Passage: For achieving inclusive growth there is critical need to rethink the role of the State. The early debate among economists about the size of the Government can be misleading. The need of the hour is to have an enabling Government. India is too large and complex a nation for the State to be able to deliver all that needed. Asking the Government to produce all the essential goods, create all the necessary jobs, and keep a curb on the prices of all goods is to lead to a large cumbersome bureaucracy and widespread corruption. The aim must be to stay with the objective of inclusive growth that was laid down by the founding fathers of the nation and also to take a more modern view of what the State can realistically deliver. This is what leads to the idea of an enabling State, that is, a Government that does not try to directly deliver to the citizens everything that they need. Instead, it (1) creates an enabling ethos for the market so that individual enterprise can flourish and citizens can, for the most part, provide for the needs of one another, and (2) steps in to help those who do not manage to do well for themselves, for there will always be individuals, no matter what the system, who need support and help. Hence we need a Government that, when it comes to the market, sets effective, incentive compatible rules and remains on the sidelines with minimal interference, and, at the same time, plays an important role in directly helping the poor by ensuring that they get basic education and health services and receive adequate nutrition and food.
According to the passage: 1. The objective of inclusive growth was laid down by the founding fathers of the nation. 2. Need of the hour is to have an enabling Government. 3. The Government should engage in maximum interference in market processes. 4. There is a need to change the size of the Government. Which of the statements given above are correct?
- 1 and 2 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1 and 4 only
- 1, 3 and 4
Explanation: The passage explicitly states that the objective of inclusive growth was laid down by the founding fathers and that the need of the hour is an enabling Government. It argues against maximum interference, advocating minimal interference in the market, and says the debate about the size of Government can be misleading rather than calling for a change in size.
Passage: For achieving inclusive growth there is critical need to rethink the role of the State. The early debate among economists about the size of the Government can be misleading. The need of the hour is to have an enabling Government. India is too large and complex a nation for the State to be able to deliver all that needed. Asking the Government to produce all the essential goods, create all the necessary jobs, and keep a curb on the prices of all goods is to lead to a large cumbersome bureaucracy and widespread corruption. The aim must be to stay with the objective of inclusive growth that was laid down by the founding fathers of the nation and also to take a more modern view of what the State can realistically deliver. This is what leads to the idea of an enabling State, that is, a Government that does not try to directly deliver to the citizens everything that they need. Instead, it (1) creates an enabling ethos for the market so that individual enterprise can flourish and citizens can, for the most part, provide for the needs of one another, and (2) steps in to help those who do not manage to do well for themselves, for there will always be individuals, no matter what the system, who need support and help. Hence we need a Government that, when it comes to the market, sets effective, incentive compatible rules and remains on the sidelines with minimal interference, and, at the same time, plays an important role in directly helping the poor by ensuring that they get basic education and health services and receive adequate nutrition and food.
According to the passage, the strategy of inclusive growth can be effected by focusing on
- Meeting all the needs of every citizen in the country.
- Increasing the regulations over the manufacturing sector.
- Controlling the distribution of manufactured goods.
- Delivery of the basic services to the deprived sections of the society.
Explanation: The passage emphasizes that the Government should play an important role in directly helping the poor by ensuring basic education, health services, nutrition, and food, which corresponds to delivering basic services to deprived sections.
Passage: For achieving inclusive growth there is critical need to rethink the role of the State. The early debate among economists about the size of the Government can be misleading. The need of the hour is to have an enabling Government. India is too large and complex a nation for the State to be able to deliver all that needed. Asking the Government to produce all the essential goods, create all the necessary jobs, and keep a curb on the prices of all goods is to lead to a large cumbersome bureaucracy and widespread corruption. The aim must be to stay with the objective of inclusive growth that was laid down by the founding fathers of the nation and also to take a more modern view of what the State can realistically deliver. This is what leads to the idea of an enabling State, that is, a Government that does not try to directly deliver to the citizens everything that they need. Instead, it (1) creates an enabling ethos for the market so that individual enterprise can flourish and citizens can, for the most part, provide for the needs of one another, and (2) steps in to help those who do not manage to do well for themselves, for there will always be individuals, no matter what the system, who need support and help. Hence we need a Government that, when it comes to the market, sets effective, incentive compatible rules and remains on the sidelines with minimal interference, and, at the same time, plays an important role in directly helping the poor by ensuring that they get basic education and health services and receive adequate nutrition and food.
What constitutes an enabling Government? 1. A large bureaucracy. 2. Implementation of welfare programmes through representatives. 3. Creating an ethos that helps individual enterprise. 4. Providing resources to those who are underprivileged. 5. Offering direct help to the poor regarding basic services. Select the correct answer from the codes given below:
- 1, 2 and 3 only
- 4 and 5 only
- 3, 4 and 5 only
- 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
Explanation: The passage explicitly mentions creating an enabling ethos for the market, helping those who do not manage well, and directly helping the poor with basic services. It criticizes a large bureaucracy as cumbersome and does not mention implementation through representatives.
Passage: For achieving inclusive growth there is critical need to rethink the role of the State. The early debate among economists about the size of the Government can be misleading. The need of the hour is to have an enabling Government. India is too large and complex a nation for the State to be able to deliver all that needed. Asking the Government to produce all the essential goods, create all the necessary jobs, and keep a curb on the prices of all goods is to lead to a large cumbersome bureaucracy and widespread corruption. The aim must be to stay with the objective of inclusive growth that was laid down by the founding fathers of the nation and also to take a more modern view of what the State can realistically deliver. This is what leads to the idea of an enabling State, that is, a Government that does not try to directly deliver to the citizens everything that they need. Instead, it (1) creates an enabling ethos for the market so that individual enterprise can flourish and citizens can, for the most part, provide for the needs of one another, and (2) steps in to help those who do not manage to do well for themselves, for there will always be individuals, no matter what the system, who need support and help. Hence we need a Government that, when it comes to the market, sets effective, incentive compatible rules and remains on the sidelines with minimal interference, and, at the same time, plays an important role in directly helping the poor by ensuring that they get basic education and health services and receive adequate nutrition and food.
Why is the State unable to deliver 'all that is needed'? 1. It does not have sufficient bureaucracy. 2. It does not promote inclusive growth. Select the correct answer from the codes given below:
- 1 only
- 2 only
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
Explanation: The passage attributes the inability to India's large and complex nature, not to insufficient bureaucracy or lack of inclusive growth promotion. In fact, it argues for inclusive growth and warns against excessive bureaucracy.
Passage: For achieving inclusive growth there is critical need to rethink the role of the State. The early debate among economists about the size of the Government can be misleading. The need of the hour is to have an enabling Government. India is too large and complex a nation for the State to be able to deliver all that needed. Asking the Government to produce all the essential goods, create all the necessary jobs, and keep a curb on the prices of all goods is to lead to a large cumbersome bureaucracy and widespread corruption. The aim must be to stay with the objective of inclusive growth that was laid down by the founding fathers of the nation and also to take a more modern view of what the State can realistically deliver. This is what leads to the idea of an enabling State, that is, a Government that does not try to directly deliver to the citizens everything that they need. Instead, it (1) creates an enabling ethos for the market so that individual enterprise can flourish and citizens can, for the most part, provide for the needs of one another, and (2) steps in to help those who do not manage to do well for themselves, for there will always be individuals, no matter what the system, who need support and help. Hence we need a Government that, when it comes to the market, sets effective, incentive compatible rules and remains on the sidelines with minimal interference, and, at the same time, plays an important role in directly helping the poor by ensuring that they get basic education and health services and receive adequate nutrition and food.
What is the essential message being conveyed by the author of the passage?
- The objectives of inclusive growth laid down by the founding fathers of the nation should be remembered.
- The Government needs to make available more schools and health services.
- The Government needs to establish markets and industries to meet the needs of the poor strata of the society.
- There is a need to rethink the role of the State in achieving inclusive growth.
Explanation: The opening and closing of the passage emphasize rethinking the State's role to achieve inclusive growth through an enabling Government rather than direct delivery of everything, making this the central message.
Passage: The concept of 'creative society' refers to a phase of development of a society in which a large number of potential contradictions become articulate and active. This is most evident when oppressed social groups get politically mobilized and demand their rights. The upsurge of the peasants and tribals, the movements for regional autonomy and self-determination, the environmental movements, and the women's movements in the developing countries are signs of emergence of creative society in contemporary times. The forms of social movements and their intensity may vary from country to country and place to place within a country. But the very presence of movements for social transformation in various spheres of a society indicates the emergence of a creative society in a country.
What is the idea of 'creative society'? 1. A society where diverse art forms and literary writings seek incentive. 2. A society where social inequalities are accepted as the norm. 3. A society where a large number of contradictions are recognised. 4. A society where the exploited and the oppressed groups grow conscious of their human rights and upliftment. Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
- 1, 2 and 3 only
- 4 only
- 3 and 4 only
- 2 and 4 only
Explanation: The passage defines a creative society as one where contradictions become active and oppressed groups demand rights, matching statements 3 and 4. It does not mention art forms or accepting inequalities as norms.
Passage: The concept of 'creative society' refers to a phase of development of a society in which a large number of potential contradictions become articulate and active. This is most evident when oppressed social groups get politically mobilized and demand their rights. The upsurge of the peasants and tribals, the movements for regional autonomy and self-determination, the environmental movements, and the women's movements in the developing countries are signs of emergence of creative society in contemporary times. The forms of social movements and their intensity may vary from country to country and place to place within a country. But the very presence of movements for social transformation in various spheres of a society indicates the emergence of a creative society in a country.
What according to the passage are the manifestations of social movements? 1. Aggressiveness and being incendiary. 2. Instigation by external forces. 3. Quest for social equality and individual freedom. 4. Urge for granting privileges and self-respect to disparaged sections of the society. Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
- 1 and 3 only
- 2 and 4 only
- 3 and 4 only
- 1, 2, 3 and 4
Explanation: The passage describes movements where oppressed groups demand rights, indicating a quest for equality and self-respect for disparaged sections. It does not mention aggressiveness or external instigation.
Passage: The concept of 'creative society' refers to a phase of development of a society in which a large number of potential contradictions become articulate and active. This is most evident when oppressed social groups get politically mobilized and demand their rights. The upsurge of the peasants and tribals, the movements for regional autonomy and self-determination, the environmental movements, and the women's movements in the developing countries are signs of emergence of creative society in contemporary times. The forms of social movements and their intensity may vary from country to country and place to place within a country. But the very presence of movements for social transformation in various spheres of a society indicates the emergence of a creative society in a country.
With reference to the passage, consider the following statements: 1. To be a creative society, it is essential to have a variety of social movements. 2. To be a creative society, it is imperative to have potential contradictions and conflicts. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
Explanation: The passage links creative society to both the presence of contradictions and the existence of social movements across various spheres, making both statements correct.
Consider the following three statements: 1. Only students can participate in the race. 2. Some participants in the race are girls. 3. All girl participants in the race are invited for coaching. Which one of the following conclusions can be drawn from the above statements?
- All participants in the race are invited for coaching.
- All students are invited for coaching.
- All participants in the race are students.
- None of the above conclusions can be drawn.
Explanation: If only students can participate, then by definition every participant must be a student. The other options introduce elements not supported by the premises.
Examine the following statements: 1. All animals are carnivorous. 2. Some animals are not carnivorous. 3. Animals are not carnivorous. 4. Some animals are carnivorous. Of these four statements, two cannot both be true, but both can be false. Study the statements carefully and identify the two that satisfy the above condition. Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
- 1 and 3
- 1 and 2
- 2 and 3
- 3 and 4
Explanation: Statements 1 and 3 are contrary statements; they cannot both be true but can both be false if some animals are carnivorous and some are not. Statements 1 and 2 are contradictories and cannot both be false.
Examine the following statements: 1. All trains are run by diesel engine. 2. Some trains are run by diesel engine. 3. No train is run by diesel engine. 4. Some trains are not run by diesel engine. Of these four statements, two cannot both be true, but both can be false. Identify the two that satisfy the above condition. Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
- 1 and 2
- 2 and 3
- 1 and 3
- 1 and 4
Explanation: Statements 1 and 3 are universal affirmative and universal negative. They cannot both be true but can both be false if some trains are diesel and some are not.
Passage: Ecosystems provide people with a variety of goods and services; food, clean water, clean air, flood control, soil stabilization, pollination, climate regulation, spiritual fulfillment and aesthetic enjoyment, to name just a few. Most of these benefits either are irreplaceable or the technology necessary to replace them is prohibitively expensive. For example, potable fresh water can be provided by desalinating sea-water, but only at great cost. The rapidly expanding human population and their increased requirements of some of the goods and services, particularly food, fresh water, timber, fibre and fuel. These modifications have contributed substantially to human well being and economic development. The benefits have not been equally distributed. Some people have actually been harmed by these changes. Moreover, short term increases in goods and services have come at the cost of the long term capacity of ecosystems. For example, efforts to increase the production of food and fibre have decreased the ability of ecosystems to provide clean water, regulate flooding and support biodiversity.
With reference to the passage, consider the following statements. Expanding human population has an adverse effect on: 1. Spiritual fulfillment 2. Aesthetic enjoyment 3. Potable fresh water 4. Production of food and fibre 5. Biodiversity. Which of the statements given above are correct?
- 1, 2 and 3 only
- 2, 4 and 5 only
- 3 and 5 only
- 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
Explanation: The passage explicitly links population-driven production increases to decreased ecosystem capacity for clean water and biodiversity. It does not state adverse effects on spiritual fulfillment, aesthetic enjoyment, or food and fibre production itself.
Passage: Ecosystems provide people with a variety of goods and services; food, clean water, clean air, flood control, soil stabilization, pollination, climate regulation, spiritual fulfillment and aesthetic enjoyment, to name just a few. Most of these benefits either are irreplaceable or the technology necessary to replace them is prohibitively expensive. For example, potable fresh water can be provided by desalinating sea-water, but only at great cost. The rapidly expanding human population and their increased requirements of some of the goods and services, particularly food, fresh water, timber, fibre and fuel. These modifications have contributed substantially to human well being and economic development. The benefits have not been equally distributed. Some people have actually been harmed by these changes. Moreover, short term increases in goods and services have come at the cost of the long term capacity of ecosystems. For example, efforts to increase the production of food and fibre have decreased the ability of ecosystems to provide clean water, regulate flooding and support biodiversity.
The passage mentions that 'some people have actually been harmed by these changes'. What does it imply? 1. The rapid expansion of population has adversely affected some people. 2. Sufficient efforts have not been made to increase the production of food and fibre. 3. In the short term some people may be harmed, but in the long term everyone will benefit from modifications in the Earth's ecosystems. Which of the statement given above is/are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- 1 and 3 only
- None of the statements given above
Explanation: The passage states that benefits have not been equally distributed and some people have been harmed by the changes driven by expanding population. It does not mention insufficient efforts for production or suggest long-term universal benefit.
Passage: Ecosystems provide people with a variety of goods and services; food, clean water, clean air, flood control, soil stabilization, pollination, climate regulation, spiritual fulfillment and aesthetic enjoyment, to name just a few. Most of these benefits either are irreplaceable or the technology necessary to replace them is prohibitively expensive. For example, potable fresh water can be provided by desalinating sea-water, but only at great cost. The rapidly expanding human population and their increased requirements of some of the goods and services, particularly food, fresh water, timber, fibre and fuel. These modifications have contributed substantially to human well being and economic development. The benefits have not been equally distributed. Some people have actually been harmed by these changes. Moreover, short term increases in goods and services have come at the cost of the long term capacity of ecosystems. For example, efforts to increase the production of food and fibre have decreased the ability of ecosystems to provide clean water, regulate flooding and support biodiversity.
With reference to the passage, consider the following statements: 1. It is imperative to modify the Earth's ecosystems for the well being of mankind. 2. Technology can never replace all the goods and services provided by ecosystems. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
Explanation: The passage notes that most ecosystem benefits are irreplaceable or replacement technology is prohibitively expensive, supporting statement 2. It does not state that modifying ecosystems is imperative; rather, it warns about costs of such modifications.
Passage: A moral act must be our own act; must spring from our own will. If we act mechanically, there is no moral content in our act. Such action would be moral, if we think it proper to act like a machine and do so. For, in doing so, we use our discrimination. We should bear in mind the distinction between acting mechanically and acting intentionally. It may be moral of a king to pardon a culprit. But the messenger carrying out the order of pardon plays only a mechanical part in the king's moral act. But if the messenger were to carry out king's order considering it to be his duty, his action would be a moral one. How can a man understand morality who does not use his own intelligence and power of thought, but lets himself be swept along like a log of wood by a current? Sometimes a man defies convention and acts on his own with a view to absolute good.
Which of the following statements best describe/describes the thought of the writer? 1. A moral act calls for using our discretion. 2. Man should react to a situation immediately. 3. Man must do his duty. 4. Man should be able to defy convention in order to be moral. Select the correct answer from the codes given below:
- 1 only
- 1 and 3 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1 and 4 only
Explanation: The writer emphasizes using one's own intelligence, discretion, and power of thought, and mentions defying convention for absolute good. The passage does not advocate immediate reaction or mere duty without discretion.
Passage: A moral act must be our own act; must spring from our own will. If we act mechanically, there is no moral content in our act. Such action would be moral, if we think it proper to act like a machine and do so. For, in doing so, we use our discrimination. We should bear in mind the distinction between acting mechanically and acting intentionally. It may be moral of a king to pardon a culprit. But the messenger carrying out the order of pardon plays only a mechanical part in the king's moral act. But if the messenger were to carry out king's order considering it to be his duty, his action would be a moral one. How can a man understand morality who does not use his own intelligence and power of thought, but lets himself be swept along like a log of wood by a current? Sometimes a man defies convention and acts on his own with a view to absolute good.
Which of the following statements is the nearest definition of moral action, according to the writer?
- It is a mechanical action based on official orders from superiors.
- It is an action based on our sense of discretion.
- It is a clever action based on the clarity of purpose.
- It is religious action based on faith.
Explanation: The passage defines moral action as springing from one's own will and using discrimination and intelligence, not mechanical obedience.
Passage: A moral act must be our own act; must spring from our own will. If we act mechanically, there is no moral content in our act. Such action would be moral, if we think it proper to act like a machine and do so. For, in doing so, we use our discrimination. We should bear in mind the distinction between acting mechanically and acting intentionally. It may be moral of a king to pardon a culprit. But the messenger carrying out the order of pardon plays only a mechanical part in the king's moral act. But if the messenger were to carry out king's order considering it to be his duty, his action would be a moral one. How can a man understand morality who does not use his own intelligence and power of thought, but lets himself be swept along like a log of wood by a current? Sometimes a man defies convention and acts on his own with a view to absolute good.
The passage contains a statement 'lets himself be swept along like a log of wood by a current.' Among the following statements, which is/are nearest in meaning to this? 1. A person does not use his own reason. 2. He is susceptible to influence/pressure. 3. He cannot withstand difficulties/challenges. 4. He is like a log of wood. Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
- 1 only
- 1 and 2 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1 and 4 only
Explanation: The metaphor describes someone who does not use intelligence or thought and is passively carried by external forces, matching lack of reason and susceptibility to influence. It does not refer to withstanding difficulties or literal woodenness.
Passage: A country under foreign domination seeks escape from the present in dreams of vanished age, and finds consolation in visions of past greatness. That is a foolish and dangerous pastime in which many of us indulge. An equally questionable practice for us in India is to imagine that we are still spiritually great though we have come down in the world in other respects. Spiritual or any other greatness cannot be founded on lack of freedom and opportunity, or on starvation and misery. Many western writers have encouraged that notion that Indians are other-worldly. I suppose the poor and unfortunate in every country become to some extent other-worldly, unless they become revolutionaries, for this world is evidently not meant for them. So also subject peoples. As a man grows to maturity he is not entirely engrossed in, or satisfied with, the external objective world. He seeks also some inner meaning, some psychological and physical satisfactions. So also with peoples and civilizations as they mature and grow adult. Every civilization and every people exhibit these parallel streams of an external life and an internal life. Where they meet or keep close to each other, there is an equilibrium and stability. When they diverge conflict arises and the crises that torture the mind and spirit.
The passage mentions that 'this world is evidently not meant for them'. It refers to people who 1. seek freedom from foreign domination. 2. live in starvation and misery. 3. become revolutionaries. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 and 2 only
- 2 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 3 only
Explanation: The phrase immediately follows the mention of the poor and unfortunate who become other-worldly because this world is not meant for them. It does not refer to revolutionaries or those seeking freedom.
Passage: A country under foreign domination seeks escape from the present in dreams of vanished age, and finds consolation in visions of past greatness. That is a foolish and dangerous pastime in which many of us indulge. An equally questionable practice for us in India is to imagine that we are still spiritually great though we have come down in the world in other respects. Spiritual or any other greatness cannot be founded on lack of freedom and opportunity, or on starvation and misery. Many western writers have encouraged that notion that Indians are other-worldly. I suppose the poor and unfortunate in every country become to some extent other-worldly, unless they become revolutionaries, for this world is evidently not meant for them. So also subject peoples. As a man grows to maturity he is not entirely engrossed in, or satisfied with, the external objective world. He seeks also some inner meaning, some psychological and physical satisfactions. So also with peoples and civilizations as they mature and grow adult. Every civilization and every people exhibit these parallel streams of an external life and an internal life. Where they meet or keep close to each other, there is an equilibrium and stability. When they diverge conflict arises and the crises that torture the mind and spirit.
Consider the following assumptions: 1. A country under foreign domination cannot indulge in spiritual pursuit. 2. Poverty is an impediment in the spiritual pursuit. 3. Subject peoples may become other-worldly. With reference to the passage, which of the above assumptions is/are valid?
- 1 and 2 only
- 2 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1 only
Explanation: The passage states that greatness cannot be founded on starvation and misery, implying poverty impedes spiritual pursuit, and explicitly mentions subject peoples become other-worldly. It does not say they cannot indulge in spiritual pursuit at all.
Passage: A country under foreign domination seeks escape from the present in dreams of vanished age, and finds consolation in visions of past greatness. That is a foolish and dangerous pastime in which many of us indulge. An equally questionable practice for us in India is to imagine that we are still spiritually great though we have come down in the world in other respects. Spiritual or any other greatness cannot be founded on lack of freedom and opportunity, or on starvation and misery. Many western writers have encouraged that notion that Indians are other-worldly. I suppose the poor and unfortunate in every country become to some extent other-worldly, unless they become revolutionaries, for this world is evidently not meant for them. So also subject peoples. As a man grows to maturity he is not entirely engrossed in, or satisfied with, the external objective world. He seeks also some inner meaning, some psychological and physical satisfactions. So also with peoples and civilizations as they mature and grow adult. Every civilization and every people exhibit these parallel streams of an external life and an internal life. Where they meet or keep close to each other, there is an equilibrium and stability. When they diverge conflict arises and the crises that torture the mind and spirit.
The passage thematically centres on
- the state of mind of oppressed people.
- starvation and misery.
- the growth of civilization.
- body mind and spirit of people in general.
Explanation: The passage focuses on how foreign domination, poverty, and subject status lead to other-worldliness, escapism, and internal conflict, which are states of mind.
Passage: A country under foreign domination seeks escape from the present in dreams of vanished age, and finds consolation in visions of past greatness. That is a foolish and dangerous pastime in which many of us indulge. An equally questionable practice for us in India is to imagine that we are still spiritually great though we have come down in the world in other respects. Spiritual or any other greatness cannot be founded on lack of freedom and opportunity, or on starvation and misery. Many western writers have encouraged that notion that Indians are other-worldly. I suppose the poor and unfortunate in every country become to some extent other-worldly, unless they become revolutionaries, for this world is evidently not meant for them. So also subject peoples. As a man grows to maturity he is not entirely engrossed in, or satisfied with, the external objective world. He seeks also some inner meaning, some psychological and physical satisfactions. So also with peoples and civilizations as they mature and grow adult. Every civilization and every people exhibit these parallel streams of an external life and an internal life. Where they meet or keep close to each other, there is an equilibrium and stability. When they diverge conflict arises and the crises that torture the mind and spirit.
According to the passage, the torture of the mind and spirit is caused
- by the impact of foreign domination.
- by the desire to escape from foreign domination and find consolation in visions of past greatness.
- due to lack of equilibrium between an external life and an internal life.
- due to one's inability to be either revolutionary or other-worldly.
Explanation: The passage explicitly states that when external and internal lives diverge, conflict arises and crises torture the mind and spirit.
There are four routes to travel from city A to city B and six routes from city B to city C. How many routes are possible to travel from the city A to city C?
Explanation: Using the fundamental principle of counting, total routes from A to C via B equal 4 multiplied by 6, which equals 24.
A contract on construction job specifies a penalty for delay in completion of the work beyond a certain date is as follows: Rs.200 for the first day, Rs.250 for the second day, Rs.300 for the third day etc., the penalty for each succeeding day being Rs.50 more than that of the preceding day. How much penalty should the contractor pay if he delays the work by 10 days?
- Rs.4950
- Rs.4250
- Rs.3600
- Rs.650
Explanation: The penalties form an arithmetic progression with first term 200, common difference 50, and 10 terms. Sum equals 10/2 multiplied by (2 times 200 plus 9 times 50), which equals 5 times 850, equaling 4250.
A person has only Rs.1 and Rs.2 coins with her. If the total number of coins that she has is 50 and the amount of money with her is Rs.75, then the number of Rs.1 and Rs.2 coins are, respectively.
- 15 and 35
- 35 and 15
- 30 and 20
- 25 and 25
Explanation: Let x be Rs.1 coins and y be Rs.2 coins. Then x plus y equals 50 and x plus 2y equals 75. Solving gives x equals 25 and y equals 25.
Three persons start walking together and their steps measure 40 cm, 42 cm and 45 cm respectively. What is the minimum distance each should walk so that each can cover the same distance in complete steps?
- 25m 20cm
- 50m 40cm
- 75m 60cm
- 100m 80cm
Explanation: The required minimum distance is the LCM of 40, 42, and 45. Prime factorization yields LCM equals 2520 cm, which converts to 25 meters and 20 centimeters.
If a bus travels 160 km in 4 hours and a train travels 320 km in 5 hours at uniform speeds, then what is the ratio of the distances travelled by them in one hour?
Explanation: The bus speed is 160 divided by 4 equals 40 km per hour. The train speed is 320 divided by 5 equals 64 km per hour. The ratio of distances covered in one hour is 40 to 64, which simplifies to 5 to 8.
There are 100 students in a particular class. 60% students play cricket, 30% student play football and 10% students play both the games. What is the number of students who play neither cricket nor football?
Explanation: Students playing cricket equal 60, football equal 30, and both equal 10. Using the principle of inclusion-exclusion, students playing at least one game equal 60 plus 30 minus 10, which equals 80. Therefore, students playing neither equal 100 minus 80, which equals 20.
Passage: A species that exerts an influence out of proportion to its abundance in an ecosystem is called a keystone species. The keystone species may influence both the species richness of communities and the flow of energy and materials through ecosystems. The sea star Pisaster ochraceus, which lives in rocky intertidal ecosystems on the Pacific coast of North America, is also an example of a keystone specie. Its preferred prey is the mussel Mytilus californianus. In the absence of sea stars, these mussels crowd out other competitors in a broad belt of the intertidal zone. By consuming mussels, sea star creates bare spaces that are taken over by a variety of other species. A study at the University of Washington demonstrated the influence of Pisaster on species richness by removing sea stars from selected parts of the intertidal zone repeatedly over a period of five years. Two major changes occurred in the areas from which sea stars were removed. First, the lower edge of the mussel bed extended farther down into the intertidal zone, showing that sea stars are able to eliminate mussels completely where they are covered with water most of the time. Second, and more dramatically 28 species of animals and algae disappeared from the sea star removal zone. Eventually only Mytilus, the dominant competitor, occupied the entire substratum. Through its effect on competitive relationships, predation by Pisaster largely determines which species live in these rocky intertidal ecosystems.
What is the crux of the passage?
- Sea star has a preferred prey.
- A preferred prey determines the survival of a keystone species.
- Keystone species ensures species diversity.
- Sea star is the only keystone species on the Pacific coast of North America.
Explanation: The passage demonstrates that the sea star, as a keystone species, maintains species richness by preventing mussels from monopolizing the habitat. The central idea is that keystone species ensure diversity, not merely that sea stars have a preferred prey.
Passage: A species that exerts an influence out of proportion to its abundance in an ecosystem is called a keystone species. The keystone species may influence both the species richness of communities and the flow of energy and materials through ecosystems. The sea star Pisaster ochraceus, which lives in rocky intertidal ecosystems on the Pacific coast of North America, is also an example of a keystone specie. Its preferred prey is the mussel Mytilus californianus. In the absence of sea stars, these mussels crowd out other competitors in a broad belt of the intertidal zone. By consuming mussels, sea star creates bare spaces that are taken over by a variety of other species. A study at the University of Washington demonstrated the influence of Pisaster on species richness by removing sea stars from selected parts of the intertidal zone repeatedly over a period of five years. Two major changes occurred in the areas from which sea stars were removed. First, the lower edge of the mussel bed extended farther down into the intertidal zone, showing that sea stars are able to eliminate mussels completely where they are covered with water most of the time. Second, and more dramatically 28 species of animals and algae disappeared from the sea star removal zone. Eventually only Mytilus, the dominant competitor, occupied the entire substratum. Through its effect on competitive relationships, predation by Pisaster largely determines which species live in these rocky intertidal ecosystems.
With reference to the passage, consider the following statements: 1. Mussels are generally the dominant species in intertidal ecosystems. 2. The survival of sea stars is generally determined by the abundance of mussels. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
Explanation: The passage states mussels dominate only in the absence of sea stars, not generally. It also does not link sea star survival to mussel abundance; rather, sea stars control mussels.
Passage: A species that exerts an influence out of proportion to its abundance in an ecosystem is called a keystone species. The keystone species may influence both the species richness of communities and the flow of energy and materials through ecosystems. The sea star Pisaster ochraceus, which lives in rocky intertidal ecosystems on the Pacific coast of North America, is also an example of a keystone specie. Its preferred prey is the mussel Mytilus californianus. In the absence of sea stars, these mussels crowd out other competitors in a broad belt of the intertidal zone. By consuming mussels, sea star creates bare spaces that are taken over by a variety of other species. A study at the University of Washington demonstrated the influence of Pisaster on species richness by removing sea stars from selected parts of the intertidal zone repeatedly over a period of five years. Two major changes occurred in the areas from which sea stars were removed. First, the lower edge of the mussel bed extended farther down into the intertidal zone, showing that sea stars are able to eliminate mussels completely where they are covered with water most of the time. Second, and more dramatically 28 species of animals and algae disappeared from the sea star removal zone. Eventually only Mytilus, the dominant competitor, occupied the entire substratum. Through its effect on competitive relationships, predation by Pisaster largely determines which species live in these rocky intertidal ecosystems.
Which of the following is/are implied by the passage? 1. Mussels are always bare competitors for sea stars. 2. Sea stars of the Pacific coast have reached the climax of their evolution. 3. Sea stars constitute an important component in the energy flow in intertidal ecosystem. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 and 2 only
- 2 only
- 1 and 3 only
- 3 only
Explanation: The passage mentions keystone species influence energy flow and materials, implying sea stars are important in energy flow. It does not state mussels are always bare competitors or that sea stars have reached evolutionary climax.
Passage: A species that exerts an influence out of proportion to its abundance in an ecosystem is called a keystone species. The keystone species may influence both the species richness of communities and the flow of energy and materials through ecosystems. The sea star Pisaster ochraceus, which lives in rocky intertidal ecosystems on the Pacific coast of North America, is also an example of a keystone specie. Its preferred prey is the mussel Mytilus californianus. In the absence of sea stars, these mussels crowd out other competitors in a broad belt of the intertidal zone. By consuming mussels, sea star creates bare spaces that are taken over by a variety of other species. A study at the University of Washington demonstrated the influence of Pisaster on species richness by removing sea stars from selected parts of the intertidal zone repeatedly over a period of five years. Two major changes occurred in the areas from which sea stars were removed. First, the lower edge of the mussel bed extended farther down into the intertidal zone, showing that sea stars are able to eliminate mussels completely where they are covered with water most of the time. Second, and more dramatically 28 species of animals and algae disappeared from the sea star removal zone. Eventually only Mytilus, the dominant competitor, occupied the entire substratum. Through its effect on competitive relationships, predation by Pisaster largely determines which species live in these rocky intertidal ecosystems.
Consider the following assumptions: 1. The food chains/food web in an ecosystem are influenced by keystone species. 2. The presence of keystone species is a specific characteristic of aquatic ecosystems. 3. If the keystone species is completely removed from an ecosystem, it will lead to the collapse of the ecosystem. With reference to the passage, which of the above assumptions is/are valid?
- 1 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1 and 3 only
- 1, 2 and 3
Explanation: The passage supports that keystone species influence energy flow and materials, which includes food webs. It does not state that keystone species are unique to aquatic ecosystems, nor does it claim complete ecosystem collapse upon removal; rather, it documents a drastic reduction in species richness and dominance by one competitor.
Consider the following argument: 'In order to be a teacher one must graduate from college. All poets are poor. Some Mathematicians are poets. No college graduate is poor.' Which one of the following is not a valid conclusion regarding the above argument?
- Some Mathematicians are not teachers.
- Some teachers are not Mathematicians.
- Teachers are not poor.
- Poets are not teachers.
Explanation: From the premises, it validly follows that no poet is a college graduate, therefore no poet is a teacher, and teachers are not poor. It also follows that some mathematicians (those who are poets) are not teachers. However, it does not follow that some teachers are not mathematicians, because all teachers could conceivably be mathematicians who are not poets.
A student on her first 3 tests received an average score of N points. If she exceeds her previous average score by 20 points on her fourth test, then what is the average score for the first 4 tests?
- N + 20
- N + 10
- N + 4
- N + 5
Explanation: The total score for the first 3 tests is 3N. The fourth test score is N + 20. The combined total for 4 tests is 4N + 20. Dividing by 4 gives an average of N + 5.
In a group of persons, 70% of the persons are male and 30% of the persons are married. If two-sevenths of the males are married, what fraction of the females is single?
Explanation: Assuming 100 persons, there are 70 males and 30 females. Married persons total 30. Married males equal 2/7 of 70, which is 20. Therefore married females equal 30 minus 20, which is 10. Single females equal 30 minus 10, which is 20. The fraction of females who are single is 20/30, which simplifies to 2/3.
The houses of A and B face each other on a road going north-south, A's being on the western side. A comes out of his house, turns left, travels 5km, turns right, travels 5km to the front of D's house. B does exactly the same and reaches the front of C's house. In this context, which one of the following statements is correct?
- C and D live on the same street.
- C's house faces south.
- The houses of C and D are less than 20km apart.
- None of the above
Explanation: A faces east and B faces west. After the described movements, D lies northeast of A and C lies southwest of B. The distance between C and D depends on the unknown width of the road separating A and B. Without knowing the road width, no definitive statement about the exact distance or orientation of C and D can be confirmed.
Passage: Now India's children have a right to receive at least eight years of education, the gnawing question is whether it will remain on paper or become a reality. One hardly needs a reminder that this right is different from the others enshrined in the Constitution, that the beneficiary a six year old child cannot demand it, nor can she or he fight a legal battle when the right is denied or violated. In all cases, it is the adult society which must act on behalf of the child. In another peculiarity, where a child's right to education is denied, no compensation offered later can be adequate or relevant. This is so because childhood does not last. If legal battle fought on behalf of a child is eventually won, it may be of little use to the boy or girl because the opportunity missed at school during childhood cannot serve the same purpose later in life. This may be painfully true for girls because our society permits them only a short childhood, if at all. The Right to Education (RTE) has become law at a point in India's history when the ghastly practice of female infanticide has resurfaced in the form of foeticide. This is 'symptomatic of a deeper turmoil' in society which is compounding the traditional obstacles to the education of girls. Tenacious prejudice against the intellectual potential of girls runs across our cultural diversity and the systems of education has not been able to address it.
With reference to the passage, consider the following statements: 1. When children are denied education, adult society does not act on behalf of them. 2. Right to Education as a law cannot be enforced in the country. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
Explanation: The passage explicitly states that adult society must act on behalf of the child, contradicting the first statement. It also does not claim that the law is unenforceable; rather, it questions whether the right will become a reality in practice.
Passage: Now India's children have a right to receive at least eight years of education, the gnawing question is whether it will remain on paper or become a reality. One hardly needs a reminder that this right is different from the others enshrined in the Constitution, that the beneficiary a six year old child cannot demand it, nor can she or he fight a legal battle when the right is denied or violated. In all cases, it is the adult society which must act on behalf of the child. In another peculiarity, where a child's right to education is denied, no compensation offered later can be adequate or relevant. This is so because childhood does not last. If legal battle fought on behalf of a child is eventually won, it may be of little use to the boy or girl because the opportunity missed at school during childhood cannot serve the same purpose later in life. This may be painfully true for girls because our society permits them only a short childhood, if at all. The Right to Education (RTE) has become law at a point in India's history when the ghastly practice of female infanticide has resurfaced in the form of foeticide. This is 'symptomatic of a deeper turmoil' in society which is compounding the traditional obstacles to the education of girls. Tenacious prejudice against the intellectual potential of girls runs across our cultural diversity and the systems of education has not been able to address it.
According to the passage, what could be the traditional obstacles to the education of girls? 1. Inability of parents to fight a legal battle when the right to Education is denied to their children. 2. The traditional way of thinking about girls' role in society. 3. The prejudice against the intellectual potential of girls. 4. Improper system of education. Select the correct answer from the codes given below:
- 1 and 2 only
- 2, 3 and 4 only
- 1, 3 and 4 only
- 1, 2, 3 and 4
Explanation: The passage identifies prejudice against girls' intellectual potential, cultural diversity issues, and the education system's failure as obstacles. It does not cite parents' inability to fight legal battles as a traditional obstacle.
Passage: Now India's children have a right to receive at least eight years of education, the gnawing question is whether it will remain on paper or become a reality. One hardly needs a reminder that this right is different from the others enshrined in the Constitution, that the beneficiary a six year old child cannot demand it, nor can she or he fight a legal battle when the right is denied or violated. In all cases, it is the adult society which must act on behalf of the child. In another peculiarity, where a child's right to education is denied, no compensation offered later can be adequate or relevant. This is so because childhood does not last. If legal battle fought on behalf of a child is eventually won, it may be of little use to the boy or girl because the opportunity missed at school during childhood cannot serve the same purpose later in life. This may be painfully true for girls because our society permits them only a short childhood, if at all. The Right to Education (RTE) has become law at a point in India's history when the ghastly practice of female infanticide has resurfaced in the form of foeticide. This is 'symptomatic of a deeper turmoil' in society which is compounding the traditional obstacles to the education of girls. Tenacious prejudice against the intellectual potential of girls runs across our cultural diversity and the systems of education has not been able to address it.
On the basis of the passage, consider the following statements: 1. Right to education is a legal right and not a fundamental right. 2. For realizing the goal of universal education, the education system in the country must be made identical to that of developed countries. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
Explanation: The passage does not classify RTE as merely a legal right versus a fundamental right, and it never suggests replicating the education system of developed countries.
Passage: Now India's children have a right to receive at least eight years of education, the gnawing question is whether it will remain on paper or become a reality. One hardly needs a reminder that this right is different from the others enshrined in the Constitution, that the beneficiary a six year old child cannot demand it, nor can she or he fight a legal battle when the right is denied or violated. In all cases, it is the adult society which must act on behalf of the child. In another peculiarity, where a child's right to education is denied, no compensation offered later can be adequate or relevant. This is so because childhood does not last. If legal battle fought on behalf of a child is eventually won, it may be of little use to the boy or girl because the opportunity missed at school during childhood cannot serve the same purpose later in life. This may be painfully true for girls because our society permits them only a short childhood, if at all. The Right to Education (RTE) has become law at a point in India's history when the ghastly practice of female infanticide has resurfaced in the form of foeticide. This is 'symptomatic of a deeper turmoil' in society which is compounding the traditional obstacles to the education of girls. Tenacious prejudice against the intellectual potential of girls runs across our cultural diversity and the systems of education has not been able to address it.
Which one of the following statements conveys the key message of the passage?
- India has declared that education is compulsory for its children.
- Adult society is not keen on implementing the Right to Education.
- The right to education, particularly of a girl child, needs to be safeguarded.
- The system of education should address the issue of Right to Education.
Explanation: The passage emphasizes that adult society must actively protect children's right to education, highlights the irreversible loss when childhood education is missed, and specifically stresses the vulnerability of girls' educational rights.
Passage: Now India's children have a right to receive at least eight years of education, the gnawing question is whether it will remain on paper or become a reality. One hardly needs a reminder that this right is different from the others enshrined in the Constitution, that the beneficiary a six year old child cannot demand it, nor can she or he fight a legal battle when the right is denied or violated. In all cases, it is the adult society which must act on behalf of the child. In another peculiarity, where a child's right to education is denied, no compensation offered later can be adequate or relevant. This is so because childhood does not last. If legal battle fought on behalf of a child is eventually won, it may be of little use to the boy or girl because the opportunity missed at school during childhood cannot serve the same purpose later in life. This may be painfully true for girls because our society permits them only a short childhood, if at all. The Right to Education (RTE) has become law at a point in India's history when the ghastly practice of female infanticide has resurfaced in the form of foeticide. This is 'symptomatic of a deeper turmoil' in society which is compounding the traditional obstacles to the education of girls. Tenacious prejudice against the intellectual potential of girls runs across our cultural diversity and the systems of education has not been able to address it.
Which one of the following statements conveys the inference of the passage?
- The society has a tenacious prejudice against the intellectual potential of girls.
- Adults cannot be relied upon to fight on behalf of children for their Right to Education.
- The legal fight to get education for children is often protracted and prohibitive.
- There is no sufficient substitute for education received in childhood.
Explanation: The passage explicitly states that no compensation offered later is adequate or relevant because childhood does not last, and missed schooling cannot serve the same purpose later in life, making this the core inference.
Passage: A, B, C, D and E are members of the same family. There are two fathers, two sons, two wives three males and two females. The teacher was the wife of a lawyer who was the son of a doctor. E is not a male, neither also a wife of a professional. C is the youngest person in the family and D is the eldest. B is a male.
How is D related to E?
Explanation: D is the eldest male and non-professional. E is female and explicitly not the wife of a professional. Since the only other female is the teacher (wife of the lawyer), E must be D's wife, making D the husband of E.
Passage: A, B, C, D and E are members of the same family. There are two fathers, two sons, two wives three males and two females. The teacher was the wife of a lawyer who was the son of a doctor. E is not a male, neither also a wife of a professional. C is the youngest person in the family and D is the eldest. B is a male.
Who are the females in the group?
- C and E
- C and D
- E and A
- D and E
Explanation: The family contains exactly two females. E is explicitly not male. The teacher is the wife of the lawyer and must be the second female. Since B and D are male, and the lawyer and doctor are male, the teacher must be C, making the two females C and E.
Passage: A, B, C, D and E are members of the same family. There are two fathers, two sons, two wives three males and two females. The teacher was the wife of a lawyer who was the son of a doctor. E is not a male, neither also a wife of a professional. C is the youngest person in the family and D is the eldest. B is a male.
Whose wife is the teacher?
Explanation: The teacher is the wife of the lawyer. The lawyer is the son of the doctor. Mapping the family tree with three males (D the non-professional grandfather, A the doctor father, and B the lawyer son), the teacher must be B's wife.
Passage: In a survey regarding a proposed measure to be introduced, 2878 persons took part of which 1652 were males. 1226 persons voted against the proposal of which 796 were males. 1425 persons voted for the proposal. 196 females were undecided.
How many females voted for the proposal?
Explanation: Total females equal 2878 minus 1652, which is 1226. Females who voted against equal 1226 minus 796, which is 430. Females undecided are 196. Therefore females who voted for equal 1226 minus 430 minus 196, which is 600.
Passage: In a survey regarding a proposed measure to be introduced, 2878 persons took part of which 1652 were males. 1226 persons voted against the proposal of which 796 were males. 1425 persons voted for the proposal. 196 females were undecided.
How many males were undecided?
Explanation: Total undecided persons equal 2878 minus 1425 minus 1226, which is 227. Since 196 females were undecided, the remaining undecided males equal 227 minus 196, which is 31.
Passage: In a survey regarding a proposed measure to be introduced, 2878 persons took part of which 1652 were males. 1226 persons voted against the proposal of which 796 were males. 1425 persons voted for the proposal. 196 females were undecided.
How many females were not in favour of the proposal?
Explanation: Females not in favour of the proposal refers to those who voted against it. Total persons against the proposal were 1226, of which 796 were males. Therefore females against the proposal equal 1226 minus 796, which is 430.
In a queue, Mr.X is fourteenth from the front and Mr.Y is seventeenth from the end, while Mr.Z is exactly in between Mr.X and Mr.Y. If Mr.X is ahead of Mr.Y and there are 48 persons in the queue, how many persons are there between Mr.X and Mr.Z?
Explanation: Mr. Y's position from the front equals 48 minus 17 plus 1, which is 32. Mr. Z is exactly midway between position 14 and position 32, so Z is at position 23. The number of persons between X at position 14 and Z at position 23 equals 23 minus 14 minus 1, which is 8.
Passage: He walked several miles that day but could not get anything to eat or drink except some dry bread and some water, which he got from cottagers and farmers. As night fell, he slept under a haystack lying in a meadow. He felt frightened at first, for the wind blew awfully over the empty fields. He felt cold and hungry, and was feeling more lonely than he had ever felt before. He, however, soon fell asleep, being much tired with his long walk. When he got up next day he was feeling terribly hungry so he purchased a loaf of bread with a few coins that he had.
When the night fell, he slept
- in the open field.
- under a pile of dry grass.
- in a farmer's cottage.
- under a tree.
Explanation: The passage explicitly states that he slept under a haystack lying in a meadow, and a haystack is a pile of dry grass.
Passage: He walked several miles that day but could not get anything to eat or drink except some dry bread and some water, which he got from cottagers and farmers. As night fell, he slept under a haystack lying in a meadow. He felt frightened at first, for the wind blew awfully over the empty fields. He felt cold and hungry, and was feeling more lonely than he had ever felt before. He, however, soon fell asleep, being much tired with his long walk. When he got up next day he was feeling terribly hungry so he purchased a loaf of bread with a few coins that he had.
He soon fell asleep because
- he was exhausted.
- he was all alone.
- he had not slept for days.
- he was very frightened.
Explanation: The passage states that he soon fell asleep because he was much tired with his long walk, indicating exhaustion.
Passage: He walked several miles that day but could not get anything to eat or drink except some dry bread and some water, which he got from cottagers and farmers. As night fell, he slept under a haystack lying in a meadow. He felt frightened at first, for the wind blew awfully over the empty fields. He felt cold and hungry, and was feeling more lonely than he had ever felt before. He, however, soon fell asleep, being much tired with his long walk. When he got up next day he was feeling terribly hungry so he purchased a loaf of bread with a few coins that he had.
With reference to the passage, consider the following statements: 1. He was walking through the countryside. 2. The cottagers and farmers gave him enough food so that he could sleep at night without feeling hungry. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
Explanation: The mention of cottagers, farmers, meadows, and empty fields implies he was walking through the countryside. However, he felt cold and hungry before sleeping, so the cottagers and farmers did not give him enough food.
Passage: I opened the bag and packed the boots in; and then, just as I was going to close it, a horrible idea occurred to me. Had I packed my toothbrush? I don't know how it is, but I never do know whether I've packed it. My toothbrush is a thing that haunts me when I'm travelling, and makes my life misery. I dream that I haven't packed it, and wake up in a cold perspiration, and get out of bed and hunt for it. And, in the morning, I pack it before I have used it, and it is always the last thing I turn out of the bag; and then I repack and forget it, and have to rush upstairs for it at the last moment and carry it to the railway station, wrapped up in my pocket-handkerchief.
When he was going to close the bag, the idea that occurred to him was
- unpleasant
- sad
- fantastic
- amusing
Explanation: The passage describes the idea as a horrible idea, which corresponds to unpleasant.
Passage: I opened the bag and packed the boots in; and then, just as I was going to close it, a horrible idea occurred to me. Had I packed my toothbrush? I don't know how it is, but I never do know whether I've packed it. My toothbrush is a thing that haunts me when I'm travelling, and makes my life misery. I dream that I haven't packed it, and wake up in a cold perspiration, and get out of bed and hunt for it. And, in the morning, I pack it before I have used it, and it is always the last thing I turn out of the bag; and then I repack and forget it, and have to rush upstairs for it at the last moment and carry it to the railway station, wrapped up in my pocket-handkerchief.
What makes his life miserable whenever he undertakes travelling?
- Going to railway station.
- Forgetting the toothbrush.
- Packing his bag.
- Bad dreams.
Explanation: The passage explicitly states that his toothbrush haunts him when travelling and makes his life misery, and he dreams that he hasn't packed it.
Passage: I opened the bag and packed the boots in; and then, just as I was going to close it, a horrible idea occurred to me. Had I packed my toothbrush? I don't know how it is, but I never do know whether I've packed it. My toothbrush is a thing that haunts me when I'm travelling, and makes my life misery. I dream that I haven't packed it, and wake up in a cold perspiration, and get out of bed and hunt for it. And, in the morning, I pack it before I have used it, and it is always the last thing I turn out of the bag; and then I repack and forget it, and have to rush upstairs for it at the last moment and carry it to the railway station, wrapped up in my pocket-handkerchief.
His toothbrush is finally
- in his bag.
- in his pocket.
- in his handkerchief
- lost
Explanation: The passage states he carries it to the railway station wrapped up in his pocket-handkerchief, meaning it is finally in his handkerchief.
Passage: In spring, polar bear mothers emerge from dens with three month old cubs. The mother bear has fasted for as long as eight months but that does not stop the young from demanding full access to her remaining reserves. If there are triplets, the most persistent stands to gain an extra meal and it may have the meal at the expense of others. The smallest of the litter forfeits many meals to stronger siblings. Females are protective of their cubs but tend to ignore family rivalry over food. In 21 years of photographing polar bears, I've only once seen the smallest of triplets survive till independence.
Female polar bears give birth during
- spring
- summer
- autumn
- winter
Explanation: The passage states that mothers emerge in spring with three-month-old cubs. Counting backward three months from spring places the birth in winter.
Passage: In spring, polar bear mothers emerge from dens with three month old cubs. The mother bear has fasted for as long as eight months but that does not stop the young from demanding full access to her remaining reserves. If there are triplets, the most persistent stands to gain an extra meal and it may have the meal at the expense of others. The smallest of the litter forfeits many meals to stronger siblings. Females are protective of their cubs but tend to ignore family rivalry over food. In 21 years of photographing polar bears, I've only once seen the smallest of triplets survive till independence.
Mother bear
- takes sides over food.
- lets the cubs fend for themselves.
- feeds only their favourites.
- sees that all cubs get an equal share.
Explanation: The passage states that females are protective of their cubs but tend to ignore family rivalry over food, meaning they do not intervene and effectively let the cubs compete among themselves.
Passage: In spring, polar bear mothers emerge from dens with three month old cubs. The mother bear has fasted for as long as eight months but that does not stop the young from demanding full access to her remaining reserves. If there are triplets, the most persistent stands to gain an extra meal and it may have the meal at the expense of others. The smallest of the litter forfeits many meals to stronger siblings. Females are protective of their cubs but tend to ignore family rivalry over food. In 21 years of photographing polar bears, I've only once seen the smallest of triplets survive till independence.
With reference to the passage, the following assumptions have been made: 1. Polar bears fast as long as eight months due to non-availability of prey. 2. Polar bears always give birth to triplets. Which of the assumptions given above is/are valid?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
Explanation: The passage mentions fasting for eight months but does not attribute it to non-availability of prey. It also uses 'if there are triplets,' indicating triplets are not the universal norm, so polar bears do not always give birth to triplets.
You have been asked to give an explanation for not attending an important official meeting. Your immediate boss who has not informed you about the meeting is now putting pressure on you not to place an allegation against him/her. You would
- send a written reply explaining the fact.
- send an appointment with the top boss to explain the situation.
- admit your fault to save the situation.
- put the responsibility on the coordinator of the meeting for not informing.
Explanation: A written reply explaining the facts is the most professional and transparent response, documenting the situation without escalating conflict or admitting false fault.
A local thug (bad element) has started illegal construction on your vacant plot. He has refused your request to vacate and threatened you of dire consequences in case you do not sell the property at a cheap price to him. You would
- sell the property at a cheap price to him.
- go to the police for necessary action.
- ask for help from your neighbours.
- negotiate with the goon to get a higher price.
Explanation: When facing illegal activity and threats, the appropriate and lawful course is to seek police intervention rather than capitulating, negotiating with criminals, or involving neighbours in a dangerous situation.
You have to accomplish a very important task for your Headquarters within the next two days. Suddenly you meet with an accident. Your office insists that you complete the task. You would
- ask for an extension of deadline.
- inform Headquarters of your inability to finish on time.
- suggest alternate person to Headquarters, who may do the needful.
- stay away till you recover.
Explanation: Suggesting a competent alternate ensures the critical task is completed while acknowledging your physical incapacity, demonstrating responsibility and commitment to organizational goals.
You are an officer-in-charge for providing basic medical facilities to the survivors of an earthquake affected area. Despite your best possible effort, people put allegations against you for making money out of the funds given for relief. You would
- let an enquiry be set up to look into the matter.
- ask your senior to appoint some other person in your place.
- not pay attention to allegations.
- stop undertaking any initiative till the matter is resolved.
Explanation: Instituting an official enquiry is the most transparent and accountable response, allowing facts to be examined while continuing duty rather than abandoning responsibility or ignoring public concerns.