Sentence arrangement: choose the logical order of X, Y, and Z about time zone and spatial autonomy

Introduction / Context:
This question tests your ability to arrange labelled parts of a sentence, here marked as X, Y, and Z, into the most logical and grammatically correct order. The sentence talks about an unstated assumption that links the idea of granting a different time zone with the idea of conceding spatial autonomy. Sentence arrangement questions are common in competitive exams because they assess logical flow, grammar, and understanding of complex ideas in English.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The stem begins with the phrase: "The unstated assumption is".
• X: conceding spatial autonomy.
• Y: that the grant of a different time.
• Z: zone is only the first temporal step towards.
• We must combine these parts with the stem to form one meaningful sentence.

Concept / Approach:
To solve sentence arrangement questions, you should first identify which part can logically follow the introductory stem, then see which parts connect grammatically and logically. Here, the stem ends with "is", which is usually followed by a clause beginning with "that". Next, you need to ensure that phrases that clearly belong together, such as "time" and "zone", appear adjacent. Finally, the expression "step towards" must be followed by the goal, which here is "conceding spatial autonomy".

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Start from the stem "The unstated assumption is". A natural continuation is a clause that begins with "that", so part Y is a strong candidate. Step 2: Attach Y: "that the grant of a different time". This still feels incomplete because "time" needs a noun like "zone". Step 3: Follow with Z: "zone is only the first temporal step towards". Now "time zone" forms a complete unit and the phrase "step towards" clearly demands a goal. Step 4: Finally, use X: "conceding spatial autonomy". This provides the goal of the step mentioned in Z. Step 5: The complete sentence becomes: "The unstated assumption is that the grant of a different time zone is only the first temporal step towards conceding spatial autonomy."

Verification / Alternative check:
Read the full sentence after arranging as YZX. It is grammatically correct and conveys a clear, logical idea. If you try starting with X or Z immediately after the stem, the structure becomes awkward. For example, "The unstated assumption is conceding spatial autonomy" sounds incomplete without "that" and does not clearly indicate that this is an assumption derived from the grant of a time zone. Similarly, placing Z immediately after the stem breaks the phrase "time zone". So YZX is the only natural arrangement.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option ZXY: Begins with "zone is only the first temporal step towards", which cannot directly follow "The unstated assumption is", and it separates "time" and "zone". Option XZY: Starts with "conceding spatial autonomy", which does not fit smoothly after "is" without a conjunction and also misplaces "time" and "zone". Option YXZ: Places the goal "conceding spatial autonomy" before "zone is only the first temporal step towards", which reverses the logical direction of the step and its goal.

Common Pitfalls:
Many candidates focus only on the meaning and ignore grammatical connectors like "that" and required collocations such as "time zone". Others may try to put the striking phrase "conceding spatial autonomy" early, even though it logically comes at the end as the result of the temporal step. Always check collocations, conjunctions, and natural clause order rather than relying on intuition alone.

Final Answer:
The correct logical and grammatical order is YZX, so option "YZX" is the right choice.