All Prelims papers

UPSC Prelims 2018

General Studies Paper II (CSAT)

80 questions, 2 hours. Open a question for its answer and why.

The question paper as a PDF, from UPSCSit it against the clock, marked with UPSC’s key
  1. Question 1 · Basic Numeracy

    Consider the following three-dimensional figure :

    How many triangles does the above figure have?

    a three-dimensional polyhedron drawn with solid and dashed edges (an icosahedron-like figure) with many triangular faces
    a18
    b20
    c22
    d24
  2. Question 2 · Basic Numeracy

    Consider the following sum : •+1•+2•+•3+•1=21•

    In the above sum, • stands for

    a4
    b5
    c6
    d8
  3. Question 3 · Logical Reasoning and Mental Ability

    Consider the following pattern of numbers :

    8101513
    6574
    4688
    61116?

    What is the number at ? in the above pattern?

    a17
    b19
    c21
    d23
  4. Question 4 · Basic Numeracy

    How many diagonals can be drawn by joining the vertices of an octagon?

    a20
    b24
    c28
    d64
  5. Question 5 · Basic Numeracy

    The figure drawn below gives the velocity graphs of two vehicles A and B. The straight line OKP represents the velocity of vehicle A at any instant, whereas the horizontal straight line CKD represents the velocity of vehicle B at any instant. In the figure, D is the point where perpendicular from P meets the horizontal line CKD such that PD = 1/2 LD :

    What is the ratio between the distances covered by vehicles A and B in the time interval OL?

    a velocity-time graph: vehicle A is a straight line OKP rising from the origin O; vehicle B is a horizontal line CKD; K is where they cross; P is on line A above D; the perpendicular from P meets the time axis at L and the horizontal line at D
    a1 : 2
    b2 : 3
    c3 : 4
    d1 : 1
  6. Question 6 · Basic Numeracy

    A train 200 metres long is moving at the rate of 40 kmph. In how many seconds will it cross a man standing near the railway line?

    a12
    b15
    c16
    d18
  7. Question 7 · Reading Comprehension
    Passage—1 · as printed by UPSC
    Passage beginning “Global population was around 1·6 billion…”

    Which of the following is the most logical and rational inference that can be made from the above passage?

    aProsperity of agriculture sector is of critical importance to India.
    bIndian economy greatly depends on its agriculture.
    cIndia should take strict measures to control its rapid population growth.
    dIndia's farming communities should switch over to other occupations to improve their economic conditions.
  8. Question 8 · Reading Comprehension
    Passage—2 · as printed by UPSC
    Passage beginning “Many pathogens that cause foodborne illnesses…”

    Which of the following is the most logical corollary to the above passage?

    aWith more options for food come more risks.
    bFood processing is the source of all foodborne illnesses.
    cWe should depend on locally produced food only.
    dGlobalization of food production should be curtailed.
  9. Question 9 · Reading Comprehension
    Passage—3 · as printed by UPSC
    Passage beginning “I am a scientist, privileged to…”Passage beginning “I am a scientist, privileged to…”

    Which of the following is the most logical and rational inference that can be made from the above passage?

    aIt is the faith and not science that can finally solve all the problems of mankind.
    bScience and faith can be mutually complementary if their proper domains are understood.
    cThere are some very fundamental questions which cannot be answered by either science or faith.
    dIn today's culture, scientific views are given more importance than spiritual views.
  10. Question 10 · Reading Comprehension
    Passage—4 · as printed by UPSC
    Passage beginning “Though I have discarded much of…”

    The author wants India to rid herself of certain past bonds because

    ahe is not able to see the relevance of the past
    bthere is not much to be proud of
    che is not interested in the history of India
    dthey obstruct her physical and spiritual growth
  11. Question 11 · Data Interpretation

    The following three items are based on the graph given below which shows imports of three different types of steel over a period of six months of a year. Study the graph and answer the three items that follow.

    The figures in the brackets indicate the average cost per ton over six months period. By how much (measured in thousands of tons) did the import of sheet steel exceed the import of coil steel in the first three months of the year?

    a grouped bar chart of thousands of tons of steel imported (axis 20 to 44) for each month January to June, three bars per month: Coil ($ 320), Sheet ($ 256) and Scrap ($ 175)
    a11
    b15
    c19
    d23
  12. Question 12 · Data Interpretation

    The following three items are based on the graph given below which shows imports of three different types of steel over a period of six months of a year. Study the graph and answer the three items that follow.

    The figures in the brackets indicate the average cost per ton over six months period. What was the approximate total value (in $) of sheet steel imported over the six months period?

    a grouped bar chart of thousands of tons of steel imported (axis 20 to 44) for each month January to June, three bars per month: Coil ($ 320), Sheet ($ 256) and Scrap ($ 175)
    a45,555
    b50,555
    c55,550
    d65,750
  13. Question 13 · Data Interpretation

    The following three items are based on the graph given below which shows imports of three different types of steel over a period of six months of a year. Study the graph and answer the three items that follow.

    The figures in the brackets indicate the average cost per ton over six months period. What was the approximate ratio of sheet steel and scrap steel imports in the first three months of the year?

    a grouped bar chart of thousands of tons of steel imported (axis 20 to 44) for each month January to June, three bars per month: Coil ($ 320), Sheet ($ 256) and Scrap ($ 175)
    a1 : 1
    b1·2 : 1
    c1·4 : 1
    d1·6 : 1
  14. Question 14 · Logical Reasoning and Mental Ability

    Rotated positions of a single solid are shown below. The various faces of the solid are marked with different symbols like dots, cross and line. Answer the three items that follow the given figures.

    What is the symbol on the face opposite to that containing a single dot?

    four rotated views (I) to (IV) of the same cube whose faces are marked with a single dot, two dots, three dots, four dots, a line and a cross
    aFour dots
    bThree dots
    cTwo dots
    dCross
  15. Question 15 · Logical Reasoning and Mental Ability

    Rotated positions of a single solid are shown below. The various faces of the solid are marked with different symbols like dots, cross and line. Answer the three items that follow the given figures.

    What is the symbol on the face opposite to that containing two dots?

    four rotated views (I) to (IV) of the same cube whose faces are marked with a single dot, two dots, three dots, four dots, a line and a cross
    aSingle dot
    bThree dots
    cFour dots
    dLine
  16. Question 16 · Logical Reasoning and Mental Ability

    Rotated positions of a single solid are shown below. The various faces of the solid are marked with different symbols like dots, cross and line. Answer the three items that follow the given figures.

    What is the symbol on the face opposite to that containing the cross?

    four rotated views (I) to (IV) of the same cube whose faces are marked with a single dot, two dots, three dots, four dots, a line and a cross
    aSingle dot
    bTwo dots
    cLine
    dFour dots
  17. Question 17 · Reading Comprehension
    Passage · as printed by UPSC
    Passage beginning “It is no longer enough for…”Passage beginning “It is no longer enough for…”

    According to the passage, which of the following is/are of paramount importance under the Right to Education?

    1. 1.Sending of children to school by all parents
    2. 2.Provision of adequate physical infrastructure in schools
    3. 3.Curricular reforms for developing child-friendly learning system

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 only
    b1 and 2 only
    c3 only
    dNone of the above
  18. Question 18 · Reading Comprehension
    Passage · as printed by UPSC
    Passage beginning “It is no longer enough for…”Passage beginning “It is no longer enough for…”

    With reference to the above passage, the following assumptions have been made :

    1. 1.The Right to Education guarantees teachers' accountability for the learning process of children.
    2. 2.The Right to Education guarantees 100% enrolment of children in the schools.
    3. 3.The Right to Education intends to take full advantage of demographic dividend.

    Which of the above assumptions is/are valid?

    a1 only
    b2 and 3 only
    c3 only
    d1, 2 and 3
  19. Question 19 · Reading Comprehension
    Passage · as printed by UPSC
    Passage beginning “It is no longer enough for…”Passage beginning “It is no longer enough for…”

    According to the passage, which one of the following is critical in bringing quality in education?

    aEnsuring regular attendance of children as well as teachers in school
    bGiving pecuniary benefits to teachers to motivate them
    cUnderstanding the socio-cultural background of children
    dInculcating learning through activities and discovery
  20. Question 20 · Reading Comprehension
    Passage · as printed by UPSC
    Passage beginning “It is no longer enough for…”Passage beginning “It is no longer enough for…”

    What is the essential message in this passage?

    aThe Right to Education now is a Fundamental Right.
    bThe Right to Education enables the children of poor and weaker sections of the society to attend schools.
    cThe Right to Free and Compulsory Education should include quality education for all.
    dThe Government as well as parents should ensure that all children attend schools.
  21. Question 21 · Logical Reasoning and Mental Ability

    If LSJXVC is the code for MUMBAI, the code for DELHI is

    aCCIDD
    bCDKGH
    cCCJFG
    dCCIFE
  22. Question 22 · Logical Reasoning and Mental Ability

    If RAMON is written as 12345 and DINESH as 675849, then HAMAM will be written as

    a92233
    b92323
    c93322
    d93232
  23. Question 23 · Basic Numeracy

    If X is between -3 and -1, and Y is between -1 and 1, then X^2 - Y^2 is in between which of the following?

    a-9 and 1
    b-9 and -1
    c0 and 8
    d0 and 9
  24. Question 24 · Basic Numeracy

    X and Y are natural numbers other than 1, and Y is greater than X. Which of the following represents the largest number?

    aXY
    bX/Y
    cY/X
    d(X+Y)/XY
  25. Question 25 · Logical Reasoning and Mental Ability

    The plan of an office block for six officers A, B, C, D, E and F is as follows : Both B and C occupy offices to the right of the corridor (as one enters the office block) and A occupies on the left of the corridor. E and F occupy offices on opposite sides of the corridor but their offices do not face each other. The offices of C and D face each other. E does not have a corner office. F's office is further down the corridor than A's, but on the same side.

    If E sits in his office and faces the corridor, whose office is to his left?

    aA
    bB
    cC
    dD
  26. Question 26 · Logical Reasoning and Mental Ability

    The plan of an office block for six officers A, B, C, D, E and F is as follows : Both B and C occupy offices to the right of the corridor (as one enters the office block) and A occupies on the left of the corridor. E and F occupy offices on opposite sides of the corridor but their offices do not face each other. The offices of C and D face each other. E does not have a corner office. F's office is further down the corridor than A's, but on the same side.

    Who is/are F's immediate neighbour/neighbours?

    aA only
    bA and D
    cC only
    dB and C
  27. Question 27 · Reading Comprehension
    Passage—1 · as printed by UPSC
    Passage beginning “'Desertification' is a term used to…”Passage beginning “'Desertification' is a term used to…”

    According to the passage, which of the following are the consequences of decline in forest cover?

    1. 1.Loss of topsoil
    2. 2.Loss of smaller rivers
    3. 3.Adverse effect on agricultural production
    4. 4.Declining of groundwater

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1, 2 and 3 only
    b2, 3 and 4 only
    c1 and 4 only
    d1, 2, 3 and 4
  28. Question 28 · Reading Comprehension
    Passage—1 · as printed by UPSC
    Passage beginning “'Desertification' is a term used to…”Passage beginning “'Desertification' is a term used to…”

    Which of the following is/are the correct inference/inferences that can be made from the passage?

    1. 1.Deforestation can cause changes in the course of rivers.
    2. 2.Salinization of land takes place due to human activities only.
    3. 3.Intense monoculture practice in plains is a major reason for desertification in Tropical Asia, Africa and South America.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 only
    b1 and 2 only
    c2 and 3 only
    dNone of the above is a correct inference
  29. Question 29 · Reading Comprehension
    Passage—1 · as printed by UPSC
    Passage beginning “'Desertification' is a term used to…”Passage beginning “'Desertification' is a term used to…”

    With reference to 'desertification', as described in the passage, the following assumptions have been made :

    1. 1.Desertification is a phenomenon in tropical areas only.
    2. 2.Deforestation invariably leads to floods and desertification.

    Which of the above assumptions is/are valid?

    a1 only
    b2 only
    cBoth 1 and 2
    dNeither 1 nor 2
  30. Question 30 · Reading Comprehension
    Passage—2 · as printed by UPSC
    Passage beginning “A diversity of natural assets will…”

    With reference to the above passage, which of the following would assist us in coping with the climate change?

    1. 1.Conservation of natural water sources
    2. 2.Conservation of wider gene pool
    3. 3.Existing crop management practices
    4. 4.Migration corridors

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1, 2 and 3 only
    b1, 2 and 4 only
    c3 and 4 only
    d1, 2, 3 and 4
  31. Question 31 · Reading Comprehension
    Passage—2 · as printed by UPSC
    Passage beginning “A diversity of natural assets will…”

    With reference to the above passage, the following assumptions have been made :

    1. 1.Diversification of livelihoods acts as a coping strategy for climate change.
    2. 2.Adoption of monocropping practice leads to the extinction of plant varieties and their wild relatives.

    Which of the above assumptions is/are valid?

    a1 only
    b2 only
    cBoth 1 and 2
    dNeither 1 nor 2
  32. Question 32 · Reading Comprehension
    Passage—3 · as printed by UPSC
    Passage beginning “Today, the top environmental challenge is…”

    Which of the following is the most crucial and logical inference that can be made from the above passage?

    aThe Earth can meet only the basic needs of humans for food, clothing and shelter.
    bThe only way to meet environmental challenge is to limit human population.
    cReducing our consumerism is very much in our own interest.
    dKnowledge of biological systems can only help us save this planet.
  33. Question 33 · Reading Comprehension
    Passage—4 · as printed by UPSC
    Passage beginning “Some people believe that leadership is…”

    The author of the passage holds the view that

    aleadership can be taught through war experience only
    bleadership can be acquired as well as taught
    cthe results of training show that more people acquire leadership than are expected
    ddespite rigorous instruction, very few leaders are produced
  34. Question 34 · Basic Numeracy

    A number consists of three digits of which the middle one is zero and their sum is 4. If the number formed by interchanging the first and last digits is greater than the number itself by 198, then the difference between the first and last digits is

    a1
    b2
    c3
    d4
  35. Question 35 · Basic Numeracy

    A solid cube of 3 cm side, painted on all its faces, is cut up into small cubes of 1 cm side. How many of the small cubes will have exactly two painted faces?

    a12
    b8
    c6
    d4
  36. Question 36 · Basic Numeracy

    While writing all the numbers from 700 to 1000, how many numbers occur in which the digit at hundred's place is greater than the digit at ten's place, and the digit at ten's place is greater than the digit at unit's place?

    a61
    b64
    c85
    d91
  37. Question 37 · Logical Reasoning and Mental Ability

    If Pen < Pencil, Pencil < Book and Book > Cap, then which one of the following is always true?

    aPen > Cap
    bPen < Book
    cPencil = Cap
    dPencil > Cap
  38. Question 38 · Basic Numeracy

    A bookseller sold 'a' number of Geography textbooks at the rate of ₹ x per book, 'a+2' number of History textbooks at the rate of ₹(x+2) per book and 'a-2' number of Mathematics textbooks at the rate of ₹(x-2) per book. What is his total sale in ₹?

    a3x+3a
    b3ax+8
    c9ax
    dx^3a^3
  39. Question 39 · Basic Numeracy

    A bag contains 15 red balls and 20 black balls. Each ball is numbered either 1 or 2 or 3. 20% of the red balls are numbered 1 and 40% of them are numbered 3. Similarly, among the black balls, 45% are numbered 2 and 30% are numbered 3. A boy picks a ball at random. He wins if the ball is red and numbered 3 or if it is black and numbered 1 or 2. What are the chances of his winning?

    a1/2
    b4/7
    c5/9
    d12/13
  40. Question 40 · Basic Numeracy

    Two persons, A and B are running on a circular track. At the start, B is ahead of A and their positions make an angle of 30° at the centre of the circle. When A reaches the point diametrically opposite to his starting point, he meets B. What is the ratio of speeds of A and B, if they are running with uniform speeds?

    a6 : 5
    b4 : 3
    c6 : 1
    d4 : 2
  41. Question 41 · Basic Numeracy

    A student has to get 40% marks to pass in an examination. Suppose he gets 30 marks and fails by 30 marks, then what are the maximum marks in the examination?

    a100
    b120
    c150
    d300
  42. Question 42 · Basic Numeracy

    19 boys turn out for playing hockey. Of these, 11 are wearing hockey shirts and 14 are wearing hockey pants. There are no boys without shirts and/or pants. What is the number of boys wearing full uniform?

    a3
    b5
    c6
    d8
  43. Question 43 · Logical Reasoning and Mental Ability

    A, B, C and D are students. They are studying in four different cities, viz., P, Q, R and S (not necessarily in that order). They are studying in Science college, Arts college, Commerce college and Engineering college (not necessarily in that order), which are situated in four different States, viz., Gujarat, Rajasthan, Assam and Kerala (not necessarily in that order). Further, it is given that—

    1. (i)D is studying in Assam
    2. (ii)Arts college is located in city S which is in Rajasthan
    3. (iii)A is studying in Commerce college
    4. (iv)B is studying in city Q
    5. (v)Science college is located in Kerala

    A is studying in

    aRajasthan
    bGujarat
    ccity Q
    dKerala
  44. Question 44 · Logical Reasoning and Mental Ability

    A, B, C and D are students. They are studying in four different cities, viz., P, Q, R and S (not necessarily in that order). They are studying in Science college, Arts college, Commerce college and Engineering college (not necessarily in that order), which are situated in four different States, viz., Gujarat, Rajasthan, Assam and Kerala (not necessarily in that order). Further, it is given that—

    1. (i)D is studying in Assam
    2. (ii)Arts college is located in city S which is in Rajasthan
    3. (iii)A is studying in Commerce college
    4. (iv)B is studying in city Q
    5. (v)Science college is located in Kerala

    Science college is located in

    acity Q
    bcity S
    ccity R
    dcity P
  45. Question 45 · Logical Reasoning and Mental Ability

    A, B, C and D are students. They are studying in four different cities, viz., P, Q, R and S (not necessarily in that order). They are studying in Science college, Arts college, Commerce college and Engineering college (not necessarily in that order), which are situated in four different States, viz., Gujarat, Rajasthan, Assam and Kerala (not necessarily in that order). Further, it is given that—

    1. (i)D is studying in Assam
    2. (ii)Arts college is located in city S which is in Rajasthan
    3. (iii)A is studying in Commerce college
    4. (iv)B is studying in city Q
    5. (v)Science college is located in Kerala

    C is studying in

    aScience college
    bRajasthan
    cGujarat
    dcity Q
  46. Question 46 · Logical Reasoning and Mental Ability

    A, B, C and D are students. They are studying in four different cities, viz., P, Q, R and S (not necessarily in that order). They are studying in Science college, Arts college, Commerce college and Engineering college (not necessarily in that order), which are situated in four different States, viz., Gujarat, Rajasthan, Assam and Kerala (not necessarily in that order). Further, it is given that—

    1. (i)D is studying in Assam
    2. (ii)Arts college is located in city S which is in Rajasthan
    3. (iii)A is studying in Commerce college
    4. (iv)B is studying in city Q
    5. (v)Science college is located in Kerala

    Which one of the following statements is correct?

    aD is not studying in city S.
    bA is studying in Science college.
    cA is studying in Kerala.
    dEngineering college is located in Gujarat.
  47. Question 47 · Logical Reasoning and Mental Ability

    A, B, C and D are students. They are studying in four different cities, viz., P, Q, R and S (not necessarily in that order). They are studying in Science college, Arts college, Commerce college and Engineering college (not necessarily in that order), which are situated in four different States, viz., Gujarat, Rajasthan, Assam and Kerala (not necessarily in that order). Further, it is given that—

    1. (i)D is studying in Assam
    2. (ii)Arts college is located in city S which is in Rajasthan
    3. (iii)A is studying in Commerce college
    4. (iv)B is studying in city Q
    5. (v)Science college is located in Kerala

    Which one of the following statements is correct regarding Engineering college?

    aC is studying there.
    bB is studying there.
    cIt is located in Gujarat.
    dD is studying there.
  48. Question 48 · Logical Reasoning and Mental Ability

    A, B, C and D are students. They are studying in four different cities, viz., P, Q, R and S (not necessarily in that order). They are studying in Science college, Arts college, Commerce college and Engineering college (not necessarily in that order), which are situated in four different States, viz., Gujarat, Rajasthan, Assam and Kerala (not necessarily in that order). Further, it is given that—

    1. (i)D is studying in Assam
    2. (ii)Arts college is located in city S which is in Rajasthan
    3. (iii)A is studying in Commerce college
    4. (iv)B is studying in city Q
    5. (v)Science college is located in Kerala

    Which one of the following statements is correct?

    aEngineering college is located in Assam.
    bCity Q is situated in Assam.
    cC is studying in Kerala.
    dB is studying in Gujarat.
  49. Question 49 · Reading Comprehension
    Passage—1 · as printed by UPSC
    Passage beginning “All actions to address climate change…”

    With reference to the above passage, the following assumptions have been made :

    1. 1.Climate change is not a challenge for developed countries.
    2. 2.Climate change is a complex policy issue and also a development issue for many countries.
    3. 3.Ways and means of finance must be found to enable developing countries to enhance their adaptive capacity.

    Which of the above assumptions is/are valid?

    a1 and 2 only
    b3 only
    c2 and 3 only
    d1, 2 and 3
  50. Question 50 · Reading Comprehension
    Passage—2 · as printed by UPSC
    Passage beginning “Cooking with biomass and coal in…”

    Which of the following is the most crucial and logical inference that can be made from the above passage?

    aRural people are giving up the use of polluting solid fuels due to their increasing awareness of health hazards.
    bSubsidizing the use of clean cooking fuels will solve the problem of India's indoor air pollution.
    cIndia should increase its import of natural gas and produce more electricity.
    dAccess to cooking gas can reduce premature deaths in poor households.
  51. Question 51 · Reading Comprehension
    Passage—3 · as printed by UPSC
    Passage beginning “Scientific knowledge has its dangers, but…”Passage beginning “Scientific knowledge has its dangers, but…”

    Which one of the following is the most important implication of the passage?

    aA happy world is a dream of science.
    bScience only can build a happy world, but it is also the only major threat.
    cA happy world is not possible without science.
    dA happy world is not at all possible with or without science.
  52. Question 52 · Reading Comprehension
    Passage—4 · as printed by UPSC
    Passage beginning “The Arctic's vast reserves of fossil…”

    Which one of the following is the most important implication of the passage?

    aIndia can have territorial claims in the Arctic territory and free access to its resources.
    bMelting of summer ice in the Arctic leads to changes in the geopolitics.
    cThe Arctic region will solve the world's future problem of resource crunch.
    dThe Arctic region has more resources than Antarctica.
  53. Question 53 · Reading Comprehension
    Passage—5 · as printed by UPSC
    Passage beginning “Being a member of the WTO,…”

    What is the crucial message conveyed by the above passage?

    aIndia should revise its PDS.
    bIndia should not be a member of WTO.
    cFor India, food security collides with trade.
    dIndia provides food security to its poor.
  54. Question 54 · Reading Comprehension
    Passage—6 · as printed by UPSC
    Passage beginning “India's educational system is modelled on…”Passage beginning “India's educational system is modelled on…”

    With reference to the above passage, the following assumptions have been made :

    1. 1.India continues to be a developing country essentially due to its faulty education system.
    2. 2.Today's learners need to acquire new-age skill-sets.
    3. 3.A good number of Indians go to some developed countries for education because the educational systems there are a perfect reflection of the societies in which they function.

    Which of the above assumptions is/are valid?

    a1 and 3 only
    b2 only
    c2 and 3 only
    d1, 2 and 3
  55. Question 55 · Reading Comprehension
    Passage—7 · as printed by UPSC
    Passage beginning “The practice of dieting has become…”

    What is the most logical and rational inference that can be made from the above passage?

    aObesity has become an epidemic all over the world.
    bA lot of people are obsessed with attaining a perfect body.
    cObesity is essentially an incurable disease.
    dThere is no perfect diet or one solution for obesity.
  56. Question 56 · Reading Comprehension
    Passage—8 · as printed by UPSC
    Passage beginning “Monoculture carries great risks. A single…”

    Which of the following is the most logical, rational and crucial message given by the passage?

    aPreserving crop genetic diversity is an insurance against the effects of climate change.
    bDespite great risks, monoculture is the only way to ensure food security in the world.
    cMore and more genetically modified crops only can save the world from impending shortages of food.
    dAsia and North America will be worst sufferers from climate change and the consequent shortage of food.
  57. Question 57 · Basic Numeracy

    A shopkeeper sells an article at ₹40 and gets X% profit. However, when he sells it at ₹20, he faces same percentage of loss. What is the original cost of the article?

    a₹10
    b₹20
    c₹30
    d₹40
  58. Question 58 · Basic Numeracy

    There are 24 equally spaced points lying on the circumference of a circle. What is the maximum number of equilateral triangles that can be drawn by taking sets of three points as the vertices?

    a4
    b6
    c8
    d12
  59. Question 59 · Logical Reasoning and Mental Ability

    Consider the sequence given below : 4/12/95, 1/1/96, 29/1/96, 26/2/96, ....

    What is the next term of the series?

    a24/3/96
    b25/3/96
    c26/3/96
    d27/3/96
  60. Question 60 · Basic Numeracy

    Twelve equal squares are placed to fit in a rectangle of diagonal 5 cm. There are three rows containing four squares each. No gaps are left between adjacent squares. What is the area of each square?

    a5/7 sq cm
    b7/5 sq cm
    c1 sq cm
    d25/12 sq cm
  61. Question 61 · Data Interpretation

    Consider the following graph :

    Which one of the following statements is not correct with reference to the graph given above?

    a line graph of % of work (0% to 100%) against time from 1st April to 1st Sept, with a dashed line for Expected progress and a solid line for Actual progress
    aOn 1st June, the actual progress of work was less than expected.
    bThe actual rate of progress of work was the greatest during the month of August.
    cThe work was actually completed before the expected time.
    dDuring the period from 1st April to 1st September, at no time was the actual progress more than the expected progress.
  62. Question 62 · Basic Numeracy

    For a sports meet, a winners' stand comprising three wooden blocks is in the following form :

    There are six different colours available to choose from and each of the three wooden blocks is to be painted such that no two of them has the same colour. In how many different ways can the winners' stand be painted?

    a winners' stand made of three adjacent rectangular blocks of decreasing height from left to right
    a120
    b81
    c66
    d36
  63. Question 63 · Data Interpretation

    Consider the following graph in which the birthrate and death rate of a country are given, and answer the two items that follow.

    Looking at the graph, it can be inferred that from 1990 to 2010

    a graph of birth and death rates per thousand (0 to 30) against years 1970 to 2010, with a solid falling curve for Birthrate and a dashed falling curve for Death rate
    apopulation growth rate has increased
    bpopulation growth rate has decreased
    cgrowth rate of population has remained stable
    dpopulation growth rate shows no trend
  64. Question 64 · Data Interpretation

    With reference to the above graph, consider the following statements considering 1970 as base year :

    1. 1.Population has stabilized after 35 years.
    2. 2.Population growth rate has stabilized after 35 years.
    3. 3.Death rate has fallen by 10% in the first 10 years.
    4. 4.Birthrate has stabilized after 35 years.

    Which of the above are the most logical and rational statements that can be made from the above graph?

    a graph of birth and death rates per thousand (0 to 30) against years 1970 to 2010, with a solid falling curve for Birthrate and a dashed falling curve for Death rate
    a1 and 2 only
    b1, 2 and 3
    c3 and 4
    d2 and 4
  65. Question 65 · Data Interpretation

    Average hourly earnings per year (E) of the workers in a firm are represented in figures A and B as follows :

    From the figures, it is observed that the

    two line graphs of hourly earnings E against years 2013 to 2017: Fig. A has the vertical axis from 20 to 40 and Fig. B has the vertical axis from 10 to 40 with vertical drop lines at each year; both lines rise steadily from 20 in 2013 to 40 in 2017
    avalues of E are different
    branges (i.e., the difference between the maximum and the minimum) of E are different
    cslopes of the graphs are same
    drates of increase of E are different
  66. Question 66 · Logical Reasoning and Mental Ability

    Consider the figures given below :

    To fit the question mark, the correct answer is

    a 3 by 3 grid of small symbol drawings (an arc, a line or a comb of vertical strokes, each with a dot, square or triangle at one end) with the last cell marked ?; below it the four picture options (a) to (d)
    a[picture: a filled square at the left end of a horizontal line with two small hooks hanging below]
    b[picture: a small filled dot at the left end of a horizontal line with two small hooks hanging below]
    c[picture: an open triangle at the left end of a horizontal line with two vertical strokes hanging below, ending in small A-shaped feet]
    d[picture: a horizontal line with a filled dot at its right end and two small hooks hanging below]
  67. Question 67 · Data Interpretation

    Consider the following figures A and B :

    The manufacturing cost and projected sales for a product are shown in the above figures A and B respectively. What is the minimum number of pieces that should be manufactured to avoid a loss?

    Fig. A: a line graph of cost of production (₹ in lakhs, from 4 to 8) against number of pieces manufactured (1000, 2000, 3000), rising in a straight line from 5 to about 8.2; Fig. B: a falling curve of selling price per piece (₹, 300 to 500) against number of pieces sold (1000, 2000, 3000)
    a2000
    b2500
    c3000
    d3500
  68. Question 68 · Basic Numeracy

    A lift has the capacity of 18 adults or 30 children. How many children can board the lift with 12 adults?

    a6
    b10
    c12
    d15
  69. Question 69 · Basic Numeracy

    A person bought a refrigerator worth ₹22,800 with 12·5% interest compounded yearly. At the end of first year he paid ₹8,650 and at the end of second year ₹9,125. How much will he have to pay at the end of third year to clear the debt?

    a₹9,990
    b₹10,000
    c₹10,590
    d₹11,250
  70. Question 70 · Logical Reasoning and Mental Ability

    Consider the following figures :

    In the figures (I) to (VI) above, some parts are shown to change their positions in regular directions. Following the same sequence, which of the figures given below will appear at (VII) stage?

    six circles (I) to (VI), each divided into six parts, with a triangle and a square placed in different parts; below them the four picture options (a) to (d), each a similar circle
    a[picture: a circle divided into six parts, a triangle in the upper left part and a square in the lower right part]
    b[picture: a circle divided into six parts, a square in the top part and a triangle in the lower left part]
    c[picture: a circle divided into six parts, a square and a triangle side by side in the bottom part]
    d[picture: a circle divided into six parts, a triangle in the top part and a square in the bottom part]
  71. Question 71 · Data Interpretation

    Consider the following graphs. The curves in the graphs indicate different age groups in the populations of two countries A and B over a period of few decades : With reference to the above graphs, which of the following are the most logical and rational inferences that can be made?

    1. 1.Over the last two and a half decades, the dependency ratio for country B has decreased.
    2. 2.By the end of next two and a half decades, the dependency ratio of country A will be much less than that of country B.
    3. 3.In the next two decades, the work-force relative to its total population will increase in country B as compared to country A.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    two line graphs, Country A and Country B, of population in millions (0 to 1.2) against years 1950 to 2050, each with three curves for the age groups under 15 (solid), 15-64 (dotted) and 64+ (dashed), with a legend under each
    a1 and 2 only
    b2 and 3 only
    c1 and 3 only
    d1, 2 and 3
  72. Question 72 · Logical Reasoning and Mental Ability

    Lakshmi, her brother, her daughter and her son are badminton players. A game of doubles is about to begin :

    1. (i)Lakshmi's brother is directly across the net from her daughter.
    2. (ii)Her son is diagonally across the net from the worst player's sibling.
    3. (iii)The best player and the worst player are on the same side of the net.

    Who is the best player?

    aHer brother
    bHer daughter
    cHer son
    dLakshmi
  73. Question 73 · Data Interpretation

    The graph given below indicates the changes in key policy rates made by the Central Bank several times in a year :

    Which one of the following can be the most likely reason for the Central Bank for such an action?

    a line graph of key policy rates in % (3.00 to 7.50) from Jul 2 2010 to Jun 16 2011 with three rising lines labelled Repo Rate, CRR and Reverse Repo Rate
    aEncouraging foreign investment
    bIncreasing the liquidity
    cEncouraging both public and private savings
    dAnti-inflationary stance
  74. Question 74 · Data Interpretation

    The following table gives the GDP growth rate and Tele-density data of different States of a country in a particular year. Study the table and answer the two items that follow. With reference to the above table, which of the following is/are the most logical and rational inference/inferences that can be made?

    1. 1.Higher per capita income is generally associated with higher Tele-density.
    2. 2.Higher GDP growth rate always ensures higher per capita income.
    3. 3.Higher GDP growth rate does not necessarily ensure higher Tele-density.
    StatesPer capita income ($)GDP growth rate (%)Tele-density
    State 17049·5270·27
    State 24195·3135·88
    State 325410·8350·07
    State 45459·785·94
    State 589110·876·12
    State 6107711·6977·5
    State 79008·88104·86
    State 83955·926
    State 97207·7682·25
    State 108939·5596·7
    State 113634·757·7
    State 129667·8563·8
    State 134959·3752·3
    State 148645·4697·9
    State 154977·4862·3
    State 167777·0393·8
    State 173355·849·9
    State 185997·4947·84

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 only
    b2 and 3
    c1 and 3
    d3 only
  75. Question 75 · Data Interpretation

    With reference to the above table, the following assumptions have been made :

    1. 1.Nowadays, prosperity of an already high performing State cannot be sustained without making further large investments in its telecom infrastructure.
    2. 2.Nowadays, a very high Tele-density is the most essential condition for promoting the business and economic growth in a State.
    StatesPer capita income ($)GDP growth rate (%)Tele-density
    State 17049·5270·27
    State 24195·3135·88
    State 325410·8350·07
    State 45459·785·94
    State 589110·876·12
    State 6107711·6977·5
    State 79008·88104·86
    State 83955·926
    State 97207·7682·25
    State 108939·5596·7
    State 113634·757·7
    State 129667·8563·8
    State 134959·3752·3
    State 148645·4697·9
    State 154977·4862·3
    State 167777·0393·8
    State 173355·849·9
    State 185997·4947·84

    Which of the above assumptions is/are valid?

    a1 only
    b2 only
    cBoth 1 and 2
    dNeither 1 nor 2
  76. Question 76 · Data Interpretation

    The following graph indicates the composition of our tax revenue for a period of two decades : With reference to the above graph, which of the following is/are the most logical and rational inference/inferences that can be made?

    1. 1.During the given period, the revenue from Direct Taxes as percentage of gross tax revenue has increased while that of Indirect Taxes decreased.
    2. 2.The trend in the revenue from Excise Duty demonstrates that the growth of manufacturing sector has been negative during the given period.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a line graph of per cent of gross tax revenue (0 to 45) against years from 1990-91 to 2010-11 (BE), with five lines for Excise, Customs, Corporate tax, Personal income tax and Service tax
    a1 only
    b2 only
    cBoth 1 and 2
    dNeither 1 nor 2
  77. Question 77 · Basic Numeracy

    If x - y = 8, then which of the following must be true?

    1. 1.Both x and y must be positive for any value of x and y.
    2. 2.If x is positive, y must be negative for any value of x and y.
    3. 3.If x is negative, y must be positive for any value of x and y.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a1 only
    b2 only
    cBoth 1 and 2
    dNeither 1 nor 2 nor 3
  78. Question 78 · Reading Comprehension
    Passage—1 · as printed by UPSC
    Passage beginning “The quest for cheap and plentiful…”

    What is the most rational and crucial message given by the passage?

    aMass production of meat through industrial farming is cheap and is suitable for providing protein nutrition to poor countries.
    bMeat-producing industry violates the laws against cruelty to animals.
    cMass production of meat through industrial farming is undesirable and should be stopped immediately.
    dEnvironmental cost of meat production is unsustainable when it is produced through industrial farming.
  79. Question 79 · Reading Comprehension
    Passage—2 · as printed by UPSC
    Passage beginning “A male tiger was removed from…”Passage beginning “A male tiger was removed from…”

    Which of the following is the most rational and crucial message given by the passage?

    aThe conflict between man and wildlife cannot be resolved, no matter what efforts we make.
    bSafe wildlife corridors between protected areas is an essential aspect of conservation efforts.
    cIndia needs to declare more protected areas and set up more tiger reserves.
    dIndia's National Parks and Tiger Reserves need to be professionally managed.
  80. Question 80 · Reading Comprehension
    Passage—2 · as printed by UPSC
    Passage beginning “A male tiger was removed from…”Passage beginning “A male tiger was removed from…”

    With reference to the above passage, the following assumptions have been made :

    1. 1.The strategy of conservation of wildlife by relocating them from one protected area to another is not often successful.
    2. 2.India does not have suitable legislation to save the tigers, and its conservation efforts have failed which forced the tigers to live outside protected areas.

    Which of the above assumptions is/are valid?

    a1 only
    b2 only
    cBoth 1 and 2
    dNeither 1 nor 2

Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2018, General Studies Paper II (CSAT), Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.