UPSC Prelims 2018 · CSAT

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]

AnswerUPSC’s answer is (b).

Mark the six sectors and follow each shape. The square moves one sector clockwise at each step: top, upper right, lower right, bottom, lower left, upper left across views I to VI. The triangle moves one sector anticlockwise: lower left, bottom, lower right, upper right, top, upper left. At stage VII the square goes on to the top sector and the triangle to the lower left sector. That is option (b), which matches view I because the cycle repeats every six steps.

Why each option is right or wrong

(a) Triangle at upper left and square at lower right is a position neither shape reaches.
(b) Correct: square at the top and triangle at the lower left.
(c) The shapes share a sector only at stages III and VI, in other sectors.
(d) Triangle at the top and square at lower right is not the next step for either shape.

Answer: UPSC’s key. Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.

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