185 Reading Comprehension (English) questions asked in BPSC TRE previous year papers, each with the correct answer and explanation. Read them free on UTpaper, or attempt the full papers as timed online tests.
Q1BPSC TRE 2.0 (2023) Language (Hindi & English) Class 6-8 (Re-exam)
Directions (Q. Nos. 1 to 5) : Read the following passage and choose the correct answer for the questions that follow :
There lived a crow in a jungle. It wanted to be colourful and beautiful like other birds. The crow went to the parrot and told him about his thoughts. The parrot told the crow that the peacock is the most beautiful bird. So go and talk to the peacock. It will help you. The crow went to the peacock and told him about his looks. The peacock told the crow, “you are very lucky. You are the only bird who has not been caged. We are caged because of our beauty. You are always free.” The crow realized its mistake and thanked God for making him like this and he flew away happily.
Which is the most beautiful bird?
ACrow
BPeacock
CEagle
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (B) Peacock
Explanation
The passage says the parrot told the crow that the peacock is the most beautiful bird.
Q2BPSC TRE 2.0 (2023) Language (Hindi & English) Class 6-8 (Re-exam)
Directions (Q. Nos. 1 to 5) : Read the following passage and choose the correct answer for the questions that follow :
There lived a crow in a jungle. It wanted to be colourful and beautiful like other birds. The crow went to the parrot and told him about his thoughts. The parrot told the crow that the peacock is the most beautiful bird. So go and talk to the peacock. It will help you. The crow went to the peacock and told him about his looks. The peacock told the crow, “you are very lucky. You are the only bird who has not been caged. We are caged because of our beauty. You are always free.” The crow realized its mistake and thanked God for making him like this and he flew away happily.
Who wanted to be colourful and beautiful?
AParrot
BCrow
CPeacock
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (B) Crow
Explanation
The passage begins by saying the crow wanted to be colourful and beautiful like other birds.
Q3BPSC TRE 2.0 (2023) Language (Hindi & English) Class 6-8 (Re-exam)
Directions (Q. Nos. 1 to 5) : Read the following passage and choose the correct answer for the questions that follow :
There lived a crow in a jungle. It wanted to be colourful and beautiful like other birds. The crow went to the parrot and told him about his thoughts. The parrot told the crow that the peacock is the most beautiful bird. So go and talk to the peacock. It will help you. The crow went to the peacock and told him about his looks. The peacock told the crow, “you are very lucky. You are the only bird who has not been caged. We are caged because of our beauty. You are always free.” The crow realized its mistake and thanked God for making him like this and he flew away happily.
Who is very lucky?
ACrow
BPeacock
COther birds
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (A) Crow
Explanation
The peacock tells the crow, 'You are very lucky.'
Q4BPSC TRE 2.0 (2023) Language (Hindi & English) Class 6-8 (Re-exam)
Directions (Q. Nos. 1 to 5) : Read the following passage and choose the correct answer for the questions that follow :
There lived a crow in a jungle. It wanted to be colourful and beautiful like other birds. The crow went to the parrot and told him about his thoughts. The parrot told the crow that the peacock is the most beautiful bird. So go and talk to the peacock. It will help you. The crow went to the peacock and told him about his looks. The peacock told the crow, “you are very lucky. You are the only bird who has not been caged. We are caged because of our beauty. You are always free.” The crow realized its mistake and thanked God for making him like this and he flew away happily.
Who thanked God?
APeacock
BOther birds
CParrot
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (E) None of the above
Explanation
The passage says the crow thanked God for making him as he is; the crow is not among the options, so the answer is None of the above.
Q5BPSC TRE 2.0 (2023) Language (Hindi & English) Class 6-8 (Re-exam)
Directions (Q. Nos. 1 to 5) : Read the following passage and choose the correct answer for the questions that follow :
There lived a crow in a jungle. It wanted to be colourful and beautiful like other birds. The crow went to the parrot and told him about his thoughts. The parrot told the crow that the peacock is the most beautiful bird. So go and talk to the peacock. It will help you. The crow went to the peacock and told him about his looks. The peacock told the crow, “you are very lucky. You are the only bird who has not been caged. We are caged because of our beauty. You are always free.” The crow realized its mistake and thanked God for making him like this and he flew away happily.
Which bird has not been caged?
ACrow
BPeacock
CParrot
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (A) Crow
Explanation
The peacock says the crow is the only bird that has not been caged.
Directions (Q. Nos. E-1 to E-5) : Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
Be like a flower. One must try to become like a flower : open, frank, equal, generous and kind. So you know what it means ? A flower is open to all that surrounds it : nature, light, the rays of the sun, the wind etc. It exerts a spontaneous influence on all that is around it. It radiates joy and beauty. It is frank. It hides nothing of its beauty lets its fragrance flow frankly out of itself. What is within and what is in its depths, it lets it come out so that everyone can see it. It is equal : it has no preferences. Everyone can enjoy its beauty and its perfume without rivalry. It is equal and the same for everybody. There is no difference or anything whatsoever. Then generous without reserve or restriction, it gives away the mysterious beauty and the very own perfume of nature. It sacrifices itself entirely for our pleasure, even its life sacrifices to express this beauty and the secret of the things gathered within itself. And then, kind : it has such a tenderness, it is so sweet, so close to us, so loving. Its presence fills us with joy. It is always cheerful and happy. Happy is he who can exchange his qualities with real qualities of the flowers.
A flower is open to all because
AIt spreads its beauty to all
BIt radiates joy
CIt influences all
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (D) More than one of the above
Explanation
The passage says a flower is open to all that surrounds it and that it spreads its beauty, perfume and joy to everyone, so both (A) and (C) hold (it spreads beauty and influences everything around it); hence "More than one of the above".
Directions (Q. Nos. E-1 to E-5) : Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
Be like a flower. One must try to become like a flower : open, frank, equal, generous and kind. So you know what it means ? A flower is open to all that surrounds it : nature, light, the rays of the sun, the wind etc. It exerts a spontaneous influence on all that is around it. It radiates joy and beauty. It is frank. It hides nothing of its beauty lets its fragrance flow frankly out of itself. What is within and what is in its depths, it lets it come out so that everyone can see it. It is equal : it has no preferences. Everyone can enjoy its beauty and its perfume without rivalry. It is equal and the same for everybody. There is no difference or anything whatsoever. Then generous without reserve or restriction, it gives away the mysterious beauty and the very own perfume of nature. It sacrifices itself entirely for our pleasure, even its life sacrifices to express this beauty and the secret of the things gathered within itself. And then, kind : it has such a tenderness, it is so sweet, so close to us, so loving. Its presence fills us with joy. It is always cheerful and happy. Happy is he who can exchange his qualities with real qualities of the flowers.
The author here talks about
ALily flower
BLotus flower
CRose flower
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (D) More than one of the above
Explanation
Note: the official key gives (D), although the passage names no particular flower (it talks about a flower in general), so (E) would also be defensible.
Directions (Q. Nos. E-1 to E-5) : Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
Be like a flower. One must try to become like a flower : open, frank, equal, generous and kind. So you know what it means ? A flower is open to all that surrounds it : nature, light, the rays of the sun, the wind etc. It exerts a spontaneous influence on all that is around it. It radiates joy and beauty. It is frank. It hides nothing of its beauty lets its fragrance flow frankly out of itself. What is within and what is in its depths, it lets it come out so that everyone can see it. It is equal : it has no preferences. Everyone can enjoy its beauty and its perfume without rivalry. It is equal and the same for everybody. There is no difference or anything whatsoever. Then generous without reserve or restriction, it gives away the mysterious beauty and the very own perfume of nature. It sacrifices itself entirely for our pleasure, even its life sacrifices to express this beauty and the secret of the things gathered within itself. And then, kind : it has such a tenderness, it is so sweet, so close to us, so loving. Its presence fills us with joy. It is always cheerful and happy. Happy is he who can exchange his qualities with real qualities of the flowers.
A flower is compared
AWith girls
BWith human beings
CWith all living things
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (B) With human beings
Explanation
The passage compares the qualities of a flower (open, frank, equal, generous, kind) with the qualities of human beings, which is option (B).
Directions (Q. Nos. E-1 to E-5) : Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
Be like a flower. One must try to become like a flower : open, frank, equal, generous and kind. So you know what it means ? A flower is open to all that surrounds it : nature, light, the rays of the sun, the wind etc. It exerts a spontaneous influence on all that is around it. It radiates joy and beauty. It is frank. It hides nothing of its beauty lets its fragrance flow frankly out of itself. What is within and what is in its depths, it lets it come out so that everyone can see it. It is equal : it has no preferences. Everyone can enjoy its beauty and its perfume without rivalry. It is equal and the same for everybody. There is no difference or anything whatsoever. Then generous without reserve or restriction, it gives away the mysterious beauty and the very own perfume of nature. It sacrifices itself entirely for our pleasure, even its life sacrifices to express this beauty and the secret of the things gathered within itself. And then, kind : it has such a tenderness, it is so sweet, so close to us, so loving. Its presence fills us with joy. It is always cheerful and happy. Happy is he who can exchange his qualities with real qualities of the flowers.
A spontaneous influence means
AA quicker influence
BA slow influence
CNaturally created influence
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (C) Naturally created influence
Explanation
"Spontaneous" means arising naturally without effort, so a spontaneous influence is a naturally created influence.
Directions (Q. Nos. E-1 to E-5) : Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
Be like a flower. One must try to become like a flower : open, frank, equal, generous and kind. So you know what it means ? A flower is open to all that surrounds it : nature, light, the rays of the sun, the wind etc. It exerts a spontaneous influence on all that is around it. It radiates joy and beauty. It is frank. It hides nothing of its beauty lets its fragrance flow frankly out of itself. What is within and what is in its depths, it lets it come out so that everyone can see it. It is equal : it has no preferences. Everyone can enjoy its beauty and its perfume without rivalry. It is equal and the same for everybody. There is no difference or anything whatsoever. Then generous without reserve or restriction, it gives away the mysterious beauty and the very own perfume of nature. It sacrifices itself entirely for our pleasure, even its life sacrifices to express this beauty and the secret of the things gathered within itself. And then, kind : it has such a tenderness, it is so sweet, so close to us, so loving. Its presence fills us with joy. It is always cheerful and happy. Happy is he who can exchange his qualities with real qualities of the flowers.
The refined qualities of a flower are
AFrankness and honesty
BGenerosity and kindness
CFragrance and beauty
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (D) More than one of the above
Explanation
The passage lists the flower's qualities as open, frank, equal, generous and kind; generosity and kindness are among these refined qualities, so (B).
Directions (Q. Nos. E-1 to E-5) : Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
Be like a flower. One must try to become like a flower : open, frank, equal, generous and kind. So you know what it means ? A flower is open to all that surrounds it : nature, light, the rays of the sun, the wind etc. It exerts a spontaneous influence on all that is around it. It radiates joy and beauty. It is frank. It hides nothing of its beauty lets its fragrance flow frankly out of itself. What is within and what is in its depths, it lets it come out so that everyone can see it. It is equal : it has no preferences. Everyone can enjoy its beauty and its perfume without rivalry. It is equal and the same for everybody. There is no difference or anything whatsoever. Then generous without reserve or restriction, it gives away the mysterious beauty and the very own perfume of nature. It sacrifices itself entirely for our pleasure, even its life sacrifices to express this beauty and the secret of the things gathered within itself. And then, kind : it has such a tenderness, it is so sweet, so close to us, so loving. Its presence fills us with joy. It is always cheerful and happy. Happy is he who can exchange his qualities with real qualities of the flowers.
The author here talks about
ALotus flower
BRose flower
CLily flower
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (D) More than one of the above
Explanation
Note: the official key gives (D), although the passage names no particular flower (it talks about a flower in general), so (E) would also be defensible.
Directions (Q. Nos. E-1 to E-5) : Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
Be like a flower. One must try to become like a flower : open, frank, equal, generous and kind. So you know what it means ? A flower is open to all that surrounds it : nature, light, the rays of the sun, the wind etc. It exerts a spontaneous influence on all that is around it. It radiates joy and beauty. It is frank. It hides nothing of its beauty lets its fragrance flow frankly out of itself. What is within and what is in its depths, it lets it come out so that everyone can see it. It is equal : it has no preferences. Everyone can enjoy its beauty and its perfume without rivalry. It is equal and the same for everybody. There is no difference or anything whatsoever. Then generous without reserve or restriction, it gives away the mysterious beauty and the very own perfume of nature. It sacrifices itself entirely for our pleasure, even its life sacrifices to express this beauty and the secret of the things gathered within itself. And then, kind : it has such a tenderness, it is so sweet, so close to us, so loving. Its presence fills us with joy. It is always cheerful and happy. Happy is he who can exchange his qualities with real qualities of the flowers.
The refined qualities of a flower are
AGenerosity and kindness
BFragrance and beauty
CFrankness and honesty
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (D) More than one of the above
Explanation
The passage lists the flower's qualities as open, frank, equal, generous and kind; generosity and kindness are among these refined qualities, so (A).
Directions (Q. Nos. E-1 to E-5) : Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
Be like a flower. One must try to become like a flower : open, frank, equal, generous and kind. So you know what it means ? A flower is open to all that surrounds it : nature, light, the rays of the sun, the wind etc. It exerts a spontaneous influence on all that is around it. It radiates joy and beauty. It is frank. It hides nothing of its beauty lets its fragrance flow frankly out of itself. What is within and what is in its depths, it lets it come out so that everyone can see it. It is equal : it has no preferences. Everyone can enjoy its beauty and its perfume without rivalry. It is equal and the same for everybody. There is no difference or anything whatsoever. Then generous without reserve or restriction, it gives away the mysterious beauty and the very own perfume of nature. It sacrifices itself entirely for our pleasure, even its life sacrifices to express this beauty and the secret of the things gathered within itself. And then, kind : it has such a tenderness, it is so sweet, so close to us, so loving. Its presence fills us with joy. It is always cheerful and happy. Happy is he who can exchange his qualities with real qualities of the flowers.
A spontaneous influence means
AA slow influence
BNaturally created influence
CA quicker influence
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (B) Naturally created influence
Explanation
"Spontaneous" means arising naturally without effort, so a spontaneous influence is a naturally created influence.
Directions (Q. Nos. E-1 to E-5) : Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
Be like a flower. One must try to become like a flower : open, frank, equal, generous and kind. So you know what it means ? A flower is open to all that surrounds it : nature, light, the rays of the sun, the wind etc. It exerts a spontaneous influence on all that is around it. It radiates joy and beauty. It is frank. It hides nothing of its beauty lets its fragrance flow frankly out of itself. What is within and what is in its depths, it lets it come out so that everyone can see it. It is equal : it has no preferences. Everyone can enjoy its beauty and its perfume without rivalry. It is equal and the same for everybody. There is no difference or anything whatsoever. Then generous without reserve or restriction, it gives away the mysterious beauty and the very own perfume of nature. It sacrifices itself entirely for our pleasure, even its life sacrifices to express this beauty and the secret of the things gathered within itself. And then, kind : it has such a tenderness, it is so sweet, so close to us, so loving. Its presence fills us with joy. It is always cheerful and happy. Happy is he who can exchange his qualities with real qualities of the flowers.
A flower is open to all because
AIt radiates joy
BIt influences all
CIt spreads its beauty to all
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (D) More than one of the above
Explanation
The passage says a flower is open to all that surrounds it and that it spreads its beauty, perfume and joy to everyone, so both (C) and (B) hold (it spreads beauty and influences everything around it); hence "More than one of the above".
Directions (Q. Nos. E-1 to E-5) : Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
Be like a flower. One must try to become like a flower : open, frank, equal, generous and kind. So you know what it means ? A flower is open to all that surrounds it : nature, light, the rays of the sun, the wind etc. It exerts a spontaneous influence on all that is around it. It radiates joy and beauty. It is frank. It hides nothing of its beauty lets its fragrance flow frankly out of itself. What is within and what is in its depths, it lets it come out so that everyone can see it. It is equal : it has no preferences. Everyone can enjoy its beauty and its perfume without rivalry. It is equal and the same for everybody. There is no difference or anything whatsoever. Then generous without reserve or restriction, it gives away the mysterious beauty and the very own perfume of nature. It sacrifices itself entirely for our pleasure, even its life sacrifices to express this beauty and the secret of the things gathered within itself. And then, kind : it has such a tenderness, it is so sweet, so close to us, so loving. Its presence fills us with joy. It is always cheerful and happy. Happy is he who can exchange his qualities with real qualities of the flowers.
A flower is compared
AWith human beings
BWith all living things
CWith girls
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (A) With human beings
Explanation
The passage compares the qualities of a flower (open, frank, equal, generous, kind) with the qualities of human beings, which is option (A).
Directions (Q. Nos. E-1 to E-5) : Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
Be like a flower. One must try to become like a flower : open, frank, equal, generous and kind. So you know what it means ? A flower is open to all that surrounds it : nature, light, the rays of the sun, the wind etc. It exerts a spontaneous influence on all that is around it. It radiates joy and beauty. It is frank. It hides nothing of its beauty lets its fragrance flow frankly out of itself. What is within and what is in its depths, it lets it come out so that everyone can see it. It is equal : it has no preferences. Everyone can enjoy its beauty and its perfume without rivalry. It is equal and the same for everybody. There is no difference or anything whatsoever. Then generous without reserve or restriction, it gives away the mysterious beauty and the very own perfume of nature. It sacrifices itself entirely for our pleasure, even its life sacrifices to express this beauty and the secret of the things gathered within itself. And then, kind : it has such a tenderness, it is so sweet, so close to us, so loving. Its presence fills us with joy. It is always cheerful and happy. Happy is he who can exchange his qualities with real qualities of the flowers.
The author here talks about
ALily flower
BRose flower
CLotus flower
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (D) More than one of the above
Explanation
Note: the official key gives (D), although the passage names no particular flower (it talks about a flower in general), so (E) would also be defensible.
Directions (Q. Nos. E-1 to E-5) : Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
Be like a flower. One must try to become like a flower : open, frank, equal, generous and kind. So you know what it means ? A flower is open to all that surrounds it : nature, light, the rays of the sun, the wind etc. It exerts a spontaneous influence on all that is around it. It radiates joy and beauty. It is frank. It hides nothing of its beauty lets its fragrance flow frankly out of itself. What is within and what is in its depths, it lets it come out so that everyone can see it. It is equal : it has no preferences. Everyone can enjoy its beauty and its perfume without rivalry. It is equal and the same for everybody. There is no difference or anything whatsoever. Then generous without reserve or restriction, it gives away the mysterious beauty and the very own perfume of nature. It sacrifices itself entirely for our pleasure, even its life sacrifices to express this beauty and the secret of the things gathered within itself. And then, kind : it has such a tenderness, it is so sweet, so close to us, so loving. Its presence fills us with joy. It is always cheerful and happy. Happy is he who can exchange his qualities with real qualities of the flowers.
The refined qualities of a flower are
AFrankness and honesty
BFragrance and beauty
CGenerosity and kindness
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (D) More than one of the above
Explanation
The passage lists the flower's qualities as open, frank, equal, generous and kind; generosity and kindness are among these refined qualities, so (C).
Directions (Q. Nos. E-1 to E-5) : Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
Be like a flower. One must try to become like a flower : open, frank, equal, generous and kind. So you know what it means ? A flower is open to all that surrounds it : nature, light, the rays of the sun, the wind etc. It exerts a spontaneous influence on all that is around it. It radiates joy and beauty. It is frank. It hides nothing of its beauty lets its fragrance flow frankly out of itself. What is within and what is in its depths, it lets it come out so that everyone can see it. It is equal : it has no preferences. Everyone can enjoy its beauty and its perfume without rivalry. It is equal and the same for everybody. There is no difference or anything whatsoever. Then generous without reserve or restriction, it gives away the mysterious beauty and the very own perfume of nature. It sacrifices itself entirely for our pleasure, even its life sacrifices to express this beauty and the secret of the things gathered within itself. And then, kind : it has such a tenderness, it is so sweet, so close to us, so loving. Its presence fills us with joy. It is always cheerful and happy. Happy is he who can exchange his qualities with real qualities of the flowers.
A spontaneous influence means
AA quicker influence
BNaturally created influence
CA slow influence
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (B) Naturally created influence
Explanation
"Spontaneous" means arising naturally without effort, so a spontaneous influence is a naturally created influence.
Directions (Q. Nos. E-1 to E-5) : Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
Be like a flower. One must try to become like a flower : open, frank, equal, generous and kind. So you know what it means ? A flower is open to all that surrounds it : nature, light, the rays of the sun, the wind etc. It exerts a spontaneous influence on all that is around it. It radiates joy and beauty. It is frank. It hides nothing of its beauty lets its fragrance flow frankly out of itself. What is within and what is in its depths, it lets it come out so that everyone can see it. It is equal : it has no preferences. Everyone can enjoy its beauty and its perfume without rivalry. It is equal and the same for everybody. There is no difference or anything whatsoever. Then generous without reserve or restriction, it gives away the mysterious beauty and the very own perfume of nature. It sacrifices itself entirely for our pleasure, even its life sacrifices to express this beauty and the secret of the things gathered within itself. And then, kind : it has such a tenderness, it is so sweet, so close to us, so loving. Its presence fills us with joy. It is always cheerful and happy. Happy is he who can exchange his qualities with real qualities of the flowers.
A flower is open to all because
AIt spreads its beauty to all
BIt influences all
CIt radiates joy
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (D) More than one of the above
Explanation
The passage says a flower is open to all that surrounds it and that it spreads its beauty, perfume and joy to everyone, so both (A) and (B) hold (it spreads beauty and influences everything around it); hence "More than one of the above".
Directions (Q. Nos. E-1 to E-5) : Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
Be like a flower. One must try to become like a flower : open, frank, equal, generous and kind. So you know what it means ? A flower is open to all that surrounds it : nature, light, the rays of the sun, the wind etc. It exerts a spontaneous influence on all that is around it. It radiates joy and beauty. It is frank. It hides nothing of its beauty lets its fragrance flow frankly out of itself. What is within and what is in its depths, it lets it come out so that everyone can see it. It is equal : it has no preferences. Everyone can enjoy its beauty and its perfume without rivalry. It is equal and the same for everybody. There is no difference or anything whatsoever. Then generous without reserve or restriction, it gives away the mysterious beauty and the very own perfume of nature. It sacrifices itself entirely for our pleasure, even its life sacrifices to express this beauty and the secret of the things gathered within itself. And then, kind : it has such a tenderness, it is so sweet, so close to us, so loving. Its presence fills us with joy. It is always cheerful and happy. Happy is he who can exchange his qualities with real qualities of the flowers.
A flower is compared
AWith girls
BWith all living things
CWith human beings
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (C) With human beings
Explanation
The passage compares the qualities of a flower (open, frank, equal, generous, kind) with the qualities of human beings, which is option (C).
Directions (Q. Nos. E-1 to E-5): Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
Be like a flower. One must try to become like a flower : open, frank, equal, generous and kind. So you know what it means ? A flower is open to all that surrounds it : nature, light, the rays of the sun, the wind etc. It exerts a spontaneous influence on all that is around it. It radiates joy and beauty. It is frank. It hides nothing of its beauty lets its fragrance flow frankly out of itself. What is within and what is in its depths, it lets it come out so that everyone can see it. It is equal : it has no preferences. Everyone can enjoy its beauty and its perfume without rivalry. It is equal and the same for everybody. There is no difference or anything whatsoever. Then generous without reserve or restriction, it gives away the mysterious beauty and the very own perfume of nature. It sacrifices itself entirely for our pleasure, even its life sacrifices to express this beauty and the secret of the things gathered within itself. And then, kind : it has such a tenderness, it is so sweet, so close to us, so loving. Its presence fills us with joy. It is always cheerful and happy. Happy is he who can exchange his qualities with real qualities of the flowers.
A flower is open to all because
AIt radiates joy
BIt influences all
CIt spreads its beauty to all
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (D) More than one of the above
Explanation
The passage says a flower radiates joy and beauty (A), exerts a spontaneous influence on all around it (B) and gives its beauty to everyone (C); since more than one of these fits, the key is 'More than one of the above'.
Directions (Q. Nos. E-1 to E-5): Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
Be like a flower. One must try to become like a flower : open, frank, equal, generous and kind. So you know what it means ? A flower is open to all that surrounds it : nature, light, the rays of the sun, the wind etc. It exerts a spontaneous influence on all that is around it. It radiates joy and beauty. It is frank. It hides nothing of its beauty lets its fragrance flow frankly out of itself. What is within and what is in its depths, it lets it come out so that everyone can see it. It is equal : it has no preferences. Everyone can enjoy its beauty and its perfume without rivalry. It is equal and the same for everybody. There is no difference or anything whatsoever. Then generous without reserve or restriction, it gives away the mysterious beauty and the very own perfume of nature. It sacrifices itself entirely for our pleasure, even its life sacrifices to express this beauty and the secret of the things gathered within itself. And then, kind : it has such a tenderness, it is so sweet, so close to us, so loving. Its presence fills us with joy. It is always cheerful and happy. Happy is he who can exchange his qualities with real qualities of the flowers.
The author here talks about
ALotus flower
BRose flower
CLily flower
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (D) More than one of the above
Explanation
Note: the official key gives (D), although the passage speaks of a flower in general and names no lotus, rose or lily, so (E) would also be defensible.
Directions (Q. Nos. E-1 to E-5): Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
Be like a flower. One must try to become like a flower : open, frank, equal, generous and kind. So you know what it means ? A flower is open to all that surrounds it : nature, light, the rays of the sun, the wind etc. It exerts a spontaneous influence on all that is around it. It radiates joy and beauty. It is frank. It hides nothing of its beauty lets its fragrance flow frankly out of itself. What is within and what is in its depths, it lets it come out so that everyone can see it. It is equal : it has no preferences. Everyone can enjoy its beauty and its perfume without rivalry. It is equal and the same for everybody. There is no difference or anything whatsoever. Then generous without reserve or restriction, it gives away the mysterious beauty and the very own perfume of nature. It sacrifices itself entirely for our pleasure, even its life sacrifices to express this beauty and the secret of the things gathered within itself. And then, kind : it has such a tenderness, it is so sweet, so close to us, so loving. Its presence fills us with joy. It is always cheerful and happy. Happy is he who can exchange his qualities with real qualities of the flowers.
A flower is compared
AWith human beings
BWith all living things
CWith girls
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (A) With human beings
Explanation
The passage compares the qualities of a flower (open, frank, equal, generous, kind) with the qualities of human beings, which is option (A).
Directions (Q. Nos. E-1 to E-5): Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
Be like a flower. One must try to become like a flower : open, frank, equal, generous and kind. So you know what it means ? A flower is open to all that surrounds it : nature, light, the rays of the sun, the wind etc. It exerts a spontaneous influence on all that is around it. It radiates joy and beauty. It is frank. It hides nothing of its beauty lets its fragrance flow frankly out of itself. What is within and what is in its depths, it lets it come out so that everyone can see it. It is equal : it has no preferences. Everyone can enjoy its beauty and its perfume without rivalry. It is equal and the same for everybody. There is no difference or anything whatsoever. Then generous without reserve or restriction, it gives away the mysterious beauty and the very own perfume of nature. It sacrifices itself entirely for our pleasure, even its life sacrifices to express this beauty and the secret of the things gathered within itself. And then, kind : it has such a tenderness, it is so sweet, so close to us, so loving. Its presence fills us with joy. It is always cheerful and happy. Happy is he who can exchange his qualities with real qualities of the flowers.
A spontaneous influence means
AA slow influence
BNaturally created influence
CA quicker influence
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (B) Naturally created influence
Explanation
'Spontaneous' means arising naturally without effort, so a spontaneous influence is a naturally created influence.
Directions (Q. Nos. E-1 to E-5): Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
Be like a flower. One must try to become like a flower : open, frank, equal, generous and kind. So you know what it means ? A flower is open to all that surrounds it : nature, light, the rays of the sun, the wind etc. It exerts a spontaneous influence on all that is around it. It radiates joy and beauty. It is frank. It hides nothing of its beauty lets its fragrance flow frankly out of itself. What is within and what is in its depths, it lets it come out so that everyone can see it. It is equal : it has no preferences. Everyone can enjoy its beauty and its perfume without rivalry. It is equal and the same for everybody. There is no difference or anything whatsoever. Then generous without reserve or restriction, it gives away the mysterious beauty and the very own perfume of nature. It sacrifices itself entirely for our pleasure, even its life sacrifices to express this beauty and the secret of the things gathered within itself. And then, kind : it has such a tenderness, it is so sweet, so close to us, so loving. Its presence fills us with joy. It is always cheerful and happy. Happy is he who can exchange his qualities with real qualities of the flowers.
The refined qualities of a flower are
AGenerosity and kindness
BFragrance and beauty
CFrankness and honesty
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (D) More than one of the above
Explanation
The passage lists the flower's qualities as open, frank, equal, generous and kind, so generosity and kindness (A) and frankness (C) both fit; the key is 'More than one of the above'.
Directions (Q. Nos. 106 – 110): Read the passage below and answer the following questions.
The Taj Mahal has become one of the world’s best known monuments. This domed white marble structure is situated on a high plinth at the southern end of four-quartered garden, evoking the gardens of paradise, enclosed within walls measuring 305 by 549 meters. Outside the walls, in an area known as Mumtazabad, were living quarters for attendants, markets, serais and other structures built by local merchants and nobles. The tomb complex and other imperial structures of Mumtazabad were maintained by the income of thirty villages given specifically for tomb’s support. The name Taj Mahal is unknown in Mughal chronicles, but it is used by contemporary Europeans in India, suggesting that this was the tomb’s popular name. In contemporary texts it is generally called simply the Illuminated Tomb (Rauza-i-Munawara). Mumtaz Mahal died shortly after delivering her fourteenth child in 1631. The Mughal court was then residing in Burhanpur. Her remains were temporarily buried by the grief-stricken emperor in a spacious garden known as Zainabad on the bank of the river Tapti. Six months later her body was transported to Agra where it was inferred in land chosen for the mausoleum. This land, situated, South of the Mughal city on the bank of the Jamuna, had belonged to the Kachhwaha rajas since the times of Raja Man Singh and was purchased from the then current Raja, Jai Singh. Although contemporary chronicles indicate Jai Singh’s willing cooperation in this exchange, extant imperial commands indicate that the final price was not settled until almost two years after the mausoleum’s commencement. Jai Singh’s further cooperation was insured by imperial orders issued between 1632 and 1634 demanding that he provide stone masons and carts to transport marble from the mines from Makrana, within his ‘ancestral domain’, to Agra where both the Taj Mahal and Shah Jahan’s additions to the Agra fort were constructed concurrently. Work on the mausoleum was commenced early in 1632. Inscriptional evidence indicates much of tomb was completed by 1636. By 1643, when Shah Jahan most lavishly celebrated the ‘Urs ceremony for Mumtaz Mahal’, the entire complex was virtually complete.
Point out the true statement from the following :
I. Marble was not used for the construction of the Taj Mahal.
II. The name of the Taj Mahal is also Rauza-i-Munawara.
III. The Taj Mahal was completed by the time of the Urs ceremony for Mumtaz Mahal was held.
AOnly III
BOnly I
COnly II
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (D) More than one of the above
Explanation
Statement I is false (marble was used). II is true (the tomb is called Rauza-i-Munawara) and III is true (it was virtually complete by the 1643 Urs), so more than one statement is correct.
Directions (Q. Nos. 106 – 110): Read the passage below and answer the following questions.
The Taj Mahal has become one of the world’s best known monuments. This domed white marble structure is situated on a high plinth at the southern end of four-quartered garden, evoking the gardens of paradise, enclosed within walls measuring 305 by 549 meters. Outside the walls, in an area known as Mumtazabad, were living quarters for attendants, markets, serais and other structures built by local merchants and nobles. The tomb complex and other imperial structures of Mumtazabad were maintained by the income of thirty villages given specifically for tomb’s support. The name Taj Mahal is unknown in Mughal chronicles, but it is used by contemporary Europeans in India, suggesting that this was the tomb’s popular name. In contemporary texts it is generally called simply the Illuminated Tomb (Rauza-i-Munawara). Mumtaz Mahal died shortly after delivering her fourteenth child in 1631. The Mughal court was then residing in Burhanpur. Her remains were temporarily buried by the grief-stricken emperor in a spacious garden known as Zainabad on the bank of the river Tapti. Six months later her body was transported to Agra where it was inferred in land chosen for the mausoleum. This land, situated, South of the Mughal city on the bank of the Jamuna, had belonged to the Kachhwaha rajas since the times of Raja Man Singh and was purchased from the then current Raja, Jai Singh. Although contemporary chronicles indicate Jai Singh’s willing cooperation in this exchange, extant imperial commands indicate that the final price was not settled until almost two years after the mausoleum’s commencement. Jai Singh’s further cooperation was insured by imperial orders issued between 1632 and 1634 demanding that he provide stone masons and carts to transport marble from the mines from Makrana, within his ‘ancestral domain’, to Agra where both the Taj Mahal and Shah Jahan’s additions to the Agra fort were constructed concurrently. Work on the mausoleum was commenced early in 1632. Inscriptional evidence indicates much of tomb was completed by 1636. By 1643, when Shah Jahan most lavishly celebrated the ‘Urs ceremony for Mumtaz Mahal’, the entire complex was virtually complete.
In the contemporary texts the Taj Mahal is known as
AMumtaz Mahal
BMumtazabad
CRauza-i-Munawara
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (C) Rauza-i-Munawara
Explanation
The passage says that in contemporary texts the tomb is generally called the Illuminated Tomb (Rauza-i-Munawara).
Directions (Q. Nos. 106 – 110): Read the passage below and answer the following questions.
The Taj Mahal has become one of the world’s best known monuments. This domed white marble structure is situated on a high plinth at the southern end of four-quartered garden, evoking the gardens of paradise, enclosed within walls measuring 305 by 549 meters. Outside the walls, in an area known as Mumtazabad, were living quarters for attendants, markets, serais and other structures built by local merchants and nobles. The tomb complex and other imperial structures of Mumtazabad were maintained by the income of thirty villages given specifically for tomb’s support. The name Taj Mahal is unknown in Mughal chronicles, but it is used by contemporary Europeans in India, suggesting that this was the tomb’s popular name. In contemporary texts it is generally called simply the Illuminated Tomb (Rauza-i-Munawara). Mumtaz Mahal died shortly after delivering her fourteenth child in 1631. The Mughal court was then residing in Burhanpur. Her remains were temporarily buried by the grief-stricken emperor in a spacious garden known as Zainabad on the bank of the river Tapti. Six months later her body was transported to Agra where it was inferred in land chosen for the mausoleum. This land, situated, South of the Mughal city on the bank of the Jamuna, had belonged to the Kachhwaha rajas since the times of Raja Man Singh and was purchased from the then current Raja, Jai Singh. Although contemporary chronicles indicate Jai Singh’s willing cooperation in this exchange, extant imperial commands indicate that the final price was not settled until almost two years after the mausoleum’s commencement. Jai Singh’s further cooperation was insured by imperial orders issued between 1632 and 1634 demanding that he provide stone masons and carts to transport marble from the mines from Makrana, within his ‘ancestral domain’, to Agra where both the Taj Mahal and Shah Jahan’s additions to the Agra fort were constructed concurrently. Work on the mausoleum was commenced early in 1632. Inscriptional evidence indicates much of tomb was completed by 1636. By 1643, when Shah Jahan most lavishly celebrated the ‘Urs ceremony for Mumtaz Mahal’, the entire complex was virtually complete.
The construction of the Taj Mahal was completed between the period
A1680 – 1690 A.D.
B1620 – 1626 A.D.
C1610 – 1616 A.D.
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (E) None of the above
Explanation
The passage gives work starting in 1632 and the complex virtually complete by 1643, which matches none of the listed periods.
Directions (Q. Nos. 106 – 110): Read the passage below and answer the following questions.
The Taj Mahal has become one of the world’s best known monuments. This domed white marble structure is situated on a high plinth at the southern end of four-quartered garden, evoking the gardens of paradise, enclosed within walls measuring 305 by 549 meters. Outside the walls, in an area known as Mumtazabad, were living quarters for attendants, markets, serais and other structures built by local merchants and nobles. The tomb complex and other imperial structures of Mumtazabad were maintained by the income of thirty villages given specifically for tomb’s support. The name Taj Mahal is unknown in Mughal chronicles, but it is used by contemporary Europeans in India, suggesting that this was the tomb’s popular name. In contemporary texts it is generally called simply the Illuminated Tomb (Rauza-i-Munawara). Mumtaz Mahal died shortly after delivering her fourteenth child in 1631. The Mughal court was then residing in Burhanpur. Her remains were temporarily buried by the grief-stricken emperor in a spacious garden known as Zainabad on the bank of the river Tapti. Six months later her body was transported to Agra where it was inferred in land chosen for the mausoleum. This land, situated, South of the Mughal city on the bank of the Jamuna, had belonged to the Kachhwaha rajas since the times of Raja Man Singh and was purchased from the then current Raja, Jai Singh. Although contemporary chronicles indicate Jai Singh’s willing cooperation in this exchange, extant imperial commands indicate that the final price was not settled until almost two years after the mausoleum’s commencement. Jai Singh’s further cooperation was insured by imperial orders issued between 1632 and 1634 demanding that he provide stone masons and carts to transport marble from the mines from Makrana, within his ‘ancestral domain’, to Agra where both the Taj Mahal and Shah Jahan’s additions to the Agra fort were constructed concurrently. Work on the mausoleum was commenced early in 1632. Inscriptional evidence indicates much of tomb was completed by 1636. By 1643, when Shah Jahan most lavishly celebrated the ‘Urs ceremony for Mumtaz Mahal’, the entire complex was virtually complete.
Marble stone used for the construction of the Taj Mahal was brought from the ancestral domain of Raja Jai Singh. The name of the place where mines of marble were located is
AMakrana
BBurhanpur
CAmber
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (A) Makrana
Explanation
Marble was carried from the mines at Makrana in Jai Singh's ancestral domain.
Directions (Q. Nos. 106 – 110): Read the passage below and answer the following questions.
The Taj Mahal has become one of the world’s best known monuments. This domed white marble structure is situated on a high plinth at the southern end of four-quartered garden, evoking the gardens of paradise, enclosed within walls measuring 305 by 549 meters. Outside the walls, in an area known as Mumtazabad, were living quarters for attendants, markets, serais and other structures built by local merchants and nobles. The tomb complex and other imperial structures of Mumtazabad were maintained by the income of thirty villages given specifically for tomb’s support. The name Taj Mahal is unknown in Mughal chronicles, but it is used by contemporary Europeans in India, suggesting that this was the tomb’s popular name. In contemporary texts it is generally called simply the Illuminated Tomb (Rauza-i-Munawara). Mumtaz Mahal died shortly after delivering her fourteenth child in 1631. The Mughal court was then residing in Burhanpur. Her remains were temporarily buried by the grief-stricken emperor in a spacious garden known as Zainabad on the bank of the river Tapti. Six months later her body was transported to Agra where it was inferred in land chosen for the mausoleum. This land, situated, South of the Mughal city on the bank of the Jamuna, had belonged to the Kachhwaha rajas since the times of Raja Man Singh and was purchased from the then current Raja, Jai Singh. Although contemporary chronicles indicate Jai Singh’s willing cooperation in this exchange, extant imperial commands indicate that the final price was not settled until almost two years after the mausoleum’s commencement. Jai Singh’s further cooperation was insured by imperial orders issued between 1632 and 1634 demanding that he provide stone masons and carts to transport marble from the mines from Makrana, within his ‘ancestral domain’, to Agra where both the Taj Mahal and Shah Jahan’s additions to the Agra fort were constructed concurrently. Work on the mausoleum was commenced early in 1632. Inscriptional evidence indicates much of tomb was completed by 1636. By 1643, when Shah Jahan most lavishly celebrated the ‘Urs ceremony for Mumtaz Mahal’, the entire complex was virtually complete.
The remains of Mumtaz Mahal were initially buried in
ADelhi
BMoradabad
CZainabad
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (C) Zainabad
Explanation
Mumtaz Mahal was first buried in a garden called Zainabad on the Tapti at Burhanpur.
Directions (Q. Nos. 111 – 115): Read the passage below and answer the following questions.
The popular view of towns and cities in developing countries of the urbanisation process is that the emergence of such cities connotes environmental degradation, generation of slums and squatters, urban, poverty, unemployment, crimes, lawlessness, traffic chaos etc. But what is the reality ? Given the unprecedented increase in urban population over the last 50 years from 30 million in 1950 to 2 billion in 2000 in developing countries, the wonder really is how well the world has coped and not how badly. In general the urban quality of life has improved in terms of availability of water and sanitation, power, health and education, communication and transport. By way of illustration, a large number of urban residents have been provided with improved water in urban areas in Asia’s largest countries such as China, India, Indonesia and Philippines. Despite that, the access to improved water in terms of percentage of total urban population seems to have declined during the last decade of 20th century, though in absolute numbers, millions of additional urbanites have been provided improved services. These countries have made significant progress in provision of sanitation services too, together, providing for an additional population of more than 293 million citizens within a decade (1990-2000). These improvements must be viewed against the backdrop of rapidly increasing urban population, fiscal crunch and strained human resources and efficient and quality-oriented public management.
The reality of urbanisation is reflected in
Ahow many novels have been written
Bthe growth of the population in cities
Chow many villages have built community halls
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (B) the growth of the population in cities
Explanation
The author says the reality is the great growth in city population that the world has coped with well.
Directions (Q. Nos. 111 – 115): Read the passage below and answer the following questions.
The popular view of towns and cities in developing countries of the urbanisation process is that the emergence of such cities connotes environmental degradation, generation of slums and squatters, urban, poverty, unemployment, crimes, lawlessness, traffic chaos etc. But what is the reality ? Given the unprecedented increase in urban population over the last 50 years from 30 million in 1950 to 2 billion in 2000 in developing countries, the wonder really is how well the world has coped and not how badly. In general the urban quality of life has improved in terms of availability of water and sanitation, power, health and education, communication and transport. By way of illustration, a large number of urban residents have been provided with improved water in urban areas in Asia’s largest countries such as China, India, Indonesia and Philippines. Despite that, the access to improved water in terms of percentage of total urban population seems to have declined during the last decade of 20th century, though in absolute numbers, millions of additional urbanites have been provided improved services. These countries have made significant progress in provision of sanitation services too, together, providing for an additional population of more than 293 million citizens within a decade (1990-2000). These improvements must be viewed against the backdrop of rapidly increasing urban population, fiscal crunch and strained human resources and efficient and quality-oriented public management.
The popular view about the process of urbanisation in developing countries is
Anegative
Bpositive
Cneutral
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (A) negative
Explanation
The popular view is that urbanisation brings degradation, slums and chaos, i.e. a negative view.
Directions (Q. Nos. 111 – 115): Read the passage below and answer the following questions.
The popular view of towns and cities in developing countries of the urbanisation process is that the emergence of such cities connotes environmental degradation, generation of slums and squatters, urban, poverty, unemployment, crimes, lawlessness, traffic chaos etc. But what is the reality ? Given the unprecedented increase in urban population over the last 50 years from 30 million in 1950 to 2 billion in 2000 in developing countries, the wonder really is how well the world has coped and not how badly. In general the urban quality of life has improved in terms of availability of water and sanitation, power, health and education, communication and transport. By way of illustration, a large number of urban residents have been provided with improved water in urban areas in Asia’s largest countries such as China, India, Indonesia and Philippines. Despite that, the access to improved water in terms of percentage of total urban population seems to have declined during the last decade of 20th century, though in absolute numbers, millions of additional urbanites have been provided improved services. These countries have made significant progress in provision of sanitation services too, together, providing for an additional population of more than 293 million citizens within a decade (1990-2000). These improvements must be viewed against the backdrop of rapidly increasing urban population, fiscal crunch and strained human resources and efficient and quality-oriented public management.
The author in this passage has tried to focus on
Avillage life
Burbanisation and its challenges
Chuman love
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (B) urbanisation and its challenges
Explanation
The passage discusses urbanisation in developing countries, its challenges and its progress.
Directions (Q. Nos. 111 – 115): Read the passage below and answer the following questions.
The popular view of towns and cities in developing countries of the urbanisation process is that the emergence of such cities connotes environmental degradation, generation of slums and squatters, urban, poverty, unemployment, crimes, lawlessness, traffic chaos etc. But what is the reality ? Given the unprecedented increase in urban population over the last 50 years from 30 million in 1950 to 2 billion in 2000 in developing countries, the wonder really is how well the world has coped and not how badly. In general the urban quality of life has improved in terms of availability of water and sanitation, power, health and education, communication and transport. By way of illustration, a large number of urban residents have been provided with improved water in urban areas in Asia’s largest countries such as China, India, Indonesia and Philippines. Despite that, the access to improved water in terms of percentage of total urban population seems to have declined during the last decade of 20th century, though in absolute numbers, millions of additional urbanites have been provided improved services. These countries have made significant progress in provision of sanitation services too, together, providing for an additional population of more than 293 million citizens within a decade (1990-2000). These improvements must be viewed against the backdrop of rapidly increasing urban population, fiscal crunch and strained human resources and efficient and quality-oriented public management.
The average annual increase in the number of urbanites in developing countries, from AD 1950 to 2000 was close to
A4 million
B3 million
C10 million
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (E) None of the above
Explanation
Urban population rose from 30 million to 2 billion in 50 years, about 39 million a year, which matches none of the options.
Directions (Q. Nos. 111 – 115): Read the passage below and answer the following questions.
The popular view of towns and cities in developing countries of the urbanisation process is that the emergence of such cities connotes environmental degradation, generation of slums and squatters, urban, poverty, unemployment, crimes, lawlessness, traffic chaos etc. But what is the reality ? Given the unprecedented increase in urban population over the last 50 years from 30 million in 1950 to 2 billion in 2000 in developing countries, the wonder really is how well the world has coped and not how badly. In general the urban quality of life has improved in terms of availability of water and sanitation, power, health and education, communication and transport. By way of illustration, a large number of urban residents have been provided with improved water in urban areas in Asia’s largest countries such as China, India, Indonesia and Philippines. Despite that, the access to improved water in terms of percentage of total urban population seems to have declined during the last decade of 20th century, though in absolute numbers, millions of additional urbanites have been provided improved services. These countries have made significant progress in provision of sanitation services too, together, providing for an additional population of more than 293 million citizens within a decade (1990-2000). These improvements must be viewed against the backdrop of rapidly increasing urban population, fiscal crunch and strained human resources and efficient and quality-oriented public management.
Which one of the following is not considered as an indicator of urban quality of life ?
AClean water
BSanitation facilities
CClean air
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (C) Clean air
Explanation
The passage names water, sanitation, power, health, education, communication and transport as indicators, but not clean air.
Directions (Q. Nos. 116 – 120): Read the passage below and answer the following questions.
Storytelling is not in our genes. Neither is it an evolutionary history. It is the essence of what makes us human. Human beings progress by telling stories. One event can result in a great variety of stories being told about it. Sometimes, those stories differ greatly. Which stories are picked up and repeated and which ones are dropped and forgotten often determines how we progress. Our history, knowledge and understanding are all the collections of the few stories that survive. This includes the stories that we tell each other about the future. And how the future will turn out depends partly, possibly largely, on which stories we collectively choose to believe. Some stories are designed to spread fear and concern. This is because some storytellers feel that there is a need to raise some tensions. Some stories are frightening, they are like totemic warnings. Fail to act now and we are all doomed. Then, there are stories that indicate that all will be fine so long as we leave everything up to a few especially able adults. Currently, this trend is being led by those who call themselves ‘rational optimists’. They tend to claim that it is human nature to compete and succeed and also to profit at the expense of others. The rational optimists however, do not realise, how humanity progressed overtime through amiable social networks and how large groups work in less selfishness and in the process accommodate rich and poor, high and low alike. This aspect in storytelling is considered by the ‘Practical Possibilities’, who sit between those who say all is fine and cheerful and be individualistic in your approach to a successful future and those who ordain pessimism and fear that we are doomed.
Storytelling is
Ain not in our genes
Ban ancient practice
Cthe essence of what makes us human
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (D) More than one of the above
Explanation
The passage says storytelling is not in our genes and is the essence of what makes us human, so options A and C both hold.
Directions (Q. Nos. 116 – 120): Read the passage below and answer the following questions.
Storytelling is not in our genes. Neither is it an evolutionary history. It is the essence of what makes us human. Human beings progress by telling stories. One event can result in a great variety of stories being told about it. Sometimes, those stories differ greatly. Which stories are picked up and repeated and which ones are dropped and forgotten often determines how we progress. Our history, knowledge and understanding are all the collections of the few stories that survive. This includes the stories that we tell each other about the future. And how the future will turn out depends partly, possibly largely, on which stories we collectively choose to believe. Some stories are designed to spread fear and concern. This is because some storytellers feel that there is a need to raise some tensions. Some stories are frightening, they are like totemic warnings. Fail to act now and we are all doomed. Then, there are stories that indicate that all will be fine so long as we leave everything up to a few especially able adults. Currently, this trend is being led by those who call themselves ‘rational optimists’. They tend to claim that it is human nature to compete and succeed and also to profit at the expense of others. The rational optimists however, do not realise, how humanity progressed overtime through amiable social networks and how large groups work in less selfishness and in the process accommodate rich and poor, high and low alike. This aspect in storytelling is considered by the ‘Practical Possibilities’, who sit between those who say all is fine and cheerful and be individualistic in your approach to a successful future and those who ordain pessimism and fear that we are doomed.
Humans become less selfish when
Athey listen to frightening stories
Bthey work in large groups
Cthey work in solitude
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (B) they work in large groups
Explanation
The passage says large groups work with less selfishness, i.e. people are less selfish when they work in large groups.
Directions (Q. Nos. 116 – 120): Read the passage below and answer the following questions.
Storytelling is not in our genes. Neither is it an evolutionary history. It is the essence of what makes us human. Human beings progress by telling stories. One event can result in a great variety of stories being told about it. Sometimes, those stories differ greatly. Which stories are picked up and repeated and which ones are dropped and forgotten often determines how we progress. Our history, knowledge and understanding are all the collections of the few stories that survive. This includes the stories that we tell each other about the future. And how the future will turn out depends partly, possibly largely, on which stories we collectively choose to believe. Some stories are designed to spread fear and concern. This is because some storytellers feel that there is a need to raise some tensions. Some stories are frightening, they are like totemic warnings. Fail to act now and we are all doomed. Then, there are stories that indicate that all will be fine so long as we leave everything up to a few especially able adults. Currently, this trend is being led by those who call themselves ‘rational optimists’. They tend to claim that it is human nature to compete and succeed and also to profit at the expense of others. The rational optimists however, do not realise, how humanity progressed overtime through amiable social networks and how large groups work in less selfishness and in the process accommodate rich and poor, high and low alike. This aspect in storytelling is considered by the ‘Practical Possibilities’, who sit between those who say all is fine and cheerful and be individualistic in your approach to a successful future and those who ordain pessimism and fear that we are doomed.
Rational optimists
Alive in secluded catles
Bdon’t think about the future at all
Cthink that the welfare of man should be left only to a few able adults
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (C) think that the welfare of man should be left only to a few able adults
Explanation
Rational optimists believe all will be fine if everything is left to a few especially able adults.
Directions (Q. Nos. 116 – 120): Read the passage below and answer the following questions.
Storytelling is not in our genes. Neither is it an evolutionary history. It is the essence of what makes us human. Human beings progress by telling stories. One event can result in a great variety of stories being told about it. Sometimes, those stories differ greatly. Which stories are picked up and repeated and which ones are dropped and forgotten often determines how we progress. Our history, knowledge and understanding are all the collections of the few stories that survive. This includes the stories that we tell each other about the future. And how the future will turn out depends partly, possibly largely, on which stories we collectively choose to believe. Some stories are designed to spread fear and concern. This is because some storytellers feel that there is a need to raise some tensions. Some stories are frightening, they are like totemic warnings. Fail to act now and we are all doomed. Then, there are stories that indicate that all will be fine so long as we leave everything up to a few especially able adults. Currently, this trend is being led by those who call themselves ‘rational optimists’. They tend to claim that it is human nature to compete and succeed and also to profit at the expense of others. The rational optimists however, do not realise, how humanity progressed overtime through amiable social networks and how large groups work in less selfishness and in the process accommodate rich and poor, high and low alike. This aspect in storytelling is considered by the ‘Practical Possibilities’, who sit between those who say all is fine and cheerful and be individualistic in your approach to a successful future and those who ordain pessimism and fear that we are doomed.
Our knowledge is a collection of
Asome stories that we forget
Bno stories that we have heard during our life-time
Ca few stories that survive
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (C) a few stories that survive
Explanation
The passage says our knowledge is the collection of the few stories that survive.
Directions (Q. Nos. 116 – 120): Read the passage below and answer the following questions.
Storytelling is not in our genes. Neither is it an evolutionary history. It is the essence of what makes us human. Human beings progress by telling stories. One event can result in a great variety of stories being told about it. Sometimes, those stories differ greatly. Which stories are picked up and repeated and which ones are dropped and forgotten often determines how we progress. Our history, knowledge and understanding are all the collections of the few stories that survive. This includes the stories that we tell each other about the future. And how the future will turn out depends partly, possibly largely, on which stories we collectively choose to believe. Some stories are designed to spread fear and concern. This is because some storytellers feel that there is a need to raise some tensions. Some stories are frightening, they are like totemic warnings. Fail to act now and we are all doomed. Then, there are stories that indicate that all will be fine so long as we leave everything up to a few especially able adults. Currently, this trend is being led by those who call themselves ‘rational optimists’. They tend to claim that it is human nature to compete and succeed and also to profit at the expense of others. The rational optimists however, do not realise, how humanity progressed overtime through amiable social networks and how large groups work in less selfishness and in the process accommodate rich and poor, high and low alike. This aspect in storytelling is considered by the ‘Practical Possibilities’, who sit between those who say all is fine and cheerful and be individualistic in your approach to a successful future and those who ordain pessimism and fear that we are doomed.
How the future will turn out to be, depends upon the stories ...
AWhich are repeatedly narrated
BWe collectively choose to believe in
CDesigned to spread fear and tension
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (B) We collectively choose to believe in
Explanation
The passage says the future depends on which stories we collectively choose to believe.
Directions (Q. Nos. 121 – 125): Read the passage below and answer the following questions.
One of the findings of the research into successful leadership is the fact that respect is always a two-way street. No matter how powerful you are, no matter what your experience, skills, and accomplishments, you will not be respected by others if you consistently treat them disrespectfully. Friendliness-that is, treating others politely and showing interest in them is a way of showing your respect for other people in return they respect you. If as a manager you are respected, preventive maintenance strategy will be accepted as a sincere attempt to resolve problems rather than mean spirited attempt to cause problems. As important as friendliness is, I want to make sure you are no mislead into believing that friendliness will replace or correct poor management. I have seen effective managers who did not use this friendliness element but could have been more effective if they did use it. I have seen very friendly managers who were ineffective because they were not doing effective management things. In other words, managers who intervene effectively in a friendly way are always more effective than managers who intervene effectively in a non-friendly way. Maintaining a friendly relationship is another part of maintaining work performance. It is helps you avoid having people try to hurt you because they do not like you. It might save your life.
The author feels only friendliness can replace or correct poor management.
AThe statement is false
BThe statement is true
CThe author is ambiguous about the subject
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (A) The statement is false
Explanation
The author warns that friendliness will not replace or correct poor management, so the statement is false.
Directions (Q. Nos. 121 – 125): Read the passage below and answer the following questions.
One of the findings of the research into successful leadership is the fact that respect is always a two-way street. No matter how powerful you are, no matter what your experience, skills, and accomplishments, you will not be respected by others if you consistently treat them disrespectfully. Friendliness-that is, treating others politely and showing interest in them is a way of showing your respect for other people in return they respect you. If as a manager you are respected, preventive maintenance strategy will be accepted as a sincere attempt to resolve problems rather than mean spirited attempt to cause problems. As important as friendliness is, I want to make sure you are no mislead into believing that friendliness will replace or correct poor management. I have seen effective managers who did not use this friendliness element but could have been more effective if they did use it. I have seen very friendly managers who were ineffective because they were not doing effective management things. In other words, managers who intervene effectively in a friendly way are always more effective than managers who intervene effectively in a non-friendly way. Maintaining a friendly relationship is another part of maintaining work performance. It is helps you avoid having people try to hurt you because they do not like you. It might save your life.
The author feels that respect is
Aa one way street
Bnot possible
Ca two way street
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (C) a two way street
Explanation
The passage begins by saying that respect is always a two-way street.
Directions (Q. Nos. 121 – 125): Read the passage below and answer the following questions.
One of the findings of the research into successful leadership is the fact that respect is always a two-way street. No matter how powerful you are, no matter what your experience, skills, and accomplishments, you will not be respected by others if you consistently treat them disrespectfully. Friendliness-that is, treating others politely and showing interest in them is a way of showing your respect for other people in return they respect you. If as a manager you are respected, preventive maintenance strategy will be accepted as a sincere attempt to resolve problems rather than mean spirited attempt to cause problems. As important as friendliness is, I want to make sure you are no mislead into believing that friendliness will replace or correct poor management. I have seen effective managers who did not use this friendliness element but could have been more effective if they did use it. I have seen very friendly managers who were ineffective because they were not doing effective management things. In other words, managers who intervene effectively in a friendly way are always more effective than managers who intervene effectively in a non-friendly way. Maintaining a friendly relationship is another part of maintaining work performance. It is helps you avoid having people try to hurt you because they do not like you. It might save your life.
The passage suggests that people try to hurt you when
AWhen they do not like you
BYou are friendly to them
CWhen they become good managers
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (A) When they do not like you
Explanation
The author says friendliness helps avoid people trying to hurt you because they do not like you.
Directions (Q. Nos. 121 – 125): Read the passage below and answer the following questions.
One of the findings of the research into successful leadership is the fact that respect is always a two-way street. No matter how powerful you are, no matter what your experience, skills, and accomplishments, you will not be respected by others if you consistently treat them disrespectfully. Friendliness-that is, treating others politely and showing interest in them is a way of showing your respect for other people in return they respect you. If as a manager you are respected, preventive maintenance strategy will be accepted as a sincere attempt to resolve problems rather than mean spirited attempt to cause problems. As important as friendliness is, I want to make sure you are no mislead into believing that friendliness will replace or correct poor management. I have seen effective managers who did not use this friendliness element but could have been more effective if they did use it. I have seen very friendly managers who were ineffective because they were not doing effective management things. In other words, managers who intervene effectively in a friendly way are always more effective than managers who intervene effectively in a non-friendly way. Maintaining a friendly relationship is another part of maintaining work performance. It is helps you avoid having people try to hurt you because they do not like you. It might save your life.
When will preventive maintenance strategy be accepted ?
AWhen it is seen as a sincere attempt to resolve problems
BWhen there is respect for the manager
CWhen it is seen as a mean spirited gesture
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (D) More than one of the above
Explanation
Preventive maintenance is accepted if the manager is respected and it is seen as a sincere attempt to solve problems, so options A and B both hold.
Directions (Q. Nos. 121 – 125): Read the passage below and answer the following questions.
One of the findings of the research into successful leadership is the fact that respect is always a two-way street. No matter how powerful you are, no matter what your experience, skills, and accomplishments, you will not be respected by others if you consistently treat them disrespectfully. Friendliness-that is, treating others politely and showing interest in them is a way of showing your respect for other people in return they respect you. If as a manager you are respected, preventive maintenance strategy will be accepted as a sincere attempt to resolve problems rather than mean spirited attempt to cause problems. As important as friendliness is, I want to make sure you are no mislead into believing that friendliness will replace or correct poor management. I have seen effective managers who did not use this friendliness element but could have been more effective if they did use it. I have seen very friendly managers who were ineffective because they were not doing effective management things. In other words, managers who intervene effectively in a friendly way are always more effective than managers who intervene effectively in a non-friendly way. Maintaining a friendly relationship is another part of maintaining work performance. It is helps you avoid having people try to hurt you because they do not like you. It might save your life.
The author feels that a good manager
ACombines friendliness with other strategies of management
BUses only friendliness as a sole management criterion
CHurts other people
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (A) Combines friendliness with other strategies of management
Explanation
The author wants managers to combine friendliness with effective management, not to rely on friendliness alone.
Directions (Q. Nos. 86 to 110) : Read the passages given below and answer the questions that follow.
As the New Year approached, like many others, I found myself making resolutions in my mind. The usual suspects made their appearance : waking up earlier, eating healthier, spending more time with loved ones, tackling household chores, being kinder to those I don’t particularly like, driving cautiously, and taking the dog for a daily walk. But this time, I was determined to make my resolutions unique and achievable, learning from past failures. I realized that one of the reasons why most of us fail in our efforts to self-improve is because our goals are often too ambitious, and we struggle to find time to follow through with them. So, I decided to keep my resolution to myself, limiting them to just two modest ambitions : exercising every morning and reading more every evening. The first resolution was to exercise for just eleven minutes every morning before anyone else in my household was awake. The challenge was real, as dragging myself out of bed eleven minutes earlier than usual required significant self-discipline. But for the first two days, I managed to sneak down to the living room and jump around on the carpet without being caught. However, my cover was blown when my exhausted state after the exercise gave me away at the breakfast table. Soon, my family caught on and my morning exercise routine became a subject of amusements for them. Despite their teasing, I tried to stick to it, but gradually, my enthusiasm waned, and I found myself back to square one by January 10th, giving up on the morning exercise routine. Undeterred by my failure in the first resolution, I focused on my second resolution to read more every evening. I resisted the allure of television and spent a few evenings with my eyes glued to a book in my room. However, one cold and lonely night, I succumbed to the temptation of television and pretended to read while dozing off in front of the screen. It became a habit again, and I realized I had fallen back into my old ways. Despite these setbacks, I refused to give up on my resolution to read more. In fact, I took a bold step and bought a book titled How to Read a Thousand Words a Minute. However, the irony was not lost on me that I hadn’t found the time to read it yet, showcasing the challenges I faced in keeping up with my resolutions.
What was the author’s first resolution for the New Year?
AExercising every morning for eleven minutes
BReading more every evening
CEating healthier
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (A) Exercising every morning for eleven minutes
Explanation
The passage says the first resolution was to exercise for just eleven minutes every morning.
Directions (Q. Nos. 86 to 110) : Read the passages given below and answer the questions that follow.
As the New Year approached, like many others, I found myself making resolutions in my mind. The usual suspects made their appearance : waking up earlier, eating healthier, spending more time with loved ones, tackling household chores, being kinder to those I don’t particularly like, driving cautiously, and taking the dog for a daily walk. But this time, I was determined to make my resolutions unique and achievable, learning from past failures. I realized that one of the reasons why most of us fail in our efforts to self-improve is because our goals are often too ambitious, and we struggle to find time to follow through with them. So, I decided to keep my resolution to myself, limiting them to just two modest ambitions : exercising every morning and reading more every evening. The first resolution was to exercise for just eleven minutes every morning before anyone else in my household was awake. The challenge was real, as dragging myself out of bed eleven minutes earlier than usual required significant self-discipline. But for the first two days, I managed to sneak down to the living room and jump around on the carpet without being caught. However, my cover was blown when my exhausted state after the exercise gave me away at the breakfast table. Soon, my family caught on and my morning exercise routine became a subject of amusements for them. Despite their teasing, I tried to stick to it, but gradually, my enthusiasm waned, and I found myself back to square one by January 10th, giving up on the morning exercise routine. Undeterred by my failure in the first resolution, I focused on my second resolution to read more every evening. I resisted the allure of television and spent a few evenings with my eyes glued to a book in my room. However, one cold and lonely night, I succumbed to the temptation of television and pretended to read while dozing off in front of the screen. It became a habit again, and I realized I had fallen back into my old ways. Despite these setbacks, I refused to give up on my resolution to read more. In fact, I took a bold step and bought a book titled How to Read a Thousand Words a Minute. However, the irony was not lost on me that I hadn’t found the time to read it yet, showcasing the challenges I faced in keeping up with my resolutions.
What did the author do to resist the temptation of television and read more every evening?
AWatched television while pretending to read
BSat in his room with his eyes glued to a book
CIgnored television and went for a walk
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (B) Sat in his room with his eyes glued to a book
Explanation
To resist the television he spent evenings in his room with his eyes glued to a book, which is option (B).
Directions (Q. Nos. 86 to 110) : Read the passages given below and answer the questions that follow.
As the New Year approached, like many others, I found myself making resolutions in my mind. The usual suspects made their appearance : waking up earlier, eating healthier, spending more time with loved ones, tackling household chores, being kinder to those I don’t particularly like, driving cautiously, and taking the dog for a daily walk. But this time, I was determined to make my resolutions unique and achievable, learning from past failures. I realized that one of the reasons why most of us fail in our efforts to self-improve is because our goals are often too ambitious, and we struggle to find time to follow through with them. So, I decided to keep my resolution to myself, limiting them to just two modest ambitions : exercising every morning and reading more every evening. The first resolution was to exercise for just eleven minutes every morning before anyone else in my household was awake. The challenge was real, as dragging myself out of bed eleven minutes earlier than usual required significant self-discipline. But for the first two days, I managed to sneak down to the living room and jump around on the carpet without being caught. However, my cover was blown when my exhausted state after the exercise gave me away at the breakfast table. Soon, my family caught on and my morning exercise routine became a subject of amusements for them. Despite their teasing, I tried to stick to it, but gradually, my enthusiasm waned, and I found myself back to square one by January 10th, giving up on the morning exercise routine. Undeterred by my failure in the first resolution, I focused on my second resolution to read more every evening. I resisted the allure of television and spent a few evenings with my eyes glued to a book in my room. However, one cold and lonely night, I succumbed to the temptation of television and pretended to read while dozing off in front of the screen. It became a habit again, and I realized I had fallen back into my old ways. Despite these setbacks, I refused to give up on my resolution to read more. In fact, I took a bold step and bought a book titled How to Read a Thousand Words a Minute. However, the irony was not lost on me that I hadn’t found the time to read it yet, showcasing the challenges I faced in keeping up with my resolutions.
What did the author do one night when feeling cold and lonely?
AContinued reading in his room
BWent for a walk
CWatched television and pretended to read
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (C) Watched television and pretended to read
Explanation
On one cold and lonely night he gave in to television and pretended to read while dozing off.
How to use these BPSC TRE English questions
Every question here was asked in a real BPSC TRE paper; the paper and shift are shown on the card, and the number opens the question on its own page. Try each one before tapping Show answer, then attempt the full BPSC TRE papers as timed tests to check your speed under exam conditions.