In the following question below are given some statements followed by some conclusions based on those statements. Taking the given statements to be true even if they seem to be at variance from commonly known facts. Read all the conclusions and then decide which of the given conclusion logically follows the given statements. Statements: I. All W are S. II. No D is W. Conclusion: I. Some S are W. II. All S are D. III. No W is D.

Both conclusions I and III follows

Both conclusions I and II follows

Read the given statements and conclusions carefully. Assuming that the information given in the statements is true, even if it appears to be at variance with commonly known facts, decide which of the given conclusions logically follow(s) from the statements. Statements: All cards are boxes. All boxes are torches. All torches are shoes. Conclusions: I. All shoes are torches. II. All torches are boxes. III. All boxes are cards. IV. All cards are shoes.

Only conclusions I and II follow

Only conclusions II and III follow

What theme was decided to celebrate the second ‘International Day of Yoga’ in India?

Yoga for the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals

The foremost right among the rights to freedom is the _______.

Right to life and personal liberty

Right to freedom of speech and expression

All SSC CGL previous year papers

SSC CGL Tier I 2022 – 1 Dec, Shift 1 Question Paper with Answers

SSC CGL 2022 Tier I, held on 1 December 2022, Shift 1 (9:00 AM – 10:00 AM). 94 questions in SSC's order across Reasoning, General Awareness, Quant and English. Try each question first, then open “Answer and explanation”.

Questions and answers from SSC's official answer key (ssc.gov.in), as marked in SSC's provisional key for this shift. Explanations are by NextGenPSC. 6 figure-based questions are not reproduced because the official figure is not available.

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General Intelligence and Reasoning
General Awareness
Quantitative Aptitude
English Comprehension

General Intelligence and Reasoning

Question 1: Embedded-figure question; the official figure is not reproduced here.
Question 2: Figure-series question (character grids in figures); the official figures are not reproduced here.
Question 3 · Reasoning · Symbolic calculations
Select the correct combination of mathematical signs to replace the * signs and balance the given equation.
21 * 4 * 156 * 13 * 11 = 83
1. (a) ×, −, ÷, +
2. (b) ×, +, ÷, −
3. (c) −, ÷, ×, +
4. (d) +, ÷, −, ×
Answer and explanation
Answer: (a) ×, −, ÷, +
Try option 1 (×, −, ÷, +): 21 × 4 − 156 ÷ 13 + 11 = 84 − 12 + 11 = 83. ✔
The other combinations do not give 83.
Answer: ×, −, ÷, +
Read the notes: Symbolic calculations
Question 4 · Reasoning · Symbolic calculations
Select the correct combination of mathematical signs to sequentially replace the * signs and to balance the given equation.
12 * 24 * 4 * 2 * 60
1. (a) −, ×, +, =
2. (b) +, ÷, ×, =
3. (c) +, ×, ÷, =
4. (d) +, ×, −, =
Answer and explanation
Answer: (c) +, ×, ÷, =
With +, ×, ÷, =: 12 + 24 × 4 ÷ 2 = 12 + 48 = 60, which balances the equation.
Option 1 gives a negative value, option 2 gives 24 and option 4 gives 106.
Answer: +, ×, ÷, =
Read the notes: Symbolic calculations
Question 5 · Reasoning · Sequences
Which of the following numbers will replace the question mark (?) in the given series?
382, 322, 272, 232, 202, ?
1. (a) 182
2. (b) 150
3. (c) 168
4. (d) 132
Answer and explanation
Answer: (a) 182
Differences: 382 − 322 = 60, 322 − 272 = 50, 272 − 232 = 40, 232 − 202 = 30. The next difference is 20.
202 − 20 = 182.
Answer: 182
Read the notes: Sequences
Question 6: Cube-folding question with drawn cube figures; the official figure is not reproduced here.
Question 7 · Reasoning · Classification
Three of the following four letter-clusters are alike in a certain way and one is different. Pick the odd one out.
1. (a) RQP
2. (b) LKJ
3. (c) HGF
4. (d) UVW
Answer and explanation
Answer: (d) UVW
RQP, LKJ and HGF are three consecutive letters in reverse alphabetical order. UVW runs forward, so it is the odd one.
Answer: UVW
Read the notes: Classification
Question 8 · Reasoning · Sequences
A series is given with one term missing. Select the correct alternative from the given ones that will complete the series.
NMRQ, NDZG, NUHW, NLPM, ?
1. (a) MQRQ
2. (b) NCXC
3. (c) NQRC
4. (d) NHMH
Answer and explanation
Answer: (b) NCXC
The first letter is always N. Second letters go back 9 each time (M → D → U → L → C), third letters go forward 8 (R → Z → H → P → X) and fourth letters go back 10 (Q → G → W → M → C).
Next term: NCXC.
Answer: NCXC
Read the notes: Sequences
Question 9 · Reasoning · Relationships and ordering
A # B means ‘A is the sister of B’
A @ B means ‘A is the daughter of B’
A & B means ‘A is the husband of B’
A % B means ‘A is the father of B’
If A % B & C # D @ E, then how is B related to E?
1. (a) Father
2. (b) Son
3. (c) Brother
4. (d) Son-in-law
Answer and explanation
Answer: (d) Son-in-law
A % B: A is B’s father. B & C: B is C’s husband. C # D: C is D’s sister. D @ E: D is E’s daughter, so C is also E’s daughter.
B is the husband of E’s daughter, i.e. E’s son-in-law.
Answer: Son-in-law
Read the notes: Relationships and ordering
Question 10 · Reasoning · Relationships and ordering
If A × B means that A is the brother of B, A – B means that A is the sister of B, A + B means that A is the father of B then which of the following expression shows that P is the paternal aunt of R?
1. (a) P – Q × R
2. (b) P × Q + R
3. (c) P – Q + R
4. (d) P + Q – R
Answer and explanation
Answer: (c) P – Q + R
P – Q + R: P is the sister of Q, and Q is the father of R. So P is the sister of R’s father, i.e. R’s paternal aunt.
Answer: P – Q + R
Read the notes: Relationships and ordering
Question 11 · Reasoning · Coding and decoding
In a certain code language, FRUCTUS is coded as 108, and SPRINTER is coded as 119. How will MASCULINE be coded in that language?
1. (a) 99
2. (b) 97
3. (c) 96
4. (d) 98
Answer and explanation
Answer: (b) 97
The code is the sum of the alphabet positions: FRUCTUS = 6 + 18 + 21 + 3 + 20 + 21 + 19 = 108; SPRINTER = 19 + 16 + 18 + 9 + 14 + 20 + 5 + 18 = 119.
MASCULINE = 13 + 1 + 19 + 3 + 21 + 12 + 9 + 14 + 5 = 97.
Answer: 97
Read the notes: Coding and decoding
Question 12 · Reasoning · Classification
Select the odd group of numbers. (NOTE: Operations should be performed on the whole numbers, without breaking down the numbers into its constituent digits. E.g.13 – Operations on 13 such as adding /subtracting /multiplying etc. to 13 can be performed. Breaking down 13 into 1 and 3 and then performing mathematical operations on 1 and 3 is not allowed)
1. (a) (6 – 216 – 206)
2. (b) (5 – 125 – 115)
3. (c) (7 – 343 – 331)
4. (d) (4 – 64 – 54)
Answer and explanation
Answer: (c) (7 – 343 – 331)
In each group the second number is the cube of the first and the third is 10 less: 216 − 10 = 206, 125 − 10 = 115, 64 − 10 = 54.
For 7, 343 − 12 = 331, so (7 – 343 – 331) is the odd group.
Answer: (7 – 343 – 331)
Read the notes: Classification
Question 13 · Reasoning · Logical inference
In the following question below are given some statements followed by some conclusions based on those statements. Taking the given statements to be true even if they seem to be at variance from commonly known facts. Read all the conclusions and then decide which of the given conclusion logically follows the given statements.
Statements:
I. All W are S.
II. No D is W.
Conclusion:
I. Some S are W.
II. All S are D.
III. No W is D.
1. (a) All conclusion follows
2. (b) Only conclusion III follows
3. (c) Both conclusions I and III follows
4. (d) Both conclusions I and II follows
Answer and explanation
Answer: (c) Both conclusions I and III follows
All W are S, so some S are W: conclusion I follows. No D is W is the same as no W is D: conclusion III follows.
Nothing says all S are D, so II does not follow.
Answer: Both conclusions I and III follows
Read the notes: Logical inference
Question 14 · Reasoning · Analogies
Select the set in which the numbers are related in the same way as are the numbers of the following sets.
(NOTE : Operations should be performed on the whole numbers, without breaking down the numbers into its constituent digits. E.g. 13 – Operations on 13 such as adding /subtracting /multiplying etc. to 13 can be performed. Breaking down 13 into 1 and 3 and then performing mathematical operations on 1 and 3 is not allowed)
(20, 6, 4)
(24, 7, 5)
1. (a) (42, 7, 3)
2. (b) (65, 9, 4)
3. (c) (22, 5, 2)
4. (d) (40, 8, 5)
Answer and explanation
Answer: (b) (65, 9, 4)
First number = (second)² − (third)²: 6² − 4² = 20 and 7² − 5² = 24.
Check the options: 9² − 4² = 81 − 16 = 65, so (65, 9, 4) follows the rule.
Answer: (65, 9, 4)
Read the notes: Analogies
Question 15: Figure-series question; the official figures are not reproduced here.
Question 16 · Reasoning · Sequences
Which of the following letter-clusters will replace the question mark (?) in the given series?
PK, GT, XC, OL, ?
1. (a) EV
2. (b) FU
3. (c) HS
4. (d) GT
Answer and explanation
Answer: (b) FU
First letters move forward 17 places (cyclically): P → G → X → O → F. Second letters move forward 9 places: K → T → C → L → U.
Next term: FU.
Answer: FU
Read the notes: Sequences
Question 17 · Reasoning · Relationships and ordering
After arranging the given words according to dictionary order, which word will come at ‘Fifth’ position?
1. Popular
2. Population
3. Populace
4. Pope
5. Poppy
1. (a) Poppy
2. (b) Population
3. (c) Populace
4. (d) Popular
Answer and explanation
Answer: (b) Population
Dictionary order: Pope, Poppy, Populace, Popular, Population (POPE before POPP before POPU; then -ace, -ar, -ation).
The fifth word is Population.
Answer: Population
Read the notes: Relationships and ordering
Question 18 · Reasoning · Analogies
Select the set in which the numbers are related in the same way as are the numbers of the following set.
(NOTE: Operations should be performed on the whole numbers, without breaking down the numbers into its constituent digits.)
(3, 14, 1)
(4, 36, 2)
1. (a) (8, 12, 2)
2. (b) (5, 81, 4)
3. (c) (7, 40, 3)
4. (d) (8, 260, 2)
Answer and explanation
Answer: (d) (8, 260, 2)
Middle number = (first³ + third³) ÷ 2: (27 + 1) ÷ 2 = 14 and (64 + 8) ÷ 2 = 36.
(8, 260, 2): (512 + 8) ÷ 2 = 260. ✔
Answer: (8, 260, 2)
Read the notes: Analogies
Question 19 · Reasoning · Analogies
Select the option that is related to the third word in the same way as the second word is related to the first word. (The words must be considered as meaningful English words and must not be related to each other based on the number of letters/number of consonants/vowels in the word)
Phone : Talk :: Television : ?
1. (a) Remote
2. (b) View
3. (c) Read
4. (d) Channel
Answer and explanation
Answer: (b) View
A phone is used to talk; a television is used to view (watch).
Answer: View
Read the notes: Analogies
Question 20 · Reasoning · Analogies
Select the option that is related to the fifth number in the same way as the second number is related to the first number and the fourth number is related to the third number.
19 : 324 :: 25 : 576 :: 9 : ?
1. (a) 88
2. (b) 64
3. (c) 72
4. (d) 16
Answer and explanation
Answer: (b) 64
Second number = (first − 1)²: (19 − 1)² = 324 and (25 − 1)² = 576.
(9 − 1)² = 64.
Answer: 64
Read the notes: Analogies
Question 21 · Reasoning · Coding and decoding
In a certain code language, ’BEHOLD’ is written as ’BDEHLO’ and ’INDEED’ is written as ’DDEEIN’. How will ’COURSE’ be written in that language?
1. (a) CEORSU
2. (b) CEROSU
3. (c) CEORUS
4. (d) CEOSUR
Answer and explanation
Answer: (a) CEORSU
The letters of each word are rewritten in alphabetical order: BEHOLD → BDEHLO, INDEED → DDEEIN.
COURSE → C, E, O, R, S, U = CEORSU.
Answer: CEORSU
Read the notes: Coding and decoding
Question 22 · Reasoning · Symbolic calculations
After interchanging the given two numbers and two signs what will be the values of equation (I) and (II) respectively?
× and +, 3 and 9
I. 7 × 9 – 8 ÷ 2 + 3
II. 4 × 9 – 3 + 8 ÷ 2
1. (a) −26, −29
2. (b) 6, 0
3. (c) 0, 1
4. (d) 12, 13
Answer and explanation
Answer: (a) −26, −29
Swap × with + and 3 with 9.
I: 7 + 3 − 8 ÷ 2 × 9 = 10 − 36 = −26. II: 4 + 3 − 9 × 8 ÷ 2 = 7 − 36 = −29.
Answer: −26, −29
Read the notes: Symbolic calculations
Question 23: Mirror-image question; the official figures are not reproduced here.
Question 24 · Reasoning · Analogies
Select the option that is related to the third word in the same way as the second word is related to the first word.
(The words must be considered as meaningful English words and must not be related to each other based on the number of letters/number of consonants/vowels in the word.)
Library : Books :: Museum : ?
1. (a) Gallery
2. (b) People
3. (c) Building
4. (d) Artefacts
Answer and explanation
Answer: (d) Artefacts
A library houses and displays books; a museum houses and displays artefacts.
Answer: Artefacts
Read the notes: Analogies
Question 25 · Reasoning · Logical inference
Read the given statements and conclusions carefully. Assuming that the information given in the statements is true, even if it appears to be at variance with commonly known facts, decide which of the given conclusions logically follow(s) from the statements.
Statements:
All cards are boxes.
All boxes are torches.
All torches are shoes.
Conclusions:
I. All shoes are torches.
II. All torches are boxes.
III. All boxes are cards.
IV. All cards are shoes.
1. (a) Only conclusion IV follows
2. (b) Only conclusions I and II follow
3. (c) Only conclusions II and III follow
4. (d) Only conclusion III follows
Answer and explanation
Answer: (a) Only conclusion IV follows
Cards ⊂ boxes ⊂ torches ⊂ shoes, so all cards are shoes: IV follows.
I, II and III reverse an “All” statement, which is not allowed.
Answer: Only conclusion IV follows
Read the notes: Logical inference

General Awareness

Question 26 · General Awareness · Static GK
International Non-Violence Day is observed on:
1. (a) 15 August
2. (b) 2 October
3. (c) 14 November
4. (d) 31 October
Answer and explanation
Answer: (b) 2 October
The UN observes the International Day of Non-Violence on 2 October, Mahatma Gandhi’s birthday (declared in 2007).
Answer: 2 October
Read the notes: Static GK
Question 27 · General Awareness · Geography
Which of the following sites do “Not” have nuclear power plant?
1. (a) Rawat Bhata
2. (b) Naraura
3. (c) Vijayawada
4. (d) Tarapur
Answer and explanation
Answer: (c) Vijayawada
India’s nuclear power stations include Rawatbhata (Rajasthan), Narora (Uttar Pradesh) and Tarapur (Maharashtra). Vijayawada (Andhra Pradesh) has no nuclear power plant.
Answer: Vijayawada
Read the notes: Geography
Question 28 · General Awareness · History
In which of the following Indian states, Harappan cities have NOT been found?
1. (a) Rajasthan
2. (b) Gujarat
3. (c) Uttarakhand
4. (d) Haryana
Answer and explanation
Answer: (c) Uttarakhand
Harappan sites are found in Rajasthan (Kalibangan), Gujarat (Lothal, Dholavira) and Haryana (Rakhigarhi, Banawali). No Harappan city has been found in Uttarakhand.
Answer: Uttarakhand
Read the notes: History
Question 29 · General Awareness · Current affairs
Chief Minister of which state has inaugurated a project of the Women and Child Development department to provide milk and eggs to children at all anganwadis in the state in a bid to improve their nutrition levels?
1. (a) Andhra Pradesh
2. (b) Karnataka
3. (c) Tamil Nadu
4. (d) Kerala
Answer and explanation
Answer: (d) Kerala
In August 2022 Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan launched the Women and Child Development department’s “Poshakabalyam” project, giving milk and eggs twice a week to children at anganwadis.
Answer: Kerala
Read the notes: SSC CGL current affairs
Question 30 · General Awareness · Culture
Who among the following is known as ‘Sarod Samrat’ in Indian Classical Music?
1. (a) Kishan Maharaj
2. (b) Amjad Ali Khan
3. (c) Pandit Ravishankar Prasad
4. (d) Aamir Ali Khan
Answer and explanation
Answer: (b) Amjad Ali Khan
Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, the sarod maestro of the Senia Bangash gharana, is popularly called “Sarod Samrat”.
Answer: Amjad Ali Khan
Read the notes: Culture
Question 31 · General Awareness · Economic awareness
Which of the following methods is NOT one of the methods of estimating national income?
1. (a) Expenditure method
2. (b) Banking method
3. (c) Income method
4. (d) Product method
SSC's sheet showed this question in Hindi only; English translation by NextGenPSC. Show SSC's Hindi
निम्नलिखित में से कौन सी विधि राष्ट्रीय आय आकलन की विधियों में से एक नहीं है?
1. (a) व्यय विधि
2. (b) बैंकिंग विधि
3. (c) आय विधि
4. (d) उत्पाद विधि
Answer and explanation
Answer: (b) Banking method
National income is estimated by three methods: the product (value-added) method, the income method and the expenditure method. There is no “banking method”.
Answer: Banking method
Read the notes: Economic awareness
Question 32 · General Awareness · Static GK
The term ‘Back-stick’ is used in which of the following games/sports?
1. (a) Basketball
2. (b) Badminton
3. (c) Hockey
4. (d) Volleyball
Answer and explanation
Answer: (c) Hockey
In hockey, “back-stick” is a foul: playing the ball with the rounded (back) side of the stick is not allowed.
Answer: Hockey
Read the notes: Static GK
Question 33 · General Awareness · History
Which of the following Dynasties established the kingdom of Vijayanagara?
1. (a) Nagama Dynasty
2. (b) Soma Dynasty
3. (c) Tuluva Dynasty
4. (d) Sangama Dynasty
Answer and explanation
Answer: (d) Sangama Dynasty
The Vijayanagara kingdom was founded in 1336 by Harihara and Bukka of the Sangama dynasty. The Saluva, Tuluva and Aravidu dynasties ruled later.
Answer: Sangama Dynasty
Read the notes: History
Question 34 · General Awareness · Current affairs
A ’Camel Protection and Development Policy’ has been announced by the government of _______.
1. (a) Rajasthan
2. (b) Gujarat
3. (c) Punjab
4. (d) Ladakh
Answer and explanation
Answer: (a) Rajasthan
Rajasthan, where the camel is the state animal, announced a Camel Protection and Development Policy (2022-23 budget) to check the falling camel population.
Answer: Rajasthan
Read the notes: SSC CGL current affairs
Question 35 · General Awareness · Everyday science
What is the unit of work done?
1. (a) Decibel
2. (b) Ampere
3. (c) Watt
4. (d) Joule
SSC's sheet showed this question in Hindi only; English translation by NextGenPSC. Show SSC's Hindi
किए गए कार्य की इकाई क्या है?
1. (a) डेसिबल
2. (b) ऐम्पियर
3. (c) वॉट
4. (d) जूल
Answer and explanation
Answer: (d) Joule
Work = force × displacement, measured in joules (1 J = 1 N × 1 m). The decibel measures sound level, the ampere current and the watt power.
Answer: Joule
Read the notes: Everyday science
Question 36 · General Awareness · Everyday science
______ part of xylem tissue in plants stores food.
1. (a) Xylem fibres
2. (b) Tracheids
3. (c) Vessels
4. (d) Xylem parenchyma
Answer and explanation
Answer: (d) Xylem parenchyma
Xylem parenchyma is the only living component of xylem; it stores food (starch) and helps in lateral conduction of water. Tracheids, vessels and xylem fibres are dead.
Answer: Xylem parenchyma
Read the notes: Everyday science
Question 37 · General Awareness · Static GK
What theme was decided to celebrate the second ‘International Day of Yoga’ in India?
1. (a) Yoga for the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals
2. (b) Yoga for Peace
3. (c) Yoga for Wellness
4. (d) Yoga for Heart
Answer and explanation
Answer: (a) Yoga for the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals
The second International Day of Yoga (21 June 2016) was marked at the UN under the theme “Yoga for the Achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals”; it is the only matching option.
Note: India’s own AYUSH theme for 2016 was “Connect the Youth”.
Answer: Yoga for the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals
Note: SSC’s key gives “Yoga for the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals”, which was the UN’s 2016 theme; India’s own 2016 IDY theme (asked “in India”) was “Connect the Youth”, which is not among the options, so the question is loosely worded.
Read the notes: Static GK
Question 38 · General Awareness · Geography
The wearing away of the landscape by different agents such as water, wind and ice is called ______.
1. (a) Sedimentation
2. (b) Erosion
3. (c) Weathering
4. (d) Metamorphism
SSC's sheet showed this question in Hindi only; English translation by NextGenPSC. Show SSC's Hindi
भू-दृश्य पर जल, पवन एवं हिम जैसे विभिन्न घटकों के द्वारा होने वाले क्षय को ______ कहते हैं।
1. (a) अवसादन
2. (b) अपरदन
3. (c) अपक्षय
4. (d) कायांतरण
Answer and explanation
Answer: (b) Erosion
Erosion is the wearing away and removal of the land surface by agents such as running water, wind and ice (glaciers). Weathering breaks rocks in place, without transport.
Answer: Erosion
Read the notes: Geography
Question 39 · General Awareness · Everyday science
The chemical formula of quick lime is ______.
1. (a) CaO
2. (b) CO₂
3. (c) Ca(OH)₂
4. (d) CaCO₃
SSC's sheet showed this question in Hindi only; English translation by NextGenPSC. Show SSC's Hindi
अनबुझा चूना (quick lime) का रासायनिक सूत्र ______ है।
1. (a) CaO
2. (b) CO₂
3. (c) Ca(OH)₂
4. (d) CaCO₃
Answer and explanation
Answer: (a) CaO
Quick lime is calcium oxide, CaO. Slaked lime is Ca(OH)₂ and limestone is CaCO₃.
Answer: CaO
Read the notes: Everyday science
Question 40 · General Awareness · Indian polity
Who among the following Presidents of India was also the deputy chairman of Planning Commission?
1. (a) Ramaswamy Venkataraman
2. (b) Pranab Mukherjee
3. (c) K R Narayanan
4. (d) V V Giri
Answer and explanation
Answer: (b) Pranab Mukherjee
Pranab Mukherjee was Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission (1991–96) and later the 13th President of India (2012–17).
Answer: Pranab Mukherjee
Read the notes: Indian polity
Question 41 · General Awareness · History
Raja Ram Mohan Roy founded a reform association named the Brahma Sabha, which later came to be known as ______.
1. (a) Arya Samaj
2. (b) Brahmo School
3. (c) Brahmo Samaj
4. (d) Dev Samaj
SSC's sheet showed this question in Hindi only; English translation by NextGenPSC. Show SSC's Hindi
राजा राम मोहन राय ने ब्रह्म सभा के नाम से एक सुधार संघ की स्थापना की जिसे बाद में ______ के रूप में जाना गया।
1. (a) आर्य समाज
2. (b) ब्रह्म स्कूल
3. (c) ब्रह्म समाज
4. (d) देव समाज
Answer and explanation
Answer: (c) Brahmo Samaj
Raja Ram Mohan Roy founded the Brahma Sabha in 1828; it later came to be known as the Brahmo Samaj.
Answer: Brahmo Samaj
Read the notes: History
Question 42 · General Awareness · Economic awareness
When was ‘Vayudoot’ airline setup in India?
1. (a) 1971
2. (b) 1969
3. (c) 1981
4. (d) 1991
Answer and explanation
Answer: (c) 1981
Vayudoot, a regional/feeder airline, was set up in 1981; it was merged into Indian Airlines in 1993.
Answer: 1981
Read the notes: Economic awareness
Question 43 · General Awareness · Static GK
Who among the following composers won the Grammy in 2015 for his album ‘Winds of Samsara’ – a collaboration with South African flautist Wouter Kellerman?
1. (a) Mano Murthy
2. (b) Raghu Dixit
3. (c) Ricky Kej
4. (d) Subhashish Ghosh
Answer and explanation
Answer: (c) Ricky Kej
Bengaluru-based composer Ricky Kej won the 2015 Grammy for Best New Age Album for “Winds of Samsara”, made with South African flautist Wouter Kellerman.
Answer: Ricky Kej
Read the notes: Static GK
Question 44 · General Awareness · Everyday science
Burning of coal is an example of ______.
1. (a) decomposition reaction
2. (b) displacement reaction
3. (c) combination reaction
4. (d) double displacement reaction
Answer and explanation
Answer: (c) combination reaction
Coal (carbon) burns in oxygen: C + O₂ → CO₂. Two reactants form a single product, so it is a combination reaction.
Answer: combination reaction
Read the notes: Everyday science
Question 45 · General Awareness · History
The Ramakrishna Mission stressed the ideal of __________ through social service and selfless work.
1. (a) Moksha (salvation)
2. (b) Education
3. (c) Bhakti (devotion)
4. (d) God
SSC's sheet showed this question in Hindi only; English translation by NextGenPSC. Show SSC's Hindi
रामकृष्ण मिशन ने समाज सेवा और निस्वार्थ कार्य के माध्यम से __________ के आदर्श पर बल दिया।
1. (a) मोक्ष
2. (b) शिक्षा
3. (c) भक्ति
4. (d) भगवान
Answer and explanation
Answer: (a) Moksha (salvation)
The Ramakrishna Mission (founded by Swami Vivekananda, 1897) stressed the ideal of salvation (moksha) through social service and selfless work.
Answer: Moksha (salvation)
Read the notes: History
Question 46 · General Awareness · Culture
Which of the following festivals is celebrated in Punjab to commemorate the formation of the Khalsa Panth?
1. (a) Baisakhi
2. (b) Teej
3. (c) Lohri
4. (d) Hola Mohalla
SSC's sheet showed this question in Hindi only; English translation by NextGenPSC. Show SSC's Hindi
पंजाब में निम्नलिखित में से कौन-सा त्योहार खालसा पंथ के गठन के उपलक्ष्य में मनाया जाता है?
1. (a) बैसाखी
2. (b) तीज
3. (c) लोहड़ी
4. (d) होला मोहल्ला
Answer and explanation
Answer: (a) Baisakhi
Baisakhi (13/14 April) marks the founding of the Khalsa Panth by Guru Gobind Singh at Anandpur Sahib in 1699; it is also the harvest festival of Punjab.
Answer: Baisakhi
Read the notes: Culture
Question 47 · General Awareness · Indian polity
The word ‘Parliament’ refers to the _________.
1. (a) National legislature
2. (b) Lok Sabha
3. (c) State legislature
4. (d) Rajya Sabha
SSC's sheet showed this question in Hindi only; English translation by NextGenPSC. Show SSC's Hindi
‘संसद’ शब्द _________ को संदर्भित करता है।
1. (a) राष्ट्रीय विधायिका
2. (b) लोकसभा
3. (c) राज्य विधायिका
4. (d) राज्य सभा
Answer and explanation
Answer: (a) National legislature
Under Article 79, Parliament is the national legislature of India: the President, the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha. State legislatures are separate bodies.
Answer: National legislature
Read the notes: Indian polity
Question 48 · General Awareness · Current affairs
Who was appointed as the new Chairman of the Central Board of Direct Taxes in June 2022?
1. (a) M Jagadesh Kumar
2. (b) Nidhi Chibber
3. (c) Nitin Gupta
4. (d) Ashish Jha
SSC's sheet showed this question in Hindi only; English translation by NextGenPSC. Show SSC's Hindi
जून 2022 में केंद्रीय प्रत्यक्ष कर बोर्ड के नए अध्यक्ष के रूप में किसे नियुक्त किया गया है?
1. (a) एम जगदीश कुमार
2. (b) निधि चिब्बर
3. (c) नितिन गुप्ता
4. (d) आशीष झा
Answer and explanation
Answer: (c) Nitin Gupta
Nitin Gupta, a 1986-batch IRS officer, was appointed Chairman of the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) in June 2022.
Answer: Nitin Gupta
Read the notes: SSC CGL current affairs
Question 49 · General Awareness · Everyday science
In Golgi apparatus, the maturing face is:
1. (a) spherical
2. (b) concave
3. (c) convex
4. (d) bi-concave
Answer and explanation
Answer: (c) convex
SSC’s key gives “convex”. However, the standard description (NCERT Class XI) is that Golgi cisternae have a convex cis or forming face and a concave trans or maturing face, which points to “concave”.
Answer: convex
Note: SSC’s provisional key gives “convex”, but the NCERT description is that the maturing (trans) face of the Golgi apparatus is concave and the forming (cis) face is convex, so option (b) “concave” appears correct.
Read the notes: Everyday science
Question 50 · General Awareness · Indian polity
The foremost right among the rights to freedom is the _______.
1. (a) Right to life and personal liberty
2. (b) Preventive detention
3. (c) Right to freedom of speech and expression
4. (d) Freedom of assembly
SSC's sheet showed this question in Hindi only; English translation by NextGenPSC. Show SSC's Hindi
स्वतंत्रता के अधिकारों में सबसे प्रमुख अधिकार _______ है।
1. (a) जीवन और व्यक्तिगत स्वतंत्रता का अधिकार
2. (b) निवारक निरोध
3. (c) भाषण और अभिव्यक्ति की स्वतंत्रता का अधिकार
4. (d) इकट्ठा होने की आजादी
Answer and explanation
Answer: (a) Right to life and personal liberty
Among the freedom rights (Articles 19–22), the right to life and personal liberty (Article 21) is regarded as the most important and fundamental; even preventive detention is an exception to it.
Answer: Right to life and personal liberty
Read the notes: Indian polity

Quantitative Aptitude

Question 51 · Quant · Ratio and proportion
The mean proportion of 169 and 144 is:
1. (a) 147
2. (b) 156
3. (c) 165
4. (d) 126
Answer and explanation
Answer: (b) 156
Mean proportional of a and b = √(ab) = √(169 × 144) = 13 × 12 = 156.
Answer: 156
Read the notes: Ratio and proportion
Question 52 · Quant · Area and volume
How many spherical lead shots each of diameter 8.4 cm can be obtained from a rectangular solid of lead with dimension 88 cm, 63 cm, 42 cm (take π = 22/7)?
1. (a) 860
2. (b) 920
3. (c) 650
4. (d) 750
Answer and explanation
Answer: (d) 750
Volume of the solid = 88 × 63 × 42 = 2,32,848 cm³. Radius of a shot = 4.2 cm, so its volume = (4/3) × (22/7) × 4.2³ = 310.464 cm³.
Number of shots = 232848 ÷ 310.464 = 750.
Answer: 750
Read the notes: Area and volume
Question 53: Bar-graph question; the official graph does not print its values, so it is not reproduced here.
Question 54 · Quant · Commercial arithmetic
Riya could not decide between discount of 30% or two successive discounts of 25% and 5%, both given on shopping of ₹3,840. What is the difference between both the discounts?
1. (a) ₹46
2. (b) ₹48
3. (c) ₹44
4. (d) ₹42
Answer and explanation
Answer: (b) ₹48
Single discount: 30% of 3840 = ₹1,152. Successive 25% and 5%: net = 25 + 5 − (25 × 5)/100 = 28.75%, i.e. ₹1,104.
Difference = 1152 − 1104 = ₹48.
Answer: ₹48
Read the notes: Commercial arithmetic
Question 55 · Quant · Trigonometry
In the triangle ABC, AB = 12 cm and AC = 10 cm, and ∠BAC = 60°. What is the value of the length of the side BC?
1. (a) 10 cm
2. (b) 13.20 cm
3. (c) 7.13 cm
4. (d) 11.13 cm
Answer and explanation
Answer: (d) 11.13 cm
By the cosine rule, BC² = AB² + AC² − 2·AB·AC·cos 60° = 144 + 100 − 2 × 12 × 10 × ½ = 124.
BC = √124 ≈ 11.13 cm.
Answer: 11.13 cm
Read the notes: Trigonometry
Question 56 · Quant · Reading numerical charts
The table given below shows the number of spoon manufactured by five factories.
Factory Spoon
P 100
Q 200
R 150
S 50
T 250
What are the ratio of number of spoon manufactured by P to the number of spoon manufactured by R?
1. (a) 2 : 3
2. (b) 3 : 2
3. (c) 1 : 3
4. (d) 14 : 1
Answer and explanation
Answer: (a) 2 : 3
P manufactured 100 spoons and R 150, so P : R = 100 : 150 = 2 : 3.
Answer: 2 : 3
Read the notes: Reading numerical charts
Question 57 · Quant · Algebra
If [(17)³ + (7)³] / (17² + 7² − k) = 24, then what is the value of k?
1. (a) 24
2. (b) 119
3. (c) 109
4. (d) 128
Answer and explanation
Answer: (b) 119
a³ + b³ = (a + b)(a² − ab + b²). With a = 17, b = 7: 17³ + 7³ = 24 × (289 − 119 + 49) = 24 × 219.
So 17² + 7² − k = 219, i.e. 338 − k = 219 and k = 119.
Answer: 119
Read the notes: Algebra
Question 58 · Quant · Number foundations
Which of the following numbers is a divisor of (49¹⁵ − 1)?
1. (a) 46
2. (b) 14
3. (c) 50
4. (d) 8
Answer and explanation
Answer: (d) 8
xⁿ − 1 is always divisible by x − 1. So 49¹⁵ − 1 is divisible by 49 − 1 = 48, and hence by every factor of 48.
Of the options only 8 divides 48 (14, 46 and 50 are not guaranteed; 50 divides 49ⁿ + 1 for odd n, not 49ⁿ − 1).
Answer: 8
Read the notes: Number foundations
Question 59 · Quant · Motion problems
In a 1500 m race, Anil beats Bakul by 150 m and in the same race Bakul beats Charles by 75 m. By what distance does Anil beat Charles?
1. (a) 293.50 m
2. (b) 313.75 m
3. (c) 200.15 m
4. (d) 217.50 m
Answer and explanation
Answer: (d) 217.50 m
When Anil runs 1500 m, Bakul runs 1350 m. Bakul beats Charles by 75 m in 1500 m, so when Bakul runs 1350 m Charles runs 1350 × 1425/1500 = 1282.5 m.
Anil beats Charles by 1500 − 1282.5 = 217.50 m.
Answer: 217.50 m
Read the notes: Motion problems
Question 60 · Quant · Algebra
If x² − 5x + 1 = 0, then the value of (x⁶ + x⁴ + x² + 1)/(5x³) = ?
1. (a) 28
2. (b) 23
3. (c) 30
4. (d) 25
Answer and explanation
Answer: (b) 23
Divide x² − 5x + 1 = 0 by x: x + 1/x = 5. Then x³ + 1/x³ = 5³ − 3 × 5 = 110.
(x⁶ + x⁴ + x² + 1)/(5x³) = (x³ + x + 1/x + 1/x³)/5 = (110 + 5)/5 = 23.
Answer: 23
Read the notes: Algebra
Question 61 · Quant · Work rates
P and Q can complete a project in 15 days and 10 days, respectively. They started doing the work together, but after 2 days, Q had to leave and P alone completed the remaining work. In how many days was the whole work completed?
1. (a) 12
2. (b) 11
3. (c) 10
4. (d) 13
Answer and explanation
Answer: (a) 12
Together P and Q do 1/15 + 1/10 = 1/6 per day; in 2 days they finish 1/3.
P finishes the remaining 2/3 in (2/3) × 15 = 10 days. Total time = 2 + 10 = 12 days.
Answer: 12
Read the notes: Work rates
Question 62 · Quant · Plane geometry
Two circles touch each other externally at P. AB is a direct common tangent to the two circles, A and B are points of contact, and ∠PAB = 40° . The measure of ∠ABP is:
1. (a) 45°
2. (b) 50°
3. (c) 40°
4. (d) 55°
Answer and explanation
Answer: (b) 50°
For two circles touching externally, the direct common tangent subtends a right angle at the point of contact: ∠APB = 90°.
So ∠ABP = 180° − 90° − 40° = 50°.
Answer: 50°
Read the notes: Plane geometry
Question 63 · Quant · Reading numerical charts
The following table shows the number of pages printed by 3 printers during 3 days.
Days / Printers X Y Z
Monday 130 140 210
Tuesday 110 145 160
Wednesday 180 90 218
What is the average number of pages printed by printer Z during the 3 days?
1. (a) 192
2. (b) 196
3. (c) 194
4. (d) 190
Answer and explanation
Answer: (b) 196
Pages printed by Z = 210 + 160 + 218 = 588. Average = 588 ÷ 3 = 196.
Answer: 196
Read the notes: Reading numerical charts
Question 64 · Quant · Trigonometry
Simplify cos 45° / (sec 30° + cosec 30°)
1. (a) (3√2 + √6)/8
2. (b) √3/(2√2 − 2√6)
3. (c) √3/(2√6 − 2√2)
4. (d) (3√2 − √6)/8
Answer and explanation
Answer: (d) (3√2 − √6)/8
cos 45° = 1/√2, sec 30° = 2/√3, cosec 30° = 2. Expression = (1/√2) ÷ (2/√3 + 2) = √3 / [2√2(1 + √3)].
Multiply by (√3 − 1)/(√3 − 1): √3(√3 − 1)/(2√2 × 2) = (3 − √3)/(4√2) = (3√2 − √6)/8.
Answer: (3√2 − √6)/8
Read the notes: Trigonometry
Question 65 · Quant · Algebra
If 4[(17)³ − (7)³] / (17² + 7² + p) = 40, then what is the value of p?
1. (a) 129
2. (b) −119
3. (c) −129
4. (d) 119
Answer and explanation
Answer: (d) 119
a³ − b³ = (a − b)(a² + ab + b²). 17³ − 7³ = 10 × (289 + 119 + 49) = 10 × 457 = 4570.
4 × 4570 ÷ (338 + p) = 40 ⇒ 338 + p = 457 ⇒ p = 119.
Answer: 119
Read the notes: Algebra
Question 66 · Quant · Percentage
The length and breadth of a rectangle are increased by 8% and 5%, respectively. By how much percentage will the area of the rectangle increase?
1. (a) 12.4%
2. (b) 16.4%
3. (c) 13.4%
4. (d) 15.4%
Answer and explanation
Answer: (c) 13.4%
Net change in area = 8 + 5 + (8 × 5)/100 = 13.4%.
Answer: 13.4%
Read the notes: Percentage
Question 67 · Quant · Commercial arithmetic
A dishonest merchant sells goods at a 12.5% loss on the cost price, but uses 28 g weight instead of 36 g. What is his percentage profit or loss?
1. (a) 18.75% gain
2. (b) 6.25% loss
3. (c) 10.5% loss
4. (d) 12.5% gain
Answer and explanation
Answer: (d) 12.5% gain
Take the cost price as ₹1 per gram. For goods actually worth 28 g he charges the selling price of 36 g at a 12.5% loss: 36 × 0.875 = ₹31.5.
Gain = (31.5 − 28)/28 × 100 = 12.5%.
Answer: 12.5% gain
Read the notes: Commercial arithmetic
Question 68 · Quant · Number foundations
The HCF of two numbers is 12. Which one of the following can never be their LCM?
1. (a) 72
2. (b) 84
3. (c) 60
4. (d) 90
Answer and explanation
Answer: (d) 90
The LCM is always a multiple of the HCF. 72, 84 and 60 are multiples of 12, but 90 is not, so 90 can never be the LCM.
Answer: 90
Read the notes: Number foundations
Question 69 · Quant · Trigonometry
In a right-angled triangle PQR, right-angled at Q, the length of the side PR is 17 units, length of the base QR is 8 units, and length of the side PQ is 15 units. If ∠RPQ = α, then sinα + cosα is:
1. (a) 18/17
2. (b) 21/17
3. (c) 15/17
4. (d) 23/17
Answer and explanation
Answer: (d) 23/17
For angle α at P, the opposite side is QR = 8 and the adjacent side is PQ = 15, with hypotenuse PR = 17.
sin α + cos α = 8/17 + 15/17 = 23/17.
Answer: 23/17
Read the notes: Trigonometry
Question 70 · Quant · Plane geometry
Radius of a circle is 10 cm. Angle made by chord AB at the centre of this circle is 60 degree. What is the length of this chord?
1. (a) 30 cm
2. (b) 20 cm
3. (c) 40 cm
4. (d) 10 cm
Answer and explanation
Answer: (d) 10 cm
OA = OB = 10 cm and ∠AOB = 60°, so triangle AOB is equilateral. Hence AB = 10 cm.
Answer: 10 cm
Read the notes: Plane geometry
Question 71 · Quant · Interest calculations
₹2,500, when invested for 8 years at a given rate of simple interest per year, amounted to ₹3,725 on maturity. What was the rate of simple interest that was paid per annum?
1. (a) 6.25%
2. (b) 6%
3. (c) 5.875%
4. (d) 6.125%
Answer and explanation
Answer: (d) 6.125%
SI = 3725 − 2500 = ₹1,225. Rate = (1225 × 100)/(2500 × 8) = 6.125%.
Answer: 6.125%
Read the notes: Interest calculations
Question 72 · Quant · Averages
The batting average for 27 innings of a cricket player is 47 runs. His highest score in an innings exceeds his lowest score by 157 runs. If these two innings are excluded, the average score of the remaining 25 innings is 42 runs. Find his highest score in an innings.
1. (a) 174
2. (b) 186
3. (c) 188
4. (d) 176
Answer and explanation
Answer: (c) 188
Total of 27 innings = 27 × 47 = 1269; total of the other 25 = 25 × 42 = 1050. So highest + lowest = 219 and highest − lowest = 157.
Highest = (219 + 157)/2 = 188.
Answer: 188
Read the notes: Averages
Question 73 · Quant · Reading numerical charts
The pie chart given below shows the number of truck sold by 8 different companies. The total number of truck sold by all these 8 companies are 4000. Number of truck sold by a particular company is shown as a percent of total number of truck sold by all these 8 companies.
(Data from the official chart, shown as a table.)
Company Percentage of trucks sold
A 13%
B 27%
C 18%
D 12%
E 3%
F 7%
G 6%
H 14%
The number of trucks sold by B, C, F and H is how much percent less than the number of trucks sold by all these 8 companies?
1. (a) 34 percent
2. (b) 14 percent
3. (c) 46 percent
4. (d) 22 percent
Answer and explanation
Answer: (a) 34 percent
B + C + F + H = 27% + 18% + 7% + 14% = 66% of the total.
So these four sold 100 − 66 = 34 percent less than all eight companies together.
Answer: 34 percent
Read the notes: Reading numerical charts
Question 74 · Quant · Area and volume
The circumference of the two circles is 198 cm and 352 cm respectively. What is the difference between their radii?
1. (a) 16.5 cm
2. (b) 45 cm
3. (c) 24.5 cm
4. (d) 49.5 cm
Answer and explanation
Answer: (c) 24.5 cm
r = C/(2π). r₁ = 198 × 7/44 = 31.5 cm and r₂ = 352 × 7/44 = 56 cm.
Difference = 56 − 31.5 = 24.5 cm.
Answer: 24.5 cm
Read the notes: Area and volume
Question 75 · Quant · Trigonometry
The value of tan² θ + cot² θ − sec² θ cosec² θ is:
1. (a) 0
2. (b) 1/2
3. (c) 2
4. (d) −2
Answer and explanation
Answer: (d) −2
sec²θ cosec²θ = sec²θ + cosec²θ = (1 + tan²θ) + (1 + cot²θ).
So tan²θ + cot²θ − sec²θ cosec²θ = −2.
Answer: −2
Read the notes: Trigonometry

English Comprehension

Question 76 · English · Sentence completion
Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
The angles are equal, consequently the sides are _____________.
1. (a) smaller
2. (b) larger
3. (c) equal
4. (d) unequal
Answer and explanation
Answer: (c) equal
“Consequently” shows a result: because the angles are equal, the sides are also equal.
Answer: equal
Read the notes: Sentence completion
Question 77 · English · Vocabulary
Select the most appropriate collocating word to fill in the blank.

Ram was praised for his________ leadership.
1. (a) broad
2. (b) visionary
3. (c) imaginary
4. (d) magical
Answer and explanation
Answer: (b) visionary
“Visionary leadership” is the natural collocation: leadership with a clear, far-sighted vision. Imaginary and magical do not suit praise for leadership.
Answer: visionary
Read the notes: Vocabulary
Question 78 · English · Sentence organisation
Select the correct active form of the given sentence.
Has the villa been occupied by them?
1. (a) Had they occupied the villa?
2. (b) Have they occupied the villa?
3. (c) Do they occupied the villa?
4. (d) Did they occupied the villa?
Answer and explanation
Answer: (b) Have they occupied the villa?
“Has … been occupied” is present perfect passive, so the active is present perfect: “Have they occupied the villa?”
Answer: Have they occupied the villa?
Read the notes: Sentence organisation
Question 79 · English · Sentence organisation
Select the correct indirect form of the given sentence.
She said, “I am in no mood to work now.”
1. (a) She said that she has been in no mood to work then.
2. (b) She said that she was in no mood to work then.
3. (c) She said that she was in no mood to work now.
4. (d) She said that she has been in no mood to work now.
Answer and explanation
Answer: (b) She said that she was in no mood to work then.
In indirect speech “I am” becomes “she was” (tense backshift) and “now” becomes “then”: “She said that she was in no mood to work then.”
Answer: She said that she was in no mood to work then.
Read the notes: Sentence organisation
Question 80 · English · Sentence organisation
Sentences of a paragraph are given below in jumbled order. Arrange the sentences in the correct order to form a meaningful and coherent paragraph.
A. When this extra water vapour condenses into precipitation, it results in heavier rain — or, if it’s cold enough, heavier snow.
B. The atmosphere can store an additional 4% of water vapour for every additional 1°F of warming.
C. More water evaporates from soils, plants, lakes and seas as the atmosphere warms.
D. One of the most obvious indications of climate change is heavier rainfall.
1. (a) BCAD
2. (b) CBDA
3. (c) ACDB
4. (d) DCBA
Answer and explanation
Answer: (d) DCBA
D introduces the idea (heavier rainfall as a sign of climate change), C explains that warming increases evaporation, B adds how much extra vapour the air holds, and A says this vapour falls as heavier rain or snow: DCBA.
Answer: DCBA
Read the notes: Sentence organisation
Question 81 · English · Vocabulary
In the given sentence, one word may have been incorrectly spelt. Select the correctly spelt word from the given alternatives. If there is no error, select ‘No error’ as your answer.

The erroneous information spread rapidly across the nation and created a stir.
1. (a) No error
2. (b) eronneous
3. (c) erronous
4. (d) errauneous
Answer and explanation
Answer: (a) No error
“Erroneous” (double r, -eous) is spelt correctly, so there is no error.
Answer: No error
Read the notes: Vocabulary
Question 82 · English · Vocabulary
Select the most appropriate word segment for the underlined word in the given sentence.
Pintu has been advised to reduce smoking by his family doctor.
1. (a) cut down
2. (b) lower down
3. (c) up down
4. (d) less down
Answer and explanation
Answer: (a) cut down
“Cut down (on)” means reduce: Pintu has been advised to cut down smoking.
Answer: cut down
Read the notes: Vocabulary
Question 83 · English · Idioms and phrases
Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.

All eyes
1. (a) Not watching at all
2. (b) Watching with no interest
3. (c) Watching eagerly
4. (d) Watching with anger
Answer and explanation
Answer: (c) Watching eagerly
“All eyes” means watching eagerly and with full attention.
Answer: Watching eagerly
Read the notes: Idioms and phrases
Question 84 · English · Sentence improvement
Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no need to substitute it, select ‘No substitution’.

After finishing high school, I plan to pursuing law.
1. (a) plan to pursuing
2. (b) plan in pursue
3. (c) plan to pursue
4. (d) No substitution
Answer and explanation
Answer: (c) plan to pursue
“Plan” is followed by the to-infinitive: “plan to pursue law”, not “plan to pursuing”.
Answer: plan to pursue
Read the notes: Sentence improvement
Question 85 · English · Vocabulary
Select the INCORRECTLY spelt word.
1. (a) Cringe
2. (b) Finery
3. (c) Hiest
4. (d) Defer
Answer and explanation
Answer: (c) Hiest
The correct spelling is “Heist” (e before i).
Answer: Hiest
Read the notes: Vocabulary
Question 86 · English · Vocabulary
Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.

Confusion
1. (a) Stagnation
2. (b) Commotion
3. (c) Intrepidity
4. (d) Perusal
Answer and explanation
Answer: (b) Commotion
Confusion means disorder or uproar; commotion (noisy disturbance) is the closest synonym.
Answer: Commotion
Read the notes: Vocabulary
Question 87 · English · Vocabulary
Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the underlined segment in the given sentence.
He was looking into his book for the last two hours but couldn’t find it.
1. (a) looking down on his book
2. (b) looking above his book
3. (c) looking for his book
4. (d) looking after his book
Answer and explanation
Answer: (c) looking for his book
“Looking for” means searching; the sentence says he could not find the book, so “looking for his book” fits.
Answer: looking for his book
Read the notes: Vocabulary
Question 88 · English · Grammar and error detection
Select the sentence with the appropriate use of adverb of manner.
1. (a) He has just done his work.
2. (b) He done his work regularly.
3. (c) He has done his work on my table.
4. (d) He does his work carefully.
Answer and explanation
Answer: (d) He does his work carefully.
An adverb of manner tells how an action is done: “carefully” in “He does his work carefully”. “Just” is an adverb of time and “on my table” is a phrase of place.
Answer: He does his work carefully.
Read the notes: Grammar and error detection
Question 89 · English · Sentence organisation
Select the correct passive form of the given sentence.
Manu will tell her later.
1. (a) She will be tell later.
2. (b) She will be told later by Manu.
3. (c) She will tell later by Manu.
4. (d) She will be tell later by Manu.
Answer and explanation
Answer: (b) She will be told later by Manu.
Future passive: will be + past participle. “Manu will tell her” → “She will be told later by Manu.”
Answer: She will be told later by Manu.
Read the notes: Sentence organisation
Question 90 · English · Idioms and phrases
Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.

Like a cakewalk
1. (a) Active
2. (b) Smooth surface
3. (c) Easy task
4. (d) Pleasant experience
Answer and explanation
Answer: (c) Easy task
“A cakewalk” is something very easy to do, so “like a cakewalk” means an easy task.
Answer: Easy task
Read the notes: Idioms and phrases
Question 91 · English · Vocabulary
Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.
Hospitality
1. (a) Cordiality
2. (b) Wrathful
3. (c) Complaint
4. (d) Coldness
Answer and explanation
Answer: (d) Coldness
Hospitality is friendly, warm treatment of guests; its opposite is coldness. Cordiality is a synonym.
Answer: Coldness
Read the notes: Vocabulary
Question 92 · English · Sentence improvement
Select the most appropriate option to substitute the underlined segment in the given sentence.

Our guests arrived; they are sitting in the garden.
1. (a) are arriving
2. (b) shall arrive
3. (c) have arrived
4. (d) might arrive
Answer and explanation
Answer: (c) have arrived
The arrival has a present result (they are sitting in the garden now), so the present perfect is needed: “have arrived”.
Answer: have arrived
Read the notes: Sentence improvement
Question 93 · English · Grammar and error detection
The following sentence has been split into four segments. Identify the segment that contains a grammatical error.

During an earthquake, / it is advised to take / cover above a table / to save your life.
1. (a) During an earthquake,
2. (b) it is advised to take
3. (c) cover above a table
4. (d) to save your life.
Answer and explanation
Answer: (c) cover above a table
One takes cover under a table, not “above” it, so the error is in “cover above a table”.
Answer: cover above a table
Read the notes: Grammar and error detection
Question 94 · English · Vocabulary
Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the word ‘SINKS’ from the given sentence.

Groups work together to create Christmas parade themes, which are then carried out in floats, musical groups, and strolling figures.
1. (a) Create
2. (b) Parade
3. (c) Floats
4. (d) Strolling
Answer and explanation
Answer: (c) Floats
To sink is to go down in water; to float is to stay on the surface. “Floats” is the opposite of “sinks”.
Answer: Floats
Read the notes: Vocabulary
Question 95 · English · Vocabulary
Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.
Rebellion
1. (a) Allotment
2. (b) Uprising
3. (c) Loyalty
4. (d) Sedition
Answer and explanation
Answer: (c) Loyalty
Rebellion is open resistance to authority; its opposite is loyalty. Uprising and sedition are near-synonyms.
Answer: Loyalty
Read the notes: Vocabulary
In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and select the most appropriate option to fill in each blank.

Digital India can be the prime (1)________ behind making a reality of the government’s promise of minimum government, maximum governance. Such a transformation requires technology to be firmly (2)_________ into government, something that the Digital India project lists as one of its foremost objectives. Embedding technology into government (3) _________ will do three things; transform the government and make it more transparent and efficient, transform the lives of citizens especially those at the bottom of the (4)_________ pyramid and make our economy more efficient and competitive. A 2014 McKinsey Global Institute report predicts that the large-scale (5) ________ of technology through Digital India positions India with the biggest opportunity yet to accelerate economic growth.
Question 96 · English · Cloze passages
Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 1.
1. (a) factors
2. (b) impact
3. (c) force
4. (d) might
Answer and explanation
Answer: (c) force
“The prime force behind” something is the main driving power that makes it happen.
Answer: force
Read the notes: Cloze passages
Question 97 · English · Cloze passages
Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 2.
1. (a) stuck
2. (b) embedded
3. (c) planted
4. (d) inserted
Answer and explanation
Answer: (b) embedded
The next sentence speaks of “embedding technology into government”, so technology must be firmly “embedded” into government.
Answer: embedded
Read the notes: Cloze passages
Question 98 · English · Cloze passages
Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 3.
1. (a) processes
2. (b) hierarchies
3. (c) details
4. (d) offices
Answer and explanation
Answer: (a) processes
Technology is embedded into government “processes” (the ways government works), which then become more transparent and efficient.
Answer: processes
Read the notes: Cloze passages
Question 99 · English · Cloze passages
Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 4.
1. (a) mythical
2. (b) hypothetical
3. (c) classified
4. (d) proverbial
Answer and explanation
Answer: (d) proverbial
“The bottom of the proverbial pyramid” refers to the well-known phrase “bottom of the pyramid”, meaning the poorest sections.
Answer: proverbial
Read the notes: Cloze passages
Question 100 · English · Cloze passages
Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 5.
1. (a) adaptation
2. (b) monitoring
3. (c) anticipation
4. (d) enhancement
Answer and explanation
Answer: (a) adaptation
The sentence is about technology being taken up on a large scale. Among the options, “adaptation” is the only one that fits the sense of taking up and using technology (the original phrase is “large-scale adoption”).
Answer: adaptation
Read the notes: Cloze passages

Days / Printers	X	Y	Z
Monday	130	140	210
Tuesday	110	145	160
Wednesday	180	90	218

Company	Percentage of trucks sold
A	13%
B	27%
C	18%
D	12%
E	3%
F	7%
G	6%
H	14%

Factory	Spoon
P	100
Q	200
R	150
S	50
T	250