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CSAT 2011PYQ

Complete UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination General Studies Paper-II / CSAT question paper for 2011.

80Questions
6Subjects
18Topics
QUESTION PAPER

2011 CSAT Questions

All 80 questions from the 2011CSAT paper, classified by subject, topic and subtopic.

Practice 2011 →
Q1
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionInference
PASSAGE

A country under foreign domination seeks escape from the present in dreams of a 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 people 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?

A1 and 2
B2 only
C2 and 3
D3 only
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERA
EXPLANATION

The passage links being “other-worldly” to poor, unfortunate and subject people; revolutionaries are explicitly contrasted with them. Statement 1 is therefore not included, while statement 2 is.

Q2
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionAssumption
PASSAGE

A country under foreign domination seeks escape from the present in dreams of a 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 people 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?

A1 and 2
B2 only
C2 and 3
D3 only
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

The passage says greatness cannot be founded on starvation/misery and explicitly says subject peoples may become other-worldly. It does not say foreign domination makes spiritual pursuit impossible.

Q3
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionMain Idea / Central Theme
PASSAGE

A country under foreign domination seeks escape from the present in dreams of a 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 people 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 centers on

Athe state of mind of oppressed people
Bstarvation and misery
Cthe growth of civilization
Dbody, mind and spirit of people in general
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERA
EXPLANATION

The discussion consistently concerns how oppression, poverty and lack of freedom affect the mental and spiritual condition of oppressed people.

Q4
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionCause & Effect
PASSAGE

A country under foreign domination seeks escape from the present in dreams of a 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 people 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

Aby the impact of foreign domination.
Bby the desire to escape from foreign domination and find consolation in visions of past greatness.
Cdue to lack of equilibrium between an external life and an internal life.
Ddue to one’s inability to be either revolutionary or other-worldly.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

The passage directly states that when the external and internal streams of life diverge, conflict arises and crises torture the mind and spirit.

Q5
Legacy / Other CSATLegacy / Other CSATLegacy / Other
PASSAGE

During a party, a person was exposed to contaminated water. A few days later, he developed fever and loose motions. He suffered for some days before going to a doctor for treatment. On starting the treatment, he soon became better and recovered completely a few days later. The following graph shows different phases of the person's disease condition as regions A, B, C, D and E of the curve.

Which region/regions of the curve correspond/corresponds to incubation phase of the infection?

AA only
BB only
CB and C
DNo part of the curve indicates the incubation phase
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERA
EXPLANATION

The incubation period runs from exposure/infection until symptoms begin. On the graph this is the initial pre-symptom region A.

Q6
Legacy / Other CSATLegacy / Other CSATLegacy / Other
PASSAGE

During a party, a person was exposed to contaminated water. A few days later, he developed fever and loose motions. He suffered for some days before going to a doctor for treatment. On starting the treatment, he soon became better and recovered completely a few days later. The following graph shows different phases of the person's disease condition as regions A, B, C, D and E of the curve.

Which region of the curve indicates that the person began showing the symptoms of infection?

AA
BB
CC
DD
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

The symptoms begin after the incubation phase, at the rising portion labelled B.

Q7
Legacy / Other CSATLegacy / Other CSATLegacy / Other
PASSAGE

During a party, a person was exposed to contaminated water. A few days later, he developed fever and loose motions. He suffered for some days before going to a doctor for treatment. On starting the treatment, he soon became better and recovered completely a few days later. The following graph shows different phases of the person's disease condition as regions A, B, C, D and E of the curve.

Which region of the curve indicates that the treatment yielded effective relief?

AC
BD
CE
DThe curve does not indicate the treatment
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

The passage says improvement begins after treatment and recovery follows. The graph's effective-relief/recovery segment is E.

Q8
Quantitative AptitudeCounting / CombinatoricsCounting & Selection

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?

A24
B12
C10
D8
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERA
EXPLANATION

Each A→B route can be paired with each B→C route. Therefore 4×6 = 24.

Q9
Quantitative AptitudeArithmeticBasic Arithmetic

A contract on construction job specifies a penalty for delay in completion of the work beyond a certain date as follows: ₹200 for the first day, ₹250 for the second day, ₹300 for the third day etc., the penalty for each succeeding day being ₹50 more than that of the preceding day. How much penalty should the contractor pay if he delays the work by 10 days?

A₹4950
B₹4250
C₹3600
D₹650
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

The penalties form an AP with a=200, d=50, n=10. Sum = 10/2 × [2(200)+9(50)] = ₹4,250.

Q10
Legacy / Other CSATLegacy / Other CSATLegacy / Other

In the figure shown above, OP₁ and OP₂ are two plane mirrors kept perpendicular to each other. S is the direction of a beam of light falling on the mirror OP₁. The direction of the reflected beam of light from the mirror OP₂ will be

APerpendicular to the direction S.
BAt 45° to the direction S.
COpposite and parallel to the direction S.
DAt 60° to the direction S.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

Two successive reflections in mutually perpendicular mirrors reverse the direction vector, so the final ray is opposite and parallel to the incident direction S.

Q11
Logical ReasoningNon-Verbal ReasoningFigure / Spatial Reasoning

What is the minimum number of different colours required to paint the figure given above such that no two adjacent regions have the same colour?

A3
B4
C5
D6
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERA
EXPLANATION

The adjacency structure can be coloured with three colours, and fewer than three cannot colour adjacent regions distinctly.

Q12
Quantitative AptitudeGeometry and MensurationAreas

A square is divided into four rectangles as shown above. The lengths of the sides of rectangles are natural numbers. The areas of two rectangles are indicated in the figure. What is the length of each side of the square?

A10
B11
C15
DCannot be determined as the given data are insufficient
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

For area 15, the compatible integer side pair is 3×5. For area 48, 6×8 can be paired so the corresponding square side is 3+8=11 (also 5+6=11).

Q13
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionInference
PASSAGE

For achieving inclusive growth there is a 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 is 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?

A1 and 2 only
B2 and 3 only
C1 and 4 only
D1, 2, 3 and 4
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

Statements 1 and 2 are explicitly stated. The passage advocates minimal market interference, so 3 is inconsistent; it does not say the size of government must change.

Q14
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionInference
PASSAGE

For achieving inclusive growth there is a 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 is 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

AMeeting all the needs of every citizen in the country.
BIncreasing the regulations over the manufacturing sector.
CControlling the distributions of manufactured goods.
DDelivery of the basic services to the deprived sections of the society.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERD
EXPLANATION

The passage specifically assigns government a direct role in ensuring basic education, health, nutrition and food for the poor.

Q15
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionInference
PASSAGE

For achieving inclusive growth there is a 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 is 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 under-privileged.

5. Offering direct help to the poor regarding basic services.

Select the correct answer from the codes given below:

A1, 2 and 3 only
B4 and 5 only
C3, 4 and 5 only
D1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

The passage defines an enabling state through support for individual enterprise and direct assistance to those unable to manage, especially with basic services.

Q16
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionInference
PASSAGE

For achieving inclusive growth there is a 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 is 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:

A1 only
B2 only
CBoth 1 and 2
DNeither 1 nor 2
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERD
EXPLANATION

The passage says India is too large and complex for the State to deliver everything and warns that expanding bureaucracy creates problems. Neither listed reason is the stated explanation.

Q17
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionMain Idea / Central Theme
PASSAGE

For achieving inclusive growth there is a 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 is 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?

AThe objectives of inclusive growth laid down by the founding fathers of the nation should be remembered.
BThe Government needs to make available more schools and health services.
CThe Government needs to establish markets and industries to meet the needs of the poor strata of the society.
DThere is a need to rethink the role of the State in achieving inclusive growth.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERD
EXPLANATION

The passage is principally a call to rethink the State's role so that it enables markets while directly supporting vulnerable citizens.

Q18
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionInference
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 mobilised 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 does the author imply by “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:

A1, 2 and 3
B4 only
C3 and 4
D2 and 4
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

The passage defines a creative society through recognised contradictions and mobilisation of oppressed groups demanding rights: statements 3 and 4.

Q19
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionInference
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 mobilised 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:

A1 and 3 only
B2 and 4 only
C3 and 4 only
D1, 2, 3 and 4
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

The examples given are rights-oriented movements seeking autonomy, self-determination and dignity; they correspond to social equality/freedom and self-respect rather than aggressiveness or external instigation.

Q20
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionInference
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 mobilised 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?

A1 only
B2 only
CBoth 1 and 2
DNeither 1 nor 2
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

The passage associates creative society with active contradictions and social movements in various spheres; both statements capture that definition.

Q21
Logical ReasoningAnalytical & Critical ReasoningAnalytical / Critical Reasoning
PASSAGE

Only students can participate in the race; some participants are girls; all girl participants are invited for coaching.

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?

AAll participants in the race are invited for coaching.
BAll students are invited for coaching.
CAll participants in the race are students.
DNone of the statements (a), (b) and (c) given above is correct.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

“Only students can participate” means every race participant is a student. The other universal conclusions do not follow.

Q22
Logical ReasoningAnalytical & Critical ReasoningAnalytical / Critical Reasoning

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.

Select the pair of statements that cannot both be true, but both can be false.

A1 and 3
B1 and 2
C2 and 3
D3 and 4
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERA
EXPLANATION

Statements 1 and 3 directly contradict one another, yet both can be false if some animals are carnivorous and some are not.

Q23
Logical ReasoningAnalytical & Critical ReasoningAnalytical / Critical Reasoning

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.

Select the pair of statements that cannot both be true, but both can be false.

A1 and 2
B2 and 3
C1 and 3
D1 and 4
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

Statements 1 and 3 are contradictory. They can both be false when some trains are diesel-run and some are not.

Q24
Legacy / Other CSATLegacy / Other CSATLegacy / Other

Consider the four age pyramids given below namely A, B, C and D representing four different countries. Which one of them indicates the declining population?

AA
BB
CC
DD
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

A declining population has a low proportion of children relative to older age groups; pyramid C has that declining/constrictive profile.

Q25
Legacy / Other CSATLegacy / Other CSATLegacy / Other

The following figure has four curves namely A, B, C and D. Study the figure and answer the item that follows. Which curve indicates the exponential growth?

AA
BB
CC
DD
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

Exponential growth is characterised by an increasing rate of increase, producing a J-shaped accelerating curve; curve C shows that pattern in the original figure.

Q26
Data InterpretationData InterpretationData Interpretation
PASSAGE

Pie charts: Town A and Town B disease distributions are shown as percentages of each town's patients.

Which of the two towns has a higher number of persons with Diabetes?

ATown A
BTown B
CSame in Town A and Town B
DNo inference can be drawn
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERD
EXPLANATION

Percentages alone cannot establish absolute patient counts without the total number of patients in each town.

Q27
Data InterpretationData InterpretationData Interpretation
PASSAGE

Same Town A/Town B disease-distribution charts as Q26.

What can we say about persons with more than one disease from these graphs?

AThere are likely to be persons with more than one disease in Town A.
BThere are likely to be persons with more than one disease in Town B.
CThere are likely to be persons with more than one disease in both Towns A and B.
DNo inference can be drawn.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
Q28
Legacy / Other CSATLegacy / Other CSATLegacy / Other

Consider the following Velocity–Time graph. It shows two trains starting simultaneously on parallel tracks. With reference to the above graph, which one of the following statements is not correct?

ATrain B has an initial acceleration greater than that of Train A.
BTrain B is faster than Train A at all times.
CBoth trains have the same velocity at time t₀.
DBoth trains travel the same distance in time t₀ units.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERD
EXPLANATION

Distance travelled is the area under a velocity–time curve. The area under B is greater, so equal distances are not travelled; D is the incorrect statement.

Q29
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionInference
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 a 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 system 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?

A1 only
B2 only
CBoth 1 and 2
DNeither 1 nor 2
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERD
EXPLANATION

The passage says adult society must act on behalf of the child, so statement 1 is false. It does not say the RTE law cannot be enforced, so statement 2 is also false.

Q30
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionInference
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 a 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 system 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:

A1 and 2 only
B2, 3 and 4 only
C1, 3 and 4 only
D1, 2, 3 and 4
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

The passage explicitly discusses traditional social obstacles, prejudice against girls' intellectual potential and inadequacy of the education system. Statement 1 is not presented as a traditional obstacle.

Q31
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionInference
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 a 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 system 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?

A1 only
B2 only
CBoth 1 and 2
DNeither 1 nor 2
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERA
EXPLANATION

The passage does not establish either proposition. It describes RTE as law and discusses obstacles, but neither statement follows as written from the passage.

Q32
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionMain Idea / Central Theme
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 a 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 system of education has not been able to address it.

Which one of the following statements conveys the key message of the passage?

AIndia has declared that education is compulsory for its children.
BAdult society is not keen on implementing the Right to Education.
CThe Right to Education, particularly of a girl child, needs to be safeguarded.
DThe system of education should address the issue of Right to Education.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

The passage emphasises the time-sensitive nature of childhood education and the particular obstacles faced by girls, supporting protection of the girl child's educational right.

Q33
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionInference
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 a 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 system of education has not been able to address it.

Which one of the following statements conveys the inference of the passage?

AThe society has a tenacious prejudice against the intellectual potential of girls.
BAdults cannot be relied upon to fight on behalf of children for their Right to Education.
CThe legal fight to get education for children is often protracted and prohibitive.
DThere is no sufficient substitute for education received in childhood.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERA
EXPLANATION

The passage explicitly states that tenacious prejudice against girls' intellectual potential runs across cultural diversity; this is a direct inference/message supported by the text.

Q34
Logical ReasoningBlood RelationsFamily Relations
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?

AHusband
BSon
CFather
DWife
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERA
EXPLANATION

The constraints place D as the older male married to E; hence D is E's husband.

Q35
Logical ReasoningBlood RelationsFamily Relations
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?

AC and E
BC and D
CE and A
DD and E
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

E is explicitly female; resolving the family structure makes A the other female.

Q36
Logical ReasoningBlood RelationsFamily Relations
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?

AC
BD
CA
DB
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

The teacher is the wife of the lawyer, and the lawyer is the son of the doctor. The family constraints identify D as the husband whose wife is the teacher.

Q37
Quantitative AptitudeData InterpretationTables
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?

A430
B600
C624
D640
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

Total females = 2878−1652 = 1226. Total females against = 1226−796 = 430; with 196 undecided, females for = 1226−430−196 = 600.

Q38
Quantitative AptitudeData InterpretationTables
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?

A31
B227
C426
D581
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERA
EXPLANATION

Total males = 1652. Males against = 796 and males for = 1425−600 = 825. Hence male undecided = 1652−796−825 = 31.

Q39
Quantitative AptitudeData InterpretationTables
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?

A430
B496
C586
D1226
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERA
EXPLANATION

Females not in favour are those against the proposal: total against 1226 minus male against 796 = 430.

Q40
Logical ReasoningRanking & OrderingRanking & Position

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?

A6
B7
C8
D9
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

Y is 48−17+1 = 32nd from the front. Z is midway between positions 14 and 32, so Z is 23rd. Persons between X and Z = 23−14−1 = 8.

Q41
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionInference
PASSAGE

Ecosystems provide people with a variety of goods and services; food, clean water, clean air, flood control, soil stabilization, pollination, climate regulation, spiritual fulfilment 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 has greatly modified the Earth’s ecosystems to meet 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 some ecosystem goods and services have come at the cost of the long-term degradation of others. For example, efforts to increase the production of food and fibre have decreased the ability of some 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 fulfilment

2. Aesthetic enjoyment

3. Potable fresh water

4. Production of food and fibre

5. Biodiversity

Which of the statements given above are correct?

A1, 2 and 3 only
B2, 4 and 5 only
C3 and 5 only
D1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

The passage explicitly says ecosystem changes have reduced the ability to provide clean water and support biodiversity. It does not say spiritual fulfilment, aesthetic enjoyment, or food/fibre production itself is adversely affected in the listed sense.

Q42
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionInference
PASSAGE

Ecosystems provide people with a variety of goods and services; food, clean water, clean air, flood control, soil stabilization, pollination, climate regulation, spiritual fulfilment 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 has greatly modified the Earth’s ecosystems to meet 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 some ecosystem goods and services have come at the cost of the long-term degradation of others. For example, efforts to increase the production of food and fibre have decreased the ability of some 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 statements given above is/are correct?

A1 only
B2
C1 and 3
DNone of the statements given above
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERA
EXPLANATION

Statement 1 restates the passage. Statements 2 and 3 add claims not supported by it; in fact the passage highlights long-term degradation.

Q43
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionInference
PASSAGE

Ecosystems provide people with a variety of goods and services; food, clean water, clean air, flood control, soil stabilization, pollination, climate regulation, spiritual fulfilment 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 has greatly modified the Earth’s ecosystems to meet 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 some ecosystem goods and services have come at the cost of the long-term degradation of others. For example, efforts to increase the production of food and fibre have decreased the ability of some 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?

A1 only
B2 only
CBoth 1 and 2
DNeither 1 nor 2
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

The passage says ecosystem modification has occurred to meet human needs and that most benefits are irreplaceable or prohibitively expensive to replace technologically; the intended conclusion is that both statements capture the passage's point.

Q44
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionArgument / Reasoning
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 the 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:

A1 only
B1 and 3
C2 and 3
D1 and 4
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERD
EXPLANATION

The author emphasises personal discretion and says moral action may require defying convention; statements 1 and 4 capture this.

Q45
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionVocabulary / Meaning in Context
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 the 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?

AIt is a mechanical action based on official orders from superiors.
BIt is an action based on our sense of discretion.
CIt is a clever action based on the clarity of purpose.
DIt is a religious action based on understanding.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

A moral act must spring from one's own will and use one's discrimination, so option B is the closest definition.

Q46
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionVocabulary / Meaning in Context
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 the 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:

A1 only
B1 and 2
C2 and 3
D1 and 4
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

The metaphor means allowing oneself to be carried along without independent judgment; it captures lack of reasoned independence and susceptibility to influence.

Q47
Data InterpretationData InterpretationGraphs

Consider the following distance–time graph. The graph shows three athletes A, B and C running side by side for a 30 km race. With reference to the above graph, consider the following statements:

1. The race was won by A.

2. B was ahead of A up to 25 km mark.

3. C ran very slowly from the beginning.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A1 only
B1 and 2 only
C2 and 3 only
D1, 2 and 3
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

In a distance-time graph, the athlete whose line reaches the 30 km endpoint at the smallest time wins. The graph shows A finishing first and B ahead of A up to 25 km; C was not slow from the beginning.

Q48
Logical ReasoningNon-Verbal ReasoningFigure / Spatial Reasoning

Consider the following figures. What is the missing number?

A7
B8
C9
D10
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

The numerical relationship in the displayed paired figures yields 9 for the missing value.

Q49
Quantitative AptitudeCounting / CombinatoricsCounting & Selection

Study the following figure. A person goes from A to B always moving to the right or downwards along the lines. How many different routes can he adopt?

A4
B5
C6
D7
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

The path requires two moves in one direction and two in the other, so the number of distinct arrangements is 4!/(2!2!) = 6.

Q50
Logical ReasoningNon-Verbal ReasoningFigure / Spatial Reasoning

Consider the following figure and answer the item that follows. What is the total number of triangles in the above grid?

A27
B26
C23
D22
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

Counting triangles by side length gives 12 of side 1, 7 of side 2, 3 of side 3, and 1 large triangle: 12+7+3+1 = 23.

Q51
Quantitative AptitudeAlgebraLinear Equations

A person has only ₹1 and ₹2 coins with her. If the total number of coins that she has is 50 and the amount of money with her is ₹75, then the number of ₹1 and ₹2 coins are, respectively

A15 and 35
B35 and 15
C30 and 20
D25 and 25
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERD
EXPLANATION

Let x be ₹1 coins and y be ₹2 coins. x+y=50 and x+2y=75; subtracting gives y=25 and x=25.

Q52
Quantitative AptitudeNumber SystemFactors, HCF & LCM

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?

A25 m 20 cm
B50 m 40 cm
C75 m 60 cm
D100 m 80 cm
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERA
EXPLANATION

The common distance must be the LCM of 40, 42 and 45 cm. LCM = 2520 cm = 25 m 20 cm.

Q53
Quantitative AptitudeTime, Speed and DistanceDistance, Time & Speed

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 distances travelled by them in one hour?

A8 : 5
B5 : 8
C4 : 5
D1 : 2
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

Bus speed = 40 km/h; train speed = 64 km/h. Ratio = 40:64 = 5:8.

Q54
Quantitative AptitudeSet TheorySets & Venn Diagrams

There are 100 students in a particular class. 60% students play cricket, 30% students play football and 10% students play both the games. What is the number of students who play neither cricket nor football?

A25
B20
C18
D15
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

At least one game = 60+30−10 = 80%. Therefore 20% play neither = 20 students.

Q55
Quantitative AptitudeGeometry and MensurationMensuration: Volume & Surface Area

A village having a population of 4000 requires 150 litres of water per head per day. It has a tank measuring 20 m × 15 m × 6 m. The water of this tank will last for

A2 days
B3 days
C4 days
D5 days
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

Tank volume = 20×15×6 = 1800 m³ = 1,800,000 L. Daily demand = 4000×150 = 600,000 L, so supply lasts 3 days.

Q56
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionMain Idea / Central Theme
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 species. 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?

ASea star has a preferred prey.
BA preferred prey determines the survival of a keystone species.
CKeystone species ensures species diversity.
DSea star is the only keystone species on the Pacific coast of North America.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

The experiment shows that removing the keystone sea star sharply reduces species diversity; this is the central point.

Q57
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionInference
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 species. 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?

A1 only
B2 only
CBoth 1 and 2
DNeither 1 nor 2
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERD
EXPLANATION

The passage calls the sea star a keystone species and Mytilus the dominant competitor after sea-star removal; neither statement follows as a general rule.

Q58
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionInference
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 species. 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 hard 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 are correct?

A1 and 2
B2 only
C1 and 3
D3 only
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

The passage explicitly says keystone species influence the flow of energy and materials and shows strong competitive effects involving mussels; it says nothing about evolutionary climax.

Q59
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionAssumption
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 species. 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?

A1 only
B2 and 3 only
C1 and 3 only
D1, 2 and 3
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

The passage supports influence on ecosystem relationships/food-web structure and shows severe consequences after removal. It does not state keystone species are restricted to aquatic systems.

Q60
Logical ReasoningAnalytical & Critical ReasoningAnalytical / Critical Reasoning
PASSAGE

In order to be a teacher one must graduate from college. All poets are poor. Some mathematicians are poets. No college graduate is poor.

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?

ASome mathematicians are not teachers.
BSome teachers are not mathematicians.
CTeachers are not poor.
DPoets are not teachers.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

A teacher must be a college graduate, and no college graduate is poor; therefore teachers cannot be poets. The statement that some teachers are not mathematicians is not compelled by the premises.

Q61
Quantitative AptitudeAverageCombined Average

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?

AN + 20
BN + 10
CN + 4
DN + 5
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERD
EXPLANATION

First three total = 3N. Fourth score = N+20. Total = 4N+20; divide by 4 gives N+5.

Q62
Quantitative AptitudePercentagePercentage Applications

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?

A2/7
B1/3
C3/7
D2/3
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERD
EXPLANATION

Take 100 people: 70 male, so 30 female. Married males = 70×2/7=20; total married =30, so 10 females are married and 20 of 30 females are single = 2/3.

Q63
Logical ReasoningDirection SenseDirection, Distance & Turns

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 5 km, turns right, travels 5 km 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?

AC and D live on the same street.
BC’s house faces south.
CThe houses of C and D are less than 20 km apart.
DNone of the above
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

Tracing the two symmetric movements from opposite sides places C and D at positions less than 20 km apart; option C is the stated relationship.

Q64
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionVocabulary / Meaning in Context
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

Ain the open field
Bunder a pile of dry grass
Cin a farmer’s cottage
Dunder a tree
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

A haystack is a pile of dry grass, and the passage explicitly says he slept under one.

Q65
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionInference
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

Ahe was exhausted
Bhe was all alone
Che had not slept for days
Dhe was very frightened
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERA
EXPLANATION

He was “much tired with his long walk,” so exhaustion explains why he soon slept.

Q66
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionInference
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?

A1 only
B2 only
CBoth 1 and 2
DNeither 1 nor 2
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERA
EXPLANATION

Cottages, farmers and a meadow indicate countryside. But he received only some dry bread and water and was still hungry, so statement 2 is false.

Q67
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionVocabulary / Meaning in Context
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 my toothbrush. My toothbrush is a thing that haunts me when I'm travelling, and makes my life a 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

Aunpleasant
Bsad
Cfantastic
Damusing
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERA
EXPLANATION

The text calls the idea “horrible”; “unpleasant” is the closest option.

Q68
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionInference
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 my toothbrush. My toothbrush is a thing that haunts me when I'm travelling, and makes my life a 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?

AGoing to railway station
BForgetting the toothbrush
CPacking his bag
DBad dreams
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

He explicitly says his toothbrush haunts him and makes his travelling life miserable.

Q69
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionDetail Retrieval
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 my toothbrush. My toothbrush is a thing that haunts me when I'm travelling, and makes my life a 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

Ain his bag
Bin his bed
Cin his handkerchief
Dlost
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

At the last moment he carries the toothbrush to the railway station wrapped in his pocket-handkerchief.

Q70
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionInference
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 autumn.

Female polar bears give birth during

Aspring
Bsummer
Cautumn
Dwinter
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERD
EXPLANATION

They emerge in spring with cubs already three months old, so the cubs were born about three months earlier, i.e. in winter.

Q71
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionInference
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 autumn.

Mother bear

Atakes sides over cubs
Blets the cubs fend for themselves
Cfeeds only their favourites
Dsees that all cubs get an equal share
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

The passage says females tend to ignore rivalry over food; they do not ensure equal shares, so the cubs effectively fend for themselves.

Q72
Reading ComprehensionReading ComprehensionAssumption
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 autumn.

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?

A1 only
B2 only
CBoth 1 and 2
DNeither 1 nor 2
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERD
EXPLANATION

The passage gives no reason for the fasting, so 1 is unsupported. “If there are triplets” shows triplets are not universal, so 2 is false.

Q73
Decision MakingAdministrative EthicsAdministrative Ethics
PASSAGE

Given below are eight items. Each item describes a situation and is followed by four possible responses. Indicate the response you find most appropriate. Choose only one response for each item. The responses will be evaluated based on the level of appropriateness for the given situation. Please attempt all the items. There is no penalty for wrong answers for these eight items.

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

Asend a written reply explaining the fact.
Bseek an appointment with the top boss to explain the situation.
Cadmit your fault to save the situation.
Dput the responsibility on the coordinator of the meeting for not informing.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

The situation involves pressure by the immediate boss and a need to explain an official lapse. Escalating the matter to the top boss provides a formal channel for resolving the issue.

Q74
Decision MakingAdministrative EthicsAdministrative Ethics
PASSAGE

Given below are eight items. Each item describes a situation and is followed by four possible responses. Indicate the response you find most appropriate. Choose only one response for each item. The responses will be evaluated based on the level of appropriateness for the given situation. Please attempt all the items. There is no penalty for wrong answers for these eight items.

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

Asell the property at a cheap price to him.
Bgo to the police for necessary action.
Cask for help from your neighbours.
Dnegotiate with the goon to get a higher price.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

Illegal construction and threats should be handled through the lawful authority rather than negotiation with the offender.

Q75
Decision MakingAdministrative EthicsAdministrative Ethics
PASSAGE

Given below are eight items. Each item describes a situation and is followed by four possible responses. Indicate the response you find most appropriate. Choose only one response for each item. The responses will be evaluated based on the level of appropriateness for the given situation. Please attempt all the items. There is no penalty for wrong answers for these eight items.

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

Aask for an extension of deadline.
Binform Headquarters of your inability to finish on time.
Csuggest alternate person to Headquarters who may do the needful.
Dstay away till you recover.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

The accident affects your ability to complete the task; informing Headquarters allows it to decide whether to extend the deadline or reassign the work.

Q76
Decision MakingAdministrative EthicsAdministrative Ethics
PASSAGE

Given below are eight items. Each item describes a situation and is followed by four possible responses. Indicate the response you find most appropriate. Choose only one response for each item. The responses will be evaluated based on the level of appropriateness for the given situation. Please attempt all the items. There is no penalty for wrong answers for these eight items.

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

Alet an enquiry be set up to look into the matter.
Bask your senior to appoint some other person in your place.
Cnot pay attention to allegations.
Dstop undertaking any initiative till the matter is resolved.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERA
EXPLANATION

Allegations involving public relief funds should be subject to an impartial enquiry while relief work continues.

Q77
Decision MakingAdministrative EthicsAdministrative Ethics
PASSAGE

Given below are eight items. Each item describes a situation and is followed by four possible responses. Indicate the response you find most appropriate. Choose only one response for each item. The responses will be evaluated based on the level of appropriateness for the given situation. Please attempt all the items. There is no penalty for wrong answers for these eight items.

You have been made responsible to hire boats at a short notice to be used for an area under flood. On seeing the price mentioned by the boat owners you found that the lowest price was approximately three times more than the approved rate of the Government. You would

Areject the proposal and call for a fresh price.
Baccept the lowest price.
Crefer the matter to the Government and wait.
Dthreaten the boat owners about a possible cancellation of the licence.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

The situation is an emergency, but the quoted price is substantially above the approved rate. The matter should be referred through the competent government channel rather than accepting or threatening.

Q78
Decision MakingAdministrative EthicsAdministrative Ethics
PASSAGE

Given below are eight items. Each item describes a situation and is followed by four possible responses. Indicate the response you find most appropriate. Choose only one response for each item. The responses will be evaluated based on the level of appropriateness for the given situation. Please attempt all the items. There is no penalty for wrong answers for these eight items.

You are the officer-in-charge of a village administering distribution of vaccine in an isolated epidemic hit village, and you are left with only one vaccine. There is a requirement of that vaccine from the Gram Pradhan and also a poor villager. You are being pressurized by the Gram Pradhan to issue the vaccine to him. You would

Ainitiate the procedure to expedite the next supply without issuing the vaccine to either.
Barrange vaccine for the poor villager from the distributor of another area.
Cask both to approach a doctor and get an input about the urgency.
Darrange vaccine for the Gram Pradhan from the distributor of another area.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERC
EXPLANATION

A neutral medical assessment of urgency avoids political pressure and bases allocation on medical need.

Q79
Decision MakingAdministrative EthicsAdministrative Ethics
PASSAGE

Given below are eight items. Each item describes a situation and is followed by four possible responses. Indicate the response you find most appropriate. Choose only one response for each item. The responses will be evaluated based on the level of appropriateness for the given situation. Please attempt all the items. There is no penalty for wrong answers for these eight items.

You have taken up a project to create night-shelters for homeless people during the winter season. Within a week of establishing the shelters, you have received complaints from the residents of the area about the increase in theft cases with a demand to remove the shelters. You would

Aask them to lodge a written complaint in the police station.
Bassure residents of an enquiry into the matter.
Cask residents to consider the humanitarian effort made.
Dcontinue with the project and ignore their complaint.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERB
EXPLANATION

The complaints should be taken seriously and investigated while the shelter project continues; an enquiry addresses both public safety and the humanitarian objective.

Q80
Decision MakingAdministrative EthicsAdministrative Ethics
PASSAGE

Given below are eight items. Each item describes a situation and is followed by four possible responses. Indicate the response you find most appropriate. Choose only one response for each item. The responses will be evaluated based on the level of appropriateness for the given situation. Please attempt all the items. There is no penalty for wrong answers for these eight items.

You, as an administrative authority, have been approached by the daughter-in-law of an influential person regarding harassment by her in-laws on account of insufficient dowry. Her parents are not able to approach you because of social pressures. You would

Acall the in-laws for an explanation.
Bcounsel the lady to adjust, given such a circumstance.
Ctake action after her parents approach you.
Dask her to lodge a complaint with the police.
Show answer & explanation
ANSWERA
EXPLANATION

The official response should not depend on the parents' ability to approach the authority. Calling the in-laws for an explanation initiates direct administrative intervention while keeping the matter within a formal process.