39. Logical Tricks for #UPSCPrelims @ Extreme statements may be >. But it's not a rule. So, think for each Q, and cross that statement/option only if you have a supporting logic or info. Image: 2020 Q #UPSC 69. Consider the following statements : ls. In the case of all cereals, pulses and oil-seeds, the procurement at Minimum Support Price (MSP) js unlimited in any State/UT of India. Mainly wheat & paddy. In the case of eft tes Hey he MSP is fixed in /any State/UT at a level to wibinib aR, Price will Na rise.|deally, opposite should be the case. Which of Wor Ha cbliggtion cx.eovt net Hades correct ? (a) lonly (b) 2only (c) Both land 2 Neither 1 nor 269. Consider the following statements : 1. In the case of all cereals, pulses and oil-seeds, the procurement at Minimum Support Price (MSP) js unlimited in any State/UT of India. Mainly wheat & paddy. So 2: In the case of cerea. Be aed nutes, ene MSP is fixed in {any State/UT at a level to wibiguntbeuaret price will maven rise.|deally, opposite should be the case. Which of Ver BA GRIREN Cn poNt et Hager correct ? (a) lonly (b) 2only (c) Both land 2 @ Neither 1 nor 238. Logical Tricks for HUPSCPrelims @ * Look & Feel of any statement/option may also help sometimes. But it's accurate only if we have a decent background knowledge. * Elimination * Easy to change Statement Image: 2020 Q PC: Internet (ThoughtCo)} #UPSC reference to Indian elephants, consider llowing statements ; ‘The leader of an elephant group is a female, Correct, from prior knowledge ‘The maximum gestation period can be to tweak. But compared to 9mor elephant population i be Kt, a of the statements given above isfare (0), (¢) are wrong coz they , between the remaining optior| have to check which is correct:72. With reference to Indian elephants, consider the following statements : J} The leader of an elephant group is a female. Correct, from prior knowledge (?)2. The maximum gestation period can be 99! monthe=@sy to tweak. But compared to 9mon in Humans, 22mon in Elephants don't look illogical. So no cmnt An elephant can normally go on calvi ng 60-70% ; asy to tweak: Even if elephant wrong till the age of 40 years only... long life, 40 looks too much Among the States in India, the highest 60-76% a Easy to tweak, wrong lephant population is in Kerala. -" be Ktk, WB or Asm Which of the statements given above is/are correct ? dand 2 only|Now, between the remaining options (a) (d), we (b) 2and 4 onl just have to check which is correct: 2 (or) 3&4. rom the above analysis, 2 has greater chances x(c) 3 only of being correct compared to 384. (d) 41,3 and 4 only Options (b), (c) are wrong coz they don't have 1.37. Logical Tricks for #UPSCPrelims @ Elimination of options, based on limited knowledge (&/or logics) is useful in many Questions. Image: 2020 Q #UPSC 71. With reference to the cultural history of India, consider the following pairs : 1.‘ Parivrajaka — Renunciant and Wanderer %, Shramana — Priest witha Buddhists, Jains, Ajivikas high status 3. Upasaka — Lay follower of Buddhism Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched ? (a) 1 and @ only [Prior basic-knowledge: 1 and 3 only [Shramana tradition/movement rose as a ounter to Vedic/Brahmanical traditions. %(c) Zand 3 only ffhey didn’t believe in rituals & priest-like sa(d) 1,Qand 3° |intermediaries.71. With reference to the cultural history of India, consider the following pairs : ibs Parivrajaka — Renunciant and Wanderer ye, Shramana — Priest witha Buddhists, Jains, Ajivikas high status 3. Upasaka — Lay follower of Buddhism Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched ? %(a) 1 and 2 only [Prior basic-knowledge: (v) 1 and 3 only IShramana tradition/movement rose as a ounter to Vedic/Brahmanical traditions. Mc) Band 3 only they didn't believe in rituals & priest-like x(d) 1,2and3 _ [intermediaries.36. Logical Tricks for #UPSCPrelims @ * Extreme statements * Some statements are easy to tweak/manipulate * Rationale behind any statement Overall. | have observed that logics are most helpful in Environment, Sc- Tech, History; less in Geog, Economy, Polity. Img: 2019 Q #UPSG 10. With reference to forced labour (Vishti) in India during the Gupta period, which ene of the following statements is correct? It was considered a source of income for the State, a sort of tax paid by the people. Looks most logical (b) It was fotally|absent in the Madhya Pradesh and Kathiawar regions of practical / impossible to a: the Gupta Em: mpire. & claim it {c) The forced labourer was entitled to ; feekely wages.” fact manipulation easiest to do; could be Daily or Monthly also (a) The eldest son of the labourer was 3 the forced labourer. Looks Monica Even if Gupta rulers was that strict to ask for a son as forced labourer, they would have given some liberty to the family. This would be more beneficial for both: Family & Kingdom. Ex. Suppose eldest son is intellectually brilliant or has physical disability. In such cases, it's better that other son is sent.10. With reference to forced labour (Vishti} in India during the Gupta period, which one of the following statements is correct? It was considered a source of income for the State, a sort of tax paid by the people. Looks most logical (b) It was fotally|absent in the Madhya Pradesh rr Kathiawar ns of practical 7 impossible to the Gupta Bmpirf) & claim it {c) The forced labourer was entitled to ag h fact manipulation easiest to do; could be Daily or Monthly also (a) The eldest son of the labourer was as the forced labourer. Looks fasicar Even if Gupta rulers was that strict to ask for a son as forced labourer, they would have given some liberty to the family. This would be more ‘beneficial for both: Family & Kingdom. Ex. Suppose eldest son is intellectually brilliant or has physical disability. In such cases, it's better that other son is sent.35. Logical Tricks for 4#UPSCPrelims @ Do It Yourself (DIY) Image: 2020 Q #UPSC 42. Consider the following activities : L Spraying pesticides on a crop field 2. Inspecting the craters of active volcanoes 3. Collecting breath samples from spouting whales for DNA analysis At the present/level/of technology, which of the above activities |¢an be successfully carried out by using drones ? (a) land 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) land 3 only (dq) 1,2and342. Consider the following activities : Le 2. Spraying pesticides on a crop field Inspecting the craters of active volcanoes Collecting breath samples from spouting whales for DNA analysis At the PRESEHE EVEL of eehHOl6gY, which of the above activities|¢an be successfully carried out by using drones ? (a) (b) (c) (d) 1 and 2 only 2 and 3 only 1 and 3 only 1, 2 and 334. Logical Tricks for #UPSCPrelims @ In Science-Tech questions, if a Statement is telling just the possibility (ex. "can be") and you can also think/imagine that possibility, then it has high probability of being /. Disclaimer: Risky, not for Freshers: Image: 2020 Q #UPSC 44, Consider the following statements : a, 90 fe. 90% 73. Genetic changes @an//bé introduced in Looks easy to. the cells that produce eggs or sperms of achieve/do a prospective parent, OvVa"les Testes A person's genome can be edited beforeiong time pe birth at the early embryonic stage.Looks easy with IVF Human induced pluripotent stem cells (canbe injected into the embryo of a pig. Which of the statements given above is/are correct ? (a) (b) (c) Statements 1&2 are telling just a possibility. They can be imagined also, from basic knowledge lonly of Biotechnology. 2 and 3 only 2 onl Statement-3 is also similar, but difficult to imagine y So, wasn't very sure about it, only 60-70%. 1,2 and 3 @ (d) has both 182.44. Consider the following statements : Ls 90% 2. 90% 73. Genetic changes tan bé introduced in Looks easylo the cells that produce eggs or sperms of achieve/do Ovaries Testes a prospective parent. A person’s genome can be edited beforeiong time period birth at the early embryonic stage.Looks easy with IVF Human induced pluripotent stem cells (cati be injected into the embryo of a pig. Which of the statements given above is/are correct ? (a) (b) (e) - Statements 1&2 are telling just a possibility. They can be imagined also, from basic knowledge 1 only of Biotechnology. 2 and 3 only Dani Statement-3 is also similar, but difficult to imagine ¥ So, wasn't very sure about it, only 60-70%. 1,2 and3 Oni ly y (A) has both 1&2.33. Logical Tricks for #UPSCPrelims @ * Extreme statement may be <- But it's not a rule. So, think logically everytime. * Elimination This Question also reminded me of a saying afe ar vera sted, sf ot uel ag, oft ar Veta See, af St Ue tT Image: 2020 Q #UPSC 45. What is the importance of using Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccines in India ? 1, These vaccines are effective against (?) pneumonia as well as meningitis and sepsis. el Dependence on antibiotics that are not effective against drug-resistant bacteria can be reduced, L00ks logical: Vaccines should reduce ; jependence on further drugs/medicines . These vaccines have and cause ere is no vaccine/medine . Which has no side effects. Seleet the correct answer using the code given below : Even Ayurvedic herbs (like Giloy) can show side effects. (a) lonly ® land 2 only (ce) 8 only (d) 1,2and845. What is the importance of using Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccines in India ? These vaccines are effective against pneumonia as well as meningitis and sepsis. VY Dependence on antibiotics that are not effective against drug-resistant bacteria , can be reduced, Looks logical: Vaccines should reduce - pepe nden on further drugs/medicines . . These vaccines have and ~ ; cause ere is no vaccine/medine : _ _ which has.no side effects. Sele¢t the correct answer using the code given Even Ayurvedic herbs (like iL (?) below : y : i Lonily Giloy) can show side effects. @© 1 and 2 only (c) 8 only (dq) 1,2and832. Logical Tricks for #UPSCPrelims @ * Thinking about the location/region of name/word * Elimination of seemingly incorrect options Image: 2020 Q #UPSC nowledge Musk deer inhabits high alstude Himatayan te| Which of the following are the most likely jlaces to find the musk deer in its natural xabitat ? 1, Askot Wildlife Sanctuary 2, Gangotri National Park 3. Kishanpur Wildlife santas veorigere K Manas Nationa! Park Location: foothills of E Hima where Musk Deer is not pot Select the correct answer using the code given below : 1 and 2 only eNOS (a) eminaled because # a a . he haba. Ou of ramaining options is common to both options. (b) and 3 only be. mainly wo have to think which is je Sandiifonty ikely habitat: 1 (Askot) or 3 (Kis! ‘bf 1 andiffonlyPrior knowledge: Musk deer inhabits high altitude Himalayan region 99. Which of the following are the most likely places to find the musk deer in its matural habitat ? Askot Wildlife Sanctuary Gangotri National Park 2. . “1 ae like Hindi belt name 3, Kishanpur Wildlife Sans adion srr, ac Ves Isat K Manas National Park Location; foothilis of E Himalayas, SS Mi Deer i ect the correct answer using rie er fe not possiite Options (c) (d) eliminated because 4 oO: eng2 oakig sheila. uk ot ocnaeing cation a Oy 2and 3 only $m 3 and @ionly ~ Land 4only So, mainly we have! to think which is more31. Logical Tricks for #UPSCPrelims @ Elimination of seemingly incorrect options, based on Logics &/or limited Knowledge, is the most useful strategy to solve Questions. Image: 2020 Q #UPSC Stortstorin|@FOUiE\SUPPOFE is given to farmers for which of the following purposes ? ry 1 Working capital for maintenance of farm assets 2. Purchase of combine harvesters, tractors and mini trucks 3. Consumption requirements of farm households Post-harvest expenses 80-905. Construction of family house and Cold sirens aR Pigalle és ld storage fi fsilitty ti credit requiging Pa fe correct answer using the code given below : ye 2 and § only To be double sure about this option, we can think about 4, 8:and-4 only, correctness of 1,3,4 &/or wro! f 2Combine Harvester’ ©) 2,3,dandMonly is veryenpenane iy66. Under the Kisan Credit Card scheme, HEURES is civon to farmers for which of the following purposes ? ‘ 1. Working capital for maintenance of farm assets 2. Purchase of combine harvesters, tractors and mini trucks 8. Consumption requirements of farm households 4, Post-harvest expenses 80-90% %5. Construction of family house and Cold storage ae Psi laess ald atorRRy fesiitiy izing long-term credit req Selec the correct answer using the code given below : (a) 1,2 and onl: ¥ 5 ke be double sure about this: option, we can think about 1, Sand 4 only. crectness of 1,2)4 &/or wrongness of 2Combine Harvester lc) 2,3, 4andB only is very expensive Ye) 1,2,8,4 and 530. Logical Tips for #UPSCPrelims @ Empirical observation/pattern that Data & Organization are usually tweaked to make the statement % should be applied only if you have a supporting Logic or Knowledge. Otherwise, it will be extremely risky. Image: 20219 #UPSC 96. Consider the following statements in respect of Bharat Ratna and Padma Awards : 1. Bharat Ratna and Padma Awards are titles under the Article 18(1) of Statement-2 has two data points which can be ‘the Constitution of India, aked easily. ant ; ‘ . Padma Awards, which were Even if we assume 1954 to be correct: In last ~6 r" , s0%instituted in the year 194, were Awards could have been suspended: 1962/1965 /] Suspended: h971 wars, 1975-77, etc. A echelieenterin = 3.% The number of Bharat Ratna ‘Statement-3 can be tweaked easily 60%Awards is restricted to a maximum Supporting knowledge: | couldn't recall any year of f19@ in a particular year. en 4 or SBR Awards were given. Weigh ck tthe Oe lowever, because the supporting point is not as strong as above, | am not sure (60% intuition). correct? fa) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only fe} 1 and 3 only @ 1,2 ana396. Consider the following statements in respect of Bharat Ratna and Padma Awards : ommon knowledge: that only military & academic! itles are allowed u/a 18, However, couldn't 1. Bharat Ratna and Padma Awards properly recall the exact relevant knowledge. Hog are titles under the Article 18(1) of Statement-2 has two data points which can be the Constitution of India. eaked easily. 2 Even if we assume 1954 to be correct: In last ~67 2% Padma Awards, which —_ were lvears, there have been >1 moments where the 90%instituted in the year 1954, were Awards could have been suspended: 1962 / 1965 / suspended only once. 1971 7. 2 971 wars, Emergency 1975-77, etc 3. The’ number » of Bharat. Ratna hus, high probability that Statement-2 is wrong. . ; Statement-3 can be tweaked easily. 60%Awards is restricted to a maximum Supporting knowledge: | couldn't recall any year of fi¥é in a particular year. pee nicones Conmestay pant isnotas |Which of the above statements are strong as above, | am not sure (60% intuition). correct? fa) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only @ 1,2 ana329. Empirical Observation on #UPSCPrelims @ Sometimes if in a Question with =2 statements, ? statements have some related idea/content but have different keywords (organization etc), then contents & keywords are interchanged between those 2 statements Disclaimer: VERY Risky =. rrenns cure 91. In the context of digital technologies for entertainment, consider the following statements : Ku. 2. ae AR allows individuals to be present in the world and improves the experience using the camera of smart-phone or PC. /- VR closes the world, and transposes an individual, providing complete immersion experience. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? fa) 1 and 2 only 3 and 4 (c} 1,2 and3 fd) 4 anlwPrelims 2019 91. In the context of digital technologies for entertainment, consider the mnlOwne statements : Ar In Augmented” Reality (AR), a simulated environment is ate physical world /: AR atten jodivichaala to be present in the world and improves the experience using the camera of smart-phone or PC. VR closes the world, and transposes an individual, providing complete immersion experience. é. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? fa) 1 and 2 only 3 and 4 fe) 1,2 and 3 {d) 4 only28. Logical Tricks for #UPSCPrelims @ * Empirical observation on framing of statements by #UPSC Question- setters * Elimination * Lateral Thinking should be combined with Knowledge for better accuracy Check earlier posts for greater clarity Disclaimer: It's Risky Image: 20210 56, Consider the following statements - wendy av mg The Empirical Observation: Data/Organization in statem pants i for seabed #"@ Usually wrong, because they are easiest to chang exploration and mining in [Sutra ocular a iy toa nal 3 never international waters, able. SOC. By ISA name also, it looks more India ‘has received licences for [There ig sa much talk about iW, and India’s activities, seabed mineral exploration in |Most probably India must have received some licence international waters. seafloor in international waters. Which of the statements given above are correct? 8 fo} (a) 1 and 2 only 2 and 3 only 1 and 3 only 1, 2and 356. Consider the following statements : The (Global) Ocean! Commission | Empirical Observation: Data/Organization in statements grants licences for seabed P'? usually wrong, because they are easiest to change. ” ae . | Supporting logic/knowledge: | had idea only about exploration and mining in ntemational Seabed pure Avie & had never heard 70% wrond a 70-80%. correct 90% comeciy international waters, seabed mineral exploration in international waters. ‘Rare earth minerals’ are present on. seafloor in international waters. [Difficult to refute Which of the statements given above are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only 1 and 3 only (a) 1,2 and 327. Tips for #UPSCPrelims & There are some "easy to prepare" areas/topics from which 1-2 Questions are asked almost every year. They have to be memorized properly. Ex. Major Rivers of India Images: 2021 Q, PYQs on Rivers, Useful map @MapsOfindia (poor colour contrast) #UPSC lime 2021.0 }. Consider the following rivers : Sl. Brahmani Chota Nagpur Plateau 2. Nagavali 2 No idea 3. Subarnarekha Chota Nagpur Plateau, \A. Vamsadhara Easter Ghats, Odisha Which of the above rise from the Eastern Ghats?Prelims 2021 55. Consider the following rivers : Sl. Brahmani ‘Chota Nagpur Plateau 2. Nagavali ?? No idea Y%3. Subarnarekha Chota Nagpur Plateau, JH \/. Vamsadhara Eastern Ghats, Odisha Which of the above rise from the Eastern Ghats?| ____.| Rivers flowing through National Parks (ex. Ramganga passes through Ceebatt) | 24 2 | * Arunachal envers (Lohit, Subartitl, Bassh) |__| | WMallainds at Confluence of Rinvats (Harike 4) Beas & Sutlaj) “BOIS | 1 | * Tributarees of Gedavari (liirevati, Pranhita. etc} | a6 2 River Linking (Godewari-Mrishna) ____ | _ {ieee sete eres air 1 | _| raat es 1 fenaae oboe = L = * Glaciar ree tices ii Bare ShognChenas, Mandatoni, Siachen ier) ee eas Laer Zambe2i|26. Logical Tricks for #UPSCPrelins @ In a few Questions. thinking why the Question has been asked might be helpful. Disclaimers: Risky, not for Beginners Image: 2019 Q #UPSC 37. Among the following, which one is the largest exporter of rice in the world in the last five years? (a) China India (c) Myanmar (a) Vietnam y this Question was asked? lost probably there would have been a significant development/news hich captured attention of Question-setter. Like ... 1) "C/M/V beats India in rice export" 2) "India beats C/M/V to become largest exporter of rice.” Probability of other development (like Vietnam beats China) would be ery less because that won't make the news /headline in Indian media. Even if it becomes a News in India, it wont be important of being asked in UPSC. Probability of (1) is less than (2), i.e. High probability that India has come the largest exporter, beating C/M/V. Reasons: India has seen ~steady increase in agricultural production in last lany years would UPSC unnecessarily highlight a shortcoming of India at | stage37. Among the following, which one is the largest exporter of rice in the world in the last_five years? (a) China India (c) Myanmar (a) Vietnam hy this Question was asked? Most probably there would have been a significant development/news hich captured attention of Question-setter. Like ... 1) "C/M/V beats India in rice export" (2) "India beats C/M/V to become largest exporter of rice." Probability of other development (like Vietnam beats China) would be ‘ery less because that won't make the news /headline in Indian media. Even if it becomes a News in India, it wont be important of being asked in UPSC. Probability of (1) is less than (2), i.e. High probability that India has ibecome the largest exporter, beating C/M/V. Reasons: India has seen ~steady increase in agricultural production in last many years * Why would UPSC unnecessarily highlight a shortcoming of India at lobal stage26. Tips for #UPSCPrelims Not all Questions have to be attempted. If any candidate isn't having any idea about a Question (particularly a factual one), then Leave it without wasting much time. Number of such Qs may be 5-10. Image: 2021 Q, Unsolvable (But, easy for Rajasthanis) reference to India, wad 4 team, Pars, A aman, Sargol and Kha74 e? 's of ae Re (fa) aa ‘laciers Nangrove areas tamsar sites TR aA dele lakes rant sitet54. With reference to India, Didwana, Kuchaman, Sargol and Khatu are the names of (a) glaciers (b) mangrove areas (c) Ramsar sites (ad) saline lakes24. Logical Tricks for H#UPSCPrelims @ Prelims 2019 Question Do It Yourself (DIY) #UPSC Prior knowledge: * CNG -= CH4; —(combustion/O2)-—> CO2 + H20 + * H2 fuel —(combustion/O2)-—> H20 43. In the context of proposals to the use of hydrogen-enriched CNG (H-CNG) as fuel for buses in public transport, consider the following statements : 1. The main advantage of the use of H-CNG is the élimination of carbon monoxide emissions. 2. H-CNG as fuel reduces carbon dioxide and hydrocarbon emissions. 3. Hydrogen up to one-fifth by volume ‘can be blended with CNG as fuel for buses. 4, H-CNG makes the fuel less expensive than CNG. Statement 4 can be easily judged by Lateral thinking. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b} 2 and 3 only (co) 4 only (@) 1,2, 3 end 4Prior knowledge * CNG ~= CH4; —-(combustion/O2)—> CO2 + H20 + ... * H2 fuel ---(combustion/O2)-—-> H20 43. In the context of proposals to the use of hydrogen-enriched CNG (H-CNG) as fuel for buses in public transport, consider the following statements : 1. The main advantage of the use of H-CNG is the elimination of carbon monoxide emissions. 2. H-CNG as fuel reduces carbon dioxide and hydrocarbon emissions. 3. Hydrogen up to one-fifth by volume ‘can be blended with CNG as fuel for buses. 4. H-CNG makes the fuel less expensive than CNG, Statement 4 can be easily judged by Lateral thinking. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only {b) 2 and 3 only (c} 4 only (d) 1, 2,3 and 423. Logical Tricks for #UPSCPrelims @& Do It Yourself (DIY) Will post explanation tomorrow. Image: Prelims 2019 Question #UPSC 28. Consider the following statements : 1. Some species of turtles are herbivores. 2. Some species of fish are herbivores. 3. Some species of marine mammals are herbivores. 4. Some species of snakes are viviparous. Which of the statements given above are correct? (a) 1 and 3 only {b) 2, 3 and 4 only (c} 2 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 428. Consider the following statements : 1, Some species of turtles’ are herbivores. Some species of fish are herbivores. Some species of marine mammals are herbivores. Some species of snakes are viviparous, Which of the statements given above are correct? (a} 1 and 3 only (b) 2, 3 and 4 only (c} 2 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 422. Lateral Thinking for #UPSCPrelims @ Explanation 1 <1 weae also somewhat confused on IL because: SE Asia has the highest production of palin oll, : But, finally took this statement to be wrong. Why? Tie acetate very auny to change fx the queston-sane, by |] changing just the region (SE Asia / Afica | America, etc} ‘Question: Proms 2021 Supporting logie/knowledge (Basic Geograpny/Envt knowledge): Natural vegetation of SE Asia 82. With reference to ‘palm oil’, con! the bhould have been dense tropical rainforest, not Of Paim Plantations. following statements ; (Contemporary Envt knowledge): Some SE Asian nafians are criticized : hor culting down their natural forests, ang expanding ail palm plantations. cole is “native to orev faa proaushon cove corte Much wh ae eon Pris sislement ts very dificult io tehle for ine Cometion neon 2. cae ht oes ese Which of the statements given above Bux: ir eerie are correct? fa} 1 and 2 only @ 2and 3 only fe} 1 and 3 only (d) 1,2 and 3Question: Prelims 2024 82. With reference to ‘palm oil’, cons: f should have been dense tropical rancicek not Oil Palm Plantations. following statements : ' (Contemporary Envt knowledge): Some SE Asian nations are criticized ae jor cutting down their natural forests, and expanding oil palm plantations. 23 Sa e tree is “native to Moreover, today production does not corretate much with native Fegon. tata is 2. The palm oil a haw dinledial for : 'S0M@ industries producing lipstick | and perfumes. | 3. The palm oil (@SHINBE used to [some i prod biodie: B. Similar logic as above, ae gel Moreover, it's just telling a possibility ("can be"). Which of the statements given above gic: Most vegetable oils can be used to are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only ) 2 and 3 only {c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1,2 and321. Lateral Thinking for #UPSCPrelims @ * Like I tald earlier also, don't be scared of lengthy questions. Handle them with open mind. * Check Hindi translation (On an average, it helps in ~1 Question each year) Disclaimer: Risky, not for Freshers Image: Q 2021 #UPSC ‘anyane does not mow Permaculture, then ‘Check Hind! transistor: Sthayi Krishi = Permanent Agriculture gical, Farming would be Permanent it ts Sustainable (Eco-tiendly) . OR 2. Look at the way itis being diflerentiaied fom Conventional chamical farming dominant, rms son"4¥2. Conventional chemieal farming ean F cause increase in soil salinity[ but the occurrence of such Phenomenon is ORNS in permaculture farming. proover, staiament istt making extreme claire tke oriventinl always increases soil saienty / Pormeculuure naar ctgh | age thal some Cuaétative Acjective (ihe ‘mostly’ or but permaculture farming is not so [' easily possible in such regions, fa) 1 and 3 1, 2 and 4 ic} 4 onlyf anyone does not know Permaculture, then ... . Check Hindi translation: Sthayi Krishi = Permanent Agriculture Logically, Farming would be Permanent if its Sustainable (Eco-friendly) ... OR ... Look at the way it is being differentiated from Conventional chemical farming (which is unsustainable) in the Question. So, logically it must be sustainable. 51. How is petmactiture Yarming different froa cenventionall chemical farming?.nsvstanabe 80-00% _/1, correct 70% oma os0% Yo. wrong 80-90% Select the correct answer using the 4, Practice of mulching is very Permaculture farming discourages [S° seal ped idiithesit : ;_. |Moreover, statement isn't mal mionecuitaral practices. but in (ere claims (ake: Convertionl conventional chemical farming, |chemical farming "always" has monoculture practices are pre- dominant, Conventional chemical farming lean [ cause increase in soil salinity but the occurrence of such phenomenon is jmigtebserved in permaculture farming. ds logical: H eco-Iriendly practices (ike optimum irigation, een manure, etc) are properly adopted, it can easily prevent salinity. oreover, statement isn't making extreme claims: like Conventional always increases soil salinity / Permaculture never. but permaculture farming is not so f'¢, easily possible in such regions. egions also. Ex, Zero Budget Natural Farming Sounds logical. lulching prevents soil erosion, reduces water loss, may provide prganic matter & nutrients. Looks like it should be a recommended practice for Permaculture. Moreover, stalement isn't making extreme claims like: Mulching is always done in Permaculture, never done in conventional .. important in permaculture farming but not necessarily so in conventional chemical farming. code given below. (a) land3 1, 2 and 4 (4 only fd) 2and320. Logical #Tricks for #UPSCPrelims @ * Empirical Observation: There are good chances that data/organization are changed in statements, coz it's very easy for Question-setter. * Practicalities in framing Questions Disclaimer: Risky, not for Freshers Image: Q 2021 #UPSC ament-1 has 2 info, which could have been easily aged lo make the statement incorrect. . Consider the following statements : 1, (BESEUREGHIBIY is declared to the International Mother Langu: Day by (UNICEF. 70-80% wrong 2. The demand that Bangla has to one of the national languages v Peg raised in the Constituent Assem of Pakistan. 60-90% correct Which of the above statements is/: correct? 2over, language or culture aspects are mostly dealt INESCO, not UNICEF ement-2 has low probability of being wrong, because:] 8 very difficult for question-setter to have gone ugh ail the discussions of Constituent Assembly (P), onejusively say that such demand was not made. Jost textbooks won't contain information in manner “Demand that Bangla ... was not raised ...". Without evidence, it would be difficult for question-setter to i that such demand was not made. 1 only 2 only a bia f Both 1 2 fd) Neither 1 nor 2Statement-1 has 2 info, which could have been easily changed to make the statement incorrect. 50. Consider the following statements : Based on empirical observation of UPSC Prelims PYQs, such easily changeable statements having organization/ 1. Bist/Febriary is declared to be data are most probably wrong. the International Mother Language loreover, language or culture aspects are mostly dealt Day by UNICEF. 70-80% wrong by UNESCO, not UNICEF 2. The demand that Bangla has to be Siatement-2 has low probabilly of being wrong, because; one of the national languages was . Its very difficult for question-setter to have gone Fr raised in the Constituent Assembly [through all the discussions of Constituent Assembly (P), of Pakiatan: 80-90% correct Which of the above statements is/are 0 conclusively say that such demand was not made. 2. Most textbooks won't contain information in manner ike "Demand that Bangla ... was not raised ...". Without Lehane correct? such evidence, it would be difficult for question-setter to jaim that such demand was not made. (a) 1 only f : 2 only loreaver, such demand for Bangla is understandable (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 219. Lateral Thinking for #UPSCPrelims @ * Practicalities in framing a statement * Psychology of Question-setter Disclaimer: Risky, not for Freshers Image: Q 2021 #UPSC i-2 has 2 components: '1) St. FX died in Goa : Very easy to change the place. As per Empirical observation, there is a high probabilit ims question-setters change such statement, to mat Moreover, missionaries had to travel a lot to promote t nsider the following statements : St. Francis Xavier was one of the founding members of the Jesuit Order. (St. Francis Xavier died in GG and [ere he pan] eres” Goa Even asma a church is dedicated to him there. ll, there Is. a .4/The Feast of St. Francis Xavier is ly. is very ceicbrated in Gon each year, —> Hunted hounands feat a cbr inGo Thich of the statements given above statement won't be found in ai re correct? ) 1 and 2 only ) 2 and 3 only ) 1 and 3 only Y 1,2 and 3i : jatement-2 has 2 components 39. Consider the following statements : 11) St. FX died in Goa : Very easy to change the place. 2 Franci i per Empirical observation, there is a high probability that UPSC oe Bn eeuerves ane of the cis question-setters change such statement, to make it incorrect. founding members of the Jesuit } \oreaver, missionaries had to travel a lot to promote their religiorvorder Order. nt (2) His church is in Goa : Practically very difficult to refute [There would be 70% he ana of! st. Francis Xavier died in Goa aid undreds or ‘thousands of churches in Goa. Even a small unknown church beg a church is dedicated to him there. 90% probability of3../The Feast of St. Francis Xavier is Practically, Statement-3 is 3 being correct celebrated in Goa each year. —> |: Saree ena? of festivals are celebrated in Goa. This| Which of the statements given above | Moreover, contrastit g statement won't be found in any book. | are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only i @ 1 and 3 only (d) 1,2 and318, Logical Tips for {UPSCPrelims @ * We may acquire knowledge from any source (books or movies), more important is it's application in Question(s) * In most of the Questions, clarity of Basics is important even to apply the logical tricks Image: Q 2021 #UPSC Sofi. Chidarinns 1% in eco anemone (Criarons) Seteet = code given below fa) 1 and 2 onlywith other organisms? Remember Finding Nem"... Sf. Cnidarians Clownfish in sea anemone (Cnidarians) fa) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only fe} 1 and 3 only @) 1,2 and 317. Lateral Thinking for #UPSCPrelims @ Sometimes, correlating question & options may give us the answer. Image: 2021 Q | won't call it a "Blind Guess". At worst, it may be called a "Thoughtful Guess", Disclaimer: It's risky, not for Freshers. #UPSC = RR, must be abbreviation of some words starting with "R" (So, search such words in options. jost common words are: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, etc 16, RZ Code of PRAEHCES’ constitutes a tool available for promoting the adoption of a environmentally [ffsponsible (praé= (ites in electronics [ipcycling industry (b) ecological management of ‘Wetlands of International Importance’ under the Ramsar Convention (c) sustainable (practices in the cultivation of agricultural crops in degraded lands (dj) Environmental Impact Assessment’ in the exploitation of natural resources ross-check: Other ideas of question are also found in (a) Recycling is based upon some practices Electronic recycling is an emerging thing, whose adoption as to be promotedSo, search such words in options. Most common words are: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, etc IR2 = RR, must be abbreviation of some words Starting with "R"] 16. 2 Code of Practices’ constitutes a tool available for promoting the adoption of A environmentally [psponsible [prac Hees in electronics [iFcycling industry (b) ecological management of ‘Wetlands of International Importance’ under the Ramsar Convention (c) sustainable (practices in the cultivation of agricultural crops in degraded lands (d) ‘Environmental Impact Assessment’ in the exploitation of natural resources Cross-check: Other ideas of question are also found in (a) Recycling is based upon some practices * Electronic recycling is an emerging thing, whose adoption jas to be promoted16. Logical Tips/Tricks for 4UPSCPrelims @ * Checking the options or statements properly * Elimination Disclaimer: Risky, not for Freshers Image: Q 2020 #UPSC 78, In rural road construction, the use of which of the following is profirred for ensuring environmental sustainability or to reduce carbon footprint ? 1. Copper slag: GB) (GB mix oxphate technology Gotexbie (from jute, coir, ete) sounds 3.4 Geotestiles cco-srendly. So. high chances that "is 16 [Hibfmix asphalt technology 5, Portland coment Select the correct answer using the code given below ; “ i, {to sure}: | am 1, Zand Sanly F4" stag is a residue, thus using sullen fa Ban sony (a) Land 6 only78, Inrural read construction, the use of which of the following is preferred for ensuring environmental sustainability or to reduce carbon footprint ? 1, Copper slag (2) (Cold mix asphalt technology ogically, "4" doesn't seem te be eco-friendly. Infact, i Geotextiles C&>entle (from jute, coir, ete) sounds + ake the tradiienel method erty: Agaregate. Jt | af les eco-friendly. So, high chances that "3" is, ‘gravel, crushed stones) mixed with hot asphalt ... whic s feleases many gases also, due to high ae cl \Hot mix asphalt technology Hl igh probability that 284 would be mutually annual, 5, Portland cement Select the correct answer using the code given below : a: I eck (to be double- a 1,2andsonly --1" Siagisa itera it is like recycling ... :) ys 2,3 and pnty F ‘s Usually cement plants * Bana Sonly ' (d) Land 5only15. Lateral Thinking for #UPSCPrelims @ Taking ideas from Words/Names: Name is not assigned randomly, often it has some logic behind it. We may think that to get help in some Questions. Disclaimer: Risky, not for Freshers Image: Q 2018 #UPSC inking direction 1; Taking idea frorr ion (a), (c) inking direction 2: If name change « in 1920, then its highly probable that ; 1920 which inspired the name-char a of the following changed its ‘ajya Sabha” ? aaa Le ai = Swarajya ahasabha called the big events of 1920: [fron ahasabha exists today also by the same]" Nagpur session: but it happened in | .: : ‘ Non-Cooperation Movement tian Liberal Federation Lokmanya Tilak died: Yes, that can t have chosen pure ants of India Societyinking direction 7: Taking idea from words/names ... 79. In 1920, which of the following changed its _fption (a), (c) name to “Swarajya Sabha” ? hinking direction 2: If name change of organization happened i ‘ in 1920, then its highly probable that ‘some big event happened sore ote wl apdig Home Rule | FSBR Rai = Swarajya ["! wii lh alkalies rt Hindu Mahasabha Recalled the big events of 1920: [from Old 12th NCERT] Incorrect; Reason: Hindu Mahasabha exists today also by the same Nagpur session: but it happened in Dec, so not possible Non-Cooperation Movement Indian Liberal Fede; iieonese Reason peta A iiiead gure eration Mahe Lokmanya Tilak died: Yes, that can be the related event. (d)_ The Servants of ‘dia Society 4 “ Possible ) Tilak was associated with Home Rule League 50, its probable that as a mark of gratitude, name was chang14. Logical #Tricks for H#UPSCPrelims @ * Psychology of Question setter * Practic: s in framing Questions Check initial Tweets also for better clarity. Disclaimer: Risky, not for Freshers Image: Q 2020 #UPSC .a byproduct esigue from ofe processing (melling. ete) (composition may be: metalic runerals + earthy material following ? not find the clabved use in any ofthe available texibooks’sources, . a the available textbooks combined would be tec much for any exar: 1, Construction of base road ‘check therm, Thus, we car assume that this scenaito would be ovement of agricultural soil { high for the claimed use to be True, particularly 9 oe the question statement is taling just @ posadiity: ex, Stoel slag "can be" below (a) Land Zonly ‘Because steel slag has many rninerals, 2 may be used ts supply mabiel (bh) Qand Sonly Comentis produced by toma raw material ine fine particles. { (e) Land Sonly iy Har eens 5 lias emer aa bly als @ 120003‘2 be 100% sure that the claimed use is False, examiner should _.. Slag is a byproduct/residue from are processing (melting, ete) | : So, ts composition may be: metalic minerals + earthy material | i'd the contrary in any credible textbook/souree; ? “Steel slag cannot be used fer production of cement’, 76. Steel slag can he the material for which of the), usually the texibooks don't contain info in this manner. following ? not find the claimed use in any of the aveilable textbooks!sources, | the available textbooks combined would be too much far any examiner to 4, Construction of base road 1 ghly check them, Thus, we can assume that this scenario would be rare. 2. Improvement of agricultural soil herefore, probability is high for the claimed use to be True, particularly when: the question statement is telling just a possibilty. . Steel slag “can be"... 3. Production of cement E correct, ing the code went Saleet: tia eprrectiqnawen ting EN agining the uses of Steel slag: below + . Many kinds of trash/rubbish (including plastic) can be used for construction of . They just have to be added with bitumen, aggregate, etc, Seeing the fa) land 2only | . steel slag looks like it can improve road | strength. Because steel slag has many minerals, it may be used to supply nutrients to (b) 2and 3 only ear rations some raw material into fine particles. Stee! Lend 8 only also be Siecicmgael an canine Wrote inane : its characteristics. @ 1,20nd313. Logical #Tricks for H#UPSCPrelims @ Carefully check extreme statements with words like Always, All, Only. You just have to think of 1 exception, & that statement can be rejected. Disclaimer: "All statements with extreme words are incorrect" is also , b same logic #UPSC 91, What are the advantages of fertigation in agriculture ? Fertigation = Drip Irrigation + Fertilizer Application 1. Controlling the albelinity eh eatin He iy j jow? Probably by checking pH; then water is [BOBSibIe. mixing something in water to correct it. * ‘Bfficient fd lication of Rock Phosphate aD ba , other phosphatic is Some fertilizers may precipitate, thus their application won't be efficient 3. Increased availability of nutrients to plants is possible, How? Coz of precise targeting 4. Reduction in the leadhing. of chemical nettiente is possible. How? Coz of less water application Select the correct. answer using the code given below : (a) 1,2 and 3 only (b) 1,2 and 4 only (©) 1, 3 and 4 only (d) 2,3 and 4 only91. What are the advantages of orieation. in venenean igation = Drip Irrigation + Fertilizer ication agriculture? Fertigation = Drip Irrig: pp 1, * Controlling the alkalinity of irrigation How? piSbabh, Tie ation pH; then water is possible. mixing something in water to correct it. Efficient application of Rock Phosphate ex se ence/word e and all other phosphatic ‘elie i Some fertilizers may precipitate, thus their Rees. application won't be efficient Increased availability of nutrients to plants is|possible. How? Coz of precise targeting Reduction in the leaching of chemical ; : - ? less water application nutrients is possible. How? Coz of les PP! Select the correct answer using ine code given below : (a) (b) 1, 2 and 3 only 1, 2 and 4 only © 1, 3 and 4 only (a) 2,3 and 4 only