A question paper must have a question on one of the eight poets : A, B, C, D, E, F, G or H. The first four belong to the medieval period while the rest are considered modern poets. Generally, modern poets figure in the question paper in alternate years. Generally those who like H like G also; and those who like F like E also. The paper-setter does not like to ask about F as he has written a book on F, but he likes F. Last year, the paper contained a question on A. On the basis of the information given, this year's paper is most likely to contain a question on
- (a) C
- (b) E ✓ UPSC's answer
- (c) F
- (d) H
Why the answer is (b)
• The rule states that modern poets (E, F, G, H) figure in the question paper in alternate years.
• Since last year's paper contained a question on A (a medieval poet), this year's paper is most likely to feature a modern poet.
• The paper-setter does not like to ask about F, making F an unlikely choice despite being a modern poet.
• The condition 'those who like F like E also' implies a preference for E over F, especially since the setter likes F but avoids asking about him.
• Among the remaining modern poets (E, G, H), E is the most logical choice as it satisfies the modern poet criterion and the preference logic derived from the setter's likes.
• Therefore, the paper is most likely to contain a question on E.
Why the other options are wrong
- (a) C
- C is a medieval poet, and since last year featured a medieval poet (A), this year is expected to feature a modern poet due to the alternate year rule.
- (c) F
- The paper-setter explicitly does not like to ask about F, making it the least likely option despite being a modern poet.
- (d) H
- While H is a modern poet, the specific preference logic linking F and E makes E a more probable choice than H, which has no direct positive indicator in the text.
Asked in the CSAT Paper II of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2014, held on 24 August 2014. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.