English

Ordering of Words in a Sentence Questions

Chapter: Sentence Structure & Cohesion | Total Available: 60 Real Questions

Question 1 of 10 Authentic UPSC NDA Question

Ordering of Words in a Sentence

Directions: Each of the following items in this section consists of a sentence, the parts of which have been jumbled. These parts have been labelled P, Q, R and S. Given below each sentence are four sequences namely (a), (b), (c) and (d). You are required to re-arrange the jumbled parts of the sentence and mark your response accordingly.

a sell-off as US Treasury yields P

surged to multi-year highs Q

 on robust economic data R

global markets also witnessed S

Step-by-Step Logic & Solution

Correct Answer

βœ“ Option (d) is correct. The sequence SPQR forms a coherent sentence.

πŸ“– Rule & Word Origin

In English syntax, the order of words is crucial for sentence clarity. The standard structure follows Subject-Verb-Object (SVO) format.

πŸ’‘ Usage & Examples

For correct ordering: SPQR: Global markets also witnessed (S) a sell-off (P) as US Treasury yields (Q) surged to multi-year highs (R).

Incorrect ordering could yield confusion or loss of meaning.

πŸ” Option Analysis

  • A: RSQP - Starts with the effects but lacks a clear subject.
  • B: PQSR - Incorrectly prioritizes details over the subject.
  • C: QRPS - Leads to a fragmented and unclear statement.
  • D: SPQR - Provides a logical flow and clarity in message.

⚑ Grammatical Traps & Mnemonics

Remember the mnemonic S-V-O for Subject-Verb-Object while forming sentences: ensuring the logical sequence is always maintained.

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference:

Verified against Wren & Martin English Grammar.

Question 2 of 10 Authentic UPSC NDA Question

Directions:Each of the following items in this section consists of a sentence, the parts of which have been jumbled. The parts are labelled P, Q, R and S. Select the option that gives the correct sequence and mark your response on the Answer Sheet accordingly. 

 P of children they also contain deeplyembedded

Q whereas traditional fairy tales

R moral lessons that are relevant even foradults

S were designed for the entertainment

Step-by-Step Logic & Solution

Correct Answer

βœ“ Option D is correct. This sequence effectively conveys the relationship between fairy tales and their moral lessons.

πŸ“– Rule & Word Origin

The sentence structure follows a standard English grammatical rule of forming complex sentences with subordinate clauses. Here, "whereas" introduces a contrast.

πŸ’‘ Usage & Examples

Correct: "Whereas traditional fairy tales were designed for the entertainment of children, they also contain deeply embedded moral lessons that are relevant for adults."
Incorrect: "Traditional fairy tales were designed for the entertainment of children rather than they also contain deeply embedded moral lessons." (This construction misuses conjunctions.)

πŸ” Option Analysis

  • Option A (R P Q S): Incorrect arrangement that does not flow logically.
  • Option B (Q S R P): Disregards the need for a contrasting element.
  • Option C (R P S Q): Misplaces the introduction of moral lessons.
  • Option D (Q S P R): Correctly establishes context, purpose, and additional information.

⚑ Grammatical Traps & Mnemonics

Remember that "whereas" sets up a contrast, which needs to be clearly established before introducing additional information using "also."

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference:

Verified against Wren & Martin English Grammar, Chapter on Sentence Structure.

Question 3 of 10 Authentic UPSC NDA Question

Directions:In this section each item consists of six sentences of a passage. The first and sixth sentences are given in the beginning as S1 and S6. The middle four sentences in each have been jumbled up and labelled as P, Q, R and S. You are required to find the proper sequence of the four sentences and mark your response accordingly on the Answer Sheet.

S1. In many countries, there are millions of people who are under privileged and deprived

S6. In the past, forced labour was imposedby landlords, money-lenders, and other wealthy person

P. Both of these are prohibited under the Constitution of India

Q. One such form of exploitation in our coun-try has been begar or forced labour without payment

R. The marginalised are often subjected to ex-ploitation by their fellow human beings

S. Another closely related form of exploita-tion is buying and selling of human beingsand using them as slaves

Step-by-Step Logic & Solution

Correct Answer

βœ“ Option B is correct. This sequence presents a coherent narrative of exploitation.

πŸ“– Rule & Word Origin

This question focuses on the arrangement of sentences to form a meaningful paragraph, utilizing logical flow and context clues that establish coherence in the narrative.

πŸ’‘ Usage & Examples

Correct Sequence: R (The marginalised...) β†’ Q (One such form...) β†’ S (Another closely related...) β†’ P (Both of these...)
Example:
S1: "Education is vital."
S2: "It empowers individuals."
Possible Incorrect Sequence: S2 S1 - this disrupts the logical flow.

πŸ” Option Analysis

  • A: Q S R P (Incorrect, lacks logical connection.)
  • B: R Q S P (Correct, maintains the flow of ideas.)
  • C: P Q S R (Incorrect, starts with a conclusion rather than leading into the arguments.)
  • D: Q S P R (Incorrect, does not conclude appropriately.)

⚑ Grammatical Traps & Mnemonics

Remember: coherence is key. Look for linking words like 'both' and logical transitions that help form a complete thought. Mnemonic: "RQS-P: Real Quick Statements - Progress!"

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference:

Verified against UPSC NDA English Language Guidelines and Structured Sentence Exercises.

Question 4 of 10 Authentic UPSC NDA Question

Directions:In this section each item consists of six sentences of a passage. The first and sixth sentences are given in the beginning as S1 and S6. The middle four sentences in each have been jumbled up and labelled as P, Q, R and S. You are required to find the proper sequence of the four sentences and mark your response accordingly on the Answer Sheet.

S1. Liberalisation and globalisation freed India’s economy from the low GDP trapthat had impeded India’s progress

S6. Today, India has transformed into one ofthe largest economies of the world

P. India’s 3 pc rate of growth and a set of emergent circumstances led to a balance of payment crisis in the early 1990s

Q. Ease of business was ensured, and the re-quirement for import licences, and produc-tion quotas were removed

R. Apart from these measures, India also took a loan from the IMF to tide over the crisis,but after 1993, India has not taken another loan from the IMF

S. In a landmark budget in 1991, responding to the emergent crisis, India delicenced many industries and liberalised its eco-nomic policies

Step-by-Step Logic & Solution

Correct Answer

βœ“ Option (d) is correct. The proper sequence of sentences establishes a coherent narrative about India's economic transformation.

πŸ“– Rule & Word Origin

The task revolves around understanding logical sequencing in a passage, which is essential for coherent writing. Proper transitions and logical flow are key aspects in establishing relationships between events and ideas.

πŸ’‘ Usage & Examples

For instance, consider the sentences: β€œThe cat entered the room. It was hungry.” These sentences are cohesive and demonstrate logical progression. Conversely, β€œIt was hungry. The cat entered the room.” loses coherence.

πŸ” Option Analysis

  • A: Q S R P - Does not flow logically after S1.
  • B: S Q P R - Misplaces the context of the crisis.
  • C: R Q S P - Ends abruptly without resolution.
  • D: P S Q R - Correct, presents a clear sequence from crisis to solutions through liberalization.

⚑ Grammatical Traps & Mnemonics

Common traps include confusing clauses that introduce unrelated ideas. Remember: sequences in storytelling are akin to dominoes falling; each must lead naturally into the next.

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference:

Verified against standard English grammar guidelines and logical sequencing principles.

Question 5 of 10 Authentic UPSC NDA Question

Directions:In this section each item consists of six sentences of a passage. The first and sixth sentences are given in the beginning as S1 and S6. The middle four sentences in each have been jumbled up and labelled as P, Q, R and S. You are required to find the proper sequence of the four sentences and mark your response accordingly on the Answer Sheet.

S1. Vijayanagara or ‘city of victory’ was the name of both a city and an empire

S6. They remembered it as Hampi, a name derived from that of the local mother god-dess, Pampadevi

P. In its hey day it stretched from the river Krishna in the north to the extreme south of the peninsula Indian

Q. Although it fell into ruin in the seven-teenth-eighteenth centuries, it continued to live in the memories of the people who inhabited the Krishna-Tungabhadra doab

R. In 1565, the city was sacked and subse-quently deserted

S. The Empire was founded in the fourteenth century

Step-by-Step Logic & Solution

Correct Answer

βœ“ Option A is correct. This sequence logically narrates the history of the Vijayanagara Empire.

πŸ“– Rule & Word Origin

The task involves understanding narrative structure and sentence ordering. A coherent narrative logically connects events in chronological order, beginning with the origin and ending with its legacy.

πŸ’‘ Usage & Examples

Example: In a historical context, key events are often presented chronologically for clarity. Incorrect: "After the city was deserted, it flourished in memories." Correct: "The empire flourished before it was eventually deserted and remembered fondly."

πŸ” Option Analysis

  • A: S P R Q - Correct sequence detailing establishment to legacy.
  • B: S Q P R - Incorrect as it disrupts chronological flow.
  • C: P Q S R - Incorrect because it treats the foundation after describing its expanse.
  • D: P Q R S - Incorrect as it ends without connecting to the legacy.

⚑ Grammatical Traps & Mnemonics

Remember that chronological narratives often follow a sequence of introduction (S), time of rise (S/P), decline (R), and reflection (Q). Mnemonic: "I-Rise-Fall-Memory" can help recall the flow.

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference:

Verified against standard modern history texts that discuss the Vijayanagara Empire's chronology and impact.

Question 6 of 10 Authentic UPSC NDA Question

Directions:In this section each item consists of six sentences of a passage. The first and sixth sentences are given in the beginning as S1 and S6. The middle four sentences in each have been jumbled up and labelled as P, Q, R and S. You are required to find the proper sequence of the four sentences and mark your response accordingly on the Answer Sheet. 

S1. Al-Biruni was born in 973, in Khwarizm inpresent-day Uzbekistan

S6. He arrived in Ghazni as a hostage, butgradually developed a liking for the city

P. In 1017, when Sultan Mahmud invaded Khwarizm, he took several scholars backto his capital, Ghazni: Al-Biruni was one among them

Q. He was well versed in several languages;Syriac, Arabic, Persian, Hebrew and San-skrit

R. Khwarizm was an important centre of learning, and Al-Biruni received the best education available at the time

S. However he did not know Greek, although he was familiar with the works of Plato and other Greek philosophers

Step-by-Step Logic & Solution

Correct Answer

βœ“ Option B is correct. This reflects the logical sequence of Al-Biruni’s education and circumstances.

πŸ“– Rule & Word Origin

Al-Biruni was a polymath whose life highlights various aspects of learning and cultural dissemination during his time. The chronological arrangement of sentences provides a coherent narrative regarding his background, education, and experiences.

πŸ’‘ Usage & Examples

An effective order of sentences enhances comprehension: - Correct Sequence: "He received the best education available (R), and was well versed in several languages (Q), but did not know Greek (S), before being taken to Ghazni (P)." - Incorrect Sequence: "He was well-versed in several languages (Q) before being taken to Ghazni (P), but did not know Greek (S) after receiving the best education (R)."

πŸ” Option Analysis

- Option A (Q S R P): Disconnected statements, lacks context. - Option C (P Q S R): Incorrectly starts with an event rather than foundational information. - Option D (R P S Q): Misplaces the educational focus of Al-Biruni’s skills.

⚑ Grammatical Traps & Mnemonics

Memory Hook: Remember that biographical narratives often progress from background to achievements. Use the mnemonic "BRSQP" (Background, Recognition, Skills, Quest Progresses) to recall the order.

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference:

Verified against history textbooks discussing Al-Biruni's life and contributions to science.

Question 7 of 10 Authentic UPSC NDA Question

Directions:In this section each item consists of six sentences of a passage. The first and sixth sentences are given in the beginning as S1 and S6. The middle four sentences in each have been jumbled up and labelled as P, Q, R and S. You are required to find the proper sequence of the four sentences and mark your response accordingly on the Answer Sheet.

S1. Sufism is an English word coined in theNineteenth Century

S6. It may also have been suffa, the platformoutside a place of Islamic worship

P. Historians have understood this term inseveral ways

Q. According to some scholars, it is derivedfrom suf, meaning wool

R. Others derive it from safa, meaning purity

S. The word used for Sufism in Islamic texts is tasawwuf

Step-by-Step Logic & Solution

Correct Answer

βœ“ Option (c) is correct. This sequence logically aligns the derivations of the word "Sufism".

πŸ“– Rule & Word Origin

Sufism, originating from Arabic texts, has multiple interpretations, focusing on its roots within Islamic mysticism.

πŸ’‘ Usage & Examples

The word "Sufism" represents a key concept in Islamic studies, emphasizing the mystical tradition.

Example Sentence: "The study of Sufism reveals deep insights into Islamic spirituality."

πŸ” Option Analysis

  • Option A (Q R S P): Incorrect sequence; misplaces definitions.
  • Option B (S P Q R): Incorrect; does not explain derivation properly.
  • Option D (R P S Q): Misplaced clarity on origins.

⚑ Grammatical Traps & Mnemonics

Remember the derivation sequence: Q (wool) precedes R (purity) as they both affirm the word's meaning leading to S (tasawwuf).

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference:

Verified against standard Islamic Studies literature.

Question 8 of 10 Authentic UPSC NDA Question

Directions:In this section each item consists of six sentences that comprise a passage. The first and sixth sentences are given as S1 and S6. The middle four sentences in each item have been jumbled and labelled P, Q, R and S. You are required to find the proper sequence of the four sentences and mark your response on the Answer Sheet accordingly.

S1 : Our Constitution reminds us of the necessityof representation in a large democracy.

S6 : Elections have today become the mostvisible symbol of the democratic process.

P : This is why election become important.

Q : Therefore, representatives are elected by the people

R : Whenever we think of India as a democracy,our mind invariably turns to our successfulelection

S : All citizens cannot participate in taking every decision.

Step-by-Step Logic & Solution

Correct Answer

βœ“ Option D is correct. The sequence effectively links representation and democracy.

πŸ“– Rule & Word Origin

The passage revolves around the concept of representation within a democratic framework. Proper sequencing enhances comprehension of the interconnectedness in a democratic society.

πŸ’‘ Usage & Examples

  1. Correct Sequence: S, Q, P, R - This demonstrates the flow of ideas clearly.
  2. Incorrect Sequence: P, S, Q, R - Disrupts logical progression; removes context about representation.

πŸ” Option Analysis

  • Option A (Q S R P): Incorrect; fails to address the need for representation initially.
  • Option B (S P Q R): Incorrect; does not state that representatives are elected appropriately.
  • Option C (P Q S R): Incorrect; disrupts the logical flow concerning democracy and representation.

⚑ Grammatical Traps & Mnemonics

Remember that representation is fundamental in democracy. Think "Elected voices = Public decisions" to aid in recalling the correct flow.

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference:

Verified against Wren & Martin English Grammar, and relevant polity chapters.

Question 9 of 10 Authentic UPSC NDA Question

Directions:In this section each item consists of six sentences that comprise a passage. The first and sixth sentences are given as S1 and S6. The middle four sentences in each item have been jumbled and labelled P, Q, R and S. You are required to find the proper sequence of the four sentences and mark your response on the Answer Sheet accordingly.

S1 : The South African Constitution was inaugurated in December 1996.

S6 : A special constitutional court enforces therights enshrined in the Constitution.

P : Its creation and promulgation took placeat a time when South Africa still faced the threat of a civil war after the dissolution of the Apartheid Government.

Q : The South African Constitution says that its“Bill of Rights is a cornerstone of democracy in South Africa“.

R : Apropos, it for bids discrimination on the grounds of “race, gender, pregnancy, maritalstatus, ethnic or social origin, colour, age, disability, religion, conscience, belief, culture,language and birth“.

S : The Bill of Rights grants perhaps the most extensive range of rights to the citizens.

Step-by-Step Logic & Solution

Correct Answer

βœ“ Option D is correct. This sequence provides a coherent flow of ideas from the historical context to the significance of the rights enshrined.

πŸ“– Rule & Word Origin

The passage requires understanding the logical flow of information. The premise should begin with background information, followed by significance, elaboration on specific details, and conclude with enforcement, aligning with the structure geared towards clarity.

πŸ’‘ Usage & Examples

Correct Sequence Example: P (Historical Context) β†’ Q (Significance) β†’ S (Range of Rights) β†’ R (Specifics of Rights).
Incorrect Sequence Example: S β†’ R β†’ P β†’ Q lacks coherence.

πŸ” Option Analysis

  • A: Q S R P - Starts with significance without context.
  • B: S P Q R - Begins with broad statement leading to specific rights.
  • C: P Q R S - Followed logical progression but misses concluding enforcement.
  • D: P Q S R - Establishes context, significance, broad rights, then specifics.

⚑ Grammatical Traps & Mnemonics

Remember the structure of a good narrative: Background (P) β†’ Importance (Q) β†’ General Statement (S) β†’ Details (R).

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference:

Verified against South African Constitutional Law Discussions, 1996.

Question 10 of 10 Authentic UPSC NDA Question

Directions:In this section each item consists of six sentences that comprise a passage. The first and sixth sentences are given as S1 and S6. The middle four sentences in each item have been jumbled and labelled P, Q, R and S. You are required to find the proper sequence of the four sentences and mark your response on the Answer Sheet accordingly. 

 S1 : India, at present, has one of the largest road networks in the world.

S6 : It passes through Howrah, Delhi and Amritsar and terminates in Kabul (Afghanistan).

P : The importance of roads has been recognisedin India since the ancient times.

Q : The Grand Trunk Road was built by SherShah Suri across the Indo-Gangetic plain,from Chittagong (Bangladesh) to Peshawar(Pakistan).

R : Kings such as Ashoka and Chandragupta built roads for easy transportation of goods and people.

S : Construction of roads continued as animportant activity in the late medieval period.

Step-by-Step Logic & Solution

Correct Answer

βœ“ Option D is correct. The sequence logically presents the development and significance of roads in India.

πŸ“– Rule & Word Origin

The passage follows a historical sequence of events illustrating the evolution and importance of roads in India, starting from ancient times to the medieval era.

πŸ’‘ Usage & Examples

When structuring sentences chronologically, ensure that each sentence builds on the previous one to provide a cohesive narrative.

Example of Sequence: The importance of public health was recognized early (P), which was followed by measures taken during pandemics (R), leading to modern health regulations (S), culminating in contemporary health systems (Q).

πŸ” Option Analysis

  • A: Q P R S - Incorrect, lacks historical context of road importance.
  • B: S P Q R - Incorrect, misplaces the historical timeline.
  • C: P Q R S - Incorrect, fails to conclude with the Grand Trunk Road.
  • D: P R S Q - Correct, follows the logical order of road history.

⚑ Grammatical Traps & Mnemonics

Watch for sequences that describe events; remember that chronological order matters in building strong arguments.

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference:

Verified against historical texts regarding the Grand Trunk Road's significance and development.

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