2023 CSAT, all questions
UPSC Prelims 2023 · CSAT
Question 57: Data Interpretation
Question : Is (p + q – r) greater than (p – q + r), where p, q and r are integers ?
- Statement-1(p – q) is positive.
- Statement-2(p – r) is negative.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above Question and the Statements ?
aThe Question can be answered by using one of the Statements alone, but cannot be answered using the other Statement alone.
bThe Question can be answered by using either Statement alone.
cThe Question can be answered by using both the Statements together, but cannot be answered using either Statement alone.
dThe Question cannot be answered even by using both the Statements together.
AnswerUPSC’s answer is (c).
(p + q - r) - (p - q + r) = 2q - 2r, so the question asks whether q > r. Statement 1 gives p > q and says nothing about r. Statement 2 gives p < r and says nothing about q. Together q < p < r, so q < r and the answer is a definite no. Both statements are needed.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Wrong: neither statement alone settles whether q > r.
- (b) Wrong: neither statement works alone.
- (c) Right: together they give q < p < r, so the answer is no.
- (d) Wrong: together they give q < p < r.
Answer: UPSC’s key. Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2023, General Studies Paper II (CSAT), Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.