PPSC Past Papers & Solved MCQs

The foundational concept for finding the area of a square is to multiply the length of one side by itself. This is represented by the formula Area = side * side or Area = side2.

Given that the side of the square is 5 units, we apply the formula: Area = 5 units * 5 units = 25 square units. Therefore, option 'C' is the correct answer.

Distractor 'A' (10 sq. units) might be confused with adding the sides (5+5) or multiplying by 2 (2*5). Distractor 'B' (20 sq. units) represents the perimeter (4*5). Distractor 'D' (30 sq. units) is an arbitrary incorrect calculation.

This question tests knowledge of comparative adjectives. When comparing two things, the comparative form of an adjective is used.

• Cleverer is the correct answer. For most one-syllable and some two-syllable adjectives like 'clever', the comparative form is created by adding '-er'.
• Clever (B) is the positive form of the adjective, used when not making a comparison.
• More clever (C) is an alternative comparative form, sometimes used, but 'cleverer' is generally considered more standard and grammatically preferred for 'clever'.
• Most clever (D) is the superlative form, used when comparing three or more items, not just two.

Therefore, 'cleverer' is the most appropriate comparative form in this context.

In a Cartesian coordinate system, a point is represented by its coordinates (x, y). The x-coordinate indicates the horizontal distance from the y-axis, and the y-coordinate indicates the vertical distance from the x-axis.

For the point (2, 3), the x-coordinate is 2 and the y-coordinate is 3. The distance of this point from the x-axis is precisely its y-coordinate. Therefore, the distance is 3 units, making option 'B' correct.

Distractor 'A' (2) represents the distance from the y-axis. Distractor 'C' (5) is the sum of the coordinates (2+3), which is not a standard distance measure. Distractor 'D' ('o') is not a valid numerical distance.

The correct preposition to use with the adjective 'confident' when expressing certainty about something is 'of'. The phrase 'confident of' means having a strong belief or feeling of certainty about something or someone.

In the sentence, 'She was confident of her success' correctly conveys that she was certain she would succeed. Therefore, option 'C' is the accurate choice.

Distractor 'A' ('with') is incorrect; 'confident with' typically refers to comfort or skill in handling something. Distractor 'B' ('to') is not idiomatic in this context. Distractor 'D' ('for') is also grammatically incorrect here; 'confident for' is not a standard English idiom.

The word 'scathing' means severely critical, harsh, or scornful. It describes remarks or criticism that are extremely severe and damaging.

Among the given options, 'Scornful' (option 'A') is the closest synonym. 'Scornful' means expressing contempt or derision, which aligns perfectly with the meaning of 'scathing'.

Distractor 'B' ('Gentle') is an antonym, meaning mild or kind. Distractor 'C' ('Supportive') is also an antonym, meaning providing encouragement or help. Distractor 'D' ('Respectful') is another antonym, meaning showing deference or admiration. These options convey meanings opposite to 'scathing'.

This question tests your knowledge of specific vocabulary, particularly one-word substitutes for common phrases.

• D. Pillion is the correct one-word substitute. A pillion is specifically a seat for a passenger behind the rider on a motorcycle or bicycle.
• A. Saddle refers to the main seat for the rider on a bike or horse.
• B. Cushion is a general term for a soft pad, not specific to a bike passenger seat.
• C. Bridle is a piece of headgear used to control a horse, completely unrelated to bikes.

This question asks for the antonym of “Zenith.” Understanding antonyms requires knowing the precise meaning of the given word.

• C. Bottom is the correct antonym. Zenith means the highest point, peak, or culmination. Therefore, its opposite is the lowest point.
• A. Peak, B. Summit, and D. Pinnacle are all synonyms of Zenith, meaning the highest point or top. They are not antonyms.

This question requires identifying the antonym of the verb “Rob.” Antonyms are words that have opposite meanings.

• C. Give is the correct antonym. To rob means to take something unlawfully or by force from someone. The direct opposite action is to willingly transfer possession of something to another person.
• A. Steal is a synonym of rob, meaning to take something without permission.
• B. Take is a broader term that can imply acquiring something, but it doesn't necessarily carry the opposite connotation of robbing.
• D. Borrow means to take something with the intention of returning it, which is different from the direct opposite of robbing.

This question assesses your understanding of correct English prepositions and sentence structure, particularly when referring to being in the shadow of an object.

• B. Let us sit down in the shade of a tree for some time. is the correct sentence. The standard and grammatically correct preposition to use when referring to being within the area of a shadow is “in”.
• A. Let us sit down under the shade of a tree for some time. is incorrect. While one sits under a tree, one sits in its shade.
• C. Let us sitting down in the shade of a tree for some time. is grammatically incorrect due to the use of “sitting” instead of “sit” after “Let us.”
• D. Let us sit down on the shade of a tree for some time. is incorrect. “On” implies being physically atop something, which does not apply to shade.

The question asks for the meaning of the word Vulgar. Understanding vocabulary is crucial here.

• (B) Indecent is the correct answer. "Vulgar" means lacking sophistication or good taste; unrefined; crude; or offensive in language or behavior. "Indecent" directly aligns with this, implying something improper, offensive, or morally inappropriate.
• (A) Decent is incorrect because it is an antonym, meaning conforming to standards of propriety, good taste, or morality.
• (C) Elegant is incorrect as it is an antonym, meaning graceful and stylish in appearance or manner.
• (D) Respectful is incorrect as it is an antonym, meaning showing deference or esteem.

Therefore, "Indecent" best captures the essence of "Vulgar."

This question requires identifying the antonym of sartorial. Knowing the definition of the word is key.

• (D) Homespun is the correct antonym. "Sartorial" relates to tailoring, clothes, or style of dress, often implying elegance, refinement, or sophistication in attire. "Homespun" refers to something simple, plain, unsophisticated, or rustic, often made at home, directly contrasting with the refined nature implied by "sartorial."
• (A) Elegant is incorrect because it is a synonym or closely related concept to "sartorial," describing something graceful and stylish.
• (B) Stylish is incorrect as it is also a synonym, meaning fashionable and elegant.
• (C) Refined is incorrect because it is a synonym, meaning elegant and cultured in appearance, manner, or taste.

Thus, "Homespun" is the most fitting opposite.

The question asks for a synonym for Groundbreaking. This tests vocabulary knowledge.

• (B) Innovative is the correct synonym. "Groundbreaking" describes something that is new and very different from what has been done before, often leading to significant progress or change. "Innovative" means introducing new ideas, methods, or products; original and creative. They are direct synonyms, both implying novelty and significant impact.
• (A) Ordinary is incorrect because it is an antonym, meaning common, usual, or not special.
• (C) Common is incorrect as it is an antonym, meaning occurring, found, or done often; prevalent, and lacking distinction.
• (D) Traditional is incorrect because it is an antonym, meaning existing in or as part of a tradition; long-established, and often resistant to change.

Therefore, "Innovative" best captures the meaning of "Groundbreaking."

This question requires identifying the antonym of Concord. A strong vocabulary is essential for this.

• (D) Discord is the correct antonym. "Concord" means agreement or harmony between people or groups, or a state of peace. "Discord" means disagreement between people, or a lack of harmony, often leading to conflict or tension. It is the direct opposite of concord.
• (A) Harmony is incorrect because it is a synonym for "concord," meaning agreement or peaceful coexistence.
• (B) Agreement is incorrect as it is a synonym for "concord," meaning a state of being in accord or having the same opinion.
• (C) Unity is incorrect because it is a synonym for "concord," meaning the state of being united or joined as a whole.

Hence, "Discord" is the most appropriate antonym for "Concord."

This sentence completion question tests subject-verb agreement and contextual meaning. The phrase "one of those people who" refers to the plural "people," so the verb for "who" should be plural. However, the question is about the most appropriate verb based on the context of "finding the positive."

• (A) tries is the correct answer. The sentence describes a characteristic behavior of someone who consistently makes an effort to find the positive. "Tries" implies consistent effort or an attempt to achieve something, which fits the positive connotation of the sentence, suggesting a proactive and optimistic approach.
• (B) manages is incorrect because while grammatically plausible, it implies successful completion, which might be too strong if the focus is on the *effort* or *disposition* rather than guaranteed success.
• (C) struggles is incorrect as it implies difficulty and effort, but often with a negative connotation of not succeeding easily, which contradicts the idea of "finding the positive."
• (D) fails is incorrect because it is an antonym, implying an inability to find the positive, which contradicts the intended meaning of the sentence.

Therefore, "tries" best conveys the consistent effort to maintain a positive outlook.