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CSAT – UPSC PAPER 2017 (BOOKLET – D)

Directions for the following 8 (eight) items: Read the following seven passages and answer the items that
follow the passages. Your answers to these items should be based on the passages only.
Passage - 1
Disruption of traditional institutions, identifications and loyalties is likely to lead to ambivalent situations. It is
possible that some people may renew their identification with traditional groups whereas others align
themselves with new groups and symbols emergent from processes of political development. In addition,
political development tends to foster group awareness of a variety of class, tribe, region, clan, language, religion,
occupation and others.
1. Which one of the following is the best explanation of the above passage?
(a) Political development is not a unilinear process for it involves both growth and decay.
(b) Traditional societies succeed in resisting positive aspects of political development.
(c) It is impossible for traditional societies to break away from lingering loyalties.
(d) Sustenance of traditional loyalties is conducive to political development.
Ans. (a)
Option (b) is wrong because from passage it is not clear that they succeed in doing so always
Option (c) is wrong because passage says “new groups and symbols emergent from processes of political
development” which hints that it is not impossible for traditional societies to break away from lingering
loyalties
Option (d) is not wrong essentially as Sustenance of traditional loyalties happens along with political
development but option (a) is the best option because it talks of both growth - new identities emerging
and decay - old disrupted, as seen from the passage overall.
Hence, correct answer is (a)
Passage-2
There has been a significant trend worldwide towards regionalism in government, resulting in a widespread
transfer of powers downwards towards regions and communities since 1990s. This process, which involves the
creation of new political entities and bodies at a sub-national level and an increase in their content and powers,
is known as devolution. Devolution has been characterized as being made up of three factors—political
legitimacy, decentralization of authority and decentralization of resources. Political legitimacy here means a
mass demand from below for the decentralization process, which is able to create a political force for it to take
place. In many cases, decentralization is initiated by the upper tier of government without sufficient political
mobilization for it at the grassroots level, and in such cases the decentralization process often does not fulfil its
objectives.
2. Which among the following is the most logical, rational and critical inference that can be made from the
above passage?
(a) Emergence of powerful mass leaders is essential to create sub-national political entities and thus
ensure successful devolution and decentralization.
(b) The upper tier of government should impose devolution and decentralization on the regional
communities by law or otherwise.
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 (c) Devolution, to be successful, requires a democracy in which there is free expression of the will of the
people at lower level and their active participation at the grassroots level.
(d) For devolution to take place, a strong feeling of regionalism in the masses is essential.
Ans. (c)
Option (a) is wrong because idea of powerful mass leaders to create sub-national political entities is not
discussed in the passage
Option (b) is wrong because passage says the opposite
Option (d) is not wrong but the phrase “strong regionalism” cannot be inferred confidently from the
passage. At the same time, option (a) can be inferred from the last two lines of the passage satisfactorily.
Hence, correct answer is (c)
Passage-3
We live in digital times. The digital is not just something we use strategically and specifically to do a few tasks.
Our very perception of who we are, how we connect to the world around us, and the ways in which we define
our domains of life, labour and language are hugely structured by the digital technologies. The digital is
everywhere and; like air, invisible. We live within digital systems, we live with intimate gadgets, we interact
through digital media, and the very presence and imagination of the digital has dramatically restructured our
lives. The digital, far from being a tool, is a condition and context that defines the shapes and boundaries of our
understanding of the self, the society, and the structure of governance.
3. Which among the following is the most logical and essential message conveyed by the above passage?
(a) All problems of governance can be solved by using digital technologies.
(b) Speaking of digital technologies is speaking of our life and living.
(c) Our creativity and imagination cannot be expressed without digital media.
(d) Use of digital systems is imperative for the existence of mankind in future.
Ans. (b)
The language and the tone of the passage clearly points to option (b) as the correct answer. The phrases
“digital is everywhere”, “condition and context that defines the shapes and boundaries of our
understanding of the self, the society” etc. support this option.
Options (a), (c) and (d) are far fetched and extreme.
Hence, correct answer is (b)
Passage - 4
The IMF has pointed out that the fast growing economies of Asia face the risk of falling into 'middle-income
trap'. It means that average incomes in these countries, which till now have been growing rapidly, will stop
growing beyond a point—a point that is well short of incomes in the developed West. The IMF identifies a
number of causes of middle-income trap—none of which is surprising—from infrastructure to weak institutions,
to leas than favourable macroeconomic conditions. But the broad, overall cause, says IMF, is a collapse in the
growth of productivity.
4. Which among the following is the most logical, rational and critical inference that can be made from the
above passage?
(a) Once a country reaches middle-income stage, it runs the risk of falling productivity which leads to
stagnant incomes.
(b) Falling into middle-income trap is a general characteristic of fast growing economies.
(c) There is no hope at all for emerging Asian economies to sustain the growth momentum.
(d) As regards growth of productivity, the performance of Asian economies is not satisfactory.
Ans. (a)
Options (b), (c) and (d) are far fetched.
Option (b) is wrong because passage says that there is risk and hence not a general characteristic
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 Option (c) is extreme as it says “no hope at all”
Option (d) is wrong because it is beyond what is being said in the passage
Option (a) can be inferred from the passage as the passage says that overall cause of stagnant incomes is
a collapse in the growth of productivity.
Hence, correct answer is (a)
Passage -5
An innovative India will be inclusive as well as technologically advanced, improving the lives of all Indians.
Innovation and R&D can mitigate increases in social inequality and relieve the pressures created by rapid
urbanization. The growing divergence in productivity between agriculture and knowledge-intensive
manufacturing and services threatens to increase income inequality. By encouraging India's R&D labs and
universities to focus on the needs of poor people and by improving the ability of informal firms to absorb
knowledge, an innovation and research agenda can counter this effect. Inclusive innovation can lower the costs
of goods and services and create income - earning opportunities for the poor people.
5. Which among the following is the most logical and rational assumption that can be made from the above
passage?
(a) Innovation and R&D is the only way to reduce rural to urban migration.
(b) Every rapidly growing country needs to minimize the divergence between productivity in agriculture
and other sectors.
(c) Inclusive innovation and R&D can help create an egalitarian society.
(d) Rapid urbanization takes place only when a country's economic growth is rapid.
Ans. (c)
Options (a) and (d) can be ruled out due to their extreme wording, i.e. “only”. The passage is not
definitive about these.
Option (b) is not correct as as it is too generalistic as the context of the passage is limited to India and we
have a better choice in form of option (c). Option (c) is the best choice as it reflects the broad idea
presented in the passage. Hence, correct answer is (c).
Passage-6
Climate change is likely to expose a large number of people to increasing environmental risks forcing them to
migrate. The international community is yet to recognize this new category of migrants. There is no consensus
on the definition and status of climate refugees owing to the distinct meaning the term refugees carry under
international laws. There are still gaps in understanding how climate change will work as the root cause of
migration. Even if there is recognition of climate refugees, who is going to provide protection? More emphasis
has been given to international migration due to climate change. But there is a need to recognize the migration
of such people within the countries also so that their problems can be addressed properly.
6. Which of the following is the most rational inference from the above passage?
(a) The world will not be able to cope with large scale migration of climate refugees.
(b) We must find the ways and means to stop further climate change.
(c) Climate change will be the most important reason for the migration of people in the future.
(d) Relation between climate change and migration is not yet properly understood.
Ans. (d)
Option (a) and (c) cannot be inferred from the passage. They are far fetched.
Option (b) can be considered correct but cannot be strongly deduced or inferred from the passage. We
have a better choice in option (d)
Option (d) can be inferred from the passage. In fact, this idea is the crux of the passage.
Hence, correct answer is (d)

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 Passage-7
Many farmers use synthetic pesticides to kill infesting insects. The consumption of pesticides in some of the
developed countries is touching 3000 grams/hectare. Unfortunately, there are reports that these compounds
possess inherent toxicities that endanger, the health of the farm operators, consumers and the environment.
Synthetic pesticides are generally persistent in environment. Entering in food chain they destroy the microbial
diversity and cause ecological imbalance. Their indiscriminate use has resulted in development of resistance
among insects to insecticides, upsetting of balance in nature and resurgence of treated populations. Natural pest
control using the botanical pesticides is safer to the user and the environment because they break down into
harmless compounds within hours or days in the presence of sunlight. Plants with pesticidal properties have
been in nature for millions of years without any ill or adverse effects on the ecosystem. They are easily
decomposed by many microbes common in most soil. They help in the maintenance of biological diversity, of
predators and the reduction of environmental contamination and human health hazards. Botanical pesticides
formulated from plants are biodegradable and their use in crop protection is a practical sustainable alternative.
7. On the basis of the above passage, the following assumptions have been made:
1. Synthetic pesticides should never be used in modem agriculture.
2. One of the aims of sustainable agriculture is to ensure minimal ecological imbalance.
3. Botanical pesticides are more effective as compared to synthetic pesticides.
Which of the assumptions given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Ans. (c)
For assumption questions, the best strategy is to employ the Assumption Negation Technique and
negate each answer choice to see if the conclusion falls down without the negated assumption. If the
conclusion falls down without this assumption, then it was absolutely required. If it changes nothing,
then it was purely decorative and can be ignored.
Statement 1 when negated would recommend use of Synthetic pesticides in modem agriculture. But this
will contradict the entire passage. Hence, assumption is correct.
Statement 2 when negated would say that minimal ecological imbalance is not an aim of sustainable
agriculture. This does not affect the validity of the passage.
Statement 3 when negated would say Synthetic pesticides are less effective than Botanical pesticides.
But this will contradict the entire passage. Hence, assumption is correct.
Hence, correct answer is (c)
8. Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding biopesticides?
1. They are not hazardous to human health.
2. They are persistent in environment.
3. They are essential to maintain the biodiversity of any ecosystem.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Ans. (a)
Statement 1 is correct as passage says “…have been in nature for millions of years without any ill or
adverse effects on the ecosystem..”
Statement 2 is incorrect as passage says “Synthetic pesticides are generally persistent in environment.” ,
not biopesticides.

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 Statement 3 is incorrect as it is too far fetched.
Hence, correct answer is (a)
9. Certain 3-digit numbers following characteristics:
1. All the three digits are different.
2. The number is divisible by 7.
3. The number on reversing the digits is also divisible by 7.
How many such 3-digit numbers are there?
(a) 2
(b) 4
(c) 6
(d) 8
Ans. (b)
There are four such numbers: (168, 861) and (259, 952)
To find such numbers, first list down all 3 digits divisible by 7. This will generate a large set. In this set,
remove those whose all digits are not different.
Among the remaining ones, look for the reverse digits pairings like the two pairs shown above.
10. Examine the following statements:
1. All colours are pleasant.
2. Some colours are pleasant.
3. No colour is pleasant.
4. Some colours are not pleasant.
Given that statement 4 is true, what can be definitely concluded?
(a) 1 and 2 are true
(b) 3 is true
(c) 2 is false
(d) 1 is false
Ans. (d)
As per statement 4: Some colours are not pleasant. It implies that there is atleast one colour that is not
pleasant. It obviously means that statement 1 that states that all colours are pleasant is definitely false.
11. How many numbers arc there between 99 and 1000 such that the digit 8 occupies the units place?
(a) 64
(b) 80
(c) 90
(d) 104
Ans. (c)
Numbers between 99 and 1000 are 100 to 999, i.e. all three digit numbers.
Now, for 100 to 200: 8 will come at the unit’s place 10 times, i.e. 108, 118, 128…. 198.
Similar will be the case with number sets of 201-300, 301-400 etc.
Hence, the number of times that 8 will come at unit’s place between 99 and 1000 = 10 × 9 = 90
12. If for a sample data Mean < Median < Mode then the distribution is
(a) symmetric
(b) skewed to the right
(c) neither symmetric nor skewed
(d) skewed to the left

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Ans. (d)
Arithmetic mean is also known as average. It is the sum of all the numbers divided by the number of
numbers. Median is the middle value in the list of numbers written in ascending or descending order.
Mode is the most frequently occurring value in the data set (it corresponds to the peak of the bell
shaped distribution curve).
A Normal Distribution is perfectly symmetrical (not skewed) and the mean is exactly at the peak of the
bell shaped curve as shown below:

A distribution is skewed if one tail is longer than another. These distributions are sometimes called
asymmetric distributions. These are of two types:
1. A right-skewed distribution has a long right tail (also called positive-skew distribution). The mean is to
the right of the peak/mode, i.e. Mean > Mode.

2. A left-skewed distribution has a long left tail (also called negatively-skewed distribution). The mean is
to the left of the peak, i.e. Mean < Mode.

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 We can see in the above graph that Mean < Median < Mode, the condition given for the sample data in
the question. Hence, the distribution of the sample data is skewed to the left.
13. The age of Mr. X last year was the square of a number and it would be the cube of a number next year.
What is the least number of years he must wait for his age to become the cube of a number again?
(a) 42
(b) 38
(c) 25
(d) 16
Ans. (b)
The age of Mr. X last year was the square of a number and it would be the cube of a number next year.
Hence, we have to find two numbers, one of which is a cube and the other a square and the difference
between them must be 2.
Let us see the cubes: 13 = 1; 23 = 8; 33 = 27; 43 = 64.
Having a look at the above we can see that the desired numbers are 25 and 27 (i.e. 5 2 and 33). Hence, the
present age of Mr. X = 26.
The next time his age will be a cube of a number will be when he will become 64 years old.
Hence, the least number of years he should wait = 64 – 26 = 38 years
14. P works thrice as fast as Q, whereas P and Q together can work four times as fast as R. If P, Q and R
together work on a job, in what ratio should they share the earnings?
(a) 3 : 1 : 1
(b) 3 : 2 : 4
(c) 4 : 3 : 4
(d) 3 : 1 : 4
Ans. (a)
Let the efficiencies of P, Q and R be p, q and r units per day. Now, it’s given that:
p = 3q and
p + q = 4r
or 3q + q = 4r
or 4q = 4r
or q = r
Hence, the required ratio of work done or the ratio in which they will share their earnings = p : q : r = 3q :
q:q=3:1:1

15. Consider the following relationships among members of a family of six persons A, B, C, D, E and F:
1. The number of males equals that of females.
2. A and E are sons of F.
3. D is the mother of two, one boy and one girl.
4. B is the son of A.
5. There is only one married couple in the family at present.
Which one of the following inferences can be drawn from the above?
(a) A, B and C are all females.
(b) A is the husband of D.
(c) E and F are children of D.
(d) D is the daughter of F.

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Ans. (b)
As per statement 1: The number of males equals that of females, i.e. there must be 3 males and 3
females in the family.
Now, as per statements 2 and 4: A and E are sons of F and B is the son of A. We can denote it as the
following family tree (wherein + denotes male and - female):

As, we can see A, B and E are males. Hence, C, D and F must be females.
As per statement 3: D is the mother of two, one boy and one girl.

Now, F cannot be the daughter of D, as otherwise C must be her son. But we already know that C is a
female. Hence, C must be the daughter of D.
As per statement 5, there’s only one married couple in the family at present. The only possibility is that A
is married to D. It has been denoted below using a family tree:

We can only infer that A is the husband of D.

16. A bag contains 20 balls. 8 balls are green, 7 are white and 5 are red. What is the minimum number of
balls that must be picked up from the bag blindfolded (without replacing any of it) to be assured of
picking at least one ball of each colour?
(a) 17
(b) 16
(c) 13
(d) 11
Ans. (b)
A bag contains 20 balls. 8 balls are green, 7 are white and 5 are red. We have to pick at least one
ball of each colour.
Now consider this: Even if we pick 8 balls, there’s a probability that all of them may be green. Hence, we
must pick more than 8 balls for sure.
Now, even if we pick 8 + 7 balls, i.e. 15 balls, there’s a probability that all of them may be green and
white only, with no red ball picked at all.
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 Hence, taking the worst possible scenario in consideration we must pick 15 + 1 = 16 balls to be sure that
atleast one ball of all the three colours is picked.
17. If 2 boys and 2 girls are to be arranged in a row so that the girls are not next to each other, how many
possible arrangements are there?
(a) 3
(b) 6
(c) 12
(d) 24
Ans. (c)
2 boys and 2 girls are to be arranged in a row so that the girls are not next to each other. Hence,
they must sit alternatively. Let us place the boys first:

We can place these boys in 2! = 2 ways

Now, as we can see in the above arrangement, there are three places to choose from in order to place 2
girls.
Number of ways we can choose 2 places out of 3 = 3C2 = 3C1 = 3
Also, the girls can interchange their positions in 2! = 2 ways.
Hence, total number of possible arrangements = 2 × (3 × 2) = 12
18. The outer surface of a 4 cm x 4 cm x 4 cm cube is painted completely in red. It is sliced parallel to the
faces to yield sixty four 1 cm x 1 cm x 1 cm small cubes. How many small cubes do not have painted
faces?
(a) 8
(b) 16
(c) 24
(d) 36
Ans. (a)
Of all the smaller cubes obtained, only the inner cubes (i.e. those which had none of their 6 faces
exposed) will have no face painted.
Number of such inner cubes = (n - 2)3, where n is the number of smaller cubes on each edge, which is 4
in this case.
Hence, the required number of cubes = (4 - 2)3 = 23 = 8
19. Consider the following:
A, B, C, D, E, F, G and H are standing in a row facing North.
B is not neighbour of G.
F is to the immediate right of G and neighbour of E.
G is not at the extreme end.
A is sixth to the left of E.
H is sixth to the right of C.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above?
(a) C is to the immediate left of A.
(b) D is immediate neighbour of B and F.
(c) G is to the immediate right of D.
(d) A and E are at the extreme ends.

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Ans. (c)
It’s given that F is to the immediate right of G and neighbour of E. Hence, F must be to the immediate
left of E. Hence, their corresponding arrangement must be: GFE
Now, A is sixth to the left of E. We get the following two cases:
Case 1:

Case 2:

Now, H is sixth to the right of C. It is not possible in case 1 depicted above. There’s only one way we can
place H and C in the sitting arrangement depicted in case 2:

As we know that B is not a neighbour of G, we get the following final sitting arrangement:

Only statement given in option (c) is correct.

20. In a certain code, '256' means 'red colour chalk', '589' means 'green colour flower' and '254' means
'white colour chalk'. The digit in the code that indicates `white' is
(a) 2
(b) 4
(c) 5
(d) 8
Ans. (b)
In a certain code:
‘256’ means ‘red colour chalk' …………..(i)
'589’ means 'green colour flower' ……………(ii)
‘254' means 'white colour chalk' …………..(iii)
Comparing (i) and (iii), we get:
Code for ‘colour chalk’ must be 2/5.
Hence, code for ‘white’ must be 4.

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Directions for the following 7 (seven) items: Read the following seven passages and answer the items that
follow the passages. Your answers to these items should be based on the Passages only.
Passage-1
An air quality index (AQI) is a way to combine measurements of multiple air pollutants into a single number or
rating. This index is ideally kept constantly updated and available in different places. The AQI is most useful
when lots of pollution data are being gathered and when pollution levels are normally, but not always, low. In
such cases, if pollution levels spike for a few days, the public can quickly take preventive action (like staying
indoors) in response to an air quality warning. Unfortunately, that is not urban India. Pollution levels in many
large Indian cities are so high that they remain well above any health or regulatory standard for large part of the
year. If our index stays in the Red/Dangerous' region day after day, there is not much any one can do, other than
getting used to ignoring it.
21. Which among the following is the most logical and rational inference that can be made from the above
passage?
(a) Our governments are not responsible enough to keep our cities pollution free.
(b) There is absolutely no need for air quality indices in our country.
(c) Air quality index is not helpful to the residents of many of our large cities.
(d) In every city, public awareness about pollution problems should increase.
Ans. (c)
Options (a) and (d) are beyond the scope of the passage
Option (b) contradicts the passage
Option (c) can be inferred from the passage. Hence, correct answer is (c)
Passage-2
Productive jobs are vital for growth and a good lob is the best form of inclusion. More than half of our
population depends on agriculture, but the experience of other countries suggests that the number of people
dependent on agriculture will have to shrink if per capita incomes in agriculture are to go up substantially. While
industry is creating jobs, too many such jobs are low-productivity non-contractual jobs in the unorganized sector,
offering low incomes, little protection, and no benefits. Service jobs are relatively of high productivity, but
employment growth in services has been slow in recent years.
22. Which among the following is the most logical and rational inference that can be made from the above
passage?
(a) We must create conditions for the faster growth of highly productive service jobs to ensure
employment growth and inclusion.
(b) We must shift the farm workers to the highly productive manufacturing and service sectors to
ensure the economic growth and inclusion.
(c) We must create conditions for the faster growth of productive jobs outside of agriculture even while
improving the productivity of agriculture.
(d) We must emphasize the cultivation of high-yielding hybrid varieties and genetically modified crops
to increase the per capita income in agriculture.
Ans. (a)
Option (a) can be directly inferred from the passage. The first line says that Productive jobs are vital for
growth and inclusion and the last line says that Service jobs are relatively of high productivity but are not
growing fast. Hence, the inference that by creating conditions for faster growth of highly productive
service jobs will ensure employment growth and inclusion.
Option (c) is too generalisitic and even far fetched, like options (b) and (d).
Hence, correct answer is (a)

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 Passage-3
A landscape-scale approach to land use can encourage greater biodiversity outside protected areas. During
hurricane 'Mitch' in 1998, farms using ecoagricultural practices suffered 58 percent, 70 percent and 99 percent
less damage in Honduras, Nicaragua and Guatemala, respectively, than farms using conventional techniques. In
Costa, vegetative windbreaks and fencerows boosted farmers' income from pasture and coffee while also
increasing bird diversity. Bee pollination is more effective when agricultural fields are closer to natural or
seminatural habitat, a finding that matters because 87 percent of the world's 107 leading crops depend on
animal pollinators. In Costa Rica, Nicaragua and Colombia silvopastoral systems t tint integrate trees with
pastureland are improving the sustainability of cattle production, and diversifying and increasing farmers'
income.
23. Which among the following is the most logical and rational inference that can be made from the above
passage?
(a) Agricultural practices that enhance biodiversity can often increase farm output and reduce the
vulnerability to disasters.
(b) All the countries of the world should be encouraged to replace ecoagriculture with conventional
agriculture.
(c) Ecoagriculture should be permitted in protected areas without destroying the biodiversity there.
(d) The yield of food crops will be very high if ecoagricultural practices are adopted to cultivate them.
Ans. (a)
Option (a) is correct, as it can be inferred from the passage. Option (b) is incorrect as it says the opposite
from what passage conveys. Option (c) and Option (d) are far fetched.
Hence, the correct answer is (a).
Passage-4

The medium term challenge for Indian manufacturing is to move from lower to higher tech sectors, from lower
to higher value-added sectors, and from lower to higher productivity sectors. Medium tech industries are
primarily capital intensive and resource processing; and high tech industries are mainly capital and technology
intensive. In order to push the share of manufacturing in overall GDP to the projected 25 per cent, Indian
manufacturing needs to capture the global market in sectors showing a rising trend in demand. These sectors are
largely high technology and capital intensive.
24. Which among the following is the most logical and rational inference that can be made from the above
passage?
(a) India's GDP displays high value-added and high productivity levels in medium tech and resource
processing industries.
(b) Promotion of capital and technology intensive manufacturing is not possible in India.
(c) India should push up the public investments and encourage the private investments in research and
development, technology upgradation and skill development.
(d) India has already gained a great share in global markets in sectors showing a rising trend in demand.
Ans. (c)
Option (b) and (d) are incorrect as per the passage.
Between Option (a) and option (c), option (c) seems to be better aligned to the passage
Hence, the correct answer is (c).
Passage-5
Over the last decade, Indian agriculture has become more robust with record production of food grains and
oilseeds. Increased procurement, consequently, has added huge of food grains in the granaries. India is one of
the world's top producers of rice, wheat, milk, fruits and vegetables. India is still home the quarter of all

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undernourished people in the world. On an average, almost half of the total expenditure of nearly half of the
households is on food.
25. Which among the following is the most logical corollary to the above passage?
(a) Increasing the efficiency of farm to-fork value chain is necessary to reduce the poverty and
malnutrition.
(b) Increasing the agricultural productivity will automatically eliminate the poverty and malnutrition in
India.
(c) India's agricultural productivity is already great and it is not necessary to increase it further.
(d) Allocation of more funds for social welfare and poverty alleviation programmes will ultimately
eliminate the poverty and malnutrition in India.
Ans. (a)
Option (b) is incorrect because it is too definitive, it says “eliminate poverty” which passage does not
say.
Option (c) is incorrect because productivity is not discussed.
Option (d) is far-fetched too.
Option (a) follows the argument presented in the paragraph, it can be viewed as the logical next step.
Hence, the correct answer is (a).
Passage-6
The States are like pearls and the Centre is the thread which turns them into a necklace; if the read snaps, the
pearls are scattered.
26. Which one of the following views corroborates the above statement?
(a) A strong Centre and strong States make the federation strong.
(b) A strong Centre is a binding force for national integrity.
(c) A strong Centre is a hindrance to State autonomy.
(d) State autonomy is a prerequisite for a federation.
Ans. (b)
The undelying message of the passage is “states will scatter in absence of center”
This idea is well corroborated or supported by option (b) – “A strong Centre is a binding force for
national integrity”
Hence, the correct answer is (b).
Passage-7
Really I think that the poorest he that is in England has a life to live, as the greatest he, and therefore truly, I
think it is clear that every man that is to live under a government ought first by his own consent to put himself
under the government, and I do think that the poorest man in England is not at all bound in a strict sense to that
government that he has not had a voice to put himself under.
27. The above statement argues for
(a) distribution of wealth equally to all
(b) rule according to the consent of the governed
(c) rule of the poor
(d) expropriation of the rich
Ans. (b)
The passage makes an argument that “poorest are not bound to government as he didn’t had a say in its
formation”. As per this and overall message in the passage, it argues for “rule according to the consent
of the governed”.
Hence, the correct answer is (b).
13 www.visionias.in ©Vision IAS
28. The average rainfall in a city for the first four days was recorded to be 0.40 inch. The rainfall on the last
two days was in the ratio of 4 : 3. The average of six days was 0.50 inch. What was the rainfall on the
fifth day?
(a) 0.60 inch
(b) 0.70 inch
(c) 0.80 inch
(d) 0.90 inch
Ans. (c)
The average rainfall in six days = 0.5 inch.
Hence, total rainfall in six days = 0.5 × 6 = 3 inch
The average rainfall in a city for the first four days = 0.4 inch
So, total rainfall in these four days = 0.4 × 4 = 1.6 inch
Hence, rainfall in the last two days = 3 – 1.6 = 1.4 inch
Now, it’s given that the rainfall on the last two days was in the ratio of 4:3.
Hence, rainfall on the fifth day = 1.4 × [4/(4 + 3)] = 1.4 × (4/7) = 0.8 inch
Explanation for Questions 29-31:
There are 7 lectures who are from 7 different cities and specialize in 7 different subjects. Let us make a
table and fill all the direct information that has been provided in the question.
As per statements 2, 3, 6 and 7: Lecturer D is from Shillong; Lecturer C from Delhi is specialized in
Sociology; Lecturer F who is specialized in Commerce belongs to Srinagar; Lecturer G who is specialized
in Statistics belongs to Chennai. We get the following table:
Name City Subject
A
B
C Delhi Sociology
D Shillong
E
F Srinagar Commerce
G Chennai Statistics
Now, let us fill the information given in statements 4 & 5 in the table too, i.e. Lecturer B is specialized in
neither History nor Mathematics; Lecturer A who is specialized in Economics does not belong to
Hyderabad.
Name City Subject
A Hyderabad Economics
B History, Mathematics
C Delhi Sociology
D Shillong
E
F Srinagar Commerce
G Chennai Statistics
From the above table we can infer that lecturer B must be the one specialized in Geography. Now, as per
statement 1, lecturer from Kanpur is specialized in Geography. So, B must be from Kanpur. Also, E and A
must be from Hyderabad and Mumbai respectively.
Name City Subject
A Mumbai Economics
B Kanpur Geography
14 www.visionias.in ©Vision IAS
 C Delhi Sociology
D Shillong History/Mathematics
E Hyderabad History/Mathematics
F Srinagar Commerce
G Chennai Statistics
Directions for the following 3 (three) items : consider the given information and answer the three items that
follow.
A, B, C, D, E, F and G are Lecturers from different cities—Hyderabad, Delhi, Shillong, Kanpur, Chennai, Mumbai
and Srinagar (not necessarily in the same order) who participated in a conference. Each one of them is
specialized in a different subject, viz., Economics, Commerce, History, Sociology, Geography, Mathematics and
Statistics (not necessarily in the same order). Further
1. Lecturer from Kanpur is specialized in Geography
2. Lecturer D is from Shillong
3. Lecturer C from Delhi is specialized in Sociology
4. Lecturer B is specialized in neither History nor Mathematics
5. Lecturer A who is specialized in Economics does not belong to Hyderabad
6. Lecturer F who is specialized in Commerce belongs to Srinagar
7. Lecturer G who is specialized in Statistics belongs to Chennai
29. Who is specialized in Geography?
(a) B
(b) D
(c) E
(d) Cannot be determined as data are inadequate
Ans. (a)
Lecturer B is specialized in Geography.
30. To which city does the Lecturer specialized in Economics belong?
(a) Hyderabad
(b) Mumbai
(c) Neither Hyderabad nor Mumbai
(d) Cannot be determined as data are inadequate
Ans. (b)
Lecturer A specializes in Economics and he belongs to Mumbai.
31. Who of the following belongs to Hyderabad?
(a) B
(b) E
(c) Neither B nor E
(d) Cannot be determined as data are inadequate
Ans. (b)
E belongs to Hyderabad.
32. In a school, there are five teachers A, B, C, D and E. A and B teach Hindi and English. C and B teach
English and Geography. D and A teach Mathematics and Hindi. E and B teach History and French. Who
teaches maximum numb, of subjects?
(a) A
(b) B
(c) D
(d) E

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Ans. (b)
Let’s list down the subjects taught by each of the five teaachers.
Teacher Subjects Taught
A Hindi, English, Mathematics
B Hindi, English, Geography, History, French
C English, Geography
D Mathematics, Hindi
E History, French
Hence, teacher B teaches the most number of subjects.
33. A 2-digit number is reversed. The lamer of the two numbers is divided by It smaller one. What is the
largest possible remainder?
(a) 9
(b) 27
(c) 36
(d) 45
Ans. (d)
To ensure that the remainder is the largest possible, we should make one of the numbers as large as
possible. So, one of the two digits must be 9. Hence, the two numbers will be in the form of 9x and x9.
Now, we must also ensure that the smaller number do not divide the larger one by more than one time.
Otherwise the value of remainder will be small. For example, if x = 1, the numbers will be 91 and 19. The
remainder got when we divide 91 by 19 is 15.
Also, if the smaller number is made too big it will decrease the value of the remainder. For example, if x
= 8, the numbers will be 98 and 89. The remainder got when we divide 98 by 89 is 9.
Hence, the value of x must not be very small or very large. Hence, we may try the values 4 and 5.
If x = 5: Numbers are 95 and 59. Remainder got on dividing 95 by 59 = 36
If x = 4: Numbers are 94 and 49. Remainder got on dividing 94 by 49 = 45.
Hence, the highest possible remainder is 45.
34. The monthly incomes of X and Y are in the ratio of 4 : 3 and their monthly expenses are in the ratio of 3:
2. However, each saves Rs. 6,000 per month. What is their total monthly income?
(a) Rs. 28,000
(b) Rs. 42,000
(c) Rs. 56,000
(d) Rs. 84,000
Ans. (b)
The monthly incomes of X and Y are in the ratio of 4 : 3. Let them be 4a and 3a.
Their monthly expenses are in the ratio of 3:2. Let them be 3b and 2b.
As each saves Rs 6,000 per month, we get two equations:
Saving = Income – Expenditure
So, 4a – 3b = 6000
and 3a – 2b = 6000
On solving we get: a = 6000 and b = 6000
Their total monthly income = 4a + 3a = 7a = 7 × 6000 = Rs. 42,000

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35. Two walls and a ceiling of a room meet at right angles at a point P. A fly is in the air 1 m from one wall, 8
m from the other wall and 9 m from the point P. How many meters is the fly from the ceiling?
(a) 4
(b) 6
(c) 12
(d) 15
Ans. (a)
The fly is 8 m from one wall and 1 m from another.

So, its distance of the fly from the meeting point of the two walls in the same horizontal plane = (82 +
12)1/2 = (64 + 1)1/2 = 651/2 m
(Using Pythagoras theorem, i.e. Hypotenuse2 = Base2 + Height2)
Now, the distance of the fly from the ceiling (say h) can again be determined using Pythagoras theorem.

h = (92 - 65)1/2 = (81 - 65)1/2 = (16)1/2 = 4 m

Explanations for Questions 36 to 38:
Let us make the diagram representing all the passages first of all. It has been shown below. One way
passages are represented by single side arrow and two way passages by two side arrows.

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Directions for the following 3 (three) items : Consider the given information and answer the three items that
follow.
Eight railway stations A, B, C, D, E, F, G and H are connected either by two-way passages or one-way passages.
One-way passages are from C to A, E to G, B to F, D to H, G to C, E to C and H to G. Two-way passages are
between A and E, G and B, F and D, and E and D.
36. While travelling from C to H, which one of the following stations must be passed through?
(a) G
(b) E
(c) B
(d) F
Ans. (b)
To move from C to H one must go from C to A and from A to E.
37. In how many different ways can a train navel from F to A without passing through any station more than
once?
(a) 1
(b) 2
(c) 3
(d) 4
Ans. (d)
Possible ways to move from F to A without passing through any station more than once:
1. FDHGCA
2. FDEA
3. FDECA
4. FDEGCA
Hence, there are 4 ways.
38. If the route between G and C is closed, which one of the following stations need not be passed through
while travelling from H to C?
(a) E
(b) D
(c) A
(d) B

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Ans. (c)
Now, route between G and C is closed. Hence, we get:

Now while travelling from H to C, one must take the route: HGBFDEC
Hence, one may not pass through A.
39. There are certain 2-digit numbers. The difference between the number and the one obtained on
reversing it is always 27. How many such maximum 2-digit numbers are there?
(a) 3
(b) 4
(c) 5
(d) None of the above
Ans. (d)
Let the numbers be of the form xy and yx, i.e. 10x + y and 10y + x (where y > x)
As per the question, (10y + x) – (10x + y) = 27
Or 9y – 9x = 27
Or y – x = 3
Or y = x + 3
So, possible sets of the value of x and y are: (1, 4), (2, 5), (3, 6), (4, 7), (5, 8) and (6, 9), i.e. 6 such
numbers are there.
40. What is the total number of digits printed, if a book containing 150 pages is to numbered from 1 to 150?
(a) 262
(b) 342
(c) 360
(d) 450
Ans. (b)
Number of digits from 1 to 150 = Number of units digits + Number of tens digits + Number of hundreds
digits = 150 + (150 - 9) + (150 - 99) = 150 + 141 + 51 = 342

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Directions for the following 7 (seven) items: Read the following seven passages and answer the items that
follow the passages. Your answer to these items should be based on the passages only.
Passage-1
We have hard work ahead. There is no resting for any of us till we redeem our pledge in full fill we make all the
people of India what destiny intends them to be. We are citizens of a great country, on the verge of bold
advance, and we have to live up to that high standard. All of us, to whatever religion we may belong, are equally
the children of India with, equal rights, privileges and obligations. We cannot encourage communalism or narrow
mindedness, for no nation can be great whose people are narrow in thought or action.
41. The challenge the author of the above passage throws to the public is to achieve
(a) a high standard of living, progress and privileges
(b) equal privileges, fulfilment of destiny and political tolerance
(c) spirit of adventure and economic parity
(d) hard work, brotherhood out national unity
Ans. (b)
Passage-2
"The individual, according to Rousseau, puts his person and all his power in common under the supreme
direction of the General Will and in our corporate capacity we receive each member as an indivisible part of the
whole."
42. In the light of the above passage, the nature of General Will is best described as
(a) the sum total of the private wills of the individuals
(b) what is articulated by the elected representatives of the individuals
(c) the collective good as distinct from private wills of the individuals
(d) the material interests of the community
Ans. (a)
Passage-3
In a democratic State, where a high degree of Political maturity of the people obtains, the conflict between the
will of the sovereign law-making body and the organized will of the people seldom occurs.
43. What does the above passage imply?
(a) In a democracy, force is the main phenomenon in the actual exercise of sovereignty.
(b) In a mature democracy, force to a great extent is the main phenomenon in the actual exercise of
sovereignty.
(c) In a mature democracy, use of force is irrelevant in the actual exercise of sovereignty.
(d) In a mature democracy, force is narrowed down to a marginal phenomenon in the actual exercise of
sovereignty.
Ans. (d)
Passage-4
A successful democracy depends upon widespread interest and participation in politics, in which voting is an
essential part. To deliberately refrain from taking such an interest, and from voting, is a kind of implied anarchy,
it is to refuse one's political responsibility while enjoying the benefits of a free political society.
44. This passage relates to
(a) duty to vote
(b) right to vote
(c) freedom to vote
(d) right to participate in politics

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Ans. (a)
The passage talks about voting as duty and describes refraining from it as an act of anarchy and refusing
one’s responsibility. Hence, the correct answer is the best choice ie option (a).
Passage-5
In a free country, the man who reaches the position of leader is usually one of outstanding, character and ability.
Moreover, it is usually possible to foresee that he will reach such a position, since early in life one can see his
qualities of character. But this is not always true in the case of a dictator; often he reaches his position of power
through chance, very often through the unhappy state of his country.
45. The passage seems to suggest that
(a) a leader foresees his future position
(b) a leader is chosen only by a free country
(c) a leader must see that his country is free from despair
(d) despair in a country sometimes leads to dictatorship
Ans. (d)
Options (a), (b) and (c) cannot be deduced from the passage. Moreover, the defintive words like “only” ,
“must” etc. force a rethink over these options.
According to the passage, only option (d) seems correct, also seen from the lines “…very often through
the unhappy state of his country”.
Passage-6
The greatest blessing that technological progress has in store for mankind is not, of course, an accumulation of
material possessions. The amount of these that can be effectively enjoyed by one individual in one lifetime is not
great. But there is not the same narrow limit to the possibilities of the enjoyment of leisure. The gift of leisure
may be abused by people who have had no experience of making use of it. Yet the creative use of leisure by a
minority in societies has been the mainspring of all human progress beyond the primitive level.
46. With reference to the above passage, the following assumptions have been made :
1. People always see the leisure time as a gift and use it for acquiring more material possessions.
2. Use of leisure by some people to produce new and original things has been the chief source of
human progress.
Which of these assumptions is/are valid?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Ans. (b)
Statement 1 is contradictory to the passage as seen from the last two lines of the passage
Statement 2 is a valid assumption as seen from the passage, especilly the last line.
Hence, the correct answer is option (b)
Passage-7
There is more than a modicum of truth in the assertion that "a working knowledge of ancient history is necessary
to the intelligent interpretation of current events". But the sage who uttered these words of wisdom might well
have added something on the benefits of studying particularly the famous battles of history for the lessons they
contain for those of us who lead or aspire to leadership. Such a study will reveal certain qualities and attributes
which enabled the winners to win—and certain deficiencies which caused the losers to lose and the student will
see that the same pattern recurs consistently, again and again, throughout the centuries.

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47. With reference to the above passage, the following assumptions have been made:
1. A study of the famous battles it history would help us understand the modern warfare.
2. Studying the history is essential fin anyone who aspires to be a leader.
Which of these assumptions is/are valid?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Ans. (d)
Statement 1 is an invalid assumption because study of the famous battles of history is talked in context
of learning leadership qualities and not understanding modern warfare.
Statement 2 is also invalid as eben though passage suggests importance of studying history, it never
assumes it to be essential for all leaders.
Hence, the correct answer is option (d)
48. Suppose the average weight of 9 persons is 50 kg. The average weight of the first 5 persons is 45 kg,
whereas the average weight of the last 5 persons is 55 kg. Then the weight of the 5th person will be
(a) 45 kg
(b) 47.5 kg
(c) 50 kg
(d) 52.5 Kg
Ans. (c)
The average weight of 9 persons is 50 kg. So, total weight of all the persons = 50 × 9 = 450 kg
The average weight of the first 5 persons is 45 kg. So, their total weight = 45 × 5 = 225 kg
The average weight of the last 5 persons is 55 kg. So, their total weight = 55 × 5 = 275 kg
The fifth person has been included in both the last cases.
Hence, the weight of the fifth person = (275 + 225) – 450 = 50 kg
49. In a group of six women, there are four tennis players, four postgraduates in Sociology, one
postgraduate in Commerce and three bank employees. Vimala and Kamla are the bank employees while
Amala and Komala are unemployed. Komala and Nirmala are among the tennis players. Amala, Kamla,
Komala and Nirmala are postgraduates in Sociology of whom two are bank employees. If Shyamala is a
postgraduate in Commerce, who among the following is both a tennis player and a bank employee?
(a) Amala
(b) Komala
(c) Nirmala
(d) Shyamala
Ans. (c)
Let’s list down the information given in the question in tabular format.
Name Tennis Player Postgraduate in Bank Employee
Vimla Yes
Kamla Sociology Yes
Amala Sociology No (Unemployed)
Komala Yes Sociology No (Unemployed)
Nirmala Yes Sociology
Shyamala Commerce
Now, there were 4 post graduates in sociology and one in commerce. All have been accounted for.
Hence, Vimla is not a post graduate either in sociology or commerce.

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 Among Kamla, Amala, Komala and Nirmala there are 2 bank employees. We already know that Kamla is
a bank employee and Amala and Komala are not. Hence, Nirmala must be a bank employee too. Hence,
all the three bank employees are accounted for too.
However, there are still two tennis players unaccounted for. The updated information can again be
shown in the form of a table:
Name Tennis Player Postgraduate in Bank Employee
Vimla - Yes
Kamla Sociology Yes
Amala Sociology No (Unemployed)
Komala Yes Sociology No (Unemployed)
Nirmala Yes Sociology Yes
Shyamala Commerce No
Nirmala is both a tennis player and a bank employee.
50. P = (40% of A) + (65% of B) and Q = (50% of A) + (50% of B), where A is greater than B. In this context,
which of the following statements is correct?
(a) P is greater than Q.
(b) Q is greater than P.
(c) P is equal to Q.
(d) None of the above can be concluded with certainty.
Ans. (d)
According to the question, P = (40% of A) + (65% of B) and
Q = (50% of A) + (50% of B), where A > B
Now, P – Q = (40% of A) + (65% of B) - (50% of A) - (50% of B) = (15% of B) - (10% of A)
We know that A > B, but not by how much. Hence, all three cases are possible, as illustrated below:
1. If B = 100 and A = 110, then P – Q = (15% of B) - (10% of A) = 15 – 11 = 4. So, P > Q
2. If B = 100 and A = 150, then P – Q = (15% of B) - (10% of A) = 15 – 15 = 0. So, P = Q
3. If B = 100 and A = 200, then P – Q = (15% of B) - (10% of A) = 15 – 20 = -5. So, P < Q
Hence, nothing can be said about the relation between P and Q.
51. A watch loses 2 minutes in every 24 while another watch gains 2 minutes, in 24 hours. At a particular
instant, the two watches showed an identical time. Which of the following statements is correct if 24-
hour clock is
(a) The two watches show the identical time again on completion of 30 days.
(b) The two watches show the identical time again on completion of 90 days.
(c) The two watches show the identical time again on completion of 120 days.
(d) None of the above statements correct.
Ans. (d)
A watch loses 2 minutes in every 24 hours, while another watch gains 2 minutes in every 24 hours.
Hence, every day the time difference between the two watches will keep on increasing by 4 minutes.
They will again show the same identical time when this difference increases to 24 hours, i.e. 24 × 60
minutes.
Now, for the difference to increase by 4 minutes it takes 1 day
For the difference to increase by 24 × 60 minutes it will take (1/4) × 24 × 60 days = 6 × 60 days = 360 days

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52. In a city, 12% of households earn less than Rs. 30,000 per year, 6% households earn more than Rs.
2,00,000 per year, 22% households earn more than Rs. 1,00,000 per year and 990 households earn
between Rs. 30,000 and Rs. 1,00,000 per year. How many households earn between Rs. 1,00,000 and Rs.
2,00,000 per year?
(a) 250
(b) 240
(c) 230
(d) 225
Ans. (b)
According to the question:
Households that earn more than Rs 1,00,000 per year = 22%
and households that earn more than Rs 2,00,000 per year = 6%
Hence, households that earn between Rs 1,00,000 and Rs 2,00,000 per year = 22 – 6 = 16%
Now, Households that earn less than Rs. 30,000 per year = 12%
Households that earn between Rs 30,000 and Rs 1,00,000 per year = 100 – (22 + 12) = 66% = 990
So, 100% = 990 × (100/66) = 1500
Hence, households that earn between Rs 1,00,000 and Rs 2,00,000 per year = 16% = (16/100) × 1500 =
240
53. A clock strikes once at 1 o'clock, twice at 2 o'clock and thrice at 3 o'clock, and so on. If it takes 12
seconds to strike at 5 o'clock, what is the time taken by it to strike at 10 o'clock?
(a) 20 seconds
(b) 24 seconds
(c) 28 seconds
(d) 30 seconds
Ans. (b)
At 5 o’clock the clock will strike 5 times. It’s given that it takes 12 seconds to do so.
Now, at 10 o’clock the clock will strike 10 times. Hence, the time taken by it to strike = 12 × 2 = 24
seconds
54. Consider the given statement and the two conclusions that follow:
Statement:
Morning walk is good for health.
Conclusions:
1. All healthy people go for morning walk.
2. Morning walk is essential for maintaining good health.
What is/are the valid conclusion/ conclusions?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Ans. (d)
The statement simply says that morning walk is good for health. It is not presented as either the
necessary or the suffcient condition for good health.
Hence, conclusion 1 is incorrect as all healthy people need not go for morning walk
Similarly, conclusion 2 is also incorrect as morning walk is not an esssential condition for good health
Hence, the correct answer is option (d)

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55. There are thirteen 2-digit consecutive odd numbers. If 39 is the mean of the first live such numbers, then
what is the mean of all the thirteen numbers?
(a) 47
(b) 49
(c) 51
(d) 45
Ans. (a)
These are consecutive odd numbers. The mean of the first 5 such numbers will be third such number,
which is given to be as 39.
Hence, the series is: 35, 37, 39, 41, 43, 45, 47, 49, 51 and so on.
Now, mean of all the thirteen numbers = {[(13 -1)/2] + 1} th term = 7th term from the start, i.e. 47.
56. Six boys A, B, C, D, E and F play a game of cards. Each has a pack of 10 cards. F borrows 2 cards from A
and gives away 5 to C who in turn gives 3 to B while B gives 6 to D who passes 1 to E. Then the number
of cards possessed by D and E is equal to the number of cards possessed by
(a) A, B and C
(b) B, C and F
(c) A, B and F
(d) A, C and F
Ans. (b)
At the start all the boys have equal number of cards, as shown below:
A 10
B 10
C 10
D 10
E 10
F 10
Now, F borrows 2 cards from A and gives away 5 to C who in turn gives 3 to B:
A 8
B 13
C 12
D 10
E 10
F 7
B gives 6 to D who passes on 1 to E.
A 8
B 7
C 12
D 15
E 11
F 7
Number of cards with D and E = 15 + 11 = 26
We can see that number of cards with B, C and F = 7 + 12 + 7 = 26
57. There is a milk sample with 50% water in it. If 1/3rd of this milk is added to equal amount of pure milk,
then water in the new mixture will fall down to
(a) 25%
(b) 30%

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 (c) 35%
(d) 40%
Ans. (a)
Percentage of milk in milk sample = 50%
It is added to equal amount of pure milk, i.e. in the ratio of 1:1
Note: The information that 1/3rd of the milk sample is mixed is useless.
Let 100 lt of milk sample is mixed with 100 lt of pure milk. Water in milk sample = 50 lt
Percentage of water in the new mixture = [50/(100 + 100)] × 100 = (50/200) × 100 = 25%
58. There are 4 horizontal and 4 vertical lines, parallel and equidistant to one another on a board. What is
the maximum number of rectangles and squares that can be formed?
(a) 16
(b) 24
(c) 36
(d) 42
Ans. (c)
The board will be a 3 × 3 one and will look as follows:

We know that to form a square/rectangle we need 2 horizontal and 2 vertical lines.

The number of ways in which 2 vertical lines may be chosen from 4 = 4C2 = (4 × 3)/2 = 6
Similarly, number of ways in which 2 horizontal lines may be chosen from 4 = 4C2 = (4 × 3)/2 = 6
Hence, the maximum number of squares and rectangles that can be formed = 6 × 6 = 36
59. A freight train left Delhi for Mumbai at an average speed of 40 km/hr. Two hours later, an express train
left Delhi for Mumbai, following the freight train on a parallel track at an average speed of 60 km/hr.
How far from Delhi would the express train meet the freight train?
(a) 480 km
(b) 260 km
(c) 240 km
(d) 120 km
Ans. (c)
Speed of freight train = 40 km/hr and Speed of express train = 60 km/hr
Hence, relative velocity = 60 – 40 = 20 km/hr
Distance travelled by freight train in 2 hours = Speed of freight train × 2 = 40 × 2 = 80 km
So, time taken by express train to catch freight train = Distance/Relative speed = 80/20 = 4 hr
Distance from Delhi at this moment = Speed of express train × 4 = 60 × 4 = 240 km

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60. In a test, Randhir obtained more marks than the total marks obtained by Kunal and Debu. The total
marks obtained by Kunal and Shankar are more than those of Randhir. Sonal obtained more marks than
Shankar. Neha obtained more marks than Randhir. Who amongst them obtained highest marks?
(a) Randhir
(b) Neha
(c) Sonal
(d) Data are inadequate
Ans. (d)
As per question, Randhir obtained more marks than the total marks obtained by Kunal and Debu. So,
marks of both Kunal and Debu individually must also be less than Randhir.

Total marks obtained by Kunal and Shankar are more than those of Randhir. So, the marks of Shankar
can be more than or less than that of Randhir.

Sonal obtained more marks than Shankar, i.e. Sonal > Shankar
Neha obtained more marks than Randhir, i.e Neha > Randhir
It’s evident that we cannot tell for sure who amongst them attained the highest marks.
Directions for the following 8 (eight) items: Read the Following eight passages and answer the items that
follow the passages. Your answers to these items should be based on the passages only.
Passage-1
What climate change will undeniably do is cause of amplify events that hasten the reduction of resources.
Competition over these diminising resources would ensue in the form of political or even violent conflict.
Resource based conflicts have rarely been overt and are thus difficult to isolate. Instead they take on veneers
that appear more politically palatable. Conflicts over resources like water are often cloaked in the guise of
identity or ideology.
61. What does the above passage imply?
(a) Resource-based conflicts are always politically motivated.
(b) There are no political solutions to resolve environmental and resource based conflicts.
(c) Environmental issues contribute to resource stresses and political conflict.
(d) Political conflict based on identity or ideology cannot be resolved.
Ans. (c)
Option (c) is the only option supported by the passage. Rest all cannot be seen drom the passage.
Further, this statement represents the key message of the passage. Hence, Option (c) is the correct
answer.
Passage-2
The man who is perpetually hesitating which of the two things he will do first, will do neither. The man who
resolves, but suffers his resolution to be changed by the first counter Suggestion of a friend—who fluctuates
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from opinion to opinion and veers from plan to plan-can never accomplish anything. He will at best be stationary
and probably retrograde in all. It is only the man who first consults wisely, then resolves firmly and then
executes his purpose with inflexible perseverance, undismayed by those petty difficulties which daunt a weaker
spirit—that can advance to eminence in any line.
62. The keynote that seems to be emerging from the passage is that
(a) we should first consult wisely and then resolve firmly
(b) we should reject suggestions of friends and remain unchanged
(c) we should always remain broad-minded
(d) we should be resolute and achievement-oriented
Ans. (d)
Keynote could be understood as the central theme or gist of the passage.
Option (b) and (c) are contradictory to the passage.
Option (a) is factually correct but does not represent the central theme.
Option (d) contains two words which represent the beginning and concluding ideas of the passage, ie
“not being perpetually hesitant” and “advance to eminence…”
Hence, Option (d) is the correct answer
Passage-3
During the summer in the Arctic Ocean, sea ice ha, been melting earlier and faster, and the winter freeze has
been coming later. In the last three decades, the extent of summer ice has declined by about 30 per cent. The
lengthening period of summer melt threatens to undermine the whole Arctic food web, atop which stand polar
bears.
63. Which among the following is the most crucial message conveyed by the above passage?
(a) Climate change has caused Arctic summer to be short but temperature to be high.
(b) Polar bears can be shifted to South Pole to ensure their survival.
(c) Without the presence of polar bears, the food chains in Arctic region will disappear.
(d) Climate change poses a threat to the survival of polar bears.
Ans. (d)
Option (a), (c) and (b) cannot be deduced from the passage.
Option (d) can be inferred from the passage and comes out as the most crucial message conveyed by the
passage.
Hence, Option (d) is the correct answer
Passage-4
Why do people prefer open defecation and not want toilets or, if they have them, only use them sometimes?
Recent research has shown two critical elements : ideas of purity and pollutions, and not wanting pits or septic
tanks to fill they have to be emptied. These are the issue that nobody wants to talk about, but if we want to
eradicate the practice of open defection, they have to be confronted and dealt properly.
64. Which among the following is the most crucial message conveyed by the above passage?
(a) The ideas of purity and pollutions are so deep-rooted that they cannot be removed from the minds
of the people.
(b) People have to perceive toilet use and pit-emptying as clean and not polluting.
(c) People cannot change their old habits.
(d) People have neither civic sense nor sense of privacy.

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Ans. (b)
The passage talks about confronting and dealing with the ideas of purity and pollution. In this context,
the most crucial message conveyed by the passage is option (b), “People have to perceive toilet use and
pit-emptying as clean and not polluting.”
Passage-5
In the last two decades, the world's gross domestic product (GDP) has increased 50 percent, whereas inclusive
wealth has increased by a mere 6 percent. In recent decades, GDP-driven economic performance, has only
harmed inclusive wealth like human capital; and natural capital like forests, land and water. While the world's
human capital which stands at 57 percent of total inclusive wealth grew by only 8 percent, the natural which is
23 percent of total inclusive wealth declined by 30 per cent worldwide in the last two decades.
65. Which of the following is the most crucial inference from the above passage?
(a) More emphasis should be laid on the development of natural capital.
(b) The growth driven by GDP only is neither desirable nor sustainable.
(c) The economic performance of the countries of the world is not satisfactory.
(d) The world needs more human capital under the present circumstances.
Ans. (b)
Option (c) does not resonate with the passage and hence incorrect.
Options (a) and (d) are only partially correct as they talk about either natural or human capital.
The best choice and the most crucial inference seems to be option (b)
Passage-6
By 2020, when the global economy is expected to run short of 56 million young people, India, with its youth
surplus of 47 million, could fill the gap. It is in this context that labour reforms are often cited as the way to
unlock double-digit growth in India. In 2014, India's labour force was estimated to be about 40 per cent of the
population, but 93 per cent of this force was in unorganized sector. Over the last decade, the compound annual
growth rate (CAGR) of employment has slowed to 0.5 per cent, with about 14 million jobs created during last
year when the labour force increased by about 15 million.
66. Which of the following is most rational inference from the above passage?
(a) India must control its population growth so as to reduce its unemployment rate.
(b) Labour reforms are required in India to make optimum use of its vast labour force productively
(c) India is poised to achieve the double-digit growth very soon
(d) India is capable of supplying !It, skilled young people to oil, countries.
Ans. (b)
Option (d) can be ruled out for being too specific where the passage is silent.
Options (a) and (c) cannot be inferred directly from the passage.
Option (b) is supported by the passage overall, especially line 2 of the passage.
Hence, Option (b) is the correct answer
Passage-7
The very first lesson that should be taught to us when are old enough to understand it, is that complete freedom
from the obligation to work is unnatural, and ought to be illegal, as we can escape our share of the burden of
work only by throwing it on someone else’s shoulders. Nature ordains that the human race shall perish of famine
if it stops working. We cannot escape from this tyranny. The question we have to settle is how much leisure we
can afford to allow ourselves.
67. The main idea of the passage is that
(a) it is essential for human beings to work
(b) there should be a balance between work and leisure

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 (c) working is a tyranny which we to face
(d) human's understanding of the nature of work is essential
Ans. (b)
Main idea of a passage is the brief, but all-encompassing summary. It covers everything the paragraph
talks about, but nothing in particular.
The passage explains that though we desire leisure, working is essential and ends by prodding extent of
amount of leisure time.
Hence, the main idea here is “there should be a balance between work and leisure”.
Option (b) is the correct answer
Passage-8
There is no harm in cultivating habits so long as they are not injurious. Indeed, most of us are little more than
bundle of habits. Take away our habits and the residuum would hardly be worth bothering about. We could not
get on without them. They simplify the mechanism of life. They enable us to do a multitude of things
automatically, which, if we had to give fresh and original thought to them each time, would make existence an
impossible confusion.
68. The author suggests that habits
(a) tend to make our lives difficult
(b) add precision to our lives
(c) make it easier for us to live
(d) tend to mechanize our lives
Ans. (c)
As per the passage, habits make it easier for us to live, as seen clearly in the last line “…make it easier for
us to live.”
Hence option (c) is correct
Directions for the following 2 (two) items: - Consider the given information and answer the two items that
follow.
No supporters of 'party X', who knew Z and supported his campaign strategy, agreed for the alliance with 'party
Y’; but some of them had friends in 'party Y'.
69. With reference to the above information, which one among the following statements must be true?
(a) Some supporters of 'party Y' did not agree for the alliance with the `party X'.
(b) There is at least one supporter of `party Y' who knew some supporters of 'party X' as a friend.
(c) No supporters of 'party X' supported Z's campaign strategy.
(d) No supporters of 'party X' knew Z.
Solution for 69 and 70
From the data given, we know
1. some supporters of party X -> knew Z -> none agreed for alliance with party Y
2. some supporters of party X -> knew Z -> some had friends in party Y
Ans. (b)
Option (a) is incorrect because we are not given information about opinion of supporters of party Y
Similarly, given data does not support option (c) or (d)
From 2, we can say that “There is at least one supporter of `party Y' who knew some supporters of 'party
X' as a friend”. Hence option (b) is correct

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70. With reference to the above information, consider the following statement
1. Some supporters of 'party X' knew Z
2. Some supporters of 'party X', who opposed Z's campaign strategy, knew Z.
3. No supporters of 'party X' supported Z's campaign strategy.
Which of the statements given above, is/are not correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Ans. (b)
Statement 1 is correct as per 1 and 2 both
Statements 2 and 3 are incorrect as using the data they cannot be concluded satisfactorily.
Hence option (b) is correct
71. If second and fourth Saturdays and ,all the Sundays are taken as only holidays for an office, what would
be the minimum number of possible working days of any month of any year?
(a) 23
(b) 22
(c) 21
(d) 20
Ans. (b)
To minimize the number of working days let us consider February month of a non-leap year, i.e. a month
of 28 days.

In it all the Sundays, i.e. 1, 8, 15 and 22 will be holidays. Also, 2nd and 4th Saturdays, i.e. 14 and 28 will be
holidays too.
Hence, minimum possible working days of any month of any year = 28 – 6 = 22 days
72. If there is a policy that 1/3rd of population of a community has migrated every year from one place, to
some other place, what is the leftover population of that community after the sixth year, if there is no
further growth in the population during this period?
(a) 16/243rd part of the population
(b) 32/243rd part of the population
(c) 32/729th part of the population
(d) 64/729th part of the population
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Ans. (d)
One third of the population migrates every year. If initially the population was x, after the first year it will
be x – x/3 = x (1 – 1/3) = 2x/3
After second year, population = (2x/3) × (1 – 1/3) = (2/3)2 x
Similarly, after sixth year, population = (2/3)6 x = (64/729) x, i.e. 64/729th part of the original population.
73. Four tests—Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics and Biology are to be conducted on four consecutive days,
not necessarily in the same order. The Physics test is held before the test which is conducted after
Biology. Chemistry is conducted exactly after two tests are held. Which is the last test held?
(a) Physics
(b) Biology
(c) Mathematics
(d) Chemistry
Ans. (c)
Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry and Biology tests have to be held on four consecutive days.
Chemistry is conducted exactly after two tests are held, i.e. it is the 3rd test to be held.

Now, Physics test is held before test which is conducted after Biology, i.e. neither Physics nor Biology is
the last test. Hence, Mathematics must be the test which is held last.
74. The sum of income of A and B is more than that of C and D taken together. The sum of income of A and C
is the same as that of B and D taken together. Moreover, A earns half as much as the sum of the income
of B and D. Whose income is the highest?
(a) A
(b) B
(c) C
(d) D
Ans. (b)
As per the question, A + B > C + D ……………..(i)
A + C = B + D …………………(ii)
A = (B + D)/2
Or B + D = 2A …………………….(iii)
Putting value of (B + D) in (ii), we get:
A + C = 2A
Or A = C
Using (i), we get:
A+B>C+D
or B > D
As per equation (iii), A (or C) is the mean of the values of B and D. Hence, its value must fall between B
and D.
Hence, B > A = C > D. So, B’s income is the highest.
75. Consider the following:
Statement:
Good voice is a natural gift but one has to keep practising to improve and well in the field of music.
Conclusions:
I. Natural gifts need nurturing and care.
II. Even though one's voice is not good, one can keep practising.
Which one of the following is correct, in respect of the above statement and conclusions?
(a) Only conclusion I follows from the statement.

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 (b) Only conclusion II follows from the statement.
(c) Either conclusion I or conclusion II follows from the statement.
(d) Neither conclusion I nor conclusion II follows from the statement.
Ans. (d)
The charateristic of good voice may not be applicable to all natural gifts. Hence, statement 1 cannot be
concluded.
Statement 2 can also not be concluded as passage does not comment on cases where voice is not good.
Hence, option (d) is the correct answer.
76. There are three pillars X, Y and Z of different heights. Three spiders A, B and C start to climb on these
pillars simultaneously. In one chance, A climbs on X by 6 cm but slips down 1 cm. B climbs on Y by 7 cm
but slips down 3 cm. C climbs on Z by 6.5 cm but slips down 2 cm. If each of them requires 40 chances to
reach the top of the pillars, what is the height of the shortest pillar?
(a) 161 cm
(b) 163 cm
(c) 182 cm
(d) 210 cm
Ans. (b)
Pillar X: In one chance, A climbs on X by 6 cm but slips down 1 cm. Hence, in one chance A climbs 6 – 1 =
5 cm.
Height attained after 39 chances = 39 × 5 = 195 cm
Thereafter in the 40th and last chance it will climb 6 cm to reach the top. So, height of pillar X = 195 + 6 =
201 cm
Pillar Y: In one chance, B climbs on Y by 7 cm but slips down 3 cm. Hence, in one chance B climbs 7 – 3 =
4 cm.
Height attained after 39 chances = 39 × 4 = 156 cm
Thereafter in the 40th and last chance it will climb 7 cm to reach the top. So, height of pillar Y = 156 + 7 =
163 cm
Pillar Z: In one chance, C climbs on Z by 6.5 cm but slips down 2 cm. Hence, in one chance C climbs 6.5 –
2 = 4.5 cm.
Height attained after 39 chances = 39 × 4.5 = 175.5 cm
Thereafter in the 40th and last chance it will climb 6.5 cm to reach the top. So, height of pillar Z = 175.5 +
6.5 = 182 cm
So, height of the shortest pillar (i.e. pillar Y) = 163 cm
77. "Rights are certain advantageous conditions of social well is i nr indispensable to the true development
of the citizen."
In the light of this statement, which one of the following is the correct understanding of rights?
(a) Rights aim at individual good only.
(b) Rights aim at social good only.
(c) Rights aim at both individual and social good.
(d) Rights aim at individual good devoid of social well-being.
Ans. (c)
The statement links the social well being with individual development. Hence, option (c) is the correct
answer.

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78. 15 students failed in a class of 52. After removing the names of failed students, a merit order list has
been prepared in which the position of Ramesh is 22nd from the top. What is his position from the
bottom?
(a) 18th
(b) 17th
(c) 16th
(d) 15th
Ans. (c)
15 students failed in a class of 52. Hence, number of students that passed = 52 – 15 = 37
In the list of passed students, position of Ramesh is 22nd from the top.
So, his position from the bottom = (37 + 1) – 22 = 38 – 22 = 16th
79. Consider the following:
A+ B means A is the son of B.
A - B means A is the wife of B.
What does the expression P + R – Q mean?
(a) Q is the son of P.
(b) Q is the wife of P.
(c) Q is the father of P.
(d) None of the above
Ans. (c)
A + B means A is the son of B; A - B means A is the wife of B
So, P + R – Q may be depicted as:

It’s clear that Q is the father of P.

80. Gopal bought a cell phone and sold it to Ram at 10% profit. Then Ram wanted to sell it back to Gopal at
10% loss. What will be Gopal's position if he agreed?
(a) Neither loss nor gain
(b) Loss 1%
(c) Gain 1%
(d) Gain 0.5%
Ans. (c)
Let cost price for Gopal = Rs. 100
He sold it to Ram at 10% profit. So, his selling price = 100 + 10% of 100 = 100 + 10 = Rs. 110
Now, if Ram resales it to Gopal at 10% loss, his selling price = 110 – 10% of 110 = 110 – 11 = Rs. 99
As far as Gopal is concerned, in this second transaction, by buying a Rs. 100 pen at Rs 99, he registers a
gain of 1%.

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