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

Difficulty: Medium

Correct Answer: RQSP

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Para-jumble or sentence arrangement questions test your ability to recognise logical flow, coherence, and progression of ideas in a short paragraph. In this question, four labelled sentences P, Q, R and S discuss the idea of social responsibility and individualism in society. You must determine the order that produces a smooth and meaningful paragraph without changing any of the sentences themselves.


Given Data / Assumptions:
- Sentences given:
- R: Every society must develop in its people a social responsibility.
- Q: This is something that we have been falling short of.
- S: We are very individualistic and don’t relate ourselves to our society as such.
- P: Very seldom do we actually go out and do something, which is beneficial to the society without thinking of our own side benefit of it.
- Only one arrangement will create a logically connected and grammatically smooth paragraph.


Concept / Approach:
To solve para-jumbles, first look for a general introductory sentence that sets the theme. Then identify pronouns like “this” or “it” that refer back to earlier ideas. Next, see how examples or explanations naturally follow the main statement. Here, R provides a broad, theme-setting statement about social responsibility. Q refers back to “this” requirement, S gives a general reason related to individualism, and P provides a concrete example of behaviour. This suggests the order R–Q–S–P.


Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Identify the most general opening sentence. R says, “Every society must develop in its people a social responsibility.” This clearly introduces the main topic.
Step 2: Look for a sentence that directly refers back to this idea. Q states, “This is something that we have been falling short of.” The pronoun “This” refers to the development of social responsibility mentioned in R.
Step 3: Next, S explains why we are falling short: “We are very individualistic and don’t relate ourselves to our society as such.” This logically follows Q as a cause or explanation.
Step 4: Finally, P gives a specific example of our selfish behaviour: “Very seldom do we actually go out and do something…without thinking of our own side benefit of it.” This is a natural conclusion that illustrates the general claim in S.


Verification / Alternative check:
Read the sequence RQSP as a complete paragraph: first, the need for social responsibility is stated; second, the shortcoming is acknowledged; third, our individualistic mindset is described; and fourth, a practical example of selfish behaviour is offered. There are clear logical links between consecutive sentences. If you try alternatives such as QRSP or QSRP, you end up starting with a pronoun “This” in Q without a clear antecedent, which feels abrupt and confusing. Therefore, R must come before Q.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- QRSP: Starts with “This” without explaining what “this” refers to; lacks a proper introduction.
- QSRP: Again opens with Q and becomes unclear until R appears later; the flow is broken.
- QPRS and SRQP: Both disturb the natural progression from general principle to explanation to example, making the paragraph clumsy and illogical.


Common Pitfalls:
Many learners rush to match sentences with similar vocabulary without checking pronoun references and logical connectors. Always look for sentences that introduce a topic, followed by sentences with “this”, “such”, or “it” that clearly refer back. Also, examples and specific behaviours usually come at the end. Developing this habit will help you solve para-jumbles more accurately under exam pressure.


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

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