Prelims - Smart Questions Solving Technique - PROCESS OF ELIMINATION BY CONTEXT OR WORD ASSOCIATION

The Process of Elimination by Context or Word Association is a useful strategy when you are unsure of the exact answer but can derive hints from the context of the question or the words used in the options. In many UPSC CSE Prelims questions, certain terms or phrases are commonly associated with specific concepts, historical events, regions, or figures. By recognizing these associations or understanding the broader context of the topic, you can logically eliminate wrong options and narrow down your choices.

This method is particularly effective when:

• You don’t know the exact answer but have a general understanding of the subject.
• You recognize familiar terms or keywords.
• The options contain clues through word usage or conceptual hints.

Let’s break down this strategy and look at detailed examples from UPSC CSE Prelims questions.

How to Apply the Process of Elimination by Context or Word Association:

1.        Step 1: Identify Keywords in the Question and Options

o    Look for terms that hint at specific associations. These could be key events, figures, regions, or concepts.

2.        Step 2: Analyse the Context

o    Consider the broader context of the question. Is it related to history, geography, economics, or the environment? Think about how certain terms might fit into that context.

3.        Step 3: Match Keywords to Their Relevant Concepts

o    Use your general knowledge to match certain terms with their associated fields, people, or events. Even if you don’t know the exact answer, this step can help eliminate incorrect options.

4.        Step 4: Eliminate Options that Don’t Match the Context

o    Narrow down the choices by eliminating options that don’t fit the context or word associations.

Question: With reference to India's culture, consider the following pairs:

Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 2 only

C) 1 and 3 only

D) 1, 2, and 3

Step-by-Step Application of Elimination by Context or Word Association:

Step 1: Identify Keywords in the Question and Options.

• The question is asking about cultural traditions associated with specific states. The keywords here are Chapchar Kut, Khongjom Parva, and Thang-Ta.

Step 2: Analyze the Context.

• The context is Indian states and their unique cultural traditions. Each state has distinct festivals, martial arts, or storytelling forms.

Step 3: Match Keywords to Their Relevant Concepts.

• Chapchar Kut: This sounds familiar as a festival from Mizoram. It's a spring festival celebrated in Mizoram, so Pair 1 is correct.
• Khongjom Parva: This is associated with the state of Manipur. It’s a traditional ballad in Manipur that recounts the valor of Manipuri warriors, making Pair 2 correct.
• Thang-Ta: This term is associated with Manipuri martial arts, not Sikkim. Pair 3 is incorrect.

Step 4: Eliminate Options that Don’t Match the Context.

• Eliminate C (1 and 3 only) because Pair 3 is wrong.
• Eliminate D (1, 2, and 3) because Pair 3 is incorrect.
• You're left with A (1 and 2 only) or B (2 only). Since Pair 1 is correct, the answer is A.

Final Answer: A (1 and 2 only).

Common Mistake:

• Some students might not recognize the connection between Thang-Ta and Manipur and could mistakenly select C or D. However, recognizing the correct association between the cultural terms and their states helps eliminate wrong options.

Question: Which of the following statements best describes the term ‘Social Cost of Carbon’?

A) It is a measure of the impact of climate change on human welfare.

B) It is a measure of the long-term damage done by a tonne of CO2 emissions in a given year.

C) It is a requirement for companies to pay for the carbon they emit.

D) It is a tax on the production of fossil fuels.

Step-by-Step Application of Elimination by Context or Word Association:

Step 1: Identify Keywords in the Question and Options.

• The term “Social Cost of Carbon” is the keyword here. Focus on the terms "social cost," "carbon," and the idea of a cost associated with emissions.

Step 2: Analyse the Context.

• This question is likely related to climate change and carbon emissions, which are common themes in environmental economics. "Social cost" typically refers to the broader negative impacts on society or the environment.

Step 3: Match Keywords to Their Relevant Concepts.

• Option A: This option suggests that the term refers to the impact on human welfare, but it is too vague. It doesn’t capture the idea of measuring a specific cost.
• Option B: This describes the long-term damage done by CO2 emissions, which is in line with how the term “Social Cost of Carbon” is used in climate discussions. This looks correct.
• Option C: This is about companies paying for carbon, which refers more to carbon taxes or carbon trading schemes. It doesn’t match the term as well as Option B.
• Option D: This refers to taxing fossil fuel production, which is related to carbon pricing but not the same as the Social Cost of Carbon.

Step 4: Eliminate Options that Don’t Match the Context.

• Eliminate A because it’s too vague and doesn’t measure cost directly.
• Eliminate C and D because they describe specific pricing mechanisms, not the broader concept of societal damage from carbon emissions.
• The correct answer is B (long-term damage done by CO2 emissions).

Final Answer: B (It is a measure of the long-term damage done by a tonne of CO2 emissions in a given year).

Common Mistake:

• Some students may confuse carbon pricing mechanisms (like taxes or trading) with the social cost concept, leading them to choose C or D. But recognizing the specific use of the term in environmental discussions helps eliminate those options.

Question: Consider the following pairs:

Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 2 only

C) 2 and 3 only

D) 3 only

Step-by-Step Application of Elimination by Context or Word Association:

Step 1: Identify Keywords in the Question and Options.

• The question is asking about ethnic communities and the countries they are associated with. The keywords are Kurd, Madhesi, and Rohingya.

Step 2: Analyze the Context.

• The context is ethnic groups and their geopolitical significance. Each group is linked to a country based on recent political or refugee crises.

Step 3: Match Keywords to Their Relevant Concepts.

• Pair 1 (Kurd - Myanmar): Kurds are mainly associated with countries in the Middle East like Turkey, Iraq, Syria, and Iran, not Myanmar. Therefore, Pair 1 is incorrect.
• Pair 2 (Madhesi - Nepal): The Madhesi people are a group in Nepal, especially in the Terai region, often mentioned in political discussions in Nepal. Pair 2 is correct.
• Pair 3 (Rohingya - Bangladesh): The Rohingya are an ethnic minority from Myanmar, though many have fled to Bangladesh as refugees. This pair is tricky because the Rohingya are linked to Myanmar but are in the news in connection with Bangladesh as refugees. However, this is an indirect association, making Pair 3 incorrect in this context.

Step 4: Eliminate Options that Don’t Match the Context.

• Eliminate D (3 only) because Pair 3 is incorrect.
• Eliminate C (2 and 3 only) because Pair 3 is incorrect.
• Eliminate A (1 and 2 only) because Pair 1 is incorrect.
• The correct answer is B (2 only).

Final Answer: B (2 only).

Common Mistake:

• Some students might incorrectly associate Kurds with Myanmar or assume that Rohingya should be linked to Bangladesh (due to the refugee crisis), leading them to choose A or C. However, by recognizing the clear ethnic and geopolitical context, you can eliminate those options.

Question: With reference to the history of ancient India, Bhavabhuti, Hastimalla, and Kshemeshwara were famous:

A) Jain monks

B) Playwrights

C) Temple architects

D) Philosophers

Step-by-Step Application of Elimination by Context or Word Association:

Step 1: Identify Keywords in the Question and Options.

• The key terms are the names Bhavabhuti, Hastimalla, and Kshemeshwara, who are associated with ancient India.

Step 2: Analyze the Context.

• The context is ancient India, so these individuals were likely involved in significant cultural or intellectual activities. If you recognize even one of the names, you can apply it to the others.

Step 3: Match Keywords to Their Relevant Concepts.

• Bhavabhuti is widely known as a Sanskrit playwright who wrote plays like Malatimadhava and Uttararamacharita. This gives us a strong clue that the others might be connected to similar fields.
• Hastimalla and Kshemeshwara were also known for their contributions to drama or literary traditions, suggesting that the correct answer relates to playwrights.

Step 4: Eliminate Options that Don’t Match the Context.

• Eliminate A (Jain monks) and D (Philosophers) because these names are more strongly associated with literature than with religious or philosophical thought.
• Eliminate C (Temple architects) because Bhavabhuti is not known for architecture.
• The correct answer is B (Playwrights).

Final Answer: B (Playwrights).

Common Mistake:

• Some students might be unfamiliar with all the names and could guess Jain monks or Philosophers based on ancient Indian history, but recognizing Bhavabhuti helps guide you to the correct option.

Question: Which of the following best describes the term ‘Circular Economy’?

A) A large-scale system of trade where currencies constantly depreciate.

B) An economic model in which products are used, disposed of, and replaced frequently.

C) An economic model aimed at reducing waste and making the most of resources.

D) A global economy where the supply and demand of goods continuously fluctuate.

Step-by-Step Application of Elimination by Context or Word Association:

Step 1: Identify Keywords in the Question and Options.

• The key term here is “Circular Economy.”

Step 2: Analyze the Context.

• The context is modern economic models, likely related to sustainability or resource management. Circular economies are often discussed in terms of environmental sustainability.

Step 3: Match Keywords to Their Relevant Concepts.

• Option C mentions reducing waste and maximizing resources, which directly aligns with the principles of a circular economy. In contrast, the other options discuss economic fluctuations or depreciation, which don’t match the concept.

Step 4: Eliminate Options that Don’t Match the Context.

• Eliminate A, B, and D because they don’t refer to the idea of sustainability or efficient resource use.
• The correct answer is C (An economic model aimed at reducing waste and making the most of resources).

Final Answer: C (An economic model aimed at reducing waste and making the most of resources).

Common Mistake:

• Some students may confuse the term "circular" with economic fluctuations or depreciation, leading them to choose A or D. However, understanding the context of sustainability helps eliminate those options.

Question: With reference to the history of Indian architecture, consider the following statements:

1.        The Mughal architecture is a blend of Indian, Persian, and Islamic styles.

2.        The use of the Chhatri (dome-shaped pavilion) is a characteristic feature of Mughal architecture.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A) 1 only

B) 2 only

C) Both 1 and 2

D) Neither 1 nor 2

Step-by-Step Explanation:

Step 1: Identify Keywords in the Question and Options.

• The keywords are Mughal architecture, Persian and Islamic styles, and Chhatri.

Step 2: Analyse the Context.

• The question is asking about Mughal architecture, which is famous for being a fusion of different styles. You might also recognize the term Chhatri, which is a prominent feature in many Mughal buildings.

Step 3: Match Keywords to Their Relevant Concepts.

• Statement 1: Mughal architecture is indeed known for blending Indian, Persian, and Islamic styles, so Statement 1 is correct.
• Statement 2: The Chhatri (dome-shaped pavilion) is a well-known feature of Mughal structures like the Taj Mahal and Humayun’s Tomb. Statement 2 is also correct.

Step 4: Eliminate Options that Don’t Match the Context.

• Since both statements are correct, eliminate A (1 only), B (2 only), and D (Neither 1 nor 2).
• The correct answer is C (Both 1 and 2).

Final Answer: C (Both 1 and 2).

Question: The term ‘Blue Economy’ is often mentioned in the context of:

A) Conservation of freshwater resources

B) Sustainable use of ocean resources

C) Reduction of air pollution

D) Development of solar energy

Step-by-Step Explanation:

Step 1: Identify Keywords in the Question and Options.

• The keyword is “Blue Economy”. Think about the word blue and its common associations.

Step 2: Analyse the Context.

• "Blue" is typically associated with oceans, so this question is likely asking about economic activities related to oceans or marine resources.

Step 3: Match Keywords to Their Relevant Concepts.

• Option B (Sustainable use of ocean resources) fits with the term "Blue Economy," which refers to the sustainable use of oceans and marine resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and jobs while preserving the health of ocean ecosystems.

Step 4: Eliminate Options that Don’t Match the Context.

• Eliminate A (Conservation of freshwater resources) because "blue" here refers to oceans, not freshwater.
• Eliminate C (Reduction of air pollution) and D (Development of solar energy) as they don't relate to oceans or marine resources.
• The correct answer is B (Sustainable use of ocean resources).

Final Answer: B (Sustainable use of ocean resources).

Question: Which of the following best describes the term ‘Microfinance’?

A) Large-scale financial aid provided to developing countries

B) Loans, savings, insurance, and other financial services provided to small entrepreneurs and individuals

C) Financial services aimed at multinational corporations

D) Government grants to promote rural tourism

Step-by-Step Explanation:

Step 1: Identify Keywords in the Question and Options.

• The keyword is “Microfinance”, which indicates something related to small-scale finance.

Step 2: Analyse the Context.

• "Micro" means small, so this term likely refers to financial services provided on a smaller scale, especially for individuals or small businesses.

Step 3: Match Keywords to Their Relevant Concepts.

• Option B (Loans, savings, insurance, and other financial services provided to small entrepreneurs and individuals) best fits the concept of Microfinance, which is aimed at helping low-income individuals or small entrepreneurs access financial services like loans or savings.

Step 4: Eliminate Options that Don’t Match the Context.

• Eliminate A (Large-scale financial aid) and C (Financial services for multinational corporations) because these refer to large-scale or corporate finance, which is the opposite of microfinance.
• Eliminate D (Government grants for rural tourism) as it doesn't fit the definition of finance services.
• The correct answer is B (Loans, savings, insurance, and other financial services provided to small entrepreneurs and individuals).

Final Answer: B (Loans, savings, insurance, and other financial services provided to small entrepreneurs and individuals).

Question: Consider the following statements about the Kyoto Protocol:

1.        The Kyoto Protocol is an international treaty aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

2.        The United States is a signatory to the Kyoto Protocol.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A) 1 only

B) 2 only

C) Both 1 and 2

D) Neither 1 nor 2

Step-by-Step Explanation:

Step 1: Identify Keywords in the Question and Options.

• The keywords are “Kyoto Protocol” and “United States”.

Step 2: Analyse the Context.

• The Kyoto Protocol is widely discussed in the context of climate change and greenhouse gas emissions. The U.S.’s position on various international agreements is also commonly debated.

Step 3: Match Keywords to Their Relevant Concepts.

• Statement 1: The Kyoto Protocol is indeed an international treaty focused on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Statement 1 is correct.
• Statement 2: While the United States initially signed the Kyoto Protocol, it later withdrew and never ratified it. Therefore, Statement 2 is incorrect.

Step 4: Eliminate Options that Don’t Match the Context.

• Since Statement 2 is wrong, eliminate B (2 only) and C (Both 1 and 2).
• You're left with A (1 only) and D (Neither 1 nor 2).
• Since Statement 1 is correct, the answer is A (1 only).

Final Answer: A (1 only).

Question: The term ‘Genetic Engineering’ refers to:

A) Selective breeding of animals and plants for desirable traits

B) Alteration of an organism's genetic material by adding, removing, or modifying DNA

C) Use of natural selection to improve crop yield

D) Use of fertilizers to enhance genetic characteristics in plants

Step-by-Step Explanation:

Step 1: Identify Keywords in the Question and Options.

• The keyword here is “Genetic Engineering”. Think about what this term might involve in terms of biology and genetics.

Step 2: Analyse the Context.

• Genetic Engineering is about modifying genes to alter the characteristics of an organism, so it likely involves DNA modification.

Step 3: Match Keywords to Their Relevant Concepts.

• Option B (Alteration of an organism's genetic material by adding, removing, or modifying DNA) describes Genetic Engineering accurately, as it refers to manipulating an organism’s genetic code to achieve specific traits.

Step 4: Eliminate Options that Don’t Match the Context.

• Eliminate A (Selective breeding) because selective breeding is a natural process and doesn’t involve direct modification of DNA.
• Eliminate C (Natural selection) because this is a natural evolutionary process, not a human intervention.
• Eliminate D (Fertilizers) because fertilizers do not directly change the genetic material.
• The correct answer is B (Alteration of an organism's genetic material by adding, removing, or modifying DNA).

Final Answer: B (Alteration of an organism's genetic material by adding, removing, or modifying DNA).

The Process of Elimination by Context or Word Association method is particularly helpful when you recognize certain terms, concepts, or names but don’t know the exact details. It allows you to:

• Identify keywords and match them with familiar concepts.
• Use the context of the question to narrow down your choices.
• Eliminate options that don’t fit the context or word associations.

By practicing this method, you can improve your accuracy in solving questions, even when you’re unsure of the specific answer.