CDS English 18 Nov 2018 Official Paper (Previous Year Paper)

The sentence is in the past tense as indicated by 'was' and so option 4 which is 'annoys' cannot be the answer. Option 1 cannot be the answer as one cannot be 'annoyed at' someone, 'annoyed' is not an action that can be done at someone. One can be 'annoyed about' things or events but one cannot be 'annoyed about' someone. Thus, 'with' is the correct preposition. 

Thus, the correct answer is option 2.

The correct answer is option 2 i.e. shouted to

Key Points 

The appropriate prepositional usage is shouted to. 

• Prepositions with shout at- You shout at someone when you are angry with them:
• Example:- My teacher never shouts at us.
• You shout to someone when you want them to hear you:
• Example:- He shouted to me to throw down the rope.
• You shout for something that you want:
• Example:- They shouted for the driver to stop.

Thus, the correct answer is option 1.

The correct answer is option 4 i.e. complaining of- this is the correct prepositional usage

One cannot simply be 'complaining', one has to be 'complaining of' something, thus option 1 is incorrect. Option 2 cannot be correct as the verb 'has' shows present continuous tense and 'complain' is in the present tense. Option 3 cannot be correct as one cannot 'complain to' a headache, it is not a living entity that can be complained to.

Thus, the correct answer is option 4.

The correct answer is 'insists on'.

Key Points

• The sentence is in the present tense as shown by the verb 'want' in the present tense
• Here the correct phrasal verb will be 'Insist on' which is used when someone is demanding something and not accepting refusal.
• Examples: She always insists on doing her homework by herself, even if it's hard.
• Thus, according to the above mentioned points 'insists on' will be correct and therefore it will be the answer.

The correct answer is option 1 i.e. get along- this is the appropriate prepositional phrase

The sentence mentions the new student doing something with his classmates - one cannot 'get among' with someone, one cannot 'get well' with someone and one cannot 'get up' with one's classmates.

Thus, the correct answer is option 1.

The correct answer is option 4 i.e. called on.

The phrasal verb 'call on' means to pay a visit to (someone).

The correct answer is 'Had he been.

Key Points

• Here, the given sentence is an example of  "Third conditional sentence"
• The third conditional also called the "Past Unreal" or "Past Hypothetical" conditional.
• As a general rule, In a third conditional sentence, the tense in the if-clause is the past perfect, and the tense in the main clause is the perfect conditional or the perfect continuous conditional.
• Let's have a look at the structural form of the given rule:
• ‘Had + Subject + V₃ (III form of the verb)’ +  Subject + would + have + V₃ (III form of the verb).
• ​Example: 
• Had he been good at math, he would have got a high score from the exam last week. (correct)
• Has he been good at math, he would have got a high score from the exam last week.  (incorrect)
• According to the explanation and example that are given above, 'Had he been' is the correct choice for the blank.

Correct sentence: Had he been sincere he would have got the prize.

The correct answer is- 'is a long time.'

Key Points

• Here, the given sentence is an example of subject-verb agreement.
• In the subject-verb agreement, subjects and verbs must always agree with one another in number (singular or plural).
• As a general rule, When a subject is a unit of measurement of time, distance, money, weight, etc. The unit is considered singular, and the verb will end in 's.'
• Example: 
• Ten pounds of chocolate is too much to eat at once. (correct)
• Ten pounds of chocolate are too much to eat at once. (incorrect)
• ​In the given sentence, "Ten years" is a unit of measurement of time, thus a singular verb must be used.
• According to the explanation and example that are given above, 'is a long time' is the correct choice for the blank.

Correct sentence: Ten years is a long time for me to live in a foreign country.

Additional Information

• Let's learn more about the subject-verb agreement:
• In sub-verb agreement*,* use a plural verb when two or more nouns are connected by 'and.'
• Example: 
• A car and a bike are my means of transportation. (correct)
• A car and a bike is my means of transportation. (incorrect)

The correct answer is 'were, would'.

Key Points

• Here, the given sentence is an example of  "Second conditional sentence"
• The type 2 conditional is used to refer to a hypothetical condition and its probable result.
• As a general rule, In a second conditional sentence, the tense in the if-clause is simple past, and the tense in the main clause is the present conditional or present continuous conditional.
• Let's have a look at the structural form of the given rule:
• If + subject +  past subjunctive, subject + would/could + present conditional + object.
• ​Example: 
• If I were President, I would make a lot of changes. (correct)
• If I was President, I will make a lot of changes. (incorrect)
• According to the explanation and example that are given above, 'were, would' is the correct choice for both blanks.

Correct sentence: If I were you I would love to accept the offer.

The correct answer is- 'If I were.'

Key Points

• In the given question, the sentence mentions a question.
• By reading the above sentence we can understand that it was a question in the direct form.
• As we are talking about someones willingness to go somewhere, the use of can or shall does not sound correct. Thus option 2 and option 3 are incorrect.
• The reporting speech is in the past tense, thus 'will' can not be used in the indirect form. Thus option 4 is also incorrect.
• The correct answer is option 1. And the direct speech was- My sister told me, "are you willing to go abroad for your studies."
• 'were' is used in the place of 'was' because the sentence has a subjunctive mood.

Thus, the correct sentence is- My sister asked me if I were willing to go abroad for my studies.

Additional Information

• Let's understand the rule to change model verbs while converting from direct to indirect speech:
• 'Can' becomes 'could'
• 'May' becomes 'might'
• 'Must' becomes 'had to /would have to'
• Example:
• Rama said, ‘I must complete the assignment’. (Direct)
• Rama said that he had to complete the assignment. (Indirect)
• She said, ‘She can dance’. (Direct)
• She said that she could dance. (Indirect)

​

• Let's understand Subjunctive mood:
• The subjunctive mood is for expressing wishes, proposals, suggestions, or imagined situations. Past subjunctive form of 'be' is consistently 'were,' even when 'was' would otherwise be the form.
• Example: I requested that the fabulous cat were available during my visit.

The correct answer is option 2 i.e. economical

Thrifty: Refers to someone who uses money and resources carefully.

Economical: Refers to someone who is careful in using what they have.

Thus, it is clear that thrifty and economical are similar words.

Let's look at the meaning of the other words:

Reckless: Refers to someone who is careless.

Naive: Refers to someone who is innocent.

Extravagant: Refers to someone who lacks restraint in spending money.

Thus, the correct answer is option 2.

The correct answer is option 2 i.e. pleasant

Salubrious: Refers to something that is healthy and pleasant

Pleasant: Refers to something that gives happiness and satisfaction

Thus, it is clear that salubrious and pleasant are similar words

Let's look at the meaning of the other words:

Provoking: Refers to something that causes someone to take an action

Ridiculous: Refers to something that is weird and deserves being made fun of

Thanking: Refers to the act of being thankful to someone

Thus, the correct answer is option 2.

The correct answer is option 1 i.e. deserted

Desolated: Refers to someone who is unhappy and feels empty

Deserted: Refers to someone who is left alone and empty

Thus, it is clear that 'desolated' and 'deserted' are similar words

Let's look at the meaning of the other words:

Joyful: Refers to someone who is excited and happy.

Strong: Refers to someone who has a lot of power or strength.

Annoyed: Refers to someone who is angry and irritated.

Thus, the correct answer is option 1.

The correct answer is option 4 i.e. overlook

Condone: Refers to the act of overlooking or accepting some behaviour

Overlook: Refers to the act of ignoring some behavior

Thus, it is clear that condone and overlook are similar words

Let's look at the meaning of the other words:

Regard: Consider something or think of it in a specific way

Punish: Refers to the act of applying a penalty to wrong behaviour

Aware of: Refers to the act of knowing about some behaviour

Thus, the correct answer is option 4.

The correct answer is option 1 i.e. incompetence

Ineptitude: Refers to a lack of skill or ability

Incompetence: Refers to a lack of ability 

Thus, it is clear that 'ineptitude' and 'incompetence' are similar words

Let's look at the meaning of the other words:

Courage: Refers to bravery

Gossip: Refers to a medium of rumour or false information

Radical thinking: Refers to extreme thinking

Thus, the correct answer is option 1.

The correct answer is option 3 i.e hinder

Impede: Refers to the act of coming in the way of something; delay or prevent (someone or something) by obstructing them

Hinder: Refers to the act of being an obstacle

Thus, it is clear that impede and hinder are similar words

Let's look at the meaning of the other words:

Facilitate: Refers to the act of helping someone

Acts for: Refers to the act of doing an action on behalf of someone

Accept: Refers to the act of giving consent to something

Thus, the correct answer is option 3.

The correct answer is option 4 i.e. deportation

Extradition: Refers to the act of delivering a criminal to their country of origin

Deportation: Refers to the act of sending someone to the country they came from

Thus, it is clear that extradition and deportation are similar words

Let's look at the meaning of the other words:

Acceptance: Refers to the act of consenting to something

Sentence: Refers to jail time that criminal has to serve

Extension: Refers to extra time a visitor in a country is given

Thus, the correct answer is option 4.

The correct answer is option 3 i.e. disadvantageous

Detrimental: Refers to something that leads to harm

Disadvantageous: Refers to something that is to good, something that is not an advantage

Thus, it is clear that 'detrimental' and 'disadvantageous' are similar words

Let's look at the meaning of the other words:

Beneficial: Refers to something that is advantageous 

Harsh: Refers to something that is unpleasant and rough

Demanding: Refers to someone or something that is difficult 

Thus, the correct answer is option 3.

The correct answer is option 1 i.e. mockery

Derisive: Refers to something that is filled with contempt and ridicule

Mockery: Refers to ridicule and making fun of someone

Thus, it  is clear that 'derisive' and 'mockery' are similar words

Let's look at the meaning of the other words:

Conducive: Refers to something that is likely or possible

Encouraging: Refers to someone who is motivating

Contemptuous: Refers to someone who shows contempt

Thus, the correct answer is option 1.

The correct answer is option 2 i.e. appealing

Engaging: Refers to something that is attractive and charming

Appealing: Refers to someone or something who/which is attractive 

Thus, it is clear that 'engaging' and 'appealing' are similar words

Let's look at the meaning of the other words:

Carefree: Refers to someone who is without worries

Thinking: Refers to someone who is thoughtful

Dreaming: Refers to someone who is lost in thoughts and dreams.

Thus, the correct answer is option 2

The correct answer is option 1 i.e. 2, 3 and 4

The passage mentions that the staple consumption of curcumin in India may be one of the reasons that there is a lower prevalence of Alzheimer's in India. Thus option 2 is correct

The passage mentions that along with having a lower prevalence of Alzheimer's in India, curcumin has also lead to better cognitive performance. Thus, option 3 is also correct

The passage mentions that curcumin is shown as having anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Thus, option 4 is also correct.

The correct answer is option 3 i.e. without dementia and with Alzheimer's disease

The passage mentions that research shows an easily absorbed curcumin supplement has an effect on the memory performance in people without dementia and it also has a potential impact on the microscopic plaques and tangled in the brains of people with Alzheimer's disease.

The correct answer is option 4 i.e. previously

Earlier: before the present time or before the time one is referring to

Previously: at a previous or earlier time; before

Absorbed: taken in or soaked up (energy or a liquid or other substance) by chemical or physical action

Properties: buildings or buildings and the land belonging to it or them

Thus, it is clear that 'earlier' and 'previously' have similar meanings.

The correct answer is option 1 i.e. will reduce the chance of getting Alzheimer's disease 

The passage mentions that a possible reason for India having a low incidence rate for Alzheimer's disease may be because turmeric is a dietary staple in India.

The correct answer is option 2 i.e. prevalence

Prevalence: the fact or condition of being prevalent; commonness

Dominance: power and influence over others

Affection: a gentle feeling of fondness or liking

Death: the action or fact of dying or being killed; the end of the life of a person or organism

The passage mentions that India has a low incidence rate for Alzheimer's disease and this may be because turmeric is a dietary staple in India. 

Thus, it proves that the food habits of a region have an effect on the prevalence of diseases in that area.

The correct answer is "Mr. Hill accepted the letter addressed to the woman".

Key Points

• Mr. Hill paid the shilling so that the woman could accept the letter from her brother. He did so in order to do a good deed.
• He did so to ensure that a woman gets the letter from her brother.
• But the irony is that no one needed to collect the letter as she had received the message that she was supposed to, without having to collect the letter at all.

Thus, the correct answer is option 3.

The correct answer is "she already knew the contents of the letter".

Key Points

• Let's refer to the following lines from the passage:
• As soon as the postman was out of sight, she showed Mr. Hill how his money had been wasted, as far as she was concerned. The sheet was blank. There was an agreement between her brother and herself that as long as all went well with him, he should send a blank sheet in this way once a quarter, and she thus had tidings of him without expense of postage.
• It was an understanding between the woman and her brother that if all was well he would send a blank letter so she would get the message without having to collect or read the message and could save money.

Thus, the correct answer is option 3.

The correct answer is "the letter was from her brother".

Key Points

• Let's refer to the following lines from the passage:
• Hearing that the letter was from her brother, Mr. Hill paid the postage, in spite of the manifest unwillingness of the woman.
• The above lines clearly mention that Mr. Rowland Hill on learning that the woman was unable to pay the shilling and that the letter was from her brother he paid for it and collected it.

Thus, the correct answer is option 1.

The correct answer is "a blank sheet".

Key Points

• Let's refer to the following lines from the passage:
• As soon as the postman was out of sight, she showed Mr. Hill how his money had been wasted, as far as she was concerned. The sheet was blank.
• The above lines clearly mention that the woman told Mr. Hill that his money was practically wasted as the sheet was blank and it was an understanding between brother and sister that if all was well with him he would send a blank sheet such as that once every quarter.

Thus, the correct answer is option 4.

The correct answer is "a blank sheet meant being well".

Key Points

• Let's refer to the following lines from the passage**:**
• ​The sheet was blank. There was an agreement between her brother and herself that as long as all went well with him, he should send a blank sheet in this way once a quarter, and she thus had tidings of him without expense of postage.
• The above lines clearly mention that it was an understanding between brother and sister that is all was well with him he would send a blank sheet such as that once every quarter.

Thus, the correct answer is option 2.

The correct answer is option 4 i.e. ruthless

The passage mentions that the public opinion is often more tyrannical towards those that fear it as compared to those that are indifferent to it. 

Thus, the public is more ruthless to those that are scared than to those that is indifferent. The correct answer is option 4.

The correct answer is option 4 i.e. if we are afraid of people, they will try to scare us more

The passage mentions that a A dog will bark more loudly and bite more easily when people are afraid of it than when they treat him with contempt​. This means that if one shows fear then people are more likely to intimidate that person.

Thus, the correct answer is option 4.

The correct answer is option 2 i.e. attacking others when they are weak

The passage mentions that a dog will bark more loudly and bite more easily when one is scared of it as compared to if one treats him with contempt.  The passage also mentions that the human herd has this characteristic in similarity with dogs.

Thus, the correct answer is option 2.

The correct answer is option 1 i.e. you are vulnerable

The passage mentions that if one gives the promise of a good hunting if one shows that one is scared - vulnerable - then one is more likely to get attacked.

Thus, the correct answer is option 1.

The correct answer is option 4

The author mentions in the passage that it is a curious time as there are glimpses of an emerging world civilization and at the same time there are instances of the whole civilization being rapidly destroyed.

Thus, these project contradictory views of the destructive and constructive activities of this civilization. 

Thus, the correct answer is option 4.

The correct answer is option 3 

The passage mentions that the attack on embassies by students is not merely an act of hot-headedness, rather it may be a part of the policy of political parties and these are used as propaganda in order to deceive world opinion. 

Thus, the correct answer is option 3.

The correct answer is option 4

The passage mentions that what inspires to burn cars and books is not just their political enthusiasm but also an urge for violent demolition and a frenzied delight that comes with enthusiasm.

Thus, it can be concluded that the mob indulging in violence are motivated by certain political ideology to do or use something bad or unpleasant.

Thus, the correct answer is option 4.

The correct answer is option 3 i.e. destruction

Demolition: Refers to the act of destroying something or damaging it in a way where there is no going back.

Thus, the correct answer is option 3.

The correct answer is option 3 i.e. 'c'.

Key Points

• The error is in part c of the sentence. Before gerund objective form of pronoun is not used. Here in this sentence 'it' will be replaced with 'its'.

The correct answer is option 3 i.e. c

The statement mentions a mother complaining about her boys quarrelling with each other, one does not quarrel 'the one another', this needs to be replaced with 'with each other' in order to show that the boys are fighting with each other.

Thus, the correct answer is option 3.

The correct answer is option 3 i.e. c

The statement mentions both 'today' and 'night', both of those adverbs don't need to be used together. Both of them used together are redundant and thus 'night' needs to be removed or 'today night' needs to be replaced with 'tonight'.

Thus, the correct answer is option 3.

The correct answer is option 1 i.e. a

The statement uses the verb 'are' and the whole passage also gives the impression that there are more 1 visitors and thus the word 'visitor's' which refers to the possession of one visitor and thus 'visitor's' needs to be replaced with 'visitors' which is plural for 'visitor'.

Thus, the correct answer is option 1.

The correct answer is option 4 i.e. d

The sentence needs no improvement

Thus, the correct answer is option 4.

The correct answer is option 1 i.e. a

The statement refers to a 'gardener' and when a pronoun is used to refers to a human, 'who' is used, the statement uses 'which' is used to refer to things - non-living things - and thus 'which' needs to be replaced with 'who'.

Thus, the correct answer is option 1.

The correct answer is option 3 i.e. c

When we compare our preferences between two similar nouns, we always use the preposition 'to' after prefer. 'Prefer than' is grammatically incorrect.

The erroneous part is "b"

Key Points

• In part b of the sentence, the usage of "than" should be used.
• "No sooner...than" is an adverbial phrase that means "immediately when or after". Also, we use an inverted form of the verb with it.
• Let's see an example-
• We had no sooner started cooking than there was a power cut and we had no electricity.

Hence, the correct sentence is "No sooner did I reach there than the children left the place with their parents."

The correct answer is option 3 i.e. c

One does not 'discuss' about a matter, one 'discusses' a matter and so the preposition 'about' needs to be eliminated.

Thus, the correct answer is option 3

The correct answer is option 2 i.e. c

The statement refers to a time at which the interview will be held - it mentions the preposition 'between' - thus indicating a starting and a finishing time. Thus, the statement of the timings should use the conjunction 'and' instead of 'to'.

Thus, the correct answer is option 2.

The correct answer is option 1 i.e. originating

The blank needs a present participle. Hence 'originating' would be the correct answer.

Thus, option 3 - originated which is in the past tense - cannot be the answer.

Option 2 is incorrect as it is the simple present tense and thus 'originates' cannot be the answer.

Option 4 'organizing' is not the correct answer as to 'organize' means to arrange systematically and a cultural form cannot 'organize from Japan.

Thus, the correct answer is option 1.

The correct answer is option 2 i.e. has been

We should use the present perfect tense in this sentence as the context hints at the fact that the process of existing had started in the past and has been continuing since then. 

Thus, the correct answer is option 2.

The correct answer is option 1 i.e. instance

The sentence refers to a particular art form, 'instance' refers to an example of something. An 'incident' refers to an example as well, but it can also refer to a 'violent and disruptive occurrence', thus this cannot be the answer. An 'accident' refers to an unfortunate event that occurs unexpectedly. The sentence refers a singular occurrence, thus 'events' - which is plural - cannot be the answer. 

Thus, the correct answer is option 1.

The correct answer is option 2 i.e. this

The sentence refers to something that is singular while 'these' refers to something that is plural and thus cannot be used. The sentence already refers to a noun -language- and 'this' is the most appropriate pronoun to be used for a noun like this

'which' is also incorrect.

Thus, the correct answer is option 2.

The correct answer is option 4 i.e. 'Initially'

Option 4  'Initially' is to be used here as the sentence should begin with that word only.

The sentence is: ______ when English translation were made, they flipped the pictures and published it.

Initially means at the beginning and it best fits the sentence. It means at the beginning when English translation was made, they flipped the pictures and published it.

Thus, the correct answer is option 4.

The correct answer is option 4 i.e. enraged. 

The sentence refers to some pictures being published and the act doing something to someone. Thus a verb in the past tense is needed as the sentence is in the past tense - thus option 1 cannot be the answer as 'enlarge' is in the present tense. Option 2 cannot be the answer as 'enlargement' is a process that does not happen on its own - thus it cannot be the answer. Option 3 cannot be the answer as 'engraving' is also not  a process that can happen on its own and thus does not fit in.

Thus, the correct answer is option 4.

The correct answer is option 1 i.e. the

The sentence refers to following a format, but this is a particular format that is one of a kind, thus the article 'a' cannot be used, thus option 2 is incorrect. Option 3 cannot be the answer as the sentence refers to a specific format and so the adjective 'some' is not applicable. Option 3 cannot be the answer as it is missing an article.

Thus, the correct answer is option 1.

The correct answer is 'difference'

Key Points

• The given passage describes the importance of education in the present social structure.
• Let's refer to this line from the passage, "So the ______ is that in the present social structure",
• According to the given sentence, the blank must contain a word that means comparison from others.
• in option 3), **'**difference' means "the way in which two or more things which you are comparing are not the same".
• The sentence uses the verb 'is' meaning the word in the blank is singular, thus option 1) 'difficulties' is incorrect.
• Option 2) is incorrect because 'difficult' is an adjective, while the sentence requires a noun
• Option 4) is incorrect as the word 'different' is also an adjective while we require a noun.
• So, 'difference' is the correct word for blank no. 1.

Complete sentence: So the difference is that in the present social structure

Additional Information

• Let's have a look at the meaning of other words which is given in the options:
• difficulty(noun) means- 'the fact of not being easy to do or understand'.
• difficult(adjective) means- 'not easy or simple'.
• different(adjective) means- 'not the same as another or each other.

The correct answer is 'to be educated'.

Key Points

• The given passage talks about the importance of education in the present social structure.
• It also states the reason, based on studies, why education plays a vital role in children's life.
• Let's refer to this line from the passage, "discipline has become an important factor because we want large numbers of children _____"
• The above sentence tells that If we want children to live in discipline, then they must be educated.
• The sentence refers to 'children', option 1) cannot be the answer as children cannot simply 'educated', they need to 'be' educated'.
• Option 3) cannot be the answer as 'to be educating' is incorrect as 'to be educating' is not an actual verb.
• Option 4) implies that the children are doing the educating, which is not something that children do
• So, 'to be educated' is the correct phrase for blank no 2).

​complete sentence: has become an important factor because we want large numbers of children to be educated

The correct answer is 'as quickly as possible'

Key Points

• The given passage talks about the importance of education in the present social structure.
• It also states the reason, based on studies, why education plays a vital role in children's life.
• Let's refer to this line from the passage, "together and _______"
• According to the above sentence, it can be inferred that we want the children to get education together and as soon as possible.
• The phrase refers to something as being 'together and something else.
• Option 1) cannot be the answer as the blank requires an adverb 'quickly', not the adjective 'quick'.
• Option 3) cannot be the answer as it is missing any adjective or adverb, it is just 'as possible as'.
• Option 4) cannot be the answer as just 'quickly' will not suffice to fill the blank.
• So, as quickly as possible is the correct phrase for blank no. 3.

​Complete sentence: together and as quickly as possible

The correct answer is 'of some kind'.

Key Points

• The given passage talks about the importance of education in the present social structure.
• It also states the reason, based on studies, why education plays a vital role in children's life.
• Let's refer to this line from the passage, "When you are a superman ______ as/or super governor or a subtle parliamentary debater, what have you done"?
• The above sentence refers to someone being superman, the answer in the blank refers to the same quality of superman.
• Option 2 and 4 cannot be the answer as 1 thing cannot be 'same', 2 things are needed in order to be deemed as same.
• Option 3 cannot be the answer as 'of some' is missing an adjective.
• So, option 1) is the correct choice for blank no. 4.

The correct answer is 'beastly'

Key Points

• The given passage talks about the importance of education in the present social structure.
• It also states the reason, based on studies, why education plays a vital role in children's life.
• Let's refer to this line from the passage, "You are probably very clever, full of facts. Anybody can pick up facts; but we are human beings, not factual machines, not _______routine automatons".
• The above sentence tells that human beings(plural) not being factual machines.
• According to the given sentence, the blank must contain a word that means cruel.
• in option 3), 'beastly'(adjective) means "unkind or unpleasant".
• Thus the phrase in blank also needs to be plural this rules out options 1 and 2 as they are singular.
• Option 4) cannot be the answer as the verb 'bare' requires a noun to go with it, which is not present in the sentence.
• So, 'beastly' is the correct word for blank no. 5.

Complete sentence: parliamentary debater, what have you done? You are probably very clever, full of facts. Anybody can pick up facts; but we are human beings, not factual machines, not beastly routine automatons. But again, sirs, you are not interested.

Additional Information

• Let's have a look at the meaning of other words which is given in the options:
• beast(noun) means- 'an animal, especially a large or dangerous four-footed one'.
• bear(verb) means- 'to accept, tolerate, or endure something, especially something unpleasant.
• bare(adjective) means- 'without any clothes or not covered by anything'.

The correct answer is 'smiling at'.

Key Points

• The given passage talks about the importance of education in the present social structure.
• It also states the reason, based on studies, why education plays a vital role in children's life.
• Let's refer to this line from the passage, "You are listening to me and ________ each other, you are not going to do a thing about radically changing the education system".
• The above sentence mentions that

The sentence refers to 2 people, as shown by 'each other', and all the options use the verb 'smiling'. 2 people cannot smile 'for' each other, they cannot smile 'to' each other and they cannot smile 'with' each other. Thus, option 1, 2 and 3 are incorrect.

Thus, option 4 is correct.

The correct answer is option 4 i.e. till there is

The sentence is in the present tense, thus the phrase in the blank also has to follow this pattern. Thus, option 3 - till there was - cannot be the answer, as the verb 'was' is in the past tense. The sentence refers to 'it' which means the subject is singular, thus the verb in the phrase also has to follow this pattern, so option 1 - until there are - cannot be the answer. Option 2 cannot be the answer, the sentence refers to something dragging on, the verb 'still' does not fit in with this meaning.

Thus, the correct answer is option 4.

The correct answer is 'have learnt'.

Key Points

The correct answer is option 1 i.e. he decides quickly without any seriousness

'To make a decision on the fly' refers to the act of acting too quickly on something.

Thus, the correct answer is option 1.

The correct answer is 3 i.e. doing the same as someone else has just done

To 'follow suit' refers to the act of conforming to or following someone else's actions

Thus, the correct answer is option 3.

The correct answer is option 2 i.e. miraculous escape

To have a 'close shave' means to have a narrow escape from danger.

Thus, the correct answer is option 2.

The correct answer is option 1 i.e. an important point of decision

'At a crossroads' refers to being at a stage where one has to make an important decision.

Thus, the correct answer is option 1.

The correct answer is option 4 i.e. 'a pearl of wisdom'

This refers to something that is an important piece of advice.

Thus, the correct answer is option 4

The correct answer is option 4 i.e. SRQP

Key Points

• The passage starts with statement S, this mentions the topic at hand - safety questions regarding cell phones. Then comes statement R, which talks about how these safety questions have brought about intense interest and according to statement Q - they have also caused a lot of debate and finally statement P talks about how this interest and debate have become an integral part of people's lives.

Thus, the correct answer is option 4.

The correct answer is option 1 i.e. RQSP

Key Points

• The passage starts with statement R, which talks about the topic at hand - how it is difficult in modern times, this is followed by statement Q, which talks about how it is difficult in modern civilization to bring about- according to statement S - an integrated individual. Finally, statement P talks about how it is difficult to do this through modern education.

Thus, the correct answer is option 1.

The correct answer is option 2 i.e. RPSQ

Key Points

• The passage begins with statement R. This talks about the topic at hand -valid criticism for politics in India, this is followed by statement P which describes the criticism - politics is not professional enough. This is followed by sentence S, which talks about why this is a valid criticism - the practitioners have not done their homework - according to statement Q.

Thus, the correct answer is option 2.

The correct answer is option 2 i.e. RQSP

Key Points

• The passage starts with the statement R. This talks about the tone of the passage - the time we are living in.
• This is followed by statement Q, which talks about what is involved in the time we are living in - a time when great historical figures are appropriated and according to statement S - is also a time of historical figures being reduced to stereotypes.

Then comes statement P which talks about why this is happening to historical figures - it is being done to suit partisan political objectives.

The correct answer is option 3 i.e. PRSQ.

Key Points

• The passage begins with the statement P, which talks about the context of the passage. This is followed by statement R, which talks about the subject at hand - the role of agriculture.
• This is followed by statement S, which talks about what goes along with the role as a provider of jobs. The final statement should be Q - (hint: and (conjunction) is present)

Thus, the correct answer is option 3.

The correct answer is option 4 i.e. SRQP

The passage begins with the statement S, this talks about the subject at hand - rick materials that were found. Then comes statement R - this talks about where the rich materials were found - in excavation sites. Then comes statement Q, this talks about what the rich materials indicated - the people had subsistence economy and then finally comes statement P, which talks about the conclusion from the rich materials found - how those people relied largely on agriculture, fishing and hunting.

Thus, the correct answer is option 4.

The correct answer is option 1 i.e. RQSP

The passage starts with the statement R, this talks about how there must be something, then statement Q talks about that something being important and then the next statement - S - talks about the target being everyone, and how they should learn. Finally there is statement P, this talks about what the thing is that everyone should learn, and that is to say 'I am sorry'. 

Thus, the correct answer is option 1.

The correct answer is option 4 i.e. QRSP.

Key Points

• The passage begins with statement Q, which talks about the topic at hand - the free press.
• This is followed by the statement R, which talks about how this free press is an important part of the democracy, just as the parliament is.
• Then comes statement S which talks about the parliament and how it is elected (i.e. freely elected by the people).
• The passage ends with statement P as it mentions independent judiciary which is also considered a pillar of democracy.
• Thus, the correct answer is Option 4.

Correct Sentence - A free press is as essential a limb of democracy as a parliament freely elected by the people or an independent judiciary.

The correct answer is option 1 i.e. SPRQ

The passage starts with the statement S which talks about the subject at hand - a time when Gandhi expressed an opinion. This is followed by statement P which talks about the subject of the opinion Gandhi had - human life. This is followed by statement R which talks about the details of the opinion, how human life could span 125 years. Finally comes statement Q which talks about how Gandhi would like to live that long.

Thus, the correct answer is option 1.

The correct answer is option 4 i.e. QPSR

The passage starts with statement Q, this talks about the subject at hand - the narrator is a votary of truth. This is followed by statement P which talks about what the first statement means, the narrator must say what they think. Then comes statement S which talks about how the narrator speaks about what they want at any moment without regards. Finally, comes statement R which refers to what the narrator may have said before. 

Thus, the correct answer is option 4.

The correct answer is option 1 i.e. SPQR

Key Points

• "The man" is the subject of our sentence.
• "S" ("in red who stood first") is a descriptive clause that further characterizes "The man". It tells us about the man's attire and his achievements in the competition.
• "P" ("in the competition") is a prepositional phrase indicating where the man's standing first occurred, which is logically connected to the previous clause.
• "Q" ("had been elected") is the main verb phrase of the sentence. It suggests an event (the election) that happened in the past. This verb phrase is logically placed after describing who the subject is (the man in red who stood first in the competition) and before providing the result of the mentioned event.
• "R" ("as the chairperson of the sports committee") acts as a complement to the main verb phrase, explaining the role the man was elected for. This fits logically after the main verb phrase, as it completes the thought started by it.
• The correct arrangement would be: The man in red who stood first in the competition had been elected as the chairperson of the sports committee.
  

The correct answer is option 2 i.e. PSQR

The passage starts with the sentence P which talks about the topic at hand - one of the difficulties of mankind. Then comes statement S, which gives a description of the aforementioned difficulty - is that humans want to transform. Then comes statement Q which talks about which further described the problem - that humans affect the masses. Then come statement R, this talks about the time of the difficulty - the day after tomorrow. 

Thus, the correct answer is option 2.

The correct answer is option 1 i.e. PQSR

The passage starts with statement P. This mentions the subject if the sentence - the speaker of their inaction. Then comes statement Q which talks about the action conduction - the identification, the next statement - S - this talks about what the subject has identified - many issues other than, as mentioned in statement R - charging the opponents.

Thus, the correct answer is option 1.

The correct answer is option 4 i.e. PSQR

The passage starts with the statement P, this talks about the government and the job markets that it creates. Then comes statement S, this talks about how these job markets are causing social ferment, this is followed by statement Q, this mentions how these markets need to provide more convincing solutions, then comes statement R which talks about the target market for these solutions - the crises in the rural economy. 

The correct answer is option 4.

The correct answer is option 2 .e. RSPQ

The sentence begins with the introductory phrase "The best part of", followed by statement R (long-formed journalism is that), then statement S (it brings back the importance of writing skills), followed by statement P (literary flourishes), and finally statement Q (and locates the story with the larger framework of our world). The complete sentence reads: "The best part of long-formed journalism is that it brings back the importance of writing skills, literary flourishes and locates the story with the larger framework of our world."

Thus, the correct answer is option 2.

The correct answer is option 4 i.e. PSQR

The passage starts with the statement P, which talks about Children that grow into beautiful trees, that according to statement S along with sunshine and rain,according to statement Q - will with a arm home and supportive surroundings are similar to tender samplings - according to statement R.

Thus, the correct answer is option 4.

The correct answer is option 4 i.e. QSPR

The sentence begins with 'We', followed by Q (tend to learn with interest), then S (and connect learning), then P (with real life experiences), and finally R (when we see beauty in our work). The complete sentence is: 'We tend to learn with interest and connect learning with real life experiences when we see beauty in our work.'

Thus, the correct answer is option 4.

The correct answer is option 3 i.e. PSRQ

Key Points 

• Statement P will be the first in sequence as it introduces the subject of the sentence i.e. 'Elementary Education'.
• Statement S will follow statement P which talks about the growth is towards further education.
• Statement R will follow statement S which talks about this further education is developing children.
• Statement Q will be the last.

Therefore, The correct sequence is: 'PSRQ'

• Sequence
• ​P. Elementary education is ensuring the growth of a nation
• S. to further education, thereby
• R. in developing the children
• Q. is inevitable

The correct answer is option 4 i.e. PRQS

The passage begins with statement P, which talks about the National Building Organization, which conducts surveys, then comes sentence R, which talks about along with conducting surveys, collects and tabulates. Then comes sentence Q, this talks about how the committee also dissemination information, and last comes sentence S which talks about what the information is collected about - housing and building construction activities. 

Thus, the correct answer is option 4.

The correct answer is option 2 i.e. PQRS

The passage starts with a description of the topic, with the sentence P - The Himalayan range which is sacred to the Gaddi people, then comes  sentence Q, which talks about the location of the range, then comes sentence R which talks about the high chain altitude lakes, and the last sentence - S - talks about how the high altitude lake towers over the Kangra valley. 

Thus, the correct answer is option 2.

The correct answer is option 3 i.e. QSRP

The passage begins by introducing the topic at hand - the giant wall of the Dhauladhar range - then comes statement Q which further introduces the topic, it mentions that it has a modest altitude as compared to the Himalayan ranges, then comes statement S which talks about how despite being lower than the Himalayas, the mountain range sweeps 12,000 ft. This is followed by statement R which talks of another characteristic the mountain range has - a life line - and then comes statement P which talks about how the mountain range is a life line.

Thus, the correct answer is option 3.

The correct answer is option 4 i.e. RQPS

The passage begins with the topic at hand - the truth is far more important than the teacher. This is followed by statement R, this further explains how in order to be a good teacher one should have an understanding of themselves. Then comes statement Q, this explains how wisdom begins with self - knowledge. This is followed by statement P - this gives an example of how the lack of self -knowledge leads to destruction. The final statement is S - as shown by the adverb 'therefore' the seeker of through has to be a pupil or teacher.

Thus, the correct answer is option 4.

The correct answer is option 2 i.e. SRQP

The passage begins with an introduction to the topic at hand - the importance of discipline. This is followed by statement S which talks about how necessary discipline is in schools where there is 1 teacher for a 100 students, then comes statement R which talks about how when there are a 100 students a lack of discipline would mean complete chaos and then comes statement Q which talks about if there were 5-6 students in a class a teacher could give appropriate help and according to statement P, they could understand each child. 

Thus, the correct answer is option 2.

The correct answer is option 2 i.e. SQPR

The passage begins with S1, which mentions Gandhi's conceptualized ideas. Statement S follows logically as it describes the implementation of his doctrine (social, moral, religious components). Statement Q introduces Kallenbach, the architect who was by his side. Statement P explains Kallenbach's role (he was rich and bought the land). Finally, Statement R concludes by mentioning the farm's legacy as a subject of research. Thus, the sequence is SQPR.

Thus, the correct answer is option 2.

The correct answer is option 4 i.e. SRPQ

The passage begins with an introduction to the topic at hand - decentralized planning. Then comes statement S which talks about how decentralized planning is implemented, this is followed by statement R - this talks about how individuals and small groups carry out their plans to achieve a common goal. Then according to statement P which talks about how decentralized planning operates from the bottom up and according to statement Q is more connected with capitalized economies. 

Thus, the correct answer is option 4.

The correct answer is option 3 i.e. QPSR

The passage starts with the introduction to the topic at hand - the doubt that if mankind has ever lived sustainably. This is followed by statement Q which mentions an exception. Then comes statement P which generalizes the issue- this is followed by statement S which talks about how this behaviour has accelerated after the Industrial Revolution and according to statement R, we have now reached a place where we are about to destroy ourselves and the Earth. 

Thus, the correct answer is option 3.

The correct answer is option 1 i.e. RQPS

The passage starts with an introduction to the topic - measurement as an important concept in performance management. Then comes statement R, this talks about how measurement is the basis for generating and providing feedback. This is followed by statement Q which talks about the other functions of measurement - identifying where things are going well and then according to statement P where, where things are not going well. The final statement - S - talks about how measuring performance is easy for those who are responsible for achieving targets. 

Thus, the correct answer is option 1.

The correct answer is option 3 i.e. RSQP

The passage starts with an introduction to the topic at hand - the equity theory - this is followed by statement R which talks about what is included in the equity theory - people are motivated better with equity - this is followed by statement S which states how equity is different from equality and then comes statement Q which talks about equity always being a comparative process. Finally there is statement P which talks about what is involved in being treated equitably. 

Thus, the correct answer is option 3.

The correct answer is option 2 i.e. QSPR

The first statement introduces the passage to us - the power of rumours and prophecies, then comes statement Q which talks about how rumors originate and circulate, this is followed by statement S which talks about what constitutes a rumor - they reflect the minds of people. Then next comes statement P which gives an instance of a rumour - the ones in 1857, this instance is further elaborated in statement R - which talks about the rumors under the leadership of Governor General Lord William Bentick.

Thus, the correct answer is option R.

The correct answer is option 2 i.e. RQSP

The passage begins with the topic at hand - the Constitution of India emerging through a process of intense debate. This is followed by statement R, this talks about how many provisions were decided by a process of give and take. Then comes statement Q which states an exception of the process, statement S explains the exception in detail - granting a vote to every Indian adult. Finally comes statement P which talks about how this decision itself was unprecedented.

Thus, the correct answer is option 2.

The correct answer is option 2 i.e. clear

Obscure: Refers to something that is unclear or vague

Clear: Refers to something that is obvious and is easy to understand

Thus, it is clear that 'obscure' and 'clear' are opposite words

Let's look at the meaning of the other words:

New: Refers to something that is unused

Infamous: Refers to someone who is well known for a bad deed

Obscene: Refers to something that is offensive or disgusting

Thus, it is clear that option 2 is correct

The correct answer is option 1 i.e. pessimistic

Sanguine: Refers to someone who is optimistic and positive

Pessimistic: Refers to someone who always looks at the negative side of things

Thus, it is clear that 'sanguine' and 'pessimistic' are opposite words

Let's look at the meaning of the other words:

Optimistic: Refers to someone who always looks at the positive side of things

Humorous: Refers to someone who is funny and jovial

Rebellious: Refers to someone who goes against authority and what is expected of them

Thus, the correct answer is option 1.

The correct answer is option 2 i.e. cheerful

Woebegone: Refers to someone who is miserable or sad

Cheerful: Refers to someone who is happy or excited

Thus, it is clear that 'woebegone' and 'cheerful' are opposite words

Let's look at the meaning of the other words:

Sad: Refers to someone who is unhappy

Sleepy: Refers to someone who is feels a need for sleep

Thoughtful: Refers to someone who is considerate

Thus, the correct answer is option 2.

The correct answer is option 3 i.e. obedient

Mutinous: Refers to someone who is unwilling to obey the orders of authority

Obedient: Refers to someone who listens to orders

Thus, it is clear that 'mutinous' and 'obedient' are opposite words

Let's look at the meaning of the other words:

Arrogant: Refers to someone who has an exaggerated sense of their own importance

Lucky: Refers to someone who is fortunate

Sincere: Refers to someone who is free from pretense

Thus, the correct answer is option 3.