📋 MOCK TEST – SET 6
WBSSC / Competitive Exam Preparation | Total: 50 Questions | Click any option to see the answer & explanation
SECTION A: GENERAL AWARENESS (Q.1 – Q.20)
Q.1. The partition of Bengal was carried out by which Viceroy?
Answer: (3) Lord Curzon
The Partition of Bengal was announced on 19 July 1905 and came into effect on 16 October 1905 under Viceroy Lord Curzon. It divided Bengal into East Bengal (with Assam) and West Bengal. This aroused widespread protest and led to the Swadeshi Movement. The partition was annulled in 1911 by Lord Hardinge during the Delhi Durbar.
The Partition of Bengal was announced on 19 July 1905 and came into effect on 16 October 1905 under Viceroy Lord Curzon. It divided Bengal into East Bengal (with Assam) and West Bengal. This aroused widespread protest and led to the Swadeshi Movement. The partition was annulled in 1911 by Lord Hardinge during the Delhi Durbar.
Q.2. The Rowlatt Act (1919) empowered the government to:
Answer: (3) Imprison any person without trial
The Rowlatt Act (1919), also called the “Black Act,” empowered the British government to arrest and imprison any person without trial. Gandhi called it “No Vakil, No Appeal, No Daleel” (No lawyer, No appeal, No argument). It led to massive protests, culminating in the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre on 13 April 1919 by General Dyer in Amritsar.
The Rowlatt Act (1919), also called the “Black Act,” empowered the British government to arrest and imprison any person without trial. Gandhi called it “No Vakil, No Appeal, No Daleel” (No lawyer, No appeal, No argument). It led to massive protests, culminating in the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre on 13 April 1919 by General Dyer in Amritsar.
Q.3. Who wrote the Indian national song “Vande Mataram”?
Answer: (2) Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay
“Vande Mataram” was written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay and first published in his novel Anandamath (1882). It was composed in Sanskrit and Bengali. It was first sung at the 1896 INC session by Rabindranath Tagore. The first two stanzas were adopted as the National Song of India. The National Anthem “Jana Gana Mana” was written by Rabindranath Tagore.
“Vande Mataram” was written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay and first published in his novel Anandamath (1882). It was composed in Sanskrit and Bengali. It was first sung at the 1896 INC session by Rabindranath Tagore. The first two stanzas were adopted as the National Song of India. The National Anthem “Jana Gana Mana” was written by Rabindranath Tagore.
Q.4. The Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) in the Indian Constitution are:
Answer: (2) Non-justiciable — not enforceable by courts
The Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) are contained in Part IV (Articles 36–51) of the Constitution. They are non-justiciable — meaning they cannot be enforced by any court. However, they are fundamental in governance and it is the duty of the state to apply them. They are borrowed from the Irish Constitution. Fundamental Rights are justiciable; DPSPs are not.
The Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) are contained in Part IV (Articles 36–51) of the Constitution. They are non-justiciable — meaning they cannot be enforced by any court. However, they are fundamental in governance and it is the duty of the state to apply them. They are borrowed from the Irish Constitution. Fundamental Rights are justiciable; DPSPs are not.
Q.5. The concept of “Zero” in mathematics was given by:
Answer: (2) Brahmagupta
Brahmagupta (7th century AD) was the first mathematician to formally define and use zero (0) as a number in his work Brahmasphutasiddhanta (628 AD). He also defined rules for arithmetic operations with zero. Aryabhata (5th century) used a place-value system but Brahmagupta formalized zero. Ramanujan was a 20th-century mathematician known for number theory.
Brahmagupta (7th century AD) was the first mathematician to formally define and use zero (0) as a number in his work Brahmasphutasiddhanta (628 AD). He also defined rules for arithmetic operations with zero. Aryabhata (5th century) used a place-value system but Brahmagupta formalized zero. Ramanujan was a 20th-century mathematician known for number theory.
Q.6. Which soil type is best suited for cotton cultivation in India?
Answer: (3) Black soil (Regur)
Black soil (also called Regur soil or Cotton soil) is best suited for cotton cultivation. It is found mainly in the Deccan Plateau — Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh. It has high moisture-retaining capacity and is rich in calcium, potassium, and magnesium. Alluvial soil is best for rice and wheat; Red soil for millets; Laterite soil for tea and coffee.
Black soil (also called Regur soil or Cotton soil) is best suited for cotton cultivation. It is found mainly in the Deccan Plateau — Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh. It has high moisture-retaining capacity and is rich in calcium, potassium, and magnesium. Alluvial soil is best for rice and wheat; Red soil for millets; Laterite soil for tea and coffee.
Q.7. Which is the largest delta in the world?
Answer: (3) Sundarbans Delta (Ganges-Brahmaputra)
The Ganges-Brahmaputra Delta (Sundarbans Delta) is the world’s largest delta, shared between India (West Bengal) and Bangladesh. It covers approximately 105,000 sq km. It is formed by the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Meghna rivers. It is also the world’s largest mangrove forest and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for the Royal Bengal Tiger.
The Ganges-Brahmaputra Delta (Sundarbans Delta) is the world’s largest delta, shared between India (West Bengal) and Bangladesh. It covers approximately 105,000 sq km. It is formed by the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Meghna rivers. It is also the world’s largest mangrove forest and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for the Royal Bengal Tiger.
Q.8. The Schedules in the Indian Constitution — how many are there currently?
Answer: (3) 12
The Indian Constitution currently has 12 Schedules. Originally there were 8 Schedules. Key Schedules: 1st = States & UTs; 2nd = Salaries; 3rd = Oaths; 6th = Tribal areas (NE India); 7th = Three Lists (Union, State, Concurrent); 8th = 22 Official Languages; 9th = Land reform laws; 10th = Anti-Defection; 11th = Panchayats (73rd Amendment); 12th = Municipalities (74th Amendment).
The Indian Constitution currently has 12 Schedules. Originally there were 8 Schedules. Key Schedules: 1st = States & UTs; 2nd = Salaries; 3rd = Oaths; 6th = Tribal areas (NE India); 7th = Three Lists (Union, State, Concurrent); 8th = 22 Official Languages; 9th = Land reform laws; 10th = Anti-Defection; 11th = Panchayats (73rd Amendment); 12th = Municipalities (74th Amendment).
Q.9. India’s first indigenously built nuclear submarine is:
Answer: (2) INS Arihant
INS Arihant is India’s first indigenously built nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN). It was launched in 2009 and commissioned in 2016. With INS Arihant, India joined an elite club of nations (USA, Russia, UK, France, China) possessing a nuclear triad (land + air + sea). INS Vikramaditya is an aircraft carrier; INS Vikrant is India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier (2022).
INS Arihant is India’s first indigenously built nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN). It was launched in 2009 and commissioned in 2016. With INS Arihant, India joined an elite club of nations (USA, Russia, UK, France, China) possessing a nuclear triad (land + air + sea). INS Vikramaditya is an aircraft carrier; INS Vikrant is India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier (2022).
Q.10. Which river is known as the “lifeline of Rajasthan”?
Answer: (4) Luni
The Luni River is considered the lifeline of Rajasthan. It originates near Pushkar (Ajmer) and flows through the Thar Desert before draining into the Rann of Kutch. It is the only significant river of the desert region of Rajasthan. Note: The Indira Gandhi Canal is the largest canal project in Rajasthan and is also called the “lifeline of the desert.” Both are acceptable in different contexts.
The Luni River is considered the lifeline of Rajasthan. It originates near Pushkar (Ajmer) and flows through the Thar Desert before draining into the Rann of Kutch. It is the only significant river of the desert region of Rajasthan. Note: The Indira Gandhi Canal is the largest canal project in Rajasthan and is also called the “lifeline of the desert.” Both are acceptable in different contexts.
Q.11. The National Flower of India is:
Answer: (3) Lotus
The Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) is the National Flower of India. It symbolizes purity, enlightenment, and beauty. It is associated with Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu. Other national symbols: National Bird = Peacock; National Animal = Bengal Tiger; National Tree = Banyan (Ficus benghalensis); National Fruit = Mango; National River = Ganga; National Aquatic Animal = River Dolphin.
The Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) is the National Flower of India. It symbolizes purity, enlightenment, and beauty. It is associated with Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu. Other national symbols: National Bird = Peacock; National Animal = Bengal Tiger; National Tree = Banyan (Ficus benghalensis); National Fruit = Mango; National River = Ganga; National Aquatic Animal = River Dolphin.
Q.12. Which Five Year Plan in India gave priority to agriculture?
Answer: (1) First Five Year Plan
The First Five Year Plan (1951–56) gave top priority to agriculture to overcome food shortages. It was based on the Harrod-Domar model. The Second Five Year Plan (1956–61) focused on heavy industries (Mahalanobis model). The First Plan is remembered for launching major irrigation projects like Bhakra Nangal, Damodar Valley, and the Hirakud Dam.
The First Five Year Plan (1951–56) gave top priority to agriculture to overcome food shortages. It was based on the Harrod-Domar model. The Second Five Year Plan (1956–61) focused on heavy industries (Mahalanobis model). The First Plan is remembered for launching major irrigation projects like Bhakra Nangal, Damodar Valley, and the Hirakud Dam.
Q.13. Which disease is caused by deficiency of Vitamin C?
Answer: (3) Scurvy
Scurvy is caused by deficiency of Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid). Symptoms: bleeding gums, loose teeth, skin spots, fatigue. Vitamin C is found in citrus fruits. Important deficiency diseases: Vitamin A = Night blindness; Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) = Beriberi; Vitamin B3 (Niacin) = Pellagra; Vitamin C = Scurvy; Vitamin D = Rickets; Vitamin K = Poor blood clotting; Iodine = Goitre.
Scurvy is caused by deficiency of Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid). Symptoms: bleeding gums, loose teeth, skin spots, fatigue. Vitamin C is found in citrus fruits. Important deficiency diseases: Vitamin A = Night blindness; Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) = Beriberi; Vitamin B3 (Niacin) = Pellagra; Vitamin C = Scurvy; Vitamin D = Rickets; Vitamin K = Poor blood clotting; Iodine = Goitre.
Q.14. The loudness of sound is measured in:
Answer: (2) Decibel
The loudness (intensity) of sound is measured in Decibels (dB). Hertz (Hz) measures the frequency (pitch) of sound. Normal conversation ≈ 60 dB; Jet engine ≈ 140 dB; Threshold of pain ≈ 120 dB; Rustling leaves ≈ 10 dB. Sound above 85 dB can damage hearing. Watt measures power; Ampere measures electric current.
The loudness (intensity) of sound is measured in Decibels (dB). Hertz (Hz) measures the frequency (pitch) of sound. Normal conversation ≈ 60 dB; Jet engine ≈ 140 dB; Threshold of pain ≈ 120 dB; Rustling leaves ≈ 10 dB. Sound above 85 dB can damage hearing. Watt measures power; Ampere measures electric current.
Q.15. The capital of Australia is:
Answer: (3) Canberra
The capital of Australia is Canberra (not Sydney, which is the largest city). Canberra was purpose-built as a compromise between Sydney and Melbourne. Other commonly confused capitals: New Zealand = Wellington (not Auckland); USA = Washington D.C. (not New York); Brazil = Brasília (not Rio de Janeiro); Canada = Ottawa (not Toronto).
The capital of Australia is Canberra (not Sydney, which is the largest city). Canberra was purpose-built as a compromise between Sydney and Melbourne. Other commonly confused capitals: New Zealand = Wellington (not Auckland); USA = Washington D.C. (not New York); Brazil = Brasília (not Rio de Janeiro); Canada = Ottawa (not Toronto).
Q.16. The Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) was launched to achieve:
Answer: (2) Universal elementary education (6–14 years)
Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) was launched in 2001 by PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee to achieve Universal Elementary Education (UEE) for all children in the 6–14 age group. It is a flagship programme to implement the Right to Education Act (2009). It was later merged into the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan in 2018, which also covers secondary education.
Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) was launched in 2001 by PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee to achieve Universal Elementary Education (UEE) for all children in the 6–14 age group. It is a flagship programme to implement the Right to Education Act (2009). It was later merged into the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan in 2018, which also covers secondary education.
Q.17. Which country is the largest producer of crude oil in the world?
Answer: (3) United States
The United States is currently the world’s largest producer of crude oil, largely due to the shale oil revolution (fracking technology). Other top producers: Saudi Arabia (2nd), Russia (3rd), Canada, Iraq. OPEC (Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries) is dominated by Middle Eastern nations. India is one of the largest importers of crude oil.
The United States is currently the world’s largest producer of crude oil, largely due to the shale oil revolution (fracking technology). Other top producers: Saudi Arabia (2nd), Russia (3rd), Canada, Iraq. OPEC (Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries) is dominated by Middle Eastern nations. India is one of the largest importers of crude oil.
Q.18. The Sedentary farming (settled agriculture) in India was first practiced during:
Answer: (3) Neolithic Age
Settled (sedentary) agriculture began during the Neolithic Age (New Stone Age, c. 7000–4000 BCE). Humans transitioned from nomadic hunter-gatherers to settled farmers. They domesticated animals, cultivated crops, and made polished stone tools. Key Neolithic sites in India: Mehrgarh (Balochistan), Burzahom (Kashmir), Chirand (Bihar).
Settled (sedentary) agriculture began during the Neolithic Age (New Stone Age, c. 7000–4000 BCE). Humans transitioned from nomadic hunter-gatherers to settled farmers. They domesticated animals, cultivated crops, and made polished stone tools. Key Neolithic sites in India: Mehrgarh (Balochistan), Burzahom (Kashmir), Chirand (Bihar).
Q.19. The Swachh Bharat Mission was launched on:
Answer: (2) 2 October 2014
The Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) was launched by PM Narendra Modi on 2 October 2014 — the 145th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. Its goal was to make India open-defecation free (ODF) and improve solid waste management. SBM Phase II was launched in 2020–21. The mission succeeded in constructing over 10 crore toilets across rural India.
The Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) was launched by PM Narendra Modi on 2 October 2014 — the 145th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. Its goal was to make India open-defecation free (ODF) and improve solid waste management. SBM Phase II was launched in 2020–21. The mission succeeded in constructing over 10 crore toilets across rural India.
Q.20. Which instrument is used to measure atmospheric pressure?
Answer: (3) Barometer
A Barometer measures atmospheric pressure. It was invented by Evangelista Torricelli in 1643. Other instruments: Thermometer = temperature; Hygrometer = humidity/moisture; Anemometer = wind speed; Rain gauge = rainfall; Seismograph = earthquakes; Altimeter = altitude; Lactometer = purity of milk; Sphygmomanometer = blood pressure.
A Barometer measures atmospheric pressure. It was invented by Evangelista Torricelli in 1643. Other instruments: Thermometer = temperature; Hygrometer = humidity/moisture; Anemometer = wind speed; Rain gauge = rainfall; Seismograph = earthquakes; Altimeter = altitude; Lactometer = purity of milk; Sphygmomanometer = blood pressure.
SECTION B: GENERAL ENGLISH (Q.21 – Q.30)
Q.21. Choose the correct synonym of ‘PERNICIOUS’:
Answer: (2) Harmful
Pernicious means having a harmful effect, especially in a gradual or subtle way. Synonyms: Harmful, Destructive, Damaging, Detrimental, Injurious, Noxious. Antonyms: Beneficial, Helpful, Harmless. Example: “Smoking has a pernicious effect on one’s health.” This is a high-frequency vocabulary word for competitive exams.
Pernicious means having a harmful effect, especially in a gradual or subtle way. Synonyms: Harmful, Destructive, Damaging, Detrimental, Injurious, Noxious. Antonyms: Beneficial, Helpful, Harmless. Example: “Smoking has a pernicious effect on one’s health.” This is a high-frequency vocabulary word for competitive exams.
Q.22. Choose the correct antonym of ‘ARROGANT’:
Answer: (3) Humble
Arrogant means having an exaggerated sense of one’s own importance; being proud and overbearing. Its antonym is Humble (having a modest opinion of oneself). Proud, Haughty, and Conceited are all synonyms of Arrogant. Other antonyms: Meek, Modest, Unassuming. Example: “Unlike his arrogant colleagues, he was humble about his achievements.”
Arrogant means having an exaggerated sense of one’s own importance; being proud and overbearing. Its antonym is Humble (having a modest opinion of oneself). Proud, Haughty, and Conceited are all synonyms of Arrogant. Other antonyms: Meek, Modest, Unassuming. Example: “Unlike his arrogant colleagues, he was humble about his achievements.”
Q.23. Identify the correctly spelled word:
Answer: (3) Definitely
Correct spelling: Definitely. Trick: “definite” + “ly” = definitely. Root word is definite (not “definate”). Common misspelling: “definately” — there is NO ‘a’ in definitely. Similarly: Separate (not seperate), Necessary (one ‘c’, two ‘s’), Existence (not existance). Always memorize the root word first.
Correct spelling: Definitely. Trick: “definite” + “ly” = definitely. Root word is definite (not “definate”). Common misspelling: “definately” — there is NO ‘a’ in definitely. Similarly: Separate (not seperate), Necessary (one ‘c’, two ‘s’), Existence (not existance). Always memorize the root word first.
Q.24. Fill in the blank: She is very fond ________ reading novels.
Answer: (3) of
The correct preposition with “fond” is always “of”. “She is fond of reading novels.” Similarly: proud of, aware of, afraid of, tired of, capable of, guilty of, envious of, suspicious of — all use “of.” This preposition rule is one of the most tested topics in competitive English sections.
The correct preposition with “fond” is always “of”. “She is fond of reading novels.” Similarly: proud of, aware of, afraid of, tired of, capable of, guilty of, envious of, suspicious of — all use “of.” This preposition rule is one of the most tested topics in competitive English sections.
Q.25. The plural of ‘Leaf’ is:
Answer: (2) Leaves
Leaf → Leaves. Rule: Words ending in “-f” or “-fe” → change to “-ves”. Examples: Leaf→Leaves, Loaf→Loaves, Wolf→Wolves, Knife→Knives, Wife→Wives, Life→Lives, Calf→Calves, Half→Halves, Shelf→Shelves, Thief→Thieves. Exception: Roof→Roofs, Proof→Proofs, Belief→Beliefs (no change).
Leaf → Leaves. Rule: Words ending in “-f” or “-fe” → change to “-ves”. Examples: Leaf→Leaves, Loaf→Loaves, Wolf→Wolves, Knife→Knives, Wife→Wives, Life→Lives, Calf→Calves, Half→Halves, Shelf→Shelves, Thief→Thieves. Exception: Roof→Roofs, Proof→Proofs, Belief→Beliefs (no change).
Q.26. Identify the meaning of the idiom: “Costs an arm and a leg”
Answer: (2) Is very expensive
“Costs an arm and a leg” means extremely expensive — something that costs a very large amount of money. Example: “That new smartphone costs an arm and a leg!” Similar idioms: “Burn a hole in your pocket” (spend a lot), “Worth its weight in gold” (very valuable), “Break the bank” (exhaust resources).
“Costs an arm and a leg” means extremely expensive — something that costs a very large amount of money. Example: “That new smartphone costs an arm and a leg!” Similar idioms: “Burn a hole in your pocket” (spend a lot), “Worth its weight in gold” (very valuable), “Break the bank” (exhaust resources).
Q.27. Choose the grammatically correct sentence:
Answer: (2) The news is shocking.
“News” is an uncountable noun that always takes a singular verb. Correct: “The news is shocking.” Similarly, other uncountable nouns: information, furniture, advice, luggage, knowledge, equipment, traffic, homework — all take singular verbs. Common error in competitive exams: treating “news” as plural because it ends in ‘s’.
“News” is an uncountable noun that always takes a singular verb. Correct: “The news is shocking.” Similarly, other uncountable nouns: information, furniture, advice, luggage, knowledge, equipment, traffic, homework — all take singular verbs. Common error in competitive exams: treating “news” as plural because it ends in ‘s’.
Q.28. Convert to Passive Voice: “They will complete the project next month.”
Answer: (2) The project will be completed next month.
Tense: Simple Future Active → Passive rule: Object + will be + V3 + (by + agent, optional). “They will complete the project” → “The project will be completed (by them) next month.” Agent “by them” is omitted as it is not important. Key: Future Simple Passive = will be + past participle.
Tense: Simple Future Active → Passive rule: Object + will be + V3 + (by + agent, optional). “They will complete the project” → “The project will be completed (by them) next month.” Agent “by them” is omitted as it is not important. Key: Future Simple Passive = will be + past participle.
Q.29. Choose the word most similar in meaning to ‘CANDID’:
Answer: (3) Frank
Candid means truthful and straightforward; frank. Synonyms: Frank, Honest, Straightforward, Forthright, Open, Blunt. Antonyms: Secretive, Deceptive, Evasive, Dishonest. Example: “She gave a candid assessment of the situation.” “Candid camera” = a camera taking unposed, spontaneous photographs.
Candid means truthful and straightforward; frank. Synonyms: Frank, Honest, Straightforward, Forthright, Open, Blunt. Antonyms: Secretive, Deceptive, Evasive, Dishonest. Example: “She gave a candid assessment of the situation.” “Candid camera” = a camera taking unposed, spontaneous photographs.
Q.30. Spot the error: “The teacher, along with (A) / her students, (B) / were present (C) / in the class. (D)”
Answer: (3) C — “were present” should be “was present”
Rule: When two subjects are joined by “along with,” “as well as,” “together with,” “in addition to,” the verb agrees with the first/main subject. Here, the main subject is “The teacher” (singular), so the verb must be singular: “was present.” Correct: “The teacher, along with her students, was present in the class.”
Rule: When two subjects are joined by “along with,” “as well as,” “together with,” “in addition to,” the verb agrees with the first/main subject. Here, the main subject is “The teacher” (singular), so the verb must be singular: “was present.” Correct: “The teacher, along with her students, was present in the class.”
SECTION C: LOGICAL REASONING (Q.31 – Q.40)
Q.31. Find the odd one out: Cricket, Hockey, Tennis, Chess
Answer: (4) Chess
Cricket, Hockey, and Tennis are all outdoor sports played with a ball. Chess is an indoor board game — it does not involve physical outdoor play or a ball. The odd one out is based on the category: outdoor ball sports vs. indoor board game. Chess is a game of strategy played on a 64-square board.
Cricket, Hockey, and Tennis are all outdoor sports played with a ball. Chess is an indoor board game — it does not involve physical outdoor play or a ball. The odd one out is based on the category: outdoor ball sports vs. indoor board game. Chess is a game of strategy played on a 64-square board.
Q.32. Complete the number series: 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, ___
Answer: (3) 21
This is the famous Fibonacci sequence: each number is the sum of the two preceding numbers. 1+1=2, 1+2=3, 2+3=5, 3+5=8, 5+8=13, 8+13=21. The Fibonacci sequence appears in nature (flower petals, shells, leaf patterns) and is named after Italian mathematician Leonardo Fibonacci. Very commonly tested series.
This is the famous Fibonacci sequence: each number is the sum of the two preceding numbers. 1+1=2, 1+2=3, 2+3=5, 3+5=8, 5+8=13, 8+13=21. The Fibonacci sequence appears in nature (flower petals, shells, leaf patterns) and is named after Italian mathematician Leonardo Fibonacci. Very commonly tested series.
Q.33. If MANGO is coded as 13-1-14-7-15, what is the code for APPLE?
Answer: (1) 1-16-16-12-5
Code = alphabetical position of each letter: M=13, A=1, N=14, G=7, O=15 → MANGO=13-1-14-7-15 ✓. So APPLE: A=1, P=16, P=16, L=12, E=5 → 1-16-16-12-5. Note: P is the 16th letter. Key positions to remember: A=1, E=5, G=7, L=12, M=13, N=14, O=15, P=16, Z=26.
Code = alphabetical position of each letter: M=13, A=1, N=14, G=7, O=15 → MANGO=13-1-14-7-15 ✓. So APPLE: A=1, P=16, P=16, L=12, E=5 → 1-16-16-12-5. Note: P is the 16th letter. Key positions to remember: A=1, E=5, G=7, L=12, M=13, N=14, O=15, P=16, Z=26.
Q.34. Complete the series: 2, 6, 12, 20, 30, ___
Answer: (3) 42
Pattern: 1×2=2, 2×3=6, 3×4=12, 4×5=20, 5×6=30, 6×7=42. These are pronic numbers (n × (n+1)). Or observe differences: 4, 6, 8, 10… (even numbers) → next difference = 12. 30+12 = 42 ✓. Both approaches confirm the answer.
Pattern: 1×2=2, 2×3=6, 3×4=12, 4×5=20, 5×6=30, 6×7=42. These are pronic numbers (n × (n+1)). Or observe differences: 4, 6, 8, 10… (even numbers) → next difference = 12. 30+12 = 42 ✓. Both approaches confirm the answer.
Q.35. No cats are dogs. All dogs are animals. Therefore:
Answer: (3) Some animals are not cats
Logic: All dogs are animals → dogs are a subset of animals. No cats are dogs → cats and dogs are separate groups. Since ALL dogs are animals, and NO cats are dogs, the dogs (which are animals) are definitely not cats. Therefore: “Some animals (the dogs) are not cats” is a valid conclusion. “All cats are animals” cannot be concluded — we have no information relating cats to animals directly.
Logic: All dogs are animals → dogs are a subset of animals. No cats are dogs → cats and dogs are separate groups. Since ALL dogs are animals, and NO cats are dogs, the dogs (which are animals) are definitely not cats. Therefore: “Some animals (the dogs) are not cats” is a valid conclusion. “All cats are animals” cannot be concluded — we have no information relating cats to animals directly.
Q.36. Introducing a boy, a girl said, “His mother is the only daughter of my father.” How is the girl related to the boy?
Answer: (3) Mother
“Only daughter of my father” = the girl herself. So “His mother” = the girl. Therefore, the girl is the Mother of the boy. This is the same pattern as Set 4 Q.36 but phrased differently. Key: “only daughter/son of my father/mother” always refers to the speaker themselves. The boy is the girl’s son.
“Only daughter of my father” = the girl herself. So “His mother” = the girl. Therefore, the girl is the Mother of the boy. This is the same pattern as Set 4 Q.36 but phrased differently. Key: “only daughter/son of my father/mother” always refers to the speaker themselves. The boy is the girl’s son.
Q.37. A man faces North. He turns 90° clockwise, then 180° anti-clockwise. Which direction is he now facing?
Answer: (4) West
Start: North. Turn 90° clockwise → facing East. Turn 180° anti-clockwise from East → East → North → West (180° anti-clockwise from East = West). So final direction = West. Tip: Clockwise = N→E→S→W→N. Anti-clockwise = N→W→S→E→N. Draw it out if confused.
Start: North. Turn 90° clockwise → facing East. Turn 180° anti-clockwise from East → East → North → West (180° anti-clockwise from East = West). So final direction = West. Tip: Clockwise = N→E→S→W→N. Anti-clockwise = N→W→S→E→N. Draw it out if confused.
Q.38. If the day before yesterday was Saturday, what day will be the day after tomorrow?
Answer: (3) Thursday
Day before yesterday = Saturday → Yesterday = Sunday → Today = Monday → Tomorrow = Tuesday → Day after tomorrow = Wednesday… wait: Sat+1=Sun+1=Mon+1=Tue+1=Wed. Day after tomorrow = Wednesday. Let me recheck: If day before yesterday = Saturday, today = Saturday+2 = Monday. Day after tomorrow = Monday+2 = Wednesday. Answer: Wednesday. Correction noted — Answer is (2) Wednesday.
Day before yesterday = Saturday → Yesterday = Sunday → Today = Monday → Tomorrow = Tuesday → Day after tomorrow = Wednesday… wait: Sat+1=Sun+1=Mon+1=Tue+1=Wed. Day after tomorrow = Wednesday. Let me recheck: If day before yesterday = Saturday, today = Saturday+2 = Monday. Day after tomorrow = Monday+2 = Wednesday. Answer: Wednesday. Correction noted — Answer is (2) Wednesday.
Q.39. Pen is to Writer as Brush is to:
Answer: (3) Painter
Analogy: A Pen is the tool used by a Writer. Similarly, a Brush is the tool used by a Painter. The relationship is “Tool → Person who uses it.” Canvas is what the painter paints on; Colour is what the painter uses; Art is the product — but Painter is the person who uses the brush. Similar: Scalpel → Surgeon, Hammer → Carpenter.
Analogy: A Pen is the tool used by a Writer. Similarly, a Brush is the tool used by a Painter. The relationship is “Tool → Person who uses it.” Canvas is what the painter paints on; Colour is what the painter uses; Art is the product — but Painter is the person who uses the brush. Similar: Scalpel → Surgeon, Hammer → Carpenter.
Q.40. How many triangles are there in the figure below?
△
△△
△
△△
Answer: (3) 5
In a triangle divided into 4 smaller triangles (pyramid of 3 rows): Small triangles = 3 (bottom row: left, middle, right) + 1 (top) = 4 small triangles. Larger triangles: The bottom-left 2 small ones form 1 larger triangle + bottom-right 2 form 1 + the entire big outer triangle = 1. Total = 3 small (pointing up) + 1 small (pointing down) + 1 big = 5 triangles. Formula for n-row triangle: n(n+2)(2n+1)/8.
In a triangle divided into 4 smaller triangles (pyramid of 3 rows): Small triangles = 3 (bottom row: left, middle, right) + 1 (top) = 4 small triangles. Larger triangles: The bottom-left 2 small ones form 1 larger triangle + bottom-right 2 form 1 + the entire big outer triangle = 1. Total = 3 small (pointing up) + 1 small (pointing down) + 1 big = 5 triangles. Formula for n-row triangle: n(n+2)(2n+1)/8.
SECTION D: ARITHMETIC (Q.41 – Q.50)
Q.41. The sum of first 20 natural numbers is:
Answer: (3) 210
Formula: Sum of first n natural numbers = n(n+1)/2 = 20×21/2 = 420/2 = 210. This formula is essential. Verification: 1+2+…+20 = 210. Average = 210/20 = 10.5 = (first + last)/2 = (1+20)/2 = 10.5 ✓. Learn this formula: S = n(n+1)/2.
Formula: Sum of first n natural numbers = n(n+1)/2 = 20×21/2 = 420/2 = 210. This formula is essential. Verification: 1+2+…+20 = 210. Average = 210/20 = 10.5 = (first + last)/2 = (1+20)/2 = 10.5 ✓. Learn this formula: S = n(n+1)/2.
Q.42. Simplify: (25 × 4) ÷ (5 × 2) + 3²
Answer: (3) 19
BODMAS: Brackets first → (25×4) = 100 and (5×2) = 10. Then 100÷10 = 10. Orders: 3² = 9. Addition: 10+9 = 19. Full working: (25×4) ÷ (5×2) + 3² = 100 ÷ 10 + 9 = 10 + 9 = 19.
BODMAS: Brackets first → (25×4) = 100 and (5×2) = 10. Then 100÷10 = 10. Orders: 3² = 9. Addition: 10+9 = 19. Full working: (25×4) ÷ (5×2) + 3² = 100 ÷ 10 + 9 = 10 + 9 = 19.
Q.43. Pipe A fills a tank in 6 hours, Pipe B fills it in 8 hours. Both pipes are opened together. In how many hours will the tank be full?
Answer: (3) 3 hours 26 min (approx)
A fills 1/6 per hour, B fills 1/8 per hour. Together = 1/6 + 1/8 = 4/24 + 3/24 = 7/24 per hour. Time = 24/7 hours ≈ 3.43 hours ≈ 3 hours 26 minutes. Formula: Combined time = (A×B)/(A+B) = (6×8)/(6+8) = 48/14 = 24/7 ≈ 3.43 hours. Pipes and cisterns follow the same logic as Time and Work.
A fills 1/6 per hour, B fills 1/8 per hour. Together = 1/6 + 1/8 = 4/24 + 3/24 = 7/24 per hour. Time = 24/7 hours ≈ 3.43 hours ≈ 3 hours 26 minutes. Formula: Combined time = (A×B)/(A+B) = (6×8)/(6+8) = 48/14 = 24/7 ≈ 3.43 hours. Pipes and cisterns follow the same logic as Time and Work.
Q.44. A car covers 300 km in 5 hours. How long will it take to cover 420 km at the same speed?
Answer: (2) 7 hours
Speed = Distance ÷ Time = 300÷5 = 60 km/h. Time to cover 420 km = 420÷60 = 7 hours. Alternatively (unitary method): 300 km → 5 hours. 1 km → 5/300 hours. 420 km → 420×5/300 = 2100/300 = 7 hours ✓.
Speed = Distance ÷ Time = 300÷5 = 60 km/h. Time to cover 420 km = 420÷60 = 7 hours. Alternatively (unitary method): 300 km → 5 hours. 1 km → 5/300 hours. 420 km → 420×5/300 = 2100/300 = 7 hours ✓.
Q.45. If 4 : x = x : 16, find x.
Answer: (3) 8
4:x = x:16 means x is the mean proportional. Cross multiply: x×x = 4×16 → x² = 64 → x = √64 = 8. Verification: 4:8 = 8:16 → 1:2 = 1:2 ✓. This is the concept of mean proportional: if a:x = x:b, then x = √(ab) = √(4×16) = √64 = 8.
4:x = x:16 means x is the mean proportional. Cross multiply: x×x = 4×16 → x² = 64 → x = √64 = 8. Verification: 4:8 = 8:16 → 1:2 = 1:2 ✓. This is the concept of mean proportional: if a:x = x:b, then x = √(ab) = √(4×16) = √64 = 8.
Q.46. The ages of A and B are in the ratio 3:5. After 10 years their ages will be in ratio 5:7. Find the present age of B.
Answer: (2) 25 years
Let A = 3k, B = 5k. After 10 years: (3k+10)/(5k+10) = 5/7. Cross multiply: 7(3k+10) = 5(5k+10) → 21k+70 = 25k+50 → 4k = 20 → k = 5. B = 5k = 5×5 = 25 years. A = 15 years. Verification: After 10 years: A=25, B=35. Ratio = 25:35 = 5:7 ✓
Let A = 3k, B = 5k. After 10 years: (3k+10)/(5k+10) = 5/7. Cross multiply: 7(3k+10) = 5(5k+10) → 21k+70 = 25k+50 → 4k = 20 → k = 5. B = 5k = 5×5 = 25 years. A = 15 years. Verification: After 10 years: A=25, B=35. Ratio = 25:35 = 5:7 ✓
Q.47. What percentage is 75 of 300?
Answer: (3) 25%
Percentage = (Part/Whole) × 100 = (75/300) × 100 = 7500/300 = 25%. Quick method: 75/300 = 1/4 = 25%. Always use the formula: % = (value/total) × 100. This is the reverse percentage type — “what % is X of Y?”
Percentage = (Part/Whole) × 100 = (75/300) × 100 = 7500/300 = 25%. Quick method: 75/300 = 1/4 = 25%. Always use the formula: % = (value/total) × 100. This is the reverse percentage type — “what % is X of Y?”
Q.48. An article is bought for ₹500 and sold at a loss of 12%. Find the Selling Price.
Answer: (3) ₹440
SP at loss = CP × (1 − Loss%/100) = 500 × (1 − 12/100) = 500 × 0.88 = ₹440. Or: Loss amount = 12% of 500 = ₹60. SP = CP − Loss = 500 − 60 = ₹440 ✓. Verification: Loss% = (60/500)×100 = 12% ✓.
SP at loss = CP × (1 − Loss%/100) = 500 × (1 − 12/100) = 500 × 0.88 = ₹440. Or: Loss amount = 12% of 500 = ₹60. SP = CP − Loss = 500 − 60 = ₹440 ✓. Verification: Loss% = (60/500)×100 = 12% ✓.
Q.49. At what rate of simple interest will ₹2000 amount to ₹2600 in 4 years?
Answer: (3) 7.5%
SI = Amount − Principal = 2600 − 2000 = ₹600. Formula: R = (SI × 100) / (P × T) = (600 × 100) / (2000 × 4) = 60000/8000 = 7.5%. Verification: SI = (2000×7.5×4)/100 = 60000/100 = 600. Amount = 2000+600 = 2600 ✓
SI = Amount − Principal = 2600 − 2000 = ₹600. Formula: R = (SI × 100) / (P × T) = (600 × 100) / (2000 × 4) = 60000/8000 = 7.5%. Verification: SI = (2000×7.5×4)/100 = 60000/100 = 600. Amount = 2000+600 = 2600 ✓
Q.50. The area of a rectangle is 120 sq cm. If the length is 15 cm, find the perimeter.
Answer: (3) 46 cm
Area = Length × Breadth → 120 = 15 × Breadth → Breadth = 120/15 = 8 cm. Perimeter = 2 × (Length + Breadth) = 2 × (15 + 8) = 2 × 23 = 46 cm. Key formulas: Area of rectangle = l×b; Perimeter = 2(l+b); Area of square = a²; Perimeter of square = 4a.
Area = Length × Breadth → 120 = 15 × Breadth → Breadth = 120/15 = 8 cm. Perimeter = 2 × (Length + Breadth) = 2 × (15 + 8) = 2 × 23 = 46 cm. Key formulas: Area of rectangle = l×b; Perimeter = 2(l+b); Area of square = a²; Perimeter of square = 4a.