / Approach: Narratives usually follow a chronological order: escaping danger, reaching a river, falling in, surfacing, diving again, and finally staying under water. We must place each sentence where it naturally fits in this sequence. Clues like "ran for the river", "at the edge", "came up", and "stayed until" clearly map out stages of the action. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: After S1 ("There were shots as I ran"), the obvious continuation is S: "I ducked down, pushed between two men and ran for the river." This explains how and where the narrator is running. Step 2: Once the narrator reaches the river, the next natural event is reaching its edge. Q says: "I tripped at the edge and went in with a splash." That fits immediately after running to the river. Step 3: After falling into the water, the narrator resurfaces. R states: "The minute I came up I took a breath and plunged down again." This logically follows Q because a person who has just fallen in will surface and then deliberately dive again to hide. Step 4: Finally, P reads: "The water was icy, but I stayed until I thought my lungs would burst." This describes a prolonged stay under water, just before S6 elaborates that staying submerged was easy due to heavy clothing and boots. Step 5: Thus, the correct order of the middle sentences is S Q R P, which corresponds to option "S Q R P". Verification / Alternative check: Combine everything: "There were shots as I ran. I ducked down, pushed between two men and ran for the river. I tripped at the edge and went in with a splash. The minute I came up I took a breath and plunged down again. The water was icy, but I stayed until I thought my lungs would burst. Staying submerged was only too easy with so much clothing and my army boots." The story now reads smoothly. Any other order breaks the logical progression between action steps. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - "S Q P R": Places P before R, meaning the narrator stays under water before they even resurface to breathe and dive again, which is illogical. - "P R Q S" and "Q S P R": These sequences ignore clear temporal signals like "at the edge" and "came up", resulting in confusion about the order of falling in and diving again. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes rely only on the content's dramatic appeal, not the chronological cues. Always pay attention to words like "at the edge", "came up", "ran for", and "stayed". These phrases anchor the sequence of events. When S1 and S6 are fixed, test each combination to see which one bridges them most naturally with no contradictions. Final Answer: The correct logical order of the middle sentences is S Q R P.

Question 14

Four spellings of the comparative form of "frothy" are given. Select the correctly spelt word.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Spelling questions often focus on comparative and superlative forms of adjectives, where extra letters or doubled consonants can confuse students. Here, you must pick the correct spelling of the superlative form of "frothy". "Frothy" describes something full of bubbles, such as foam on a drink or waves. The correct superlative is "frothiest". The other options contain either unnecessary extra letters or incorrect vowel patterns. Given Data / Assumptions: - The base adjective is "frothy". - We are looking for the superlative form (the most frothy). - Options are "frothyest", "frothiest", "frrothiest", and "frrothyest". - Standard English spelling rules for adjectives ending in "y" apply here. Concept / Approach: For adjectives ending in consonant + y (for example "happy", "busy", "frothy"), the comparative and superlative forms replace the "y" with "i" and add "er" or "est": "happy" becomes "happier" and "happiest"; "frothy" becomes "frothier" and "frothiest". Therefore, "frothiest" is the correct superlative form. The other options either keep the "y" or add extra consonants, which conflicts with standard spelling rules. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the pattern: frothy = frothi + est (replace y with i and add est). Step 2: Check "frothyest". It keeps the "y" and adds "est", violating the y to i change rule. Step 3: Check "frothiest". It replaces "y" with "i" and adds "est", exactly matching the rule. Step 4: Check "frrothiest" and "frrothyest". Both contain an extra "r" at the beginning, which is not present in the base word "frothy". Step 5: Conclude that "frothiest" is the only correct spelling. Verification / Alternative check: You can cross check with similar words: "healthy" to "healthiest", "cloudy" to "cloudiest". In all cases, the "y" changes to "i" before adding "est". Applying this pattern to "frothy" gives "frothiest". Any version that keeps "yest" or adds extra letters is almost always incorrect in formal English spelling. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - "frothyest": Incorrect because it keeps the "y" instead of converting it to "i". - "frrothiest": Incorrect due to the extra "r", which does not exist in the base word. - "frrothyest": Contains both the extra "r" and the wrong "yest" ending. Common Pitfalls: Candidates sometimes rely on how a word sounds rather than on spelling rules. English often uses patterns such as y to i changes in comparative and superlative adjectives. Learning and recalling these patterns reduces confusion in questions like this. Also, be careful not to accept options with accidental double consonants that do not exist in the base form. Final Answer: The correctly spelt word is frothiest.

Question 15

The labelled parts A, B, and C form part of a sentence: "People used to preserve ___ for years as these humble pieces ___ afforded ___." Choose the most logical order of A (companionship in absentia), B (letters for years as these humble pieces), an…

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Introduction / Context: This is a sentence arrangement question where three fragments labelled A, B, and C must be placed in the correct order to complete a meaningful sentence. The base sentence begins with "People used to preserve" and talks about how letters provided a sense of companionship even when people were physically apart. You must reconstruct a grammatically correct and logically coherent sentence by ordering the fragments properly. Given Data / Assumptions: The fragments are: - A: companionship in absentia - B: letters for years as these humble pieces - C: of paper afforded The stem starts with "People used to preserve" and then these fragments follow to complete the idea. Concept / Approach: To form a fluent English sentence, we must respect normal word order. First, the object that people preserved should appear immediately after the verb: "People used to preserve letters for years as these humble pieces of paper afforded companionship in absentia." Here, "letters for years as these humble pieces" is a descriptive phrase about letters, "of paper afforded" links "pieces" to what they provided, and "companionship in absentia" is the benefit they offered. Therefore, the correct order of fragments is B C A. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Place the direct object after "People used to preserve". Among A, B, and C, only B ("letters for years as these humble pieces") begins with a suitable noun phrase, "letters". Step 2: Attach C ("of paper afforded") immediately after B. The phrase "these humble pieces of paper afforded" is grammatically sound and naturally follows. Step 3: Place A ("companionship in absentia") as the object of "afforded", giving "afforded companionship in absentia". Step 4: Assemble the full sentence: "People used to preserve letters for years as these humble pieces of paper afforded companionship in absentia." Verification / Alternative check: Consider the other combinations. For example, BAC would produce "People used to preserve companionship in absentia letters for years as these humble pieces of paper afforded", which is grammatically awkward and misorders the noun and benefit. ABC and ACB similarly put "companionship in absentia" where the main noun should be, causing confusion because people preserve letters, not companionship itself. Only BCA retains natural English flow and logical relationships between ideas. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - "BAC": Begins with "companionship in absentia" after "preserve", incorrectly suggesting that companionship itself is preserved as an object rather than letters. - "ACB": Also misplaces "companionship in absentia" too early and breaks the link between "pieces" and "of paper". - "ABC": Produces ungrammatical sequences and separates related words that must stay together. Common Pitfalls: Learners sometimes focus more on the poetic sounding phrase "companionship in absentia" and try to put it early in the sentence. However, English sentences generally place concrete objects like "letters" directly after verbs such as "preserve". Always identify the main subject and object, then attach descriptive and result clauses in a natural order. Final Answer: The most logical order of the fragments is BCA, forming the sentence "People used to preserve letters for years as these humble pieces of paper afforded companionship in absentia."

Question 16

The items S1 and S6 are given: "Why do the English travel?" and "For here, in cosmopolitan England, one is always exposed to the danger of meeting all sorts of peculiar aliens." Arrange P, Q, R, and S to form the most coherent paragraph.

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Introduction / Context: This is a para jumble question about reasons why the English travel. The first sentence (S1) asks a question: "Why do the English travel?" The last sentence (S6) comments that in cosmopolitan England one is always exposed to peculiar foreigners. The four middle sentences, labelled P, Q, R, and S, must be arranged logically to form a humorous and slightly ironic explanation. The correct answer depends on recognising the order in which reasons are introduced, expanded, and contrasted. Given Data / Assumptions: - S1: "Why do the English travel?" - S6: "For here, in cosmopolitan England, one is always exposed to the danger of meeting all sorts of peculiar aliens." The middle sentences are: - P: "Besides, they are taught that travel broadens the mind." - Q: "They do so mainly because their neighbor does this and they have caught the bug from him." - R: "Although they have now discovered the sad truth that whatever travel may do to the mind, it certainly broadens other parts of the body." - S: "But, and perhaps mainly, they travel to avoid foreigners." We assume the writer is making tongue in cheek comments on English habits. Concept / Approach: A well formed paragraph answering "Why do the English travel?" will first give a general reason, then add supporting or additional reasons, and finally present the main ironic point leading logically into S6. Q mentions that they travel because neighbours do it, which feels like a natural first answer. P adds the traditional saying that "travel broadens the mind". R then undercuts this idea with a humorous twist. S closes the reasoning by introducing the main ironic reason that they travel to avoid foreigners, which links naturally to S6 about foreigners in England. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: After the question in S1, the immediate response should identify a general, socially driven reason. Q fits this role: "They do so mainly because their neighbor does this and they have caught the bug from him." Step 2: Next, P introduces a more respectable justification: "Besides, they are taught that travel broadens the mind." Step 3: R follows logically as a humorous correction of P: "Although they have now discovered the sad truth that whatever travel may do to the mind, it certainly broadens other parts of the body." Step 4: S then presents the main ironic reason: "But, and perhaps mainly, they travel to avoid foreigners." Step 5: S6, about meeting peculiar aliens in cosmopolitan England, then offers the final punchline, showing that their attempt to avoid foreigners by travelling is self defeating. Verification / Alternative check: Read the paragraph in order: S1, Q, P, R, S, S6. It flows logically and maintains a consistent humorous tone: first imitation of neighbours, then a respectable theory, then a joke that travel broadens waists rather than minds, and finally the ironic reason tied to foreigners. Alternative orders, such as starting with P or R, do not connect as smoothly back to S1 and do not lead as elegantly into S6. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - "R S Q P": Begins with R, which refers back to an earlier justification about broadening the mind that has not yet been introduced. - "P R S Q": This puts P first but delays Q, making the explanation of neighbour influence appear too late and disrupting the line of reasoning. - "S Q P R": Opening with S makes the main ironic reason occur too early, before the supporting reasons and humour build up. Common Pitfalls: Many candidates only look at content and ignore linking words. Words like "Besides", "Although", and "But, and perhaps mainly" clearly indicate the order of arguments. Always track these connectors: "Besides" usually adds a second reason, "Although" introduces a contrast, and "But, and perhaps mainly" signals a final key point. Using these clues makes paragraph ordering much easier. Final Answer: The correct logical order of the middle sentences is Q P R S.

Question 17

In the following item, a short passage about Jumbo the elephant consists of six sentences. The first and the sixth sentences are fixed as S1 and S6, while the four middle sentences labelled P, Q, R and S are jumbled. Read the sentences carefully and…

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Introduction / Context: This question tests your ability to arrange jumbled sentences into a logically coherent paragraph. The passage narrates the life story of Jumbo, the famous elephant, from his birth in Africa to his popularity in America. To answer correctly, you must track the time sequence and the flow of ideas about where Jumbo lived, who admired him, and how he travelled to America. Given Data / Assumptions: S1 introduces Jumbo, born in Africa over a hundred years ago. S6 concludes by stating that, before his death in 1882, he had been seen by over twenty million Americans. R: Jumbo was transported from Africa to the London Zoo and became a favourite of Queen Victoria. Q: Barnum, an American showman, bought Jumbo for a large sum in 1882. S: Jumbo made a transatlantic voyage on the SS Assyrian Monarch. P: After disembarkation in New York, Jumbo was taken in a procession to his new place. We assume the story must move smoothly from Africa to London, then to America. Concept / Approach: To solve a sentence-ordering question, you generally look for: Chronological sequence of events (what must happen first, next and last). Pronoun references (he, it, they) and what they refer to. Logical connectors such as “another admirer”, “after disembarkation”, and references to specific places like London and New York. The narrative pattern that moves the elephant from Africa to London, then across the Atlantic to the United States. By using these clues, you can determine which order of P, Q, R and S fits best between S1 and S6. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: From S1 we know Jumbo is born in Africa. The next logical step is that he leaves Africa and goes somewhere else. Sentence R says he is transported from his native land to the London Zoo, which naturally follows S1. Step 2: After arriving in London and becoming a favourite of Queen Victoria, another admirer appears. Sentence Q mentions Barnum, the American showman, who bought Jumbo for a huge sum in February 1882, which logically comes after R. Step 3: Once Barnum buys Jumbo, the elephant must travel from London to America. Sentence S tells us that Jumbo made his transatlantic voyage aboard the SS Assyrian Monarch, which follows Q. Step 4: After the voyage, Jumbo arrives in New York. Sentence P describes what happens after disembarkation in New York: he is taken in a procession to his new quarters. This comes after S. Step 5: With R Q S P placed between S1 and S6, the narrative now flows from birth in Africa, to London, to purchase by Barnum, to Atlantic voyage, to arrival in New York, and finally to his being seen by millions of Americans before his death. Verification / Alternative check: A quick verification is to see if every geographical and temporal reference makes sense. The sequence R Q S P keeps the places in a sensible order: Africa (S1), London (R), Barnum buying in 1882 (Q), the voyage (S), and the New York procession (P), followed by S6 in which his popularity in America is summarised. No sentence in this order contradicts earlier information, and every sentence connects smoothly to the next one. Why Other Options Are Wrong: P Q R S: This would start in New York with P, then move back to Barnum, then to London. The timeline is confused and goes from America back to London, which is illogical. S R Q P: Here Jumbo sails across the Atlantic in S, then suddenly appears back in London in R. This contradicts the direction of travel and disrupts the story flow. P S R Q: This begins with arrival in New York and later takes Jumbo to London and then back to Barnum, creating multiple time jumps that do not match history. Only R Q S P maintains a smooth progression from Africa to London to America. Common Pitfalls: Students often focus only on local connections, such as “after disembarkation” in P, without checking the broader timeline. Another common mistake is to ignore historical plausibility and geographic order. For paragraph jumbles, you must consider both the sequence of events and how place names and time markers fit together. Always check that you are not sending the character back and forth in time or space without a clear reason. Final Answer: The correct logical order of the sentences is R Q S P, so the correct option is “R Q S P”.

Question 18

In the following item, a short passage compares the bureaucrat and the social worker. The first and the sixth sentences, S1 and S6, are fixed. The four middle sentences labelled P, Q, R and S have been removed and jumbled. Read the passage and choos…

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Introduction / Context: This question examines your skill in arranging jumbled sentences to form a meaningful comparison between two types of people: a bureaucrat and a social worker. The passage begins by stating that they differ in orientation and style, and ends by suggesting that the world would benefit if they learnt from each other. The middle sentences must describe each of them in a clear and contrasting way. Given Data / Assumptions: S1 introduces the bureaucrat and the social worker as contrasting figures. S6 concludes that both can learn from each other. R describes “the one” as sedentary and busy with paperwork. Q continues to describe “he” as fond of rules. P refers to “the other” as ever on the move. S further describes someone driven by an urge to help others, impatient with red tape. We assume the bureaucrat is the paperwork and rules person, while the social worker is active and people oriented. Concept / Approach: To order the sentences, you must: Match pronouns such as “the one”, “the other” and “he” to the correct person. Ensure that all sentences about the bureaucrat are grouped logically together. Ensure that all sentences describing the social worker follow in a coherent block. Maintain a smooth contrasting structure that supports the opening and closing lines. By grouping related descriptions, the paragraph becomes easy to read and logically consistent. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: After S1, the passage needs to start describing one of the two characters. Sentence R says “The one is regarded as given to sedentary habits, doing a lot of paper work.” This fits the idea of a bureaucrat and naturally follows the general introduction. Step 2: Sentence Q continues the description of the same person, saying “He is portrayed as a man fond of rules above all other things.” The pronoun “he” clearly refers back to “the one” in R, so R must be followed by Q. Step 3: Now the passage must switch to the other person. Sentence P says “The other is considered to be a man ever on the move.” This provides the start of the contrast with the bureaucrat, so P comes after Q. Step 4: Sentence S adds more detail about this active person: “Driven by an urge to help others, he is impatient with red tape and unnecessary delays.” This clearly matches a social worker who focuses on helping people and dislikes bureaucracy, so S must follow P. Step 5: The resulting order between S1 and S6 is R Q P S, which gives a clear contrast between the bureaucrat (R and Q) and the social worker (P and S) before the final summary in S6. Verification / Alternative check: Read the whole passage with the order R Q P S inserted between S1 and S6. First, you get a two sentence description of the bureaucrat as sedentary and fond of rules. Then, you get a two sentence description of the social worker as active, always moving, and driven by a desire to help others while disliking red tape. This balanced structure directly supports both S1 and S6 and reads naturally as a comparison. Why Other Options Are Wrong: P Q R S: This begins with “the other” (the social worker) but then immediately describes a rule loving person, which is more like a bureaucrat. The contrast becomes blurred and confusing. S R Q P: Starting with S gives a description of someone helping others, but the pronoun references become unclear, and the grouping of traits is not systematic. Q P S R: This order mixes descriptions of the bureaucrat and the social worker without a clear division, making the comparison difficult to follow. Only R Q P S first completely describes the bureaucrat, then the social worker, which matches the intended structure of the passage. Common Pitfalls: A common mistake in such questions is to rely only on vague impressions, such as which sentence seems more interesting, instead of tracking pronouns and logical connections. Learners may also forget that “the one” and “the other” almost always come as a contrasting pair, so their descriptions should appear in two clear blocks. Always identify who is being described in each sentence and make sure all traits of that person stay together before shifting to the next character. Final Answer: The correct order of sentences is R Q P S, so the correct option is “R Q P S”.

Question 19

In the following item, a short passage about universities consists of six sentences. The first and the sixth sentences are given as S1 and S6. The four middle sentences labelled P, Q, R and S are jumbled. Read the passage about the nature and role o…

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Introduction / Context: This jumbled paragraph question focuses on the evolution and role of universities in society. The passage begins by calling universities “peculiar institutions” and ends by describing the university as the most important institution in knowledge creation and distribution. The middle sentences must explain why universities are peculiar and how they developed from medieval times to the present day. Given Data / Assumptions: S1 describes universities as peculiar institutions. S6 refers to “It” (the university) as the most important institution in knowledge creation and distribution. S describes universities as established in the medieval period to transmit knowledge and train for key professions, and notes that they now create new knowledge through basic research. P says that universities, once elite, now provide social mobility to previously disfranchised groups. R states that they have common historical roots yet are deeply embedded in their societies. Q explains that the contemporary university stands at the centre of its society. We assume the paragraph should move from history, to social role, to embeddedness, then to centrality before S6. Concept / Approach: To order the sentences properly: Begin with a sentence that directly elaborates on why universities are “peculiar”. Move in a roughly chronological direction, from medieval origins to the modern situation. Ensure that references like “contemporary university” appear closer to the end before S6. Maintain a smooth thematic progression from origins, to social functions, to being embedded in society, and finally to their centrality. By tracing both history and function, we can determine the best order. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: S1 calls universities “peculiar institutions” without explanation. Sentence S then immediately provides this explanation by describing their medieval origin and their transformation into creators of new knowledge. Therefore S is the natural first choice after S1. Step 2: After their academic and historical evolution is mentioned in S, the next logical point is their social role. Sentence P states that traditionally elite universities now provide social mobility to previously disfranchised groups, which builds on the evolution described in S. Step 3: Once we see their changed social role, R adds that universities have common historical roots but are deeply embedded in their societies. This general statement fits well after noting the widened access described in P. Step 4: Sentence Q then focuses on the present, declaring that the contemporary university stands at the centre of its society. This idea directly prepares for S6, which calls the university the most important institution for knowledge creation and distribution. Step 5: The resulting order between S1 and S6 is S P R Q, which maintains a coherent movement from medieval beginnings to modern centrality. Verification / Alternative check: Read the paragraph with S, P, R and Q inserted in that order. It begins by explaining how universities started and how they have changed, then shows how they provide social mobility, then emphasises their deep social embeddedness, and finally states that the contemporary university stands at the centre of society. S6 then sums up their importance in knowledge creation and distribution. The entire passage is consistent and logically structured. Why Other Options Are Wrong: P S Q R: This starts with social mobility before explaining how universities began and evolved, which breaks the natural historical flow. S Q R P: Placing Q immediately after S jumps directly to the contemporary university without mentioning its role as an agent of social mobility, making the passage feel incomplete and less logical. R P S Q: Starting with R after S1 would mention common roots and embeddedness without first describing medieval origins or modern changes, which makes the notion of “peculiar institutions” less clear. Only S P R Q gives a clear, chronological and thematic explanation leading into S6. Common Pitfalls: Students often ignore subtle time markers such as “traditionally”, “modern” and “contemporary”. When these chronological clues are overlooked, it becomes easy to place sentences in an order that feels plausible but is not the best. Another pitfall is to focus only on a single theme like “social mobility” without noticing the broader narrative about historical origin, change over time and current role in society. Always read each sentence carefully and ask where it sits in the story arc of the passage. Final Answer: The correct sequence is S P R Q, so the correct option is “S P R Q”.

Question 20

In the following item, a short passage about Mahatma Gandhi's early studies is jumbled. The passage has six sentences. S1 and S6 are fixed. The middle four sentences labelled P, Q, R and S are given in a mixed order. Read the sentences about Gandhi'…

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Introduction / Context: This question presents a jumbled passage about Mahatma Gandhi's early college days and his decision to go to England to study law. The first and last sentences are fixed, while the middle four must be rearranged. You need to follow the logical and chronological order of Gandhi's experience: his poor performance in college, the advice to go to England, and his emotional and religious difficulties about leaving India. Given Data / Assumptions: S1: Gandhi went to college at eighteen but stayed only for part of the year. S6: Going to England was against his religion and opposed by most of his relatives. Q: Studies did not interest him and he did not do well. P: Soon after this, he was advised to go to England to study law. S: This would not be easy. R: It was difficult for him to leave India and go to a foreign land where he would have to eat and drink with foreigners. We assume “this” in S refers to the plan of going to England which is first introduced in P. Concept / Approach: To order these sentences correctly: First explain why his stay at college was short by linking S1 with Q. Then introduce the suggestion that he go to England in P. Next, follow up with S and R, which describe the emotional and practical difficulty of leaving India. Finally, let S6 summarise the religious and social opposition to his decision. Pronoun references and logical cause and effect help decide the correct order. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: After S1 mentions that Gandhi went to college but stayed only part of the year, we need a reason for his lack of success. Q states that studies did not interest him and he did not do well, which clearly explains why his stay was short, so Q should follow S1. Step 2: Once his lack of interest and poor performance are established, P logically follows: “Soon after this, he was advised to go to England to study to be a lawyer.” The phrase “after this” refers to his unsatisfactory college performance described in Q. Step 3: When the idea of going to England is introduced in P, the sentence S naturally follows: “This would not be easy.” The pronoun “This” refers to the difficult decision to go to England. Step 4: Sentence R then elaborates on the difficulty mentioned in S: “It was difficult for him to leave India and go to a foreign land where he would have to eat and drink with foreigners.” This explains why going to England would not be easy. Step 5: Finally, S6 states that the journey was against his religion and opposed by relatives, which neatly sums up the pressures and obstacles surrounding the decision mentioned in P, S and R. Verification / Alternative check: With the sequence Q P S R, the story flows smoothly: Gandhi performs poorly in college, is advised to go to England, realises that this will be difficult, and faces emotional, cultural and religious barriers. S6 then emphasises that his religion and relatives were against the plan. No pronoun is left without a clear reference and the cause and effect pattern is consistent. Why Other Options Are Wrong: P S R Q: This order introduces the advice to go to England before explaining why his stay at college was short. Q then appears too late, breaking the logical timeline. S Q P R: Starting with S and “This would not be easy” is confusing because the reader does not yet know what “This” refers to. The explanation comes only later. P R Q S: Here R follows P without the transitional S, and Q appears after all the discussion of going to England, disrupting the causal link between poor studies and the advice to travel. Only Q P S R correctly develops the narrative from academic failure to the difficult decision to go abroad. Common Pitfalls: Many students ignore words like “Soon after this” and pronouns such as “This” or “It”. These small words carry crucial information about sequence and reference. Another common error is to treat each sentence in isolation instead of seeing how one naturally leads to another. When you read carefully and pay attention to these linking words, you can reconstruct the author's intended order much more accurately. Final Answer: The correct order of the jumbled sentences is Q P S R, so the correct option is “Q P S R”.

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