Difficulty: Medium
Correct Answer: PQRS
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
This question examines the ability to arrange jumbled sentences into a logically sound paragraph. The four sentences provided discuss the importance of honesty and describe how it is reflected in speech and behaviour. To solve the problem, we must determine which sentence introduces the topic, how the explanation unfolds, and which sentence offers a concluding reflection.
Given Data / Assumptions:
The sentences are:
P: Honesty is an important principle that must govern our lives.
Q: Honesty is reflected in our words and deeds.
R: When we speak the truth we state the facts as they are.
S: We may find it convenient to avoid telling the truth, but if we are honest we should say the truth whatever may be the repercussions.
- We are asked to choose from the orders SRQP, SPQR, QRPS, and PQRS.
Concept / Approach:
A well structured paragraph generally begins with a broad topic sentence, continues with supporting details, and ends with a reflective or instructive statement. Sentence P clearly introduces the central idea that honesty is an important principle guiding life, making it the best opening. Sentence Q logically follows by explaining that honesty shows itself in both words and actions. Sentence R then gives a specific illustration about speaking the truth. Finally, sentence S warns that even when it is inconvenient, honest people must still tell the truth, providing a thoughtful conclusion.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Choose the introductory sentence. P states, "Honesty is an important principle that must govern our lives." This clearly introduces the theme and should come first.
Step 2: After stating that honesty is important, we need to explain how it appears in real life. Q states that honesty is reflected in our words and deeds, which directly elaborates on P.
Step 3: R further develops the idea from Q by focusing on truthful speech: "When we speak the truth we state the facts as they are." This provides a specific aspect of how honesty appears in our words.
Step 4: S now discusses the challenge of practising honesty. It notes that, although we may find it convenient to avoid telling the truth, if we are honest we must still say it regardless of repercussions. This serves well as a concluding sentence, emphasising practical commitment to honesty.
Step 5: Putting this together, we get the sequence P → Q → R → S, which matches option PQRS.
Verification / Alternative check:
Reading the sentences in the sequence PQRS yields a smooth, persuasive paragraph: it starts by declaring the importance of honesty, explains that honesty appears in our words and actions, illustrates what it means to speak truthfully, and then acknowledges the difficulty of telling the truth while insisting that honesty demands it. Other sequences either begin without a clear introduction or place the caution about convenience and repercussions too early, which disrupts the logical buildup of the idea.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- SRQP starts with S, which refers to "telling the truth" before properly introducing honesty itself, making the paragraph feel incomplete at the beginning.
- SPQR begins with S and then moves to P, reversing the natural order of introduction and reflection, and causing an awkward transition.
- QRPS starts by stating that honesty is reflected in words and deeds, without first defining honesty as an important guiding principle, and ends with P, which would then sound more like a new topic rather than a conclusion.
Common Pitfalls:
Candidates sometimes overlook the necessity of a clear topic sentence and choose an order based on the presence of pronouns or linking words alone. Another pitfall is to place a reflective or moralising statement like S too early, which harms the logical flow. To avoid these mistakes, always identify the broadest statement introducing the concept, then arrange supporting explanations, and finally place the sentence that offers deeper reflection or practical advice at the end.
Final Answer:
The most logical sequence of the sentences is PQRS.
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