📋 MOCK TEST – SET 7
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 first Governor-General of independent India was:
Answer: (1)/(3) Lord Mountbatten
Lord Mountbatten was the first Governor-General of independent India (August 1947 – June 1948). He was also the last Viceroy of British India. After him, C. Rajagopalachari (Rajaji) became the last and only Indian Governor-General (1948–1950). On 26 January 1950, India became a Republic and Dr. Rajendra Prasad became the first President of India.
Lord Mountbatten was the first Governor-General of independent India (August 1947 – June 1948). He was also the last Viceroy of British India. After him, C. Rajagopalachari (Rajaji) became the last and only Indian Governor-General (1948–1950). On 26 January 1950, India became a Republic and Dr. Rajendra Prasad became the first President of India.
Q.2. The Champaran Satyagraha (1917) was related to:
Answer: (2) Indigo cultivation (Tinkathia system)
The Champaran Satyagraha (1917) in Bihar was Gandhi’s first Satyagraha in India. It was against the oppressive Tinkathia system, which forced peasants to cultivate indigo on 3/20th of their land for British planters. Gandhi organized the peasants and forced the planters to give up the Tinkathia system. This was Gandhi’s first major success in India and made him a national leader.
The Champaran Satyagraha (1917) in Bihar was Gandhi’s first Satyagraha in India. It was against the oppressive Tinkathia system, which forced peasants to cultivate indigo on 3/20th of their land for British planters. Gandhi organized the peasants and forced the planters to give up the Tinkathia system. This was Gandhi’s first major success in India and made him a national leader.
Q.3. Which Article of the Constitution grants the Right to Constitutional Remedies?
Answer: (4) Article 32
Article 32 grants the Right to Constitutional Remedies — the right to move the Supreme Court for enforcement of Fundamental Rights. Dr. Ambedkar called it the “heart and soul” of the Constitution. The Supreme Court can issue five writs: Habeas Corpus, Mandamus, Prohibition, Certiorari, Quo Warranto. Article 226 grants similar powers to High Courts. Article 32 itself is a Fundamental Right.
Article 32 grants the Right to Constitutional Remedies — the right to move the Supreme Court for enforcement of Fundamental Rights. Dr. Ambedkar called it the “heart and soul” of the Constitution. The Supreme Court can issue five writs: Habeas Corpus, Mandamus, Prohibition, Certiorari, Quo Warranto. Article 226 grants similar powers to High Courts. Article 32 itself is a Fundamental Right.
Q.4. The Chipko Movement was related to:
Answer: (1) Protection of forests/trees
The Chipko Movement (1973) was an environmental movement in Uttarakhand (then UP) where villagers, especially women, hugged trees (“chipko” = to hug/stick) to prevent their felling. It was led by Sundarlal Bahuguna and Chandi Prasad Bhatt. The movement inspired the concept of eco-feminism and led to a ban on felling of trees in the Himalayan region. “Chipko” means “to hug” in Hindi.
The Chipko Movement (1973) was an environmental movement in Uttarakhand (then UP) where villagers, especially women, hugged trees (“chipko” = to hug/stick) to prevent their felling. It was led by Sundarlal Bahuguna and Chandi Prasad Bhatt. The movement inspired the concept of eco-feminism and led to a ban on felling of trees in the Himalayan region. “Chipko” means “to hug” in Hindi.
Q.5. Panchayati Raj in India was launched in which state first?
Answer: (3) Rajasthan
The first Panchayati Raj system was inaugurated on 2 October 1959 at Nagaur district, Rajasthan by PM Jawaharlal Nehru. The second state was Andhra Pradesh. The Balwantrai Mehta Committee (1957) recommended the three-tier Panchayati Raj system (Gram Panchayat, Panchayat Samiti, Zila Parishad). The 73rd Constitutional Amendment (1992) gave constitutional status to Panchayati Raj.
The first Panchayati Raj system was inaugurated on 2 October 1959 at Nagaur district, Rajasthan by PM Jawaharlal Nehru. The second state was Andhra Pradesh. The Balwantrai Mehta Committee (1957) recommended the three-tier Panchayati Raj system (Gram Panchayat, Panchayat Samiti, Zila Parishad). The 73rd Constitutional Amendment (1992) gave constitutional status to Panchayati Raj.
Q.6. The Tropic of Cancer passes through how many Indian states?
Answer: (3) 8
The Tropic of Cancer (23.5°N) passes through 8 Indian states: Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Tripura, and Mizoram. Mnemonic: GuRuM C JhaWT (Gu-Gujarat, Ru-Rajasthan, M-MP, C-Chhattisgarh, Jha-Jharkhand, W-West Bengal, T-Tripura, T-Mizoram). It divides India roughly into two halves.
The Tropic of Cancer (23.5°N) passes through 8 Indian states: Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Tripura, and Mizoram. Mnemonic: GuRuM C JhaWT (Gu-Gujarat, Ru-Rajasthan, M-MP, C-Chhattisgarh, Jha-Jharkhand, W-West Bengal, T-Tripura, T-Mizoram). It divides India roughly into two halves.
Q.7. Which gas is used in electric bulbs to prevent the filament from burning?
Answer: (3) Argon or Nitrogen
Electric bulbs are filled with inert gases like Argon (most common) or Nitrogen to prevent the tungsten filament from burning/oxidizing at high temperatures. These gases do not react with the filament. If oxygen were present, the filament would burn out immediately. Modern LED bulbs don’t require this. Neon is used in signs; Helium in balloons.
Electric bulbs are filled with inert gases like Argon (most common) or Nitrogen to prevent the tungsten filament from burning/oxidizing at high temperatures. These gases do not react with the filament. If oxygen were present, the filament would burn out immediately. Modern LED bulbs don’t require this. Neon is used in signs; Helium in balloons.
Q.8. The book “Discovery of India” was written by:
Answer: (3) Jawaharlal Nehru
“The Discovery of India” was written by Jawaharlal Nehru while imprisoned at Ahmednagar Fort (1944). Other works by Nehru: “Glimpses of World History,” “An Autobiography.” Gandhi’s notable works: “My Experiments with Truth,” “Hind Swaraj.” Tagore: “Gitanjali,” “Gora,” “The Home and the World.” Ambedkar: “Annihilation of Caste,” “The Problem of the Rupee.”
“The Discovery of India” was written by Jawaharlal Nehru while imprisoned at Ahmednagar Fort (1944). Other works by Nehru: “Glimpses of World History,” “An Autobiography.” Gandhi’s notable works: “My Experiments with Truth,” “Hind Swaraj.” Tagore: “Gitanjali,” “Gora,” “The Home and the World.” Ambedkar: “Annihilation of Caste,” “The Problem of the Rupee.”
Q.9. World Environment Day is celebrated on:
Answer: (2) 5 June
World Environment Day is celebrated on 5 June every year since 1974, established by the United Nations. Other important environment-related days: Earth Day = 22 April; World Ozone Day = 16 September; World Water Day = 22 March; World Forest Day = 21 March; International Biodiversity Day = 22 May. The first Stockholm Conference on the Human Environment was held on 5 June 1972.
World Environment Day is celebrated on 5 June every year since 1974, established by the United Nations. Other important environment-related days: Earth Day = 22 April; World Ozone Day = 16 September; World Water Day = 22 March; World Forest Day = 21 March; International Biodiversity Day = 22 May. The first Stockholm Conference on the Human Environment was held on 5 June 1972.
Q.10. Which monument is called the “Black Pagoda”?
Answer: (3) Konark Sun Temple
The Konark Sun Temple in Odisha is called the “Black Pagoda” by European sailors (due to its dark stone appearance from the sea). It was built by King Narasimha Deva I of the Eastern Ganga dynasty in the 13th century. It is shaped like a giant chariot with 24 wheels drawn by 7 horses. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Brihadisvara Temple (Tanjore) is called “Big Temple.”
The Konark Sun Temple in Odisha is called the “Black Pagoda” by European sailors (due to its dark stone appearance from the sea). It was built by King Narasimha Deva I of the Eastern Ganga dynasty in the 13th century. It is shaped like a giant chariot with 24 wheels drawn by 7 horses. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Brihadisvara Temple (Tanjore) is called “Big Temple.”
Q.11. Who is known as the “Father of White Revolution” in India?
Answer: (2) Verghese Kurien
Dr. Verghese Kurien is known as the “Father of White Revolution” (Milk Revolution / Operation Flood) in India. He was the founder of Amul (Anand Milk Union Limited) and NDDB (National Dairy Development Board). Operation Flood (1970) made India the world’s largest milk producer. M.S. Swaminathan = Father of Green Revolution in India; Norman Borlaug = Father of Green Revolution globally.
Dr. Verghese Kurien is known as the “Father of White Revolution” (Milk Revolution / Operation Flood) in India. He was the founder of Amul (Anand Milk Union Limited) and NDDB (National Dairy Development Board). Operation Flood (1970) made India the world’s largest milk producer. M.S. Swaminathan = Father of Green Revolution in India; Norman Borlaug = Father of Green Revolution globally.
Q.12. The term “Fascism” is associated with which country?
Answer: (2) Italy
Fascism as a political ideology originated in Italy under Benito Mussolini (Il Duce), who founded the Italian Fascist Party in 1921 and became Prime Minister in 1922. Germany under Hitler had Nazism (a variant of fascism). Japan had militarism. Fascism is characterized by dictatorial power, forcible suppression of opposition, and strong regimentation of society.
Fascism as a political ideology originated in Italy under Benito Mussolini (Il Duce), who founded the Italian Fascist Party in 1921 and became Prime Minister in 1922. Germany under Hitler had Nazism (a variant of fascism). Japan had militarism. Fascism is characterized by dictatorial power, forcible suppression of opposition, and strong regimentation of society.
Q.13. The Great Barrier Reef is located in:
Answer: (3) Coral Sea, off Queensland, Australia
The Great Barrier Reef is located in the Coral Sea off the coast of Queensland, Australia. It is the world’s largest coral reef system, stretching over 2,300 km. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and supports extraordinary marine biodiversity. It is threatened by coral bleaching due to rising sea temperatures caused by climate change.
The Great Barrier Reef is located in the Coral Sea off the coast of Queensland, Australia. It is the world’s largest coral reef system, stretching over 2,300 km. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and supports extraordinary marine biodiversity. It is threatened by coral bleaching due to rising sea temperatures caused by climate change.
Q.14. Photosynthesis in plants takes place in:
Answer: (3) Chloroplast
Photosynthesis takes place in the chloroplast, which contains the green pigment chlorophyll. Equation: 6CO₂ + 6H₂O + sunlight → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂. Chloroplast is found only in plant cells. Other organelles: Mitochondria = “powerhouse of the cell” (respiration/energy); Nucleus = control centre (DNA); Ribosome = protein synthesis.
Photosynthesis takes place in the chloroplast, which contains the green pigment chlorophyll. Equation: 6CO₂ + 6H₂O + sunlight → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂. Chloroplast is found only in plant cells. Other organelles: Mitochondria = “powerhouse of the cell” (respiration/energy); Nucleus = control centre (DNA); Ribosome = protein synthesis.
Q.15. The Parliament of India consists of:
Answer: (3) President, Lok Sabha, and Rajya Sabha
As per Article 79 of the Constitution, the Parliament of India consists of three parts: The President, the Rajya Sabha (Council of States), and the Lok Sabha (House of the People). The President is an integral part of Parliament, though not a member. Lok Sabha has 543 elected members + 2 Anglo-Indian nominated (now abolished); Rajya Sabha has max 250 members.
As per Article 79 of the Constitution, the Parliament of India consists of three parts: The President, the Rajya Sabha (Council of States), and the Lok Sabha (House of the People). The President is an integral part of Parliament, though not a member. Lok Sabha has 543 elected members + 2 Anglo-Indian nominated (now abolished); Rajya Sabha has max 250 members.
Q.16. Which is the longest National Highway in India?
Answer: (1) NH-44
NH-44 is the longest National Highway in India, stretching approximately 3,745 km from Srinagar (J&K) to Kanyakumari (Tamil Nadu). It was previously known as NH-7 (Varanasi to Kanyakumari) before renumbering in 2016. NH-48 connects Delhi to Chennai. NH-27 connects Porbandar to Silchar. The Golden Quadrilateral connects Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata.
NH-44 is the longest National Highway in India, stretching approximately 3,745 km from Srinagar (J&K) to Kanyakumari (Tamil Nadu). It was previously known as NH-7 (Varanasi to Kanyakumari) before renumbering in 2016. NH-48 connects Delhi to Chennai. NH-27 connects Porbandar to Silchar. The Golden Quadrilateral connects Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata.
Q.17. ‘Operation Flood’ was associated with:
Answer: (3) Dairy development / Milk production
Operation Flood (1970–1996) was the world’s largest dairy development programme, launched by the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) under Dr. Verghese Kurien. It transformed India from a milk-deficient country to the world’s largest milk producer. It created a national milk grid, linked rural dairy cooperatives with urban consumers, and became known as India’s White Revolution.
Operation Flood (1970–1996) was the world’s largest dairy development programme, launched by the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) under Dr. Verghese Kurien. It transformed India from a milk-deficient country to the world’s largest milk producer. It created a national milk grid, linked rural dairy cooperatives with urban consumers, and became known as India’s White Revolution.
Q.18. Which planet in our solar system has the most moons?
Answer: (2) Saturn
As of recent discoveries, Saturn holds the record for the most moons in our solar system with 146+ confirmed moons (surpassing Jupiter’s ~95). Saturn’s largest moon is Titan, which has a thick atmosphere and liquid methane lakes. Jupiter’s largest moons are the Galilean moons: Io, Europa, Ganymede, Callisto. Our Moon is Earth’s only natural satellite.
As of recent discoveries, Saturn holds the record for the most moons in our solar system with 146+ confirmed moons (surpassing Jupiter’s ~95). Saturn’s largest moon is Titan, which has a thick atmosphere and liquid methane lakes. Jupiter’s largest moons are the Galilean moons: Io, Europa, Ganymede, Callisto. Our Moon is Earth’s only natural satellite.
Q.19. The Bharat Ratna was first awarded in:
Answer: (3) 1954
The Bharat Ratna (India’s highest civilian honour) was first awarded in 1954. The first recipients were: C. Rajagopalachari (statesman), Dr. S. Radhakrishnan (philosopher), and Dr. C.V. Raman (scientist). It is awarded for exceptional service in the advancement of Art, Literature, Science, or Public Service. The award consists of a peepal-leaf shaped medallion with the sun emblem.
The Bharat Ratna (India’s highest civilian honour) was first awarded in 1954. The first recipients were: C. Rajagopalachari (statesman), Dr. S. Radhakrishnan (philosopher), and Dr. C.V. Raman (scientist). It is awarded for exceptional service in the advancement of Art, Literature, Science, or Public Service. The award consists of a peepal-leaf shaped medallion with the sun emblem.
Q.20. West Bengal shares its border with how many countries?
Answer: (3) 3
West Bengal shares international borders with 3 countries: Bangladesh (east), Nepal (north), and Bhutan (north). West Bengal is the only Indian state that borders both Bangladesh and two Himalayan nations. It also borders the states of Sikkim, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Odisha domestically. Siliguri (in North Bengal) is strategically important — it connects Northeast India via the Chicken’s Neck corridor.
West Bengal shares international borders with 3 countries: Bangladesh (east), Nepal (north), and Bhutan (north). West Bengal is the only Indian state that borders both Bangladesh and two Himalayan nations. It also borders the states of Sikkim, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Odisha domestically. Siliguri (in North Bengal) is strategically important — it connects Northeast India via the Chicken’s Neck corridor.
SECTION B: GENERAL ENGLISH (Q.21 – Q.30)
Q.21. Choose the correct synonym of ‘BENEVOLENT’:
Answer: (2) Kind and generous
Benevolent means well-meaning and kindly; generous and charitable. Synonyms: Kind, Generous, Charitable, Philanthropic, Altruistic, Magnanimous. Antonyms: Malevolent (wishing harm), Cruel, Stingy, Selfish. Root: Latin bene (good) + volens (wishing). Example: “The benevolent merchant donated to the poor.” Related word: Benevolence (noun).
Benevolent means well-meaning and kindly; generous and charitable. Synonyms: Kind, Generous, Charitable, Philanthropic, Altruistic, Magnanimous. Antonyms: Malevolent (wishing harm), Cruel, Stingy, Selfish. Root: Latin bene (good) + volens (wishing). Example: “The benevolent merchant donated to the poor.” Related word: Benevolence (noun).
Q.22. Choose the correct antonym of ‘TRANSPARENT’:
Answer: (3) Opaque
Transparent means allowing light to pass through clearly; or easy to perceive or detect. Its antonym is Opaque (not allowing light to pass through; not transparent). Other antonyms: Cloudy, Murky, Obscure. In figurative use: Transparent = honest/open; Opaque = unclear/secretive. Example: “Glass is transparent; wood is opaque.”
Transparent means allowing light to pass through clearly; or easy to perceive or detect. Its antonym is Opaque (not allowing light to pass through; not transparent). Other antonyms: Cloudy, Murky, Obscure. In figurative use: Transparent = honest/open; Opaque = unclear/secretive. Example: “Glass is transparent; wood is opaque.”
Q.23. Identify the correctly spelled word:
Answer: (3) Accommodation
Correct spelling: Accommodation — double ‘c’ AND double ‘m’. Trick: “AC-COM-MO-dation” — two c’s and two m’s. Common error: writing only one ‘c’ or one ‘m’. This is one of the most commonly misspelled words in English. Similarly: Recommend (one ‘c’, two ‘m’s) = rec-om-mend. Remember: “Accommodation has double letters twice.”
Correct spelling: Accommodation — double ‘c’ AND double ‘m’. Trick: “AC-COM-MO-dation” — two c’s and two m’s. Common error: writing only one ‘c’ or one ‘m’. This is one of the most commonly misspelled words in English. Similarly: Recommend (one ‘c’, two ‘m’s) = rec-om-mend. Remember: “Accommodation has double letters twice.”
Q.24. Fill in the blank: He is suffering ________ fever.
Answer: (2) from
The correct preposition with “suffering” is “from”: “He is suffering from fever.” Similarly: suffering from cold/diabetes/poverty. Rule: “Suffer from” is used for diseases, conditions, and adversities. “Suffer with” is sometimes used informally but “suffer from” is the standard and correct form in formal/exam English.
The correct preposition with “suffering” is “from”: “He is suffering from fever.” Similarly: suffering from cold/diabetes/poverty. Rule: “Suffer from” is used for diseases, conditions, and adversities. “Suffer with” is sometimes used informally but “suffer from” is the standard and correct form in formal/exam English.
Q.25. The plural of ‘Child’ is:
Answer: (3) Children
Child → Children is an irregular plural (does not follow standard rules). Other important irregular plurals: Man→Men, Woman→Women, Mouse→Mice, Goose→Geese, Tooth→Teeth, Foot→Feet, Ox→Oxen, Louse→Lice, Deer→Deer (no change), Sheep→Sheep (no change), Fish→Fish (no change). “Childrens” is NEVER correct — “children” is already plural.
Child → Children is an irregular plural (does not follow standard rules). Other important irregular plurals: Man→Men, Woman→Women, Mouse→Mice, Goose→Geese, Tooth→Teeth, Foot→Feet, Ox→Oxen, Louse→Lice, Deer→Deer (no change), Sheep→Sheep (no change), Fish→Fish (no change). “Childrens” is NEVER correct — “children” is already plural.
Q.26. Identify the meaning of the idiom: “Hit the nail on the head”
Answer: (3) To say or do exactly the right thing
“Hit the nail on the head” means to describe exactly what is causing a situation or problem; to say or do exactly the right thing. Origin: Striking a nail precisely on its head drives it in perfectly. Example: “When she said the project failed due to poor planning, she hit the nail on the head.” Opposite idiom: “Beat around the bush” (avoid the main topic).
“Hit the nail on the head” means to describe exactly what is causing a situation or problem; to say or do exactly the right thing. Origin: Striking a nail precisely on its head drives it in perfectly. Example: “When she said the project failed due to poor planning, she hit the nail on the head.” Opposite idiom: “Beat around the bush” (avoid the main topic).
Q.27. Choose the grammatically correct sentence:
Answer: (2) Neither of the boys was present.
Rule: Neither of / Either of + plural noun → takes a singular verb. “Neither of the boys was present.” Similarly: “Either of the girls is right.” Compare: “Neither boy was present” (no ‘of’ = directly before singular noun). This is a commonly tested subject-verb agreement rule. “None of” also typically takes singular verb in formal English.
Rule: Neither of / Either of + plural noun → takes a singular verb. “Neither of the boys was present.” Similarly: “Either of the girls is right.” Compare: “Neither boy was present” (no ‘of’ = directly before singular noun). This is a commonly tested subject-verb agreement rule. “None of” also typically takes singular verb in formal English.
Q.28. Convert to Active Voice: “The letter was written by Priya.”
Answer: (2) Priya wrote the letter.
Passive: “The letter was written by Priya.” → The tense is Simple Past Passive (was + V3). Active rule: Subject (agent) + Past tense verb + Object. “Priya wrote the letter.” ✓ The auxiliary “was” disappears; V3 “written” becomes V2 “wrote.” Active: Priya (subject) + wrote (V2) + the letter (object).
Passive: “The letter was written by Priya.” → The tense is Simple Past Passive (was + V3). Active rule: Subject (agent) + Past tense verb + Object. “Priya wrote the letter.” ✓ The auxiliary “was” disappears; V3 “written” becomes V2 “wrote.” Active: Priya (subject) + wrote (V2) + the letter (object).
Q.29. Choose the word most similar in meaning to ‘ZENITH’:
Answer: (3) Peak / Summit
Zenith literally means the highest point in the sky directly above an observer; figuratively, it means the highest point reached. Synonyms: Peak, Summit, Apex, Pinnacle, Acme, Culmination. Antonyms: Nadir (lowest point), Bottom, Valley. Example: “She was at the zenith of her career.” Nadir is the exact opposite of Zenith in astronomy.
Zenith literally means the highest point in the sky directly above an observer; figuratively, it means the highest point reached. Synonyms: Peak, Summit, Apex, Pinnacle, Acme, Culmination. Antonyms: Nadir (lowest point), Bottom, Valley. Example: “She was at the zenith of her career.” Nadir is the exact opposite of Zenith in astronomy.
Q.30. Spot the error: “Each of the students (A) / have submitted (B) / their homework (C) / on time. (D)”
Answer: (2) B — “have submitted” should be “has submitted”
Rule: Each, Every, Either, Neither, Anyone, Everyone, Someone, No one, Nobody, Somebody — all take a singular verb. “Each of the students has submitted their homework on time.” ✓ The word “each” refers to every one individually, making it singular. Common error: being misled by the plural noun “students” before the verb.
Rule: Each, Every, Either, Neither, Anyone, Everyone, Someone, No one, Nobody, Somebody — all take a singular verb. “Each of the students has submitted their homework on time.” ✓ The word “each” refers to every one individually, making it singular. Common error: being misled by the plural noun “students” before the verb.
SECTION C: LOGICAL REASONING (Q.31 – Q.40)
Q.31. Find the odd one out: Rose, Lily, Lotus, Mango
Answer: (4) Mango
Rose, Lily, and Lotus are all flowers. Mango is a fruit. The odd one out is Mango because it does not belong to the category of flowers. Note: The Lotus is India’s National Flower and the Mango is India’s National Fruit — both are nationally significant, but in this question the category distinction (flower vs. fruit) is the key.
Rose, Lily, and Lotus are all flowers. Mango is a fruit. The odd one out is Mango because it does not belong to the category of flowers. Note: The Lotus is India’s National Flower and the Mango is India’s National Fruit — both are nationally significant, but in this question the category distinction (flower vs. fruit) is the key.
Q.32. Complete the number series: 3, 9, 27, 81, ___
Answer: (3) 243
Pattern: Each term is multiplied by 3. 3×3=9, 9×3=27, 27×3=81, 81×3=243. This is a geometric progression (GP) with common ratio r=3. It is also powers of 3: 3¹=3, 3²=9, 3³=27, 3⁴=81, 3⁵=243. Geometric series questions (multiplied/divided by a constant) are common in competitive exams.
Pattern: Each term is multiplied by 3. 3×3=9, 9×3=27, 27×3=81, 81×3=243. This is a geometric progression (GP) with common ratio r=3. It is also powers of 3: 3¹=3, 3²=9, 3³=27, 3⁴=81, 3⁵=243. Geometric series questions (multiplied/divided by a constant) are common in competitive exams.
Q.33. If in a certain code RAIN = 5-1-9-14, then SNOW = ?
Answer: (2) 19-14-15-23
Code = alphabetical position of each letter: R=18? But RAIN = 5-1-9-14. Check: R=18, A=1, I=9, N=14… but R should be 18 not 5. Wait: maybe it’s reversed from Z: R=26-18+1=9? No. Try: R(18)→5: 18-13=5; A(1)→1: 1-0=1? No pattern. Let’s try: R→5 (R is the 18th letter, 1+8=9≠5). Alternatively: R=5th from end in “RAIN”? No. Try position in the word: R=position1=in alphabet skip? Let me try: A=1,I=9,N=14 are direct alphabet positions. R→5: maybe R(18) mod 13 = 5. Check A(1) mod 13 = 1 ✓, I(9) mod 13 = 9 ✓, N(14) mod 13 = 1 ≠ 14. Not that. Simplest: the code IS alphabetical position, and RAIN = R(18)A(1)I(9)N(14) but written as 5-1-9-14 means R is coded as 5. Pattern: R(18)→5 = 18-13; but A(1)→1 = 1-0; I(9)→9=9-0; N(14)→14=14-0. Only R shifts? Let’s try: each letter minus its position in the word. R is 1st letter, 18-13=5 ✓; A is 2nd, 1-0=1 ✓; I is 3rd, 9-0=9 ✓; N is 4th, 14-0=14 ✓. Not consistent. Most likely the question intends direct alphabet position but R is coded differently as a trick — or RAIN=5-1-9-14 means A=1,I=9,N=14 (3 of 4 match direct positions), and R(18)→5 maybe R is coded as R-13=5 as a special case, which doesn’t make sense. The most likely intended interpretation: RAIN is coded as alphabet positions directly: R=18,A=1,I=9,N=14 but there’s a typo and it should be 18-1-9-14. Then SNOW: S=19,N=14,O=15,W=23 → 19-14-15-23 ✓. Answer: 19-14-15-23.
Code = alphabetical position of each letter: R=18? But RAIN = 5-1-9-14. Check: R=18, A=1, I=9, N=14… but R should be 18 not 5. Wait: maybe it’s reversed from Z: R=26-18+1=9? No. Try: R(18)→5: 18-13=5; A(1)→1: 1-0=1? No pattern. Let’s try: R→5 (R is the 18th letter, 1+8=9≠5). Alternatively: R=5th from end in “RAIN”? No. Try position in the word: R=position1=in alphabet skip? Let me try: A=1,I=9,N=14 are direct alphabet positions. R→5: maybe R(18) mod 13 = 5. Check A(1) mod 13 = 1 ✓, I(9) mod 13 = 9 ✓, N(14) mod 13 = 1 ≠ 14. Not that. Simplest: the code IS alphabetical position, and RAIN = R(18)A(1)I(9)N(14) but written as 5-1-9-14 means R is coded as 5. Pattern: R(18)→5 = 18-13; but A(1)→1 = 1-0; I(9)→9=9-0; N(14)→14=14-0. Only R shifts? Let’s try: each letter minus its position in the word. R is 1st letter, 18-13=5 ✓; A is 2nd, 1-0=1 ✓; I is 3rd, 9-0=9 ✓; N is 4th, 14-0=14 ✓. Not consistent. Most likely the question intends direct alphabet position but R is coded differently as a trick — or RAIN=5-1-9-14 means A=1,I=9,N=14 (3 of 4 match direct positions), and R(18)→5 maybe R is coded as R-13=5 as a special case, which doesn’t make sense. The most likely intended interpretation: RAIN is coded as alphabet positions directly: R=18,A=1,I=9,N=14 but there’s a typo and it should be 18-1-9-14. Then SNOW: S=19,N=14,O=15,W=23 → 19-14-15-23 ✓. Answer: 19-14-15-23.
Q.34. Complete the letter series: B, D, F, H, J, ___
Answer: (2) L
Pattern: B, D, F, H, J — these are all even-positioned letters (skipping one letter each time): B(2), D(4), F(6), H(8), J(10), L(12). Each letter skips one letter: ABCDEFGHIJKL. The next letter after J (skipping K) is L. These are all even letters of the alphabet.
Pattern: B, D, F, H, J — these are all even-positioned letters (skipping one letter each time): B(2), D(4), F(6), H(8), J(10), L(12). Each letter skips one letter: ABCDEFGHIJKL. The next letter after J (skipping K) is L. These are all even letters of the alphabet.
Q.35. All roses are flowers. Some flowers fade quickly. Therefore:
Answer: (3) No definite conclusion about roses fading
Syllogism: “All roses are flowers” (A-type) + “Some flowers fade quickly” (I-type). The “some flowers” that fade may or may not include roses. We cannot conclude that roses specifically fade or don’t fade. When an A-I combination gives a conclusion, it is valid only if the middle term (flowers) is distributed in the A proposition. Here, roses are a subset of flowers, but we don’t know if those “some” flowers include roses.
Syllogism: “All roses are flowers” (A-type) + “Some flowers fade quickly” (I-type). The “some flowers” that fade may or may not include roses. We cannot conclude that roses specifically fade or don’t fade. When an A-I combination gives a conclusion, it is valid only if the middle term (flowers) is distributed in the A proposition. Here, roses are a subset of flowers, but we don’t know if those “some” flowers include roses.
Q.36. Pointing to a photograph, Ravi says, “She is the daughter of the only son of my grandfather.” How is the person in the photograph related to Ravi?
Answer: (3) Sister
“Only son of my grandfather” = Ravi’s father. “Daughter of Ravi’s father” = Ravi’s sister. So the person in the photograph is Ravi’s sister. Step-by-step: My grandfather’s only son = my father → his daughter = my sister. Simple chain: Grandfather → Father (only son) → Daughter = Sister.
“Only son of my grandfather” = Ravi’s father. “Daughter of Ravi’s father” = Ravi’s sister. So the person in the photograph is Ravi’s sister. Step-by-step: My grandfather’s only son = my father → his daughter = my sister. Simple chain: Grandfather → Father (only son) → Daughter = Sister.
Q.37. Rearrange the following to make a meaningful word: T, A, R, E, H
Answer: (2) HEART
Letters: T, A, R, E, H → rearranged = HEART. Other possible words from these letters: EARTH, HATER, RATHE. But HEART and EARTH are the most meaningful common words. The answer is HEART (H-E-A-R-T). Anagram questions test vocabulary and pattern recognition. Tip: look for common word patterns like -EAR-, -EAR, HEAR-, etc.
Letters: T, A, R, E, H → rearranged = HEART. Other possible words from these letters: EARTH, HATER, RATHE. But HEART and EARTH are the most meaningful common words. The answer is HEART (H-E-A-R-T). Anagram questions test vocabulary and pattern recognition. Tip: look for common word patterns like -EAR-, -EAR, HEAR-, etc.
Q.38. In a row of 30 students, Rahul is 8th from the left. Mona is 15th from the right. How many students are between them?
Answer: (3) 7
Rahul is 8th from left → position 8. Mona is 15th from right → position from left = 30−15+1 = 16. Rahul is at position 8; Mona is at position 16. Students between them = 16−8−1 = 7. Positions 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 = 7 students between Rahul (8th) and Mona (16th). ✓
Rahul is 8th from left → position 8. Mona is 15th from right → position from left = 30−15+1 = 16. Rahul is at position 8; Mona is at position 16. Students between them = 16−8−1 = 7. Positions 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 = 7 students between Rahul (8th) and Mona (16th). ✓
Q.39. Doctor is to Hospital as Teacher is to:
Answer: (3) School
Analogy: A Doctor works at a Hospital. Similarly, a Teacher works at a School. The relationship is “Person → Workplace.” Other similar analogies: Lawyer → Court; Soldier → Barracks/Army; Pilot → Airport/Cockpit; Chef → Kitchen; Farmer → Farm. The key is identifying the relationship type correctly.
Analogy: A Doctor works at a Hospital. Similarly, a Teacher works at a School. The relationship is “Person → Workplace.” Other similar analogies: Lawyer → Court; Soldier → Barracks/Army; Pilot → Airport/Cockpit; Chef → Kitchen; Farmer → Farm. The key is identifying the relationship type correctly.
Q.40. A clock shows 3:00. What is the angle between the hour and minute hands?
Answer: (3) 90°
At 3:00, the minute hand is at 12 (0°) and the hour hand is at 3 (90°). A clock is divided into 12 hours = 360°, so each hour = 30°. Hour hand at 3 = 3×30° = 90° from 12. Minute hand at 12 = 0°. Angle between them = 90°. Formula: Angle = |30H − (11/2)M| where H=hours, M=minutes. At 3:00 = |30×3 − 0| = 90°. ✓
At 3:00, the minute hand is at 12 (0°) and the hour hand is at 3 (90°). A clock is divided into 12 hours = 360°, so each hour = 30°. Hour hand at 3 = 3×30° = 90° from 12. Minute hand at 12 = 0°. Angle between them = 90°. Formula: Angle = |30H − (11/2)M| where H=hours, M=minutes. At 3:00 = |30×3 − 0| = 90°. ✓
SECTION D: ARITHMETIC (Q.41 – Q.50)
Q.41. Find the HCF of 84 and 126.
Answer: (3) 42
84 = 2²×3×7; 126 = 2×3²×7. HCF = product of lowest powers of common primes = 2¹×3¹×7¹ = 2×3×7 = 42. Verification: 84÷42=2 ✓, 126÷42=3 ✓. Also by Euclidean algorithm: 126 = 1×84 + 42; 84 = 2×42 + 0. HCF = 42 ✓.
84 = 2²×3×7; 126 = 2×3²×7. HCF = product of lowest powers of common primes = 2¹×3¹×7¹ = 2×3×7 = 42. Verification: 84÷42=2 ✓, 126÷42=3 ✓. Also by Euclidean algorithm: 126 = 1×84 + 42; 84 = 2×42 + 0. HCF = 42 ✓.
Q.42. Simplify: 18 + 12 ÷ 4 − 2 × 3
Answer: (3) 15
BODMAS: Division first → 12÷4 = 3. Multiplication → 2×3 = 6. Now: 18 + 3 − 6 = 21 − 6 = 15. Full working: 18 + (12÷4) − (2×3) = 18 + 3 − 6 = 15. Common mistake: doing addition/subtraction before division/multiplication.
BODMAS: Division first → 12÷4 = 3. Multiplication → 2×3 = 6. Now: 18 + 3 − 6 = 21 − 6 = 15. Full working: 18 + (12÷4) − (2×3) = 18 + 3 − 6 = 15. Common mistake: doing addition/subtraction before division/multiplication.
Q.43. A and B together can do a work in 12 days. A alone can do it in 18 days. How many days will B alone take?
Answer: (3) 36 days
A+B together = 1/12 per day. A alone = 1/18 per day. B alone = 1/12 − 1/18 = 3/36 − 2/36 = 1/36 per day. So B alone takes 36 days. Formula: 1/B = 1/(A+B) − 1/A = 1/12 − 1/18 = (3−2)/36 = 1/36. Verification: A(1/18) + B(1/36) = 2/36 + 1/36 = 3/36 = 1/12 ✓
A+B together = 1/12 per day. A alone = 1/18 per day. B alone = 1/12 − 1/18 = 3/36 − 2/36 = 1/36 per day. So B alone takes 36 days. Formula: 1/B = 1/(A+B) − 1/A = 1/12 − 1/18 = (3−2)/36 = 1/36. Verification: A(1/18) + B(1/36) = 2/36 + 1/36 = 3/36 = 1/12 ✓
Q.44. A train 200 m long crosses a pole in 10 seconds. Find the speed of the train in km/h.
Answer: (3) 72 km/h
Speed = Distance ÷ Time = 200÷10 = 20 m/s. Convert to km/h: 20 × (18/5) = 20×3.6 = 72 km/h. Key: When a train crosses a pole or a person standing, distance = length of train only. Conversion: m/s × 18/5 = km/h; km/h × 5/18 = m/s.
Speed = Distance ÷ Time = 200÷10 = 20 m/s. Convert to km/h: 20 × (18/5) = 20×3.6 = 72 km/h. Key: When a train crosses a pole or a person standing, distance = length of train only. Conversion: m/s × 18/5 = km/h; km/h × 5/18 = m/s.
Q.45. The ratio of boys to girls in a class is 4:3. If there are 28 boys, how many girls are there?
Answer: (3) 21
Boys:Girls = 4:3. If boys = 4k = 28, then k = 7. Girls = 3k = 3×7 = 21. Verification: Boys:Girls = 28:21 = 4:3 ✓. Total students = 28+21 = 49. Ratio problems: always find the value of one part (k) first, then calculate others.
Boys:Girls = 4:3. If boys = 4k = 28, then k = 7. Girls = 3k = 3×7 = 21. Verification: Boys:Girls = 28:21 = 4:3 ✓. Total students = 28+21 = 49. Ratio problems: always find the value of one part (k) first, then calculate others.
Q.46. Find the average of: 15, 25, 35, 45, 55
Answer: (3) 35
Sum = 15+25+35+45+55 = 175. Count = 5. Average = 175÷5 = 35. Quick method: This is an arithmetic progression (AP) with equal spacing of 10. Average of AP = middle term = 35 (3rd term). Always: for an AP, average = (first + last)/2 = (15+55)/2 = 70/2 = 35 ✓.
Sum = 15+25+35+45+55 = 175. Count = 5. Average = 175÷5 = 35. Quick method: This is an arithmetic progression (AP) with equal spacing of 10. Average of AP = middle term = 35 (3rd term). Always: for an AP, average = (first + last)/2 = (15+55)/2 = 70/2 = 35 ✓.
Q.47. A shopkeeper marks an article 40% above cost price and gives a 20% discount. Find his profit percentage.
Answer: (3) 12%
Let CP = 100. MP = 140 (40% above CP). SP = 140 × (1 − 20/100) = 140 × 0.80 = 112. Profit = SP − CP = 112 − 100 = 12. Profit% = (12/100)×100 = 12%. Formula: Profit% = (1 + m/100)(1 − d/100) − 1 = (1.4)(0.8) − 1 = 1.12 − 1 = 0.12 = 12%.
Let CP = 100. MP = 140 (40% above CP). SP = 140 × (1 − 20/100) = 140 × 0.80 = 112. Profit = SP − CP = 112 − 100 = 12. Profit% = (12/100)×100 = 12%. Formula: Profit% = (1 + m/100)(1 − d/100) − 1 = (1.4)(0.8) − 1 = 1.12 − 1 = 0.12 = 12%.
Q.48. Compound Interest on ₹5000 at 10% per annum for 2 years is:
Answer: (3) ₹1050
CI formula: A = P(1 + r/100)ⁿ = 5000×(1.1)² = 5000×1.21 = ₹6050. CI = A − P = 6050 − 5000 = ₹1050. Comparison: SI for 2 years = (5000×10×2)/100 = ₹1000. CI is always more than SI (except for 1 year, when they are equal). Difference (CI−SI) for 2 years = P×(r/100)² = 5000×0.01 = ₹50 ✓.
CI formula: A = P(1 + r/100)ⁿ = 5000×(1.1)² = 5000×1.21 = ₹6050. CI = A − P = 6050 − 5000 = ₹1050. Comparison: SI for 2 years = (5000×10×2)/100 = ₹1000. CI is always more than SI (except for 1 year, when they are equal). Difference (CI−SI) for 2 years = P×(r/100)² = 5000×0.01 = ₹50 ✓.
Q.49. If 3/5 of a number is 48, what is the number?
Answer: (3) 80
(3/5) × x = 48 → x = 48 × (5/3) = 48 × 5 ÷ 3 = 240 ÷ 3 = 80. Verification: 3/5 of 80 = (3×80)/5 = 240/5 = 48 ✓. Fraction-of-a-number problems: always multiply both sides by the reciprocal of the fraction. Here, reciprocal of 3/5 is 5/3.
(3/5) × x = 48 → x = 48 × (5/3) = 48 × 5 ÷ 3 = 240 ÷ 3 = 80. Verification: 3/5 of 80 = (3×80)/5 = 240/5 = 48 ✓. Fraction-of-a-number problems: always multiply both sides by the reciprocal of the fraction. Here, reciprocal of 3/5 is 5/3.
Q.50. The volume of a cube with side 5 cm is:
Answer: (3) 125 cm³
Volume of a cube = side³ = 5³ = 5×5×5 = 125 cm³. Surface area of a cube = 6a² = 6×25 = 150 cm². Key 3D formulas: Cube: Volume=a³, SA=6a²; Cuboid: V=l×b×h, SA=2(lb+bh+hl); Cylinder: V=πr²h, CSA=2πrh, TSA=2πr(r+h); Sphere: V=(4/3)πr³, SA=4πr².
Volume of a cube = side³ = 5³ = 5×5×5 = 125 cm³. Surface area of a cube = 6a² = 6×25 = 150 cm². Key 3D formulas: Cube: Volume=a³, SA=6a²; Cuboid: V=l×b×h, SA=2(lb+bh+hl); Cylinder: V=πr²h, CSA=2πrh, TSA=2πr(r+h); Sphere: V=(4/3)πr³, SA=4πr².