UPSC Prelims 2017 · CSAT
Question 40: Logical Reasoning and Mental Ability
In a test, Randhir obtained more marks than the total marks obtained by Kunal and Debu. The total marks obtained by Kunal and Shankar are more than those of Randhir. Sonal obtained more marks than Shankar. Neha obtained more marks than Randhir. Who amongst them obtained highest marks?
AnswerUPSC’s answer is (d).
The clues give Neha > Randhir, Randhir > Kunal + Debu, Kunal + Shankar > Randhir, and Sonal > Shankar. Randhir, Kunal and Debu are all below Neha, so the highest is Neha or Sonal. Nothing connects Neha's marks with Sonal's. For example, with Randhir 10, Kunal 6, Debu 3, Shankar 5, Sonal 6, Neha 11, Neha is highest; raise Sonal to 20 and Sonal is. The data are inadequate.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Neha scores more than Randhir, so Randhir is not the highest.
- (b) Neha could be highest, but Sonal could also be higher; it cannot be fixed.
- (c) Sonal could be highest, but so could Neha.
- (d) Correct: no clue compares Neha with Sonal.
Answer: UPSC’s key. Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2017, General Studies Paper II (CSAT), Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.