The following four labelled sentences P, Q, R and S, when properly sequenced, form a coherent paragraph about making a gratitude list. Select the most logical order.

Difficulty: Medium

Correct Answer: QPRS

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
This para-jumble discusses the concept of a gratitude list: what it is, what it typically contains, how we often take such things for granted, and how the list can be extended. You must arrange the sentences so that the paragraph defines the idea, comments on our attitude, gives an illustrative example, and then notes that the list can go on.


Given Data / Assumptions:
- Q: The gratitude list is a list of those things that we have and that we are grateful for.
- P: Most often, the things in this list are forgotten by us or taken for granted, as we continue to interact with the world on a daily basis.
- R: A simple gratitude list would go thus: I am grateful for being alive, that I have a roof over my head and can afford two square meals, that I have work, that I am earning, that I don’t have any major disease etc.
- S: This list is endless, and we can all keep adding our own small or big personal items to the list.
- We need an order that first defines, then comments on attitude, then provides examples, and finally generalises the list’s open-ended nature.


Concept / Approach:
Q is the definition of a gratitude list, so it must come first. P logically follows because it comments on how we usually treat the things in this list – forgetting or taking them for granted. R then provides a concrete example of what such a list looks like in real life. S concludes by pointing out that the list can be endless and everyone can add more items. This makes the sequence Q–P–R–S the most coherent.


Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Use Q as the opening sentence since it gives the basic definition of a gratitude list.
Step 2: Follow with P, which discusses how we often forget or undervalue the things on that list in daily life.
Step 3: Insert R, which illustrates the idea with a sample list of statements expressing gratitude for life, shelter, food, work and health.
Step 4: Finish with S, which highlights that the list can go on indefinitely and invites readers to think of their own items.


Verification / Alternative check:
Read QPRS as a completed paragraph. The reader first learns what a gratitude list is, then how such things are often unnoticed, then sees a specific example of such a list, and finally is told that the list can be endless. This order feels natural and persuasive. If you start with P or R, the definition of a gratitude list comes too late, and the paragraph feels disjointed.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- PQRS and PRQS: These begin with commentary or example without clearly defining the term, which is less effective for readers unfamiliar with the concept.
- PQSR: Alters the placement of R and S so that the concluding sentence comes too early and the example feels tacked on at the end.


Common Pitfalls:
Definition-based paragraphs usually start with sentences that answer the implicit question “What is it?”. Once that is clear, the writer can criticise attitudes, give examples and then generalise. When solving para-jumbles, always locate the sentence that functions like a dictionary definition or clear explanation and consider it as your first candidate for the opening line.


Final Answer:
The most logical order of the sentences is QPRS.

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