
WBPSC Clerkship Mathematics Questions 2023 1st Shfit
Q. 10 men can complete a piece of work in 15 days and 15 women can complete the same work in 12 days. If all the 10 men and 15 women work together, in how many days will the work get completed?
(A) 6 days
(B) 6 1/3 days
(C) 6 2/3 days
(D) 7 2/3 days
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 6 2/3 days
Explanation
Work done by 10 men in 1 day = 1/15
Work done by 15 women in 1 day = 1/12
Work done by all together in 1 day = 1/15 + 1/12
= 4/60 + 5/60
= 9/60
= 3/20
Time taken = 1 ÷ (3/20)
= 20/3 days
= 6 2/3 days
Hence, the work will be completed in 6 2/3 days.
Shortcut Method
Time together = (a × b)/(a + b)
= (15 × 12)/(15 + 12)
= 180/27
= 6 2/3 days
Answer: (C) 6 2/3 days
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Q. The ratio between the speeds of two trains is 7 : 8. If the second train runs 400 kms in 4 hrs, then the speed of the first train is
(A) 70 km/hr
(B) 75 km/hr
(C) 84 km/hr
(D) 87.5 km/hr
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 87.5 km/hr
Explanation
Distance covered by second train = 400 km
Time taken = 4 hrs
Speed of second train = Distance/Time
= 400/4
= 100 km/hr
Ratio of speeds = 7 : 8
8 parts = 100 km/hr
1 part = 100/8 = 12.5 km/hr
Speed of first train = 7 parts
= 7 × 12.5
= 87.5 km/hr
Hence, the speed of the first train is 87.5 km/hr.
Shortcut Method
Speed of first train = Speed of second train × 7/8
= 100 × 7/8
= 87.5 km/hr
Answer: (D) 87.5 km/hr
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Q. The prime numbers dividing 143 and leaving a remainder of 3 in each case are
(A) 2 and 11
(B) 11 and 13
(C) 3 and 7
(D) 5 and 7
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 5 and 7
Explanation
Number = 143, Remainder = 3
Required divisor divides (143 − 3) exactly
143 − 3 = 140
140 = 2 × 2 × 5 × 7
Prime factors of 140 = 2, 5, 7
Divisor must be greater than the remainder 3, so 2 is rejected
Check: 143 = 5 × 28 + 3
Check: 143 = 7 × 20 + 3
Hence, the required prime numbers are 5 and 7.
Shortcut Method
Divisor divides (N − R) and is greater than R
143 − 3 = 140 = 2^2 × 5 × 7
Primes greater than 3 = 5 and 7
Answer: (D) 5 and 7
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Q. The greatest number which can divide 1356, 1868 and 2764 leaving the same remainder 12 in each case is
(A) 64
(B) 124
(C) 156
(D) 260
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 64
Explanation
Remainder in each case = 12
1356 − 12 = 1344
1868 − 12 = 1856
2764 − 12 = 2752
Required number = HCF of 1344, 1856 and 2752
1344 = 64 × 21
1856 = 64 × 29
2752 = 64 × 43
21, 29 and 43 have no common factor
HCF = 64
Hence, the greatest number is 64.
Shortcut Method
Required number = HCF (a − r, b − r, c − r)
Check options on 1344: 1344 ÷ 64 = 21 (exact)
1344 ÷ 124, 1344 ÷ 156 and 1344 ÷ 260 are not exact
= 64
Answer: (A) 64
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Q. At what time between 9 and 10 o’clock will the hands of a watch be together?
(A) 45 min. past 9
(B) 50 min. past 9
(C) 49 1/11 min. past 9
(D) 48 2/11 min. past 9
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 49 1/11 min. past 9
Explanation
At 9 o’clock, hour hand is 45 minute-spaces ahead of 12
Minute hand is at 12
Gap between the hands = 45 minute-spaces
Minute hand gains 55 minute-spaces in 60 minutes
Time to gain 45 minute-spaces = (60/55) × 45 min
= (12/11) × 45
= 540/11 min
= 49 1/11 min
Hence, the hands will be together at 49 1/11 min past 9.
Shortcut Method
Hands together between H and (H + 1) o’clock = (60/11) × H min past H
= (60/11) × 9
= 540/11
= 49 1/11 min past 9
Answer: (C) 49 1/11 min. past 9
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Q. At what rate per cent of simple interest will a sum of money double itself in 12 years?
(A) 8 1/4%
(B) 8 1/3%
(C) 8 1/2%
(D) 9 1/2%
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 8 1/3%
Explanation
Let Principal = P
Amount = 2P
SI = 2P − P = P
Time (T) = 12 years
SI = (P × R × T)/100
P = (P × R × 12)/100
R = 100/12
= 25/3
= 8 1/3%
Hence, the rate of interest is 8 1/3% per annum.
Shortcut Method
Sum becomes n times: R × T = 100 × (n − 1)
R × 12 = 100 × (2 − 1)
R = 100/12
= 8 1/3%
Answer: (B) 8 1/3%
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Q. A motor car starts with speed of 70 km/hr with its speed increasing every two hours by 10 km/hr. In how many hours will it cover 345 kms?
(A) 2 1/4 hrs
(B) 4 hrs 5 min
(C) 4 1/2 hrs
(D) None of the above
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 4 1/2 hrs
Explanation
Speed in first 2 hrs = 70 km/hr
Distance in first 2 hrs = 70 × 2 = 140 km
Speed in next 2 hrs = 80 km/hr
Distance in next 2 hrs = 80 × 2 = 160 km
Distance in 4 hrs = 140 + 160 = 300 km
Remaining distance = 345 − 300 = 45 km
Speed after 4 hrs = 90 km/hr
Time for 45 km = 45/90 = 1/2 hr
Total time = 4 + 1/2
= 4 1/2 hrs
Hence, the car will cover 345 km in 4 1/2 hrs.
Shortcut Method
Check option (C) 4 1/2 hrs:
Distance = 70 × 2 + 80 × 2 + 90 × 1/2
= 140 + 160 + 45
= 345 km
Answer: (C) 4 1/2 hrs
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Q. In a class, 3/5th of the students are girls and rest are boys. If 2/9th of the girls and 1/4th of the boys are absent, what part of the total number of students is present?
(A) 17/25
(B) 18/49
(C) 23/30
(D) 23/36
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 23/30
Explanation
Girls = 3/5 of total
Boys = 1 − 3/5 = 2/5 of total
Absent girls = 2/9 × 3/5 = 2/15 of total
Absent boys = 1/4 × 2/5 = 1/10 of total
Total absent = 2/15 + 1/10
= 4/30 + 3/30
= 7/30
Present = 1 − 7/30
= 23/30
Hence, 23/30 of the total students are present.
Shortcut Method
Let total students = 90, so Girls = 54, Boys = 36
Absent = 2/9 × 54 + 1/4 × 36 = 12 + 9 = 21
Present = 90 − 21 = 69
= 69/90 = 23/30
Answer: (C) 23/30
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Q. The HCF of two numbers is 8. Which one of the following can never be their LCM?
(A) 24
(B) 48
(C) 56
(D) 60
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 60
Explanation
HCF = 8
Let the numbers be 8a and 8b (a and b co-prime)
LCM = 8 × a × b
So, LCM must be a multiple of 8
24 ÷ 8 = 3 (exact)
48 ÷ 8 = 6 (exact)
56 ÷ 8 = 7 (exact)
60 ÷ 8 = 7.5 (not exact)
Hence, 60 can never be the LCM.
Shortcut Method
HCF always divides LCM exactly
Only 60 is not divisible by 8
= 60
Answer: (D) 60
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Q. A shopkeeper has a certain number of eggs of which 5% are found to be broken. He sells 93% of the remainder and still has 266 eggs left. How many eggs did he originally have?
(A) 3800
(B) 4000
(C) 4200
(D) None of the above
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 4000
Explanation
Let original number of eggs = x
Broken = 5%, so remaining = 95% of x
Sold = 93% of remainder, so left = 7% of remainder
7% of 95% of x = 266
(7/100) × (95/100) × x = 266
x = 266 × 100 × 100/(7 × 95)
= 2660000/665
= 4000
Hence, the shopkeeper originally had 4000 eggs.
Shortcut Method
Work backwards:
Remainder = 266 × 100/7 = 3800
Original = 3800 × 100/95
= 4000
Answer: (B) 4000
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Q. A positive number, which when added to 1000, gives a sum which is greater than when it is multiplied by 1000. This positive number is
(A) 1
(B) 3
(C) 5
(D) 7
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 1
Explanation
Let the number = x
Condition: x + 1000 > 1000x
1000 > 1000x − x
1000 > 999x
x < 1000/999
x < 1.001 (approx.)
Only option (A) 1 is less than 1.001
Check: 1 + 1000 = 1001 and 1 × 1000 = 1000, and 1001 > 1000
Hence, the positive number is 1.
Shortcut Method
Check options:
x = 3: 1003 < 3000 (fails), and 5 and 7 also fail
x = 1: 1001 > 1000
= 1
Answer: (A) 1
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Q. A sum of ₹ 750 is distributed among A, B, C and D in such a manner that A gets as much as B and C together, B gets ₹ 125 more than C and D gets as much as C. What is A’s share?
(A) ₹ 100
(B) ₹ 225
(C) ₹ 275
(D) ₹ 325
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) ₹ 325
Explanation
Let C’s share = ₹x
D’s share = ₹x
B’s share = ₹(x + 125)
A’s share = B + C = (x + 125) + x = ₹(2x + 125)
A + B + C + D = 750
(2x + 125) + (x + 125) + x + x = 750
5x + 250 = 750
5x = 500
x = 100
A’s share = 2 × 100 + 125
= ₹325
Hence, A’s share is ₹325.
Shortcut Method
A = B + C and D = C, so Total = 2A + C = 750
Try A = 325: C = 750 − 650 = 100
B = 325 − 100 = 225, and B − C = 125 (matches)
= ₹325
Answer: (D) ₹ 325
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Q. The speed of a boat in still water is 10 km/hr. If it can travel 26 km downstream and 14 km upstream in the same time, the speed of the stream is
(A) 2 km/hr
(B) 2·5 km/hr
(C) 3 km/hr
(D) 4 km/hr
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 3 km/hr
Explanation
Speed of boat in still water = 10 km/hr
Let speed of stream = s km/hr
Downstream speed = (10 + s) km/hr
Upstream speed = (10 − s) km/hr
Time downstream = Time upstream
26/(10 + s) = 14/(10 − s)
26(10 − s) = 14(10 + s)
260 − 26s = 140 + 14s
40s = 120
s = 3
Hence, the speed of the stream is 3 km/hr.
Shortcut Method
Same time, so speed ratio = distance ratio = 26 : 14 = 13 : 7
13 + 7 = 20 = 2 × 10, so Downstream = 13, Upstream = 7
Stream speed = (Downstream − Upstream)/2
= (13 − 7)/2
= 3 km/hr
Answer: (C) 3 km/hr
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Q. A group of 1200 persons consisting of captains and soldiers is travelling in a train. If for every 15 soldiers there is one captain, then the number of captains in the group is
(A) 70
(B) 75
(C) 80
(D) 82
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 75
Explanation
Soldiers : Captains = 15 : 1
Persons in one group = 15 + 1 = 16
Total persons = 1200
Number of groups = 1200/16
= 75
Each group has 1 captain
Number of captains = 75 × 1
= 75
Hence, the number of captains is 75.
Shortcut Method
Captains = 1/(15 + 1) × 1200
= 1200/16
= 75
Answer: (B) 75
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Q. A man distributes ₹ 1,65,000 among his daughter, wife and son in such a manner that 1/2 of the daughter’s share, 1/4th of the wife’s share and 1/5th of the son’s share are equal. Find the daughter’s share.
(A) ₹ 15,000
(B) ₹ 30,000
(C) ₹ 45,000
(D) ₹ 60,000
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) ₹ 30,000
Explanation
Let 1/2 of daughter’s share = 1/4 of wife’s share = 1/5 of son’s share = k
Daughter’s share = 2k
Wife’s share = 4k
Son’s share = 5k
2k + 4k + 5k = 1,65,000
11k = 1,65,000
k = 15,000
Daughter’s share = 2 × 15,000
= ₹30,000
Hence, the daughter’s share is ₹30,000.
Shortcut Method
Shares are in the ratio of the denominators = 2 : 4 : 5
Daughter’s share = 2/11 × 1,65,000
= ₹30,000
Answer: (B) ₹ 30,000
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Q. In a mixture of a milk and water, the proportion of water by weight was 75%. If in the 60 gm mixture 15 gm of water was added, what would be the percentage of water?
(A) 75%
(B) 88%
(C) 90%
(D) 80%
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 80%
Explanation
Total mixture = 60 gm
Water = 75% of 60 = (75/100) × 60 = 45 gm
Milk = 60 − 45 = 15 gm
Water added = 15 gm
New water = 45 + 15 = 60 gm
New mixture = 60 + 15 = 75 gm
Water % = (60/75) × 100
= 80%
Hence, the percentage of water is 80%.
Shortcut Method
Milk does not change = 15 gm
Milk % in new mixture = (15/75) × 100 = 20%
Water % = 100 − 20
= 80%
Answer: (D) 80%
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Q. A man in a train notices that he can count 21 telephone posts in one minute. If they are known to be 50 metres apart, then at what speed is the train travelling?
(A) 55 km/hr
(B) 57 km/hr
(C) 60 km/hr
(D) 63 km/hr
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 60 km/hr
Explanation
Number of posts counted = 21
Number of gaps = 21 − 1 = 20
Distance between two posts = 50 m
Distance covered in 1 min = 20 × 50
= 1000 m
= 1 km
Speed = 1 km per minute
= 1 × 60 km/hr
= 60 km/hr
Hence, the train is travelling at 60 km/hr.
Shortcut Method
Distance = (n − 1) × gap = 20 × 50 = 1000 m per min
Speed (km/hr) = metres per min × 60/1000
= 1000 × 60/1000
= 60 km/hr
Answer: (C) 60 km/hr
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Q. 5/12 of which sum is equal to 3 3/4 of ₹ 100?
(A) ₹ 750
(B) ₹ 800
(C) ₹ 900
(D) ₹ 1000
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) ₹ 900
Explanation
3 3/4 = 15/4
3 3/4 of ₹100 = (15/4) × 100
= ₹375
Let the sum = ₹x
5/12 of x = 375
x = 375 × 12/5
= 75 × 12
= ₹900
Hence, the required sum is ₹900.
Shortcut Method
5 parts (out of 12) = 375
1 part = 375/5 = 75
12 parts = 75 × 12
= ₹900
Answer: (C) ₹ 900
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Q. An article was sold for ₹ 144. If the percentage of profit was numerically equal to the cost price, then find the cost of the article.
(A) ₹ 72
(B) ₹ 80
(C) ₹ 90
(D) ₹ 100
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) ₹ 80
Explanation
Let CP = ₹x
Profit % = x%
Profit = x% of x = x^2/100
SP = CP + Profit
144 = x + x^2/100
14400 = 100x + x^2
x^2 + 100x − 14400 = 0
(x + 180)(x − 80) = 0
x = 80 (x = −180 is not possible)
Hence, the cost price of the article is ₹80.
Shortcut Method
SP = CP × (100 + Profit%)/100
Check option (B) ₹80:
= 80 × (100 + 80)/100
= 80 × 1.8
= ₹144
Answer: (B) ₹ 80
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Q. A and B invest in a business in the ratio 3 : 2. If 5% of the total profit goes to charity and A’s share is ₹ 855, the total profit is
(A) ₹ 1,425
(B) ₹ 1,500
(C) ₹ 1,573.50
(D) ₹ 1,575
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) ₹ 1,500
Explanation
Let total profit = ₹P
Charity = 5% of P
Profit left = 95% of P = 0.95P
A : B = 3 : 2
A’s share = 3/5 × 0.95P
= 0.57P
0.57P = 855
P = 855/0.57
= ₹1,500
Hence, the total profit is ₹1,500.
Shortcut Method
A’s share = 3/5 × 95/100 = 57/100 of total profit
Total profit = 855 × 100/57
= 15 × 100
= ₹1,500
Answer: (B) ₹ 1,500
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Q. The average of ten numbers is 7. If each number is multiplied by 12, then the average of the new set of numbers is
(A) 7
(B) 19
(C) 82
(D) 84
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 84
Explanation
Number of values = 10
Average = 7
Sum = 10 × 7 = 70
Each number is multiplied by 12
New sum = 70 × 12 = 840
New average = 840/10
= 84
Hence, the new average is 84.
Shortcut Method
If each number is multiplied by k, the average is also multiplied by k
New average = 7 × 12
= 84
Answer: (D) 84
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Q. If a bucket is 60% full, then it contains 4 litres more water than when it is 46 2/3% full. What is the capacity of the bucket?
(A) 30 litres
(B) 15 litres
(C) 16 2/3 litres
(D) 20 litres
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 30 litres
Explanation
Let capacity = C litres
60% = 60/100 = 3/5 = 9/15
46 2/3% = (140/3)/100 = 7/15
Difference = 9/15 − 7/15
= 2/15
2/15 of C = 4 litres
C = 4 × 15/2
= 30 litres
Hence, the capacity of the bucket is 30 litres.
Shortcut Method
Difference = 60% − 46 2/3% = 13 1/3% = 2/15
Capacity = Difference in litres ÷ Difference in fraction
= 4 ÷ (2/15)
= 30 litres
Answer: (A) 30 litres
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Q. The average of the first nine prime numbers is
(A) 9
(B) 11
(C) 11 1/9
(D) 11 2/9
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 11 1/9
Explanation
First nine prime numbers = 2, 3, 5, 7, 11, 13, 17, 19, 23
Sum = 2 + 3 + 5 + 7 + 11 + 13 + 17 + 19 + 23
= 100
Number of terms = 9
Average = Sum/Number of terms
= 100/9
= 11 1/9
Hence, the average of the first nine prime numbers is 11 1/9.
Shortcut Method
Group the primes into round numbers:
Sum = (3 + 17) + (7 + 13) + (11 + 19) + (2 + 5 + 23)
= 20 + 20 + 30 + 30 = 100
Average = 100/9 = 11 1/9
Answer: (C) 11 1/9
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Q. A fan is listed at ₹ 1,500 and a discount of 20% is offered on the list price. What additional discount must be offered to the customer to bring the net price to ₹ 1,104?
(A) 8%
(B) 10%
(C) 12%
(D) 15%
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 8%
Explanation
List price = ₹1,500
First discount = 20% of 1500 = ₹300
Price after first discount = 1500 − 300 = ₹1,200
Net price required = ₹1,104
Additional discount = 1200 − 1104 = ₹96
Additional discount % = (96/1200) × 100
= 8%
Hence, the additional discount is 8%.
Shortcut Method
Net price = List price × (100 − d1)/100 × (100 − d2)/100
1104 = 1500 × 80/100 × (100 − d2)/100
(100 − d2)/100 = 1104/1200 = 0.92
d2 = 8%
Answer: (A) 8%
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Q. 2 men and 7 boys can do a piece of work in 14 days; 3 men and 8 boys can do the same in 11 days. Then 8 men and 6 boys can do three times the amount of this work in
(A) 18 days
(B) 21 days
(C) 24 days
(D) 30 days
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 21 days
Explanation
Same work, so (2 men + 7 boys) × 14 = (3 men + 8 boys) × 11
28 men + 98 boys = 33 men + 88 boys
10 boys = 5 men
1 man = 2 boys
2 men + 7 boys = 4 + 7 = 11 boys
Total work = 11 × 14 = 154 boy-days
8 men + 6 boys = 16 + 6 = 22 boys
Three times the work = 3 × 154 = 462 boy-days
Days required = 462/22
= 21 days
Hence, 8 men and 6 boys can do three times the work in 21 days.
Shortcut Method
(M1 × D1)/W1 = (M2 × D2)/W2 (all in boys)
(11 × 14)/1 = (22 × D)/3
D = 11 × 14 × 3/22
= 21 days
Answer: (B) 21 days
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Q. The least perfect square number divisible by 3, 4, 5, 6 and 8 is
(A) 900
(B) 1200
(C) 2500
(D) 3600
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 3600
Explanation
LCM of 3, 4, 5, 6, 8 = 120
120 = 2 × 2 × 2 × 3 × 5
= 2^3 × 3 × 5
For a perfect square, each prime must have an even power
Multiply by 2 × 3 × 5 = 30
Required number = 120 × 30
= 3600
= 60^2
Hence, the least perfect square divisible by 3, 4, 5, 6 and 8 is 3600.
Shortcut Method
Check options:
900 ÷ 8 is not exact, 2500 ÷ 3 is not exact
1200 is not a perfect square
= 3600
Answer: (D) 3600
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Q. The value of 999 995/999 × 999 is
(A) 990809
(B) 998996
(C) 998999
(D) 999824
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 998996
Explanation
999 995/999 = 999 + 995/999
(999 + 995/999) × 999
= 999 × 999 + (995/999) × 999
= 999 × 999 + 995
999 × 999 = (1000 − 1)^2
= 1000000 − 2000 + 1
= 998001
Required value = 998001 + 995
= 998996
Hence, the value is 998996.
Shortcut Method
(a + b/a) × a = a^2 + b
= 999^2 + 995
= 998001 + 995
= 998996
Answer: (B) 998996
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Q. 1/4 of a tank holds 135 litres of water. What part of the tank is full if it contains 180 litres of water?
(A) 1/6
(B) 1/3
(C) 2/3
(D) 2/5
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 1/3
Explanation
1/4 of tank = 135 litres
Full tank = 135 × 4
= 540 litres
Water in tank = 180 litres
Part filled = 180/540
= 1/3
Hence, 1/3 of the tank is full.
Shortcut Method
Part filled = (180/135) × 1/4
= (4/3) × 1/4
= 1/3
Answer: (B) 1/3
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Q. A number reduced by 35% becomes 325. What percent should it be increased so that it becomes 650?
(A) 25%
(B) 30%
(C) 35%
(D) 45%
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 30%
Explanation
Let the number = x
After 35% reduction = 65% of x
65% of x = 325
x = 325 × 100/65
= 500
Required increase = 650 − 500 = 150
Increase % = (150/500) × 100
= 30%
Hence, the number should be increased by 30% (taking the increase on the original number 500).
Shortcut Method
Original = 325 ÷ 0.65 = 500
New ÷ Original = 650/500 = 1.30
= 30% increase
Answer: (B) 30%
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Q. If in a calendar-year, January starts with Monday, how many Wednesday do you have in January?
(A) 6
(B) 4
(C) 3
(D) 5
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 5
Explanation
January has 31 days = 4 weeks + 3 days, so the first 3 weekdays of the month occur 5 times. If 1 January is Monday, the extra days are Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, so the Wednesdays fall on 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 January, which is 5.
Exam Facts
- Rule: a 31-day month has 3 odd days, so the first three weekdays of the month occur 5 times and the rest 4 times.
- A 30-day month has 2 odd days, so the first two weekdays occur 5 times.
- February in a non-leap year (28 days) has every weekday exactly 4 times.
- Check: Wednesdays are 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, which is 5 dates within 31.
- 6 (option A) is impossible, since no month has more than 5 of any weekday.
- 4 (option B) applies to Thursday to Sunday in this January.
- 3 (option C) can never happen in any month.
- In this January, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday occur 5 times each.
- Odd days concept: number of days beyond complete weeks (days mod 7).
- An ordinary year has 1 odd day and a leap year has 2 odd days.
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Q. When one event brings about another event, it is known as:
(A) Correlation
(B) Comparison
(C) Causation
(D) Association
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) Causation
Explanation
When one event directly produces another, the relationship is causation (cause and effect). Correlation only means two things vary together, without proving that one causes the other.
Exam Facts
- Key rule: “Correlation does not imply causation.”
- Example of causation: heating water to 100°C at sea level causes it to boil.
- Correlation (option A) is a statistical link measured by the correlation coefficient (r), from −1 to +1.
- Comparison (option B) is examining similarities and differences.
- Association (option D) is a general relationship between variables, not necessarily causal.
- Example of correlation without causation: ice-cream sales and drowning both rise in summer.
- The confusing third factor in such cases is a confounding variable.
- Causation is proved through controlled experiments.
- In reasoning tests, cause and effect questions ask which statement is the cause.
- Karl Pearson developed the correlation coefficient.
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WBPSC Clerkship Mathematics Questions 2023 2nd Shfit
Q. Two pipes can fill a tank in 20 and 24 minutes respectively and a waste pipe can empty 3 gallons per minute. All the three pipes working together can fill the tank in 15 minutes. The capacity of the tank is
(A) 60 gallons
(B) 100 gallons
(C) 120 gallons
(D) 180 gallons
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 120 gallons
Explanation
Time taken by first pipe = 20 minutes
Time taken by second pipe = 24 minutes
Time taken by all three pipes together = 15 minutes
Part filled by first pipe in 1 minute = 1/20
Part filled by second pipe in 1 minute = 1/24
Part filled by all three in 1 minute = 1/15
Part emptied by waste pipe in 1 minute = (1/20 + 1/24) − 1/15
= 6/120 + 5/120 − 8/120
= 3/120
= 1/40
So the waste pipe empties the full tank in 40 minutes.
Waste pipe empties 3 gallons per minute
Capacity = 40 × 3
= 120 gallons
Hence, the capacity of the tank is 120 gallons.
Shortcut Method
Let tank = LCM of 20, 24, 15 = 120 units
First pipe = 120/20 = 6 units/min, Second pipe = 120/24 = 5 units/min
All three = 120/15 = 8 units/min
Waste pipe = 6 + 5 − 8 = 3 units/min = 3 gallons/min
So 1 unit = 1 gallon, Capacity = 120 gallons
Answer: (C) 120 gallons
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Q. A person has to cover a distance of 6 km in 45 minutes. If he covers one-half of the distance in two-thirds of the total time; to cover the remaining distance in the remaining time, his speed must be
(A) 6 km/hr
(B) 8 km/hr
(C) 12 km/hr
(D) 15 km/hr
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 12 km/hr
Explanation
Total distance = 6 km
Total time = 45 minutes
Distance covered first = 1/2 × 6 = 3 km
Time used = 2/3 × 45 = 30 minutes
Remaining distance = 6 − 3 = 3 km
Remaining time = 45 − 30 = 15 minutes
= 15/60 hr
= 1/4 hr
Speed = Distance ÷ Time
= 3 ÷ (1/4)
= 3 × 4
= 12 km/hr
Hence, his speed must be 12 km/hr.
Shortcut Method
Remaining time = 1/3 of 45 = 15 min, remaining distance = 3 km
15 min is 1/4 of an hour
Speed = 3 × 4
= 12 km/hr
Answer: (C) 12 km/hr
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Q. A can do 1/2 part of a work in 5 days and B can do 2/5 part of that work in 6 days. A and B together complete the work in
(A) 3 days
(B) 6 days
(C) 5 days
(D) 4 days
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 6 days
Explanation
A does 1/2 of the work in 5 days
Time taken by A for whole work = 5 × 2 = 10 days
B does 2/5 of the work in 6 days
Time taken by B for whole work = 6 × 5/2 = 15 days
Work done by A in 1 day = 1/10
Work done by B in 1 day = 1/15
Work done by (A + B) in 1 day = 1/10 + 1/15
= 3/30 + 2/30
= 5/30
= 1/6
Time taken together = 1 ÷ (1/6)
= 6 days
Hence, A and B together will complete the work in 6 days.
Shortcut Method
Time together = (a × b)/(a + b)
= (10 × 15)/(10 + 15)
= 150/25
= 6 days
Answer: (B) 6 days
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Q. A train 240 m long passed a pole in 24 seconds. How long will it take to pass a platform 650 m long?
(A) 65 sec.
(B) 89 sec.
(C) 100 sec.
(D) 150 sec.
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 89 sec.
Explanation
Length of train = 240 m
Time to pass a pole = 24 sec
Speed = Distance ÷ Time
= 240 ÷ 24
= 10 m/sec
Distance to pass a platform = Length of train + Length of platform
= 240 + 650
= 890 m
Time = Distance ÷ Speed
= 890 ÷ 10
= 89 sec
Hence, the train will take 89 seconds to pass the platform.
Shortcut Method
Time = (Train + Platform)/Speed
= (240 + 650)/10
= 89 sec
Answer: (B) 89 sec.
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Q. The ratio of a man’s age and his son’s age is 7 : 3 and the product of their ages is 756. The ratio of their ages after 6 years will be
(A) 5 : 2
(B) 2 : 1
(C) 11 : 7
(D) 13 : 9
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 2 : 1
Explanation
Let man’s age = 7x years
Son’s age = 3x years
Product of ages = 7x × 3x = 756
21x^2 = 756
x^2 = 756 ÷ 21
= 36
x = 6
Man’s age = 7 × 6 = 42 years
Son’s age = 3 × 6 = 18 years
After 6 years, man’s age = 42 + 6 = 48 years
After 6 years, son’s age = 18 + 6 = 24 years
Ratio = 48 : 24
= 2 : 1
Hence, the ratio of their ages after 6 years will be 2 : 1.
Shortcut Method
x^2 = Product ÷ (7 × 3) = 756 ÷ 21 = 36, so x = 6
New ratio = (7x + 6) : (3x + 6)
= 48 : 24
= 2 : 1
Answer: (B) 2 : 1
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Q. The speed of a boat in still water is 15 km/hr and the rate of the current is 3 km/hr. The distance travelled downstream in 12 minutes is
(A) 1.2 km
(B) 1.8 km
(C) 2.4 km
(D) 3.6 km
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 3.6 km
Explanation
Speed of boat in still water (B) = 15 km/hr
Speed of current (S) = 3 km/hr
Downstream speed = B + S
= 15 + 3
= 18 km/hr
Time = 12 minutes
= 12/60 hr
= 1/5 hr
Distance = Speed × Time
= 18 × 1/5
= 3.6 km
Hence, the distance travelled downstream in 12 minutes is 3.6 km.
Shortcut Method
Downstream speed = 18 km/hr = 18 km in 60 minutes
12 minutes = 1/5 of an hour
Distance = 18 ÷ 5
= 3.6 km
Answer: (D) 3.6 km
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Q. If the simple interest on ₹ 500 for 4 years is ₹ 100, then what is the interest per annum?
(A) 10%
(B) 5%
(C) 8%
(D) 6%
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 5%
Explanation
Principal (P) = Rs. 500
Simple Interest (SI) = Rs. 100
Time (T) = 4 years
Rate (R) = (SI × 100)/(P × T)
= (100 × 100)/(500 × 4)
= 10000/2000
= 5%
Hence, the rate of interest is 5% per annum.
Shortcut Method
Interest for 1 year = 100 ÷ 4 = Rs. 25
Rate = (25/500) × 100
= 5%
Answer: (B) 5%
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Q. The least number of five digits which is exactly divisible by 12, 15 and 18 is
(A) 10010
(B) 10015
(C) 10020
(D) 10080
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 10080
Explanation
Required number must be a multiple of LCM of 12, 15 and 18
12 = 2^2 × 3
15 = 3 × 5
18 = 2 × 3^2
LCM = 2^2 × 3^2 × 5
= 180
Smallest five-digit number = 10000
10000 ÷ 180 = 55, remainder 100
Required number = 10000 + (180 − 100)
= 10000 + 80
= 10080
Check: 10080 ÷ 180 = 56 exactly
Hence, the least five-digit number exactly divisible by 12, 15 and 18 is 10080.
Shortcut Method
A multiple of 180 must be divisible by 20 and by 9
Last two digits divisible by 20: only 10020 and 10080 qualify
Digit sum divisible by 9: 1 + 0 + 0 + 2 + 0 = 3 (no), 1 + 0 + 0 + 8 + 0 = 9 (yes)
= 10080
Answer: (D) 10080
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Q. A is thrice as good as B and therefore is able to finish a work in 80 days less then B. Find the number of days required to complete the work if they are working together.
(A) 20 days
(B) 32 days
(C) 30 days
(D) 40 days
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 30 days
Explanation
Efficiency of A : B = 3 : 1
Time taken by A : B = 1 : 3
Let time taken by A = x days
Time taken by B = 3x days
Difference in time = 3x − x = 80 days
2x = 80
x = 40
Time taken by A = 40 days
Time taken by B = 3 × 40 = 120 days
Work done by (A + B) in 1 day = 1/40 + 1/120
= 3/120 + 1/120
= 4/120
= 1/30
Time taken together = 30 days
Hence, working together they will complete the work in 30 days.
Shortcut Method
Time ratio 1 : 3, difference = 2 parts = 80 days, so 1 part = 40 days
A = 40 days, B = 120 days
Together = (40 × 120)/(40 + 120)
= 4800/160
= 30 days
Answer: (C) 30 days
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Q. A started business with ₹ 30,000 and after 4 months, B joins with A as his partner. After a year, the profit is divided in the ratio 2 : 3. What is B’s contribution in the capital?
(A) ₹ 65,700
(B) ₹ 65,000
(C) ₹ 67,000
(D) ₹ 67,500
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) ₹ 67,500
Explanation
A’s capital = Rs. 30,000 for 12 months
B joins after 4 months, so B’s time = 12 − 4 = 8 months
Let B’s capital = Rs. x
Profit ratio = (Capital × Time) ratio
A : B = (30,000 × 12) : (x × 8)
= 3,60,000 : 8x
Given A : B = 2 : 3
3,60,000/8x = 2/3
16x = 3 × 3,60,000
16x = 10,80,000
x = 10,80,000/16
= Rs. 67,500
Hence, B’s contribution in the capital is Rs. 67,500.
Shortcut Method
B’s capital = A’s capital × (B’s share/A’s share) × (A’s time/B’s time)
= 30,000 × (3/2) × (12/8)
= 30,000 × 9/4
= Rs. 67,500
Answer: (D) ₹ 67,500
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Q. A vendor loses the selling price of 4 oranges on selling 36 oranges. His loss percent is
(A) 10%
(B) 11%
(C) 12 1/2%
(D) None of the above
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 10%
Explanation
Let SP of 1 orange = Rs. 1
SP of 36 oranges = Rs. 36
Loss = SP of 4 oranges = Rs. 4
CP of 36 oranges = SP + Loss
= 36 + 4
= Rs. 40
Loss % = (Loss/CP) × 100
= (4/40) × 100
= 10%
Hence, his loss percent is 10%.
Shortcut Method
When loss = SP of x articles on selling n articles:
Loss % = x/(n + x) × 100
= 4/(36 + 4) × 100
= 10%
Answer: (A) 10%
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Q. A train starts from Howrah at 8 a.m. and reaches Burdwan at 12 noon. Another train leaves Burdwan at 9 a.m. and reaches Howrah at 12 noon. When do they meet?
(A) 17 1/7 mins past 9 a.m.
(B) 17 1/7 mins past 11 a.m.
(C) 17 1/7 mins past 10 a.m.
(D) 10 a.m.
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 17 1/7 mins past 10 a.m.
Explanation
Let the distance between Howrah and Burdwan = D km
Train 1 takes 8 a.m. to 12 noon = 4 hours
Speed of Train 1 = D/4 km/hr
Train 2 takes 9 a.m. to 12 noon = 3 hours
Speed of Train 2 = D/3 km/hr
Distance covered by Train 1 from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. = D/4
Distance left at 9 a.m. = D − D/4 = 3D/4
Relative speed (opposite directions) = D/4 + D/3
= 3D/12 + 4D/12
= 7D/12 km/hr
Time to meet after 9 a.m. = (3D/4) ÷ (7D/12)
= (3/4) × (12/7)
= 9/7 hours
= 1 2/7 hours
= 1 hour + (2/7 × 60) minutes
= 1 hour 17 1/7 minutes
Meeting time = 9 a.m. + 1 hour 17 1/7 minutes
= 10:17 1/7 a.m.
Hence, the trains meet at 17 1/7 minutes past 10 a.m.
Shortcut Method
Take D = LCM of 4 and 3 = 12 units
Speeds = 12/4 = 3 units/hr and 12/3 = 4 units/hr
At 9 a.m. distance left = 12 − 3 = 9 units
Time = 9 ÷ (3 + 4) = 9/7 hr = 1 hr 17 1/7 min
= 17 1/7 mins past 10 a.m.
Answer: (C) 17 1/7 mins past 10 a.m.
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Q. A boy’s height is 133 cm at the end of a year. His height increased by 6·4% during the year. Find his height at the beginning of the year.
(A) 125 cm
(B) 120 cm
(C) 110 cm
(D) 118 cm
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 125 cm
Explanation
Height at the end of the year = 133 cm
Increase during the year = 6.4%
Let height at the beginning = x cm
Height at the end = x × (100 + 6.4)/100
x × 106.4/100 = 133
x = 133 × 100/106.4
= 13300/106.4
= 125 cm
Hence, his height at the beginning of the year was 125 cm.
Shortcut Method
Original value = Final value × 100/(100 + Increase %)
= 133 × 100/106.4
= 125 cm
Check: 125 × 1.064 = 133 cm
Answer: (A) 125 cm
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Q. Last week, 8,000 copies of a certain magazine were sold. This week, 7% more copies were sold. How many copies of the magazine were sold this week?
(A) 8,650
(B) 8,560
(C) 7,600
(D) 8,500
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 8,560
Explanation
Copies sold last week = 8,000
Increase this week = 7%
Increase = (7/100) × 8,000
= 560 copies
Copies sold this week = 8,000 + 560
= 8,560
Hence, 8,560 copies were sold this week.
Shortcut Method
New value = Old value × (100 + 7)/100
= 8,000 × 1.07
= 8,560
Answer: (B) 8,560
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Q. By selling a bicycle for ₹ 2,050, a shopkeeper gains 25%. If the profit is reduced to 10% then the selling price will be
(A) ₹ 1,600
(B) ₹ 1,804
(C) ₹ 1,805
(D) ₹ 1,800
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) ₹ 1,804
Explanation
SP = Rs. 2,050
Gain = 25%
CP = SP × 100/(100 + Gain %)
= 2,050 × 100/125
= Rs. 1,640
New profit = 10%
New SP = CP × (100 + 10)/100
= 1,640 × 110/100
= Rs. 1,804
Hence, the selling price will be Rs. 1,804.
Shortcut Method
New SP = Old SP × (100 + new gain %)/(100 + old gain %)
= 2,050 × 110/125
= 2,050 × 0.88
= Rs. 1,804
Answer: (B) ₹ 1,804
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Q. Find the sum:
1/2 + 1/6 + 1/12 + 1/20 + 1/30 + 1/42 + 1/56 + 1/72 + 1/90 + 1/110 + 1/132
(A) 7/8
(B) 11/12
(C) 15/16
(D) 17/18
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 11/12
Explanation
Write each term as 1/(n × (n + 1))
1/2 = 1/(1 × 2), 1/6 = 1/(2 × 3), 1/12 = 1/(3 × 4), … , 1/132 = 1/(11 × 12)
Formula: 1/(n × (n + 1)) = 1/n − 1/(n + 1)
Sum = (1 − 1/2) + (1/2 − 1/3) + (1/3 − 1/4) + … + (1/11 − 1/12)
All middle terms cancel out
Sum = 1 − 1/12
= 11/12
Hence, the sum is 11/12.
Shortcut Method
Sum of 1/(n(n + 1)) from n = 1 to n = k is k/(k + 1)
Here there are 11 terms, so k = 11
= 11/(11 + 1)
= 11/12
Answer: (B) 11/12
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Q. A batsman makes a score of 84 runs in the 21st innings and thus increases his average by 2 runs. His average runs after 21st innings is
(A) 24
(B) 34
(C) 44
(D) 54
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 44
Explanation
Let average after 20 innings = x
Total runs in 20 innings = 20x
Runs in 21st innings = 84
New average after 21 innings = x + 2
Total runs in 21 innings = 21 × (x + 2)
20x + 84 = 21x + 42
x = 84 − 42
= 42
Average after 21st innings = 42 + 2
= 44
Hence, his average after the 21st innings is 44 runs.
Shortcut Method
New average = Runs in last innings − (Previous innings × Increase)
= 84 − (20 × 2)
= 84 − 40
= 44
Answer: (C) 44
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Q. A sum of money is divided among 160 males and some females in the ratio 16 : 21. Individually each male gets ₹ 4 and a female ₹ 3. The number of females is
(A) 198
(B) 270
(C) 280
(D) 284
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 280
Explanation
Number of males = 160
Each male gets Rs. 4
Total share of males = 160 × 4
= Rs. 640
Males’ share : Females’ share = 16 : 21
16 parts = Rs. 640
1 part = 640/16 = Rs. 40
Females’ share = 21 × 40
= Rs. 840
Each female gets Rs. 3
Number of females = 840/3
= 280
Hence, the number of females is 280.
Shortcut Method
Females’ share = Males’ share × 21/16
= 640 × 21/16 = Rs. 840
Number of females = 840 ÷ 3
= 280
Answer: (C) 280
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Q. 60% of a number is equal to the 3/5 th of the other number. What is the ratio between the first number and the second number?
(A) 1 : 1
(B) 2 : 3
(C) 3 : 5
(D) 2 : 5
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 1 : 1
Explanation
Let the first number = a and the second number = b
60% of a = 3/5 of b
(60/100) × a = (3/5) × b
(3/5) × a = (3/5) × b
a = b
a : b = 1 : 1
Hence, the ratio of the first number to the second number is 1 : 1.
Shortcut Method
60% = 60/100 = 3/5
Both numbers are multiplied by the same fraction 3/5
So the numbers are equal
= 1 : 1
Answer: (A) 1 : 1
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Q. The profit earned after selling an article for ₹ 1,864 is the same as loss incurred after selling the article for ₹ 1,490. What is the cost price of the article?
(A) ₹ 1,677
(B) ₹ 1,667
(C) ₹ 1,623
(D) ₹ 1,689
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) ₹ 1,677
Explanation
Profit when sold at Rs. 1,864 = Loss when sold at Rs. 1,490
Let CP = Rs. x
Profit = SP − CP = 1,864 − x
Loss = CP − SP = x − 1,490
1,864 − x = x − 1,490
2x = 1,864 + 1,490
2x = 3,354
x = 3,354/2
= Rs. 1,677
Hence, the cost price of the article is Rs. 1,677.
Shortcut Method
When profit at SP1 = loss at SP2:
CP = (SP1 + SP2)/2
= (1,864 + 1,490)/2
= Rs. 1,677
Answer: (A) ₹ 1,677
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Q. If two dice are thrown, how many different possibilities are there that the addition of their outcomes is 8?
(A) 5
(B) 6
(C) 10
(D) 4
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 5
Explanation
Total outcomes when two dice are thrown = 6 × 6 = 36
Required sum = 8
Favourable pairs (first die, second die):
= (2, 6), (3, 5), (4, 4), (5, 3), (6, 2)
Number of pairs = 5
(1, 7) is not possible because a die shows at most 6
Hence, there are 5 different possibilities.
Shortcut Method
Ways to get sum S with two dice = S − 1 (for S = 2 to 7) or 13 − S (for S = 7 to 12)
Sum = 8, so ways = 13 − 8
= 5
Answer: (A) 5
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Q. The HCF of two numbers is 13. If they are in the ratio of 5 : 7, then find the numbers.
(A) 65, 91
(B) 25, 35
(C) 35, 49
(D) 15, 21
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 65, 91
Explanation
HCF = 13
Ratio of the numbers = 5 : 7
Let the numbers be 5x and 7x
Since 5 and 7 are co-prime, HCF of 5x and 7x = x
x = 13
First number = 5 × 13 = 65
Second number = 7 × 13 = 91
Hence, the numbers are 65 and 91.
Shortcut Method
Numbers = HCF × each term of the ratio
= 13 × 5 and 13 × 7
= 65 and 91
Check: only option (A) has both numbers divisible by 13
Answer: (A) 65, 91
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Q. The speed of a train is 80 km/hr. If it takes 4.5 seconds to cross a tree, how much time it takes to cross a 200 meter length station?
(A) 13.5 sec.
(B) 13 sec.
(C) 12 sec.
(D) 12.5 sec.
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 13.5 sec.
Explanation
Speed = 80 km/hr
= 80 × 5/18 m/s
= 200/9 m/s
Time to cross a tree = 4.5 s
Length of train = Speed × Time
= 200/9 × 4.5
= 100 m
Distance to cross the station = Length of train + Length of station
= 100 + 200
= 300 m
Time = Distance ÷ Speed
= 300 ÷ (200/9)
= 300 × 9/200
= 13.5 s
Hence, the train takes 13.5 seconds to cross the station.
Shortcut Method
At the same speed, time is proportional to distance
Train covers 100 m (its own length) in 4.5 s
Extra 200 m takes 4.5 × 200/100 = 9 s
Total time = 4.5 + 9
= 13.5 s
Answer: (A) 13.5 sec.
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Q. The average of the largest and the smallest 3 digit number formed by 0, 2 and 4 would be
(A) 213
(B) 303
(C) 312
(D) 222
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 312
Explanation
Digits = 0, 2, 4 (each used once)
Largest 3-digit number = 420 (digits in descending order)
Smallest 3-digit number = 204 (0 cannot be in the hundreds place)
Average = (420 + 204)/2
= 624/2
= 312
Hence, the average of the largest and the smallest number is 312.
Shortcut Method
Average place by place (no carrying needed here):
Hundreds = (4 + 2)/2 = 3
Tens = (2 + 0)/2 = 1
Units = (0 + 4)/2 = 2
= 312
Answer: (C) 312
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Q. Which number gives the same result when added to 1 1/2 and when multiplied by 1 1/2?
(A) 1
(B) 3
(C) 5
(D) 7
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 3
Explanation
Let the number be x
Given: x + 1 1/2 = x × 1 1/2
x + 3/2 = 3x/2
3x/2 − x = 3/2
x/2 = 3/2
x = 3
Check: 3 + 1.5 = 4.5 and 3 × 1.5 = 4.5
Hence, the required number is 3.
Shortcut Method
If x + a = x × a, then x = a/(a − 1)
= (3/2) ÷ (3/2 − 1)
= (3/2) ÷ (1/2)
= 3
Answer: (B) 3
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Q. In a class of 40 students, 1/5 of the total number of students like to eat rice only, 2/5 of the total number of students like to eat chapatti only and remaining students like to eat both. What fraction of total students like to eat both?
(A) 1/5
(B) 3/5
(C) 2/5
(D) None of the above
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 2/5
Explanation
Total students = 40
Rice only = 1/5 of 40 = 8
Chapatti only = 2/5 of 40 = 16
Both = 40 − (8 + 16)
= 40 − 24
= 16
Fraction who like both = 16/40
= 2/5
Hence, 2/5 of the students like to eat both.
Shortcut Method
Fraction for both = 1 − (1/5 + 2/5)
= 1 − 3/5
= 2/5
Answer: (C) 2/5
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Q. If cube root of 175616 is 56, then the value of ∛175.616 + ∛0.175616 + ∛0.000175616 is equal to
(A) 0.168
(B) 6.216
(C) 62.16
(D) 6.116
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 6.216
Explanation
∛175616 = 56
175.616 = 175616/10^3, so ∛175.616 = 56/10 = 5.6
0.175616 = 175616/10^6, so ∛0.175616 = 56/100 = 0.56
0.000175616 = 175616/10^9, so ∛0.000175616 = 56/1000 = 0.056
Sum = 5.6 + 0.56 + 0.056
= 6.216
Hence, the value is 6.216.
Shortcut Method
Every 3 decimal places in the number give 1 decimal place in the cube root
3, 6 and 9 decimal places give 1, 2 and 3 places
= 5.6 + 0.56 + 0.056
= 6.216
Answer: (B) 6.216
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Q. Ruma reads at an average rate of 30 pages per hour while Neera reads at an average rate of 40 pages per hour. If Ruma starts reading a novel at 2:30 and Neera begins reading an identical copy of the same book at 3:20, at what time will they be reading the same page?
(A) 5:00
(B) 5:50
(C) 6:40
(D) 7:00
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 5:50
Explanation
Ruma’s speed = 30 pages/hr
Neera’s speed = 40 pages/hr
Time gap = 3:20 − 2:30 = 50 min = 5/6 hr
Pages read by Ruma in 50 min = 30 × 5/6 = 25 pages
Relative speed = 40 − 30 = 10 pages/hr
Time for Neera to catch up = 25 ÷ 10
= 2.5 hr
= 2 hr 30 min
Meeting time = 3:20 + 2 hr 30 min
= 5:50
Check: by 5:50 Ruma reads 30 × 10/3 = 100 pages and Neera reads 40 × 5/2 = 100 pages
Hence, they will be reading the same page at 5:50.
Shortcut Method
Catch-up time = Lead ÷ Relative speed
= (30 × 50/60) ÷ (40 − 30)
= 25 ÷ 10 = 2.5 hr after 3:20
= 5:50
Answer: (B) 5:50
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Q. Arun could save 10% of his income. But 1 year later, when his income increased by 20%, he could save the same amount only as before. By how much percentage has his expenditure increased?
(A) 22 2/9%
(B) 23 1/3%
(C) 24 2/9%
(D) 25 2/9%
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 22 2/9%
Explanation
Let income = Rs. 100
Saving = 10% of 100 = Rs. 10
Expenditure = 100 − 10 = Rs. 90
New income = 100 + 20% of 100 = Rs. 120
New saving = Rs. 10 (same as before)
New expenditure = 120 − 10 = Rs. 110
Increase in expenditure = 110 − 90 = Rs. 20
Percentage increase = (20/90) × 100
= 200/9 %
= 22 2/9 %
Hence, his expenditure increased by 22 2/9%.
Shortcut Method
Saving is unchanged, so the whole rise in income goes into expenditure
% increase = (Rise in income/Old expenditure) × 100
= (20/90) × 100
= 22 2/9 %
Answer: (A) 22 2/9%
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Q. Write the missing number:
4, 9, 17, 35, ?, 139
(A) 63
(B) 65
(C) 67
(D) 69
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 69
Explanation
The series follows ×2 + 1 and ×2 − 1 alternately: 4 × 2 + 1 = 9, 9 × 2 − 1 = 17, 17 × 2 + 1 = 35, so the next term is 35 × 2 − 1 = 69, and the check 69 × 2 + 1 = 139 confirms it. The missing number is 69.
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WBPSC Clerkship Mathematics Questions 2023 3rd Shfit
Q. Out of two numbers if the first one is increased by 20% and the second one is decreased by 20%, they become same. The ratio of the first and second number is
(A) 3 : 2
(B) 2 : 3
(C) 1 : 1
(D) 3 : 5
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 2 : 3
Explanation
Let the first number = a and the second number = b
First number increased by 20% = a × 120/100 = 6a/5
Second number decreased by 20% = b × 80/100 = 4b/5
Given: 6a/5 = 4b/5
6a = 4b
a/b = 4/6
= 2/3
Hence, the ratio of the first and second number is 2 : 3.
Shortcut Method
a × 120 = b × 80
a : b = 80 : 120
= 2 : 3
Answer: (B) 2 : 3
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Q. A 40 litres mixture of milk and water contains milk and water in the ratio of 3 : 2. 10 litres of the mixture is removed and replaced with pure milk and the operation is repeated once more. At the end of the two removal and replacement, what will be the ratio of milk and water in the resulting mixture?
(A) 31 : 9
(B) 4 : 1
(C) 7 : 3
(D) 24 : 13
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 31 : 9
Explanation
Total mixture = 40 litres, Milk : Water = 3 : 2
Milk = (3/5) × 40 = 24 litres
Water = (2/5) × 40 = 16 litres
Fraction of mixture removed each time = 10/40 = 1/4
Water left after 1st operation = 16 × (1 − 1/4)
= 16 × 3/4
= 12 litres
Water left after 2nd operation = 12 × 3/4
= 9 litres
Milk = 40 − 9 = 31 litres
Milk : Water = 31 : 9
Hence, the ratio of milk and water in the resulting mixture is 31 : 9.
Shortcut Method
Water left = Initial water × (1 − x/T)^n
= 16 × (1 − 10/40)^2
= 16 × 9/16
= 9 litres, so Milk : Water = (40 − 9) : 9 = 31 : 9
Answer: (A) 31 : 9
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Q. A train crosses a man, standing over a 150 m length station in 10 seconds and crosses the station in 22 seconds, then the speed of the train is
(A) 45 km/hr
(B) 50 km/hr
(C) 60 km/hr
(D) 55 km/hr
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 45 km/hr
Explanation
Let the length of the train = L metres and its speed = S m/s
Time to cross a man = 10 seconds, so L = S × 10
Time to cross the station = 22 seconds, so L + 150 = S × 22
Subtracting: (L + 150) − L = 22S − 10S
150 = 12S
S = 150/12
= 12.5 m/s
Speed in km/hr = 12.5 × 18/5
= 45 km/hr
Hence, the speed of the train is 45 km/hr.
Shortcut Method
Speed = Extra distance ÷ Extra time
= 150 ÷ (22 − 10)
= 12.5 m/s
= 12.5 × 18/5 = 45 km/hr
Answer: (A) 45 km/hr
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Q. A group of students in a class of a school collects ₹ 9,216. The amount contributed by each student is equivalent to the number of students in the class. Find the number of students in the class.
(A) 66
(B) 48
(C) 96
(D) 36
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 96
Explanation
Let the number of students = n
Contribution of each student = Rs. n
Total amount = n × n = n^2
n^2 = 9216
9216 = 2^10 × 3^2
n = √9216 = 2^5 × 3
= 96
Hence, the number of students in the class is 96.
Shortcut Method
Unit digit of 9216 is 6, so √ ends in 4 or 6
92 lies between 9^2 = 81 and 10^2 = 100, so √ = 94 or 96
9 × 10 = 90 < 92, so take the larger: 96
Check: 96 × 96 = 9216
Answer: (C) 96
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Q. Find the smallest number which is divisible by 7 and when divided by 8, 12, 16 leaves 3 as remainder in each case.
(A) 140
(B) 147
(C) 154
(D) 133
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 147
Explanation
Required number leaves remainder 3 when divided by 8, 12 and 16
8 = 2^3, 12 = 2^2 × 3, 16 = 2^4
LCM of 8, 12, 16 = 2^4 × 3
= 48
Required number = 48k + 3, which must be divisible by 7
k = 1: 48 + 3 = 51, 51 ÷ 7 leaves remainder 2
k = 2: 96 + 3 = 99, 99 ÷ 7 leaves remainder 1
k = 3: 144 + 3 = 147, 147 ÷ 7 = 21 exactly
Hence, the smallest such number is 147.
Shortcut Method
Option check: subtract the remainder 3 and test divisibility by LCM 48
140 − 3 = 137 (no), 147 − 3 = 144 = 48 × 3 (yes)
147 = 7 × 21, so 147 is divisible by 7
= 147
Answer: (B) 147
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Q. A, B and C together earn ₹ 300 per day, while A and C together earn ₹ 188 and B and C together earn ₹ 152. The daily earning of C is
(A) ₹ 40
(B) ₹ 68
(C) ₹ 112
(D) ₹ 150
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) ₹ 40
Explanation
A + B + C = Rs. 300
A + C = Rs. 188
B = (A + B + C) − (A + C)
= 300 − 188
= Rs. 112
B + C = Rs. 152
C = 152 − B
= 152 − 112
= Rs. 40
Hence, the daily earning of C is Rs. 40.
Shortcut Method
C = (A + C) + (B + C) − (A + B + C)
= 188 + 152 − 300
= Rs. 40
Answer: (A) ₹ 40
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Q. The value of 1/5 + 999 494/495 × 99 is
(A) 99000
(B) 9900
(C) 98000
(D) 95000
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 99000
Explanation
999 494/495 = 1000 − 1/495
999 494/495 × 99 = (1000 − 1/495) × 99
= 1000 × 99 − 99/495
= 99000 − 1/5
Value = 1/5 + 99000 − 1/5
= 99000
Hence, the value of the expression is 99000.
Shortcut Method
999 494/495 is just 1/495 less than 1000
1000 × 99 = 99000, and 99 × 1/495 = 1/5
The + 1/5 cancels the − 1/5
= 99000
Answer: (A) 99000
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Q. What will be the ratio of simple interest earned by certain amount at the same rate of interest for 6 years and that for 9 years?
(A) 1 : 3
(B) 1 : 4
(C) 2 : 3
(D) 3 : 4
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 2 : 3
Explanation
Simple Interest (SI) = (P × R × T)/100
P and R are the same in both cases
SI for 6 years = (P × R × 6)/100
SI for 9 years = (P × R × 9)/100
Ratio = (P × R × 6)/100 : (P × R × 9)/100
= 6 : 9
= 2 : 3
Hence, the ratio of the simple interests is 2 : 3.
Shortcut Method
When P and R are fixed, SI ∝ T
SI(6 yrs) : SI(9 yrs) = 6 : 9
= 2 : 3
Answer: (C) 2 : 3
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Q. The cost of 12 belts and 30 wallets is ₹ 8,940. What is the cost of 4 belts and 10 wallets?
(A) ₹ 2,780
(B) ₹ 2,870
(C) ₹ 2,890
(D) ₹ 2,980
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) ₹ 2,980
Explanation
Cost of 12 belts + 30 wallets = ₹ 8,940
4 belts + 10 wallets = (12 belts + 30 wallets) ÷ 3
Cost of 4 belts + 10 wallets = 8940 ÷ 3
= ₹ 2,980
Hence, the cost of 4 belts and 10 wallets is ₹ 2,980.
Shortcut Method
12 : 30 and 4 : 10 are both 2 : 5, and 4 = 12/3
Required cost = 8940 × (1/3)
= ₹ 2,980
Answer: (D) ₹ 2,980
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Q. If A’s income is 25% more than B’s, then by what percent is B’s income less than A?
(A) 20%
(B) 25%
(C) 30%
(D) 15%
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 20%
Explanation
Let B’s income = ₹ 100
A’s income = 100 + 25% of 100 = ₹ 125
Difference = 125 − 100 = ₹ 25
B’s income is less than A’s by = (Difference ÷ A’s income) × 100
= (25/125) × 100
= 20%
Hence, B’s income is 20% less than A’s income.
Shortcut Method
Required % = R/(100 + R) × 100
= 25/125 × 100
= 20%
Answer: (A) 20%
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Q. The ratio of the prices of two products X and Z is 1 : 3. If the price of another product Y is ₹ 40, which is the average of the prices of X and Z, then the difference between the prices of Z and X is
(A) ₹ 20
(B) ₹ 60
(C) ₹ 30
(D) ₹ 40
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) ₹ 40
Explanation
Ratio of prices X : Z = 1 : 3
Let price of X = x and price of Z = 3x
Price of Y = Average of X and Z = ₹ 40
(x + 3x)/2 = 40
4x = 80
x = 20
Price of X = ₹ 20 and price of Z = 3 × 20 = ₹ 60
Difference = 60 − 20
= ₹ 40
Hence, the difference between the prices of Z and X is ₹ 40.
Shortcut Method
Sum of X and Z = 2 × 40 = ₹ 80
Difference = Sum × (3 − 1)/(3 + 1)
= 80 × 2/4
= ₹ 40
Answer: (D) ₹ 40
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Q. In a class, the ratio of the numbers of boys and that of the girls is 11 : 9. If 30% of the boys and 20% of the girls passed the annual examination, find the percentage of passed students of the class.
(A) 28.5%
(B) 25.5%
(C) 24.5%
(D) 23.5%
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 25.5%
Explanation
Ratio of boys : girls = 11 : 9
Let boys = 110 and girls = 90 (total = 200)
Boys passed = 30% of 110 = (30/100) × 110 = 33
Girls passed = 20% of 90 = (20/100) × 90 = 18
Total passed = 33 + 18 = 51
Pass percentage = (51/200) × 100
= 25.5%
Hence, 25.5% of the students of the class passed.
Shortcut Method
Weighted average = (11 × 30 + 9 × 20)/(11 + 9)
= (330 + 180)/20
= 510/20
= 25.5%
Answer: (B) 25.5%
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Q. X can finish a job in double speed of Y. Y alone can finish the job in 24 days. If they work together, in how many days they can finish the job?
(A) 8 days
(B) 16 days
(C) 10 days
(D) 12 days
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 8 days
Explanation
Y alone finishes the job in = 24 days
X works at double the speed of Y, so X takes half the time
X alone finishes the job in = 24 ÷ 2 = 12 days
X’s 1 day work = 1/12
Y’s 1 day work = 1/24
(X + Y)’s 1 day work = 1/12 + 1/24
= 2/24 + 1/24
= 3/24
= 1/8
Time taken together = 1 ÷ (1/8)
= 8 days
Hence, X and Y together can finish the job in 8 days.
Shortcut Method
Efficiency X : Y = 2 : 1, total work = 1 × 24 = 24 units
Time together = 24 ÷ (2 + 1)
= 8 days
Answer: (A) 8 days
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Q. Amal and Bimal started a business. Amal invests ₹ 500 for 9 months and Bimal invests some money for 6 months. If total profit is ₹ 69 and Bimal gets ₹ 46 then the amount of investment of Bimal is
(A) ₹ 1500
(B) ₹ 300
(C) ₹ 450
(D) ₹ 600
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) ₹ 1500
Explanation
Amal’s capital = ₹ 500 for 9 months
Let Bimal’s capital = ₹ x for 6 months
Total profit = ₹ 69, Bimal’s share = ₹ 46
Amal’s share = 69 − 46 = ₹ 23
Profit ratio = Capital × Time ratio
Amal : Bimal = (500 × 9) : (x × 6) = 23 : 46
4500/(6x) = 23/46 = 1/2
6x = 4500 × 2
6x = 9000
x = 1500
Hence, Bimal invested ₹ 1500.
Shortcut Method
Bimal’s share is 2 times Amal’s (46 = 2 × 23)
Bimal’s capital = 500 × 2 × (9/6)
= 500 × 3
= ₹ 1500
Answer: (A) ₹ 1500
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Q. The average weight of the first 11 persons among the 12 persons is 95 kg. The weight of the 12th person is 33 kg more than the average weight of all the 12 persons. The weight of the 12th person is
(A) 128 kg
(B) 97.45 kg
(C) 128.75 kg
(D) 131 kg
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 131 kg
Explanation
Let the average weight of all 12 persons = a kg
Weight of the 12th person = (a + 33) kg
Total weight of first 11 persons = 11 × 95 = 1045 kg
Total weight of 12 persons = 12a
12a = 1045 + (a + 33)
12a − a = 1078
11a = 1078
a = 98 kg
Weight of the 12th person = 98 + 33
= 131 kg
Hence, the weight of the 12th person is 131 kg.
Shortcut Method
The 12th person’s extra 33 kg is shared by the other 11 persons
Increase in average = 33/11 = 3 kg, so a = 95 + 3 = 98 kg
12th person = 98 + 33
= 131 kg
Answer: (D) 131 kg
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Q. A tanker can be filled by two pipes A and B in 60 min. and 40 min. respectively. How many minutes will it take to fill the tanker from empty state if A and B fill it together?
(A) 24 min.
(B) 26 min.
(C) 22 min.
(D) 28 min.
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 24 min.
Explanation
Time taken by pipe A = 60 min
Time taken by pipe B = 40 min
Part filled by A in 1 min = 1/60
Part filled by B in 1 min = 1/40
Part filled by (A + B) in 1 min = 1/60 + 1/40
= 2/120 + 3/120
= 5/120
= 1/24
Time taken together = 1 ÷ (1/24)
= 24 min
Hence, A and B together will fill the tanker in 24 minutes.
Shortcut Method
Time together = (a × b)/(a + b)
= (60 × 40)/(60 + 40)
= 2400/100
= 24 min
Answer: (A) 24 min.
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Q. A reduction of 12 1/2% in the price of oranges enables a purchaser to get 2 more for ₹ 6. The reduced price of a dozen orange is
(A) ₹ 4.50
(B) ₹ 5
(C) ₹ 3.50
(D) ₹ 5.50
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) ₹ 4.50
Explanation
Amount spent = ₹ 6
Reduction in price = 12 1/2% = 1/8
Money saved = 12 1/2% of 6 = (1/8) × 6 = ₹ 0.75
With the money saved (₹ 0.75), 2 more oranges are bought
Reduced price of 1 orange = 0.75 ÷ 2 = ₹ 0.375
Reduced price of 1 dozen (12) oranges = 12 × 0.375
= ₹ 4.50
Hence, the reduced price of a dozen oranges is ₹ 4.50.
Shortcut Method
Reduced price per orange = (R% × Amount)/(100 × Extra quantity)
= (12.5 × 6)/(100 × 2)
= ₹ 0.375
Per dozen = 0.375 × 12 = ₹ 4.50
Answer: (A) ₹ 4.50
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Q. The speed of a boat in still water is 8 km/hr and the speed of the stream is 4 km/hr. Find the time taken by the boat to go 48 km down stream.
(A) 12 hours
(B) 4 hours
(C) 8 hours
(D) 6 hours
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 4 hours
Explanation
Speed of boat in still water = 8 km/hr
Speed of stream = 4 km/hr
Downstream speed = Boat speed + Stream speed
= 8 + 4
= 12 km/hr
Distance = 48 km
Time = Distance ÷ Speed
= 48 ÷ 12
= 4 hours
Hence, the boat takes 4 hours to go 48 km downstream.
Shortcut Method
Time downstream = D/(B + S)
= 48/(8 + 4)
= 4 hours
Answer: (B) 4 hours
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Q. The product of two numbers is 4,332 and their quotient is 3/4. Find the sum of the numbers.
(A) 136
(B) 133
(C) 143
(D) 149
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 133
Explanation
Let the two numbers be 3k and 4k (since quotient = 3/4)
Product = 3k × 4k = 4332
12k^2 = 4332
k^2 = 4332 ÷ 12
k^2 = 361
k = 19
First number = 3 × 19 = 57
Second number = 4 × 19 = 76
Sum = 57 + 76
= 133
Hence, the sum of the numbers is 133.
Shortcut Method
Sum = 7k (since 3k + 4k = 7k), so the sum must be a multiple of 7
Among the options, only 133 = 7 × 19 is a multiple of 7
Check: 57 × 76 = 4332
Answer: (B) 133
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Q. The boys of a school can be arranged in 15, 18 or 24 equal rows and also into a solid square. Find the least number of boys in the school.
(A) 4900
(B) 2500
(C) 3600
(D) 6400
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 3600
Explanation
Number of boys must be divisible by 15, 18 and 24
15 = 3 × 5
18 = 2 × 3^2
24 = 2^3 × 3
LCM = 2^3 × 3^2 × 5 = 360
For a perfect square, every prime must have an even power
2^3 needs one more 2, and 5 needs one more 5
Least perfect square = 360 × 2 × 5
= 3600
Hence, the least number of boys in the school is 3600 (60 × 60).
Shortcut Method
Check options for divisibility by 360 (LCM)
4900 ÷ 360 and 2500 ÷ 360 are not whole numbers, 6400 ÷ 360 is not whole
3600 ÷ 360 = 10 and 3600 = 60^2
= 3600
Answer: (C) 3600
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Q. Two trains travel in opposite directions at 36 km/hr and 45 km/hr and a man sitting in slower train passes the faster train in 8 seconds. The length of the faster train is
(A) 80 m
(B) 100 m
(C) 120 m
(D) 180 m
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 180 m
Explanation
Speed of slower train = 36 km/hr
Speed of faster train = 45 km/hr
Trains move in opposite directions
Relative speed = 36 + 45 = 81 km/hr
= 81 × 5/18 m/s
= 22.5 m/s
The man in the slower train sees the full length of the faster train pass in 8 seconds
Length of faster train = Relative speed × Time
= 22.5 × 8
= 180 m
Hence, the length of the faster train is 180 m.
Shortcut Method
Length = (S1 + S2) × 5/18 × t
= 81 × 5/18 × 8
= 180 m
Answer: (D) 180 m
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Q. The LCM and HCF of two numbers are 2175 and 145 respectively. If one of the numbers is 725 then find the other number.
(A) 425
(B) 315
(C) 435
(D) 450
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 435
Explanation
LCM = 2175, HCF = 145
One number = 725
Formula: First number × Second number = LCM × HCF
725 × Second number = 2175 × 145
Second number = (2175 × 145) ÷ 725
= 2175 ÷ 5
= 435
Hence, the other number is 435.
Shortcut Method
Other number = (LCM × HCF)/Given number
= 2175 × 145/725 = 2175/5
= 435
Check: 435 = 145 × 3, 725 = 145 × 5, LCM = 145 × 15 = 2175
Answer: (C) 435
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Q. In a class of 45 students, all students participate in one or both of the two games i.e., Chess and Badminton. 11 students participate in both the games whereas 17 students participate only in Chess. How many total students participate in Badminton?
(A) 17 students
(B) 11 students
(C) 28 students
(D) 6 students
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 28 students
Explanation
Total students = n(C ∪ B) = 45
Both games = n(C ∩ B) = 11
Only Chess = 17
Total in Chess = n(C) = 17 + 11 = 28
Formula: n(C ∪ B) = n(C) + n(B) − n(C ∩ B)
45 = 28 + n(B) − 11
45 = 17 + n(B)
n(B) = 45 − 17
= 28
Hence, 28 students participate in Badminton.
Shortcut Method
Everyone who is not “only Chess” plays Badminton
Badminton = Total − Only Chess
= 45 − 17
= 28 students
Answer: (C) 28 students
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Q. A 250 meter long goods train is running in 33 km/hr. In a parallel track, a 200 meter mail train is running in a speed of 60 km/hr in the same direction from behind. How much time the mail train takes to cross the goods train after it reaches to the goods train?
(A) 2 minutes
(B) 1 minute
(C) 1.5 minutes
(D) 3 minutes
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 1 minute
Explanation
Length of goods train = 250 m
Length of mail train = 200 m
Speed of goods train = 33 km/hr
Speed of mail train = 60 km/hr
Both trains run in the same direction
Relative Speed = 60 − 33 = 27 km/hr
= 27 × 5/18 m/s
= 7.5 m/s
Distance to cover = 250 + 200 = 450 m
Time = Distance ÷ Relative Speed
= 450 ÷ 7.5
= 60 seconds
= 1 minute
Hence, the mail train takes 1 minute to cross the goods train.
Shortcut Method
Time (hr) = Total length (km) ÷ Relative speed (km/hr)
= 0.45 ÷ 27
= 1/60 hr
= 1 minute
Answer: (B) 1 minute
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Q. A bike 2m long crosses a 22m long bridge in 0.8 sec. At what speed in km/hr was the bike travelling?
(A) 30 km/hr
(B) 108 km/hr
(C) 60 km/hr
(D) 25 km/hr
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 108 km/hr
Explanation
Length of bike = 2 m
Length of bridge = 22 m
Time = 0.8 sec
Distance covered = Length of bike + Length of bridge
= 2 + 22
= 24 m
Speed = Distance ÷ Time
= 24 ÷ 0.8
= 30 m/s
Speed in km/hr = 30 × 18/5
= 108 km/hr
Hence, the bike was travelling at 108 km/hr.
Shortcut Method
Speed (km/hr) = (Distance ÷ Time) × 3.6
= (24 ÷ 0.8) × 3.6
= 30 × 3.6
= 108 km/hr
Answer: (B) 108 km/hr
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Q. Four bells ring at an interval of time 45 minutes, 1 hour, 1 hour 15 minutes and 1 hour 30 minutes respectively. At 12 noon 4 bells ring together. Calculate the time when will the bells ring together again.
(A) 3 am
(B) 3 pm
(C) 4 am
(D) 4 pm
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 3 am
Explanation
Intervals of the bells = 45 min, 1 hr, 1 hr 15 min, 1 hr 30 min
In minutes = 45, 60, 75, 90
The bells ring together again after the LCM of the intervals
45 = 3^2 × 5
60 = 2^2 × 3 × 5
75 = 3 × 5^2
90 = 2 × 3^2 × 5
LCM = 2^2 × 3^2 × 5^2
= 4 × 9 × 25
= 900 minutes
= 900 ÷ 60 hours
= 15 hours
Time = 12 noon + 15 hours
= 3 am (next day)
Hence, the bells will ring together again at 3 am.
Shortcut Method
Take 15 minutes as 1 unit: 45, 60, 75, 90 min = 3, 4, 5, 6 units
LCM (3, 4, 5, 6) = 60 units
= 60 × 15 min = 900 min = 15 hours
12 noon + 15 hours = 3 am
Answer: (A) 3 am
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Q. What percentage of numbers from 1 to 70 have 1 or 9 in the unit’s digit?
(A) 5%
(B) 25%
(C) 20%
(D) 30%
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 20%
Explanation
Numbers from 1 to 70 = 70 numbers
Numbers with unit digit 1 = 1, 11, 21, 31, 41, 51, 61
= 7 numbers
Numbers with unit digit 9 = 9, 19, 29, 39, 49, 59, 69
= 7 numbers
Total = 7 + 7
= 14 numbers
Percentage = (14/70) × 100
= 20%
Hence, 20% of the numbers from 1 to 70 have 1 or 9 in the unit’s digit.
Shortcut Method
In every group of 10 numbers, 2 numbers end in 1 or 9
= 2/10 × 100
= 20%
Answer: (C) 20%
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Q. 10 workers can complete a job in 20 days. After 10 days, 50% workers leave the job. How many more days are needed to finish the job?
(A) 20
(B) 5
(C) 15
(D) 30
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 20
Explanation
Workers = 10
Time = 20 days
Total work = 10 × 20
= 200 worker-days
Work done in 10 days = 10 × 10
= 100 worker-days
Remaining work = 200 − 100
= 100 worker-days
Workers left = 50% of 10
= 5 workers
Days needed = 100 ÷ 5
= 20 days
Hence, 20 more days are needed to finish the job.
Shortcut Method
M1 × D1 = M2 × D2 (for the remaining work)
10 × (20 − 10) = 5 × D2
100 = 5 × D2
D2 = 20 days
Answer: (A) 20
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Q. A got twice as many marks in science as in English. His total marks in English, Science and Mathematics is 180. If the ratio of his marks in English and Mathematics is 2 : 3, what is his marks in Science?
(A) 40
(B) 60
(C) 70
(D) 80
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 80
Explanation
Let marks in English = E
Marks in Science = 2E
English : Mathematics = 2 : 3
Marks in Mathematics = 3E/2
Total = E + 2E + 3E/2 = 180
9E/2 = 180
E = 180 × 2/9
= 40
Marks in Science = 2 × 40
= 80
Hence, his marks in Science are 80.
Shortcut Method
English : Science : Mathematics = 2 : 4 : 3
Total parts = 2 + 4 + 3 = 9
1 part = 180 ÷ 9 = 20
Science = 4 × 20 = 80
Answer: (D) 80
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Q. Select the one which is different from the others in the following numbers:
324, 441, 289, 326
(A) 324
(B) 441
(C) 289
(D) 326
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 326
Explanation
324 = 18², 441 = 21² and 289 = 17² are all perfect squares, but 326 lies between 18² = 324 and 19² = 361, so it is not a perfect square. Hence 326 is the odd one out.
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WBPSC Clerkship Mathematics Questions 2023 4th Shfit
Q. Find the smallest number by which 5808 should be multiplied so that the product becomes a perfect square.
(A) 2
(B) 3
(C) 7
(D) 11
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 3
Explanation
Prime factorisation of 5808:
5808 = 2 × 2904
= 2 × 2 × 1452
= 2 × 2 × 2 × 726
= 2 × 2 × 2 × 2 × 363
= 2^4 × 3 × 121
= 2^4 × 3 × 11^2
In a perfect square every prime factor must occur in pairs.
2^4 and 11^2 are already paired; only 3 is unpaired.
Required number = 3
Check: 5808 × 3 = 17424 = 132^2
Hence, the smallest number to multiply by is 3.
Shortcut Method
5808 = 16 × 363 = 16 × 3 × 121
16 = 4^2 and 121 = 11^2 are perfect squares
Left-over factor = 3
Answer: (B) 3
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Q. X, Y and Z are business partners. In the business, twice the capital of X is equal to thrice the capital of Y and the capital of Y is four times the capital of Z. If the profit earned is ₹ 2,97,000, what is the share of Y?
(A) ₹ 1,18,000
(B) ₹ 1,08,000
(C) ₹ 1,28,000
(D) ₹ 1,38,000
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) ₹ 1,08,000
Explanation
Given: 2X = 3Y and Y = 4Z
From 2X = 3Y, X : Y = 3 : 2
From Y = 4Z, Y : Z = 4 : 1
Make Y equal in both ratios:
X : Y = 3 : 2 = 6 : 4
Y : Z = 4 : 1
X : Y : Z = 6 : 4 : 1
Sum of ratio terms = 6 + 4 + 1 = 11
Profit is shared in the ratio of capitals (same time period).
Share of Y = (4/11) × 2,97,000
= 4 × 27,000
= ₹ 1,08,000
Hence, the share of Y is ₹ 1,08,000.
Shortcut Method
Take Z = 1, then Y = 4 and X = 3Y/2 = 6
1 part = 2,97,000 ÷ 11 = 27,000
Y = 4 × 27,000 = ₹ 1,08,000
Answer: (B) ₹ 1,08,000
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Q. Simon and Anik save 25% and 40% of their respective incomes. If their expenditures are equal, then find the ratio of the incomes of Simon and Anik.
(A) 4 : 5
(B) 3 : 4
(C) 5 : 6
(D) 6 : 5
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 4 : 5
Explanation
Let the incomes of Simon and Anik be S and A.
Simon saves 25%, so Simon’s expenditure = 75% of S
Anik saves 40%, so Anik’s expenditure = 60% of A
Expenditures are equal:
(75/100) × S = (60/100) × A
75S = 60A
S/A = 60/75
= 4/5
S : A = 4 : 5
Hence, the ratio of the incomes of Simon and Anik is 4 : 5.
Shortcut Method
When expenditures are equal, income ratio = inverse of expenditure % ratio
S : A = 60 : 75
= 4 : 5
Answer: (A) 4 : 5
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Q. If 40% of P = 0.75 of Q = 1/4 of R, then find the value of P : Q : R.
(A) 15 : 7 : 25
(B) 3 : 26 : 28
(C) 16 : 8 : 5
(D) 15 : 8 : 24
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 15 : 8 : 24
Explanation
Let 40% of P = 0.75 of Q = 1/4 of R = k
(40/100) × P = k, so P = k × 100/40 = 5k/2
0.75 × Q = k, so Q = k/0.75 = 4k/3
(1/4) × R = k, so R = 4k
P : Q : R = 5/2 : 4/3 : 4
LCM of denominators 2 and 3 = 6
Multiply each term by 6:
= 15 : 8 : 24
Hence, P : Q : R = 15 : 8 : 24.
Shortcut Method
40% = 2/5, 0.75 = 3/4, 1/4
P : Q : R = 5/2 : 4/3 : 4/1 = 15 : 8 : 24
Check with option D: 0.4 × 15 = 6, 0.75 × 8 = 6, 24/4 = 6 (all equal)
Answer: (D) 15 : 8 : 24
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Q. By reducing the selling price of a book-shelf by ₹ 2,000, a gain of 10% turns into a loss of 10%. Find the original selling price of the book-shelf.
(A) ₹ 10,000
(B) ₹ 11,000
(C) ₹ 12,000
(D) ₹ 9,000
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) ₹ 11,000
Explanation
Let the Cost Price (CP) = 100 units
Original SP at 10% gain = 110% of CP
New SP at 10% loss = 90% of CP
Fall in SP = 110% − 90% = 20% of CP
20% of CP = ₹ 2,000
CP = 2000 × (100/20)
= ₹ 10,000
Original SP = 110% of 10,000
= ₹ 11,000
Hence, the original selling price of the book-shelf is ₹ 11,000.
Shortcut Method
Gain% + Loss% = 10 + 10 = 20% of CP = ₹ 2,000
Original SP = 110% → (110/20) × 2,000
= ₹ 11,000
Answer: (B) ₹ 11,000
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Q. There are 5 students standing in a row. Every student has two more books than the student infront of him/her. Then the total number of books is
(A) always even.
(B) always odd.
(C) might be even or might be odd.
(D) neither even nor odd.
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) might be even or might be odd.
Explanation
Let the books of the first student = n
Books of the 5 students = n, n + 2, n + 4, n + 6, n + 8
Total = 5n + (2 + 4 + 6 + 8)
= 5n + 20
20 is always even, so the result depends on 5n
If n is even, 5n is even, so Total = even + even = even
If n is odd, 5n is odd, so Total = odd + even = odd
Hence, the total number of books might be even or might be odd.
Shortcut Method
Try n = 1: 1 + 3 + 5 + 7 + 9 = 25 (odd)
Try n = 2: 2 + 4 + 6 + 8 + 10 = 30 (even)
The total can be either, so the answer is (C)
Answer: (C) might be even or might be odd.
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Q. A sum of money amounts to ₹ 9,800 after 5 years and ₹ 12,005 after 8 years at the same rate of simple interest. The rate of interest per annum is
(A) 5%
(B) 12%
(C) 8%
(D) 15%
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 12%
Explanation
Amount after 8 years = ₹ 12,005
Amount after 5 years = ₹ 9,800
SI for 3 years = 12005 − 9800 = ₹ 2,205
SI for 1 year = 2205 ÷ 3 = ₹ 735
SI for 5 years = 735 × 5 = ₹ 3,675
Principal (P) = 9800 − 3675 = ₹ 6,125
R = (SI × 100)/(P × T)
= (735 × 100)/(6125 × 1)
= 12%
Hence, the rate of interest is 12% per annum.
Shortcut Method
P = (A1 × T2 − A2 × T1)/(T2 − T1)
= (9800 × 8 − 12005 × 5)/(8 − 5)
= (78400 − 60025)/3 = ₹ 6,125
R = (735/6125) × 100 = 12%
Answer: (B) 12%
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Q. Three positive integers x, y and z are such that x+y+z is even. Then which one of the following is not correct?
(A) All of them may be odd.
(B) All of them may be even.
(C) x and y may be odd and z is even.
(D) y and z may be odd and x is even.
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) All of them may be odd.
Explanation
Rules: Odd + Odd = Even, Even + Even = Even, Odd + Even = Odd
(A) x, y, z all odd: odd + odd + odd = even + odd = odd (not possible, sum must be even)
(B) x, y, z all even: even + even + even = even (possible)
(C) x, y odd and z even: odd + odd + even = even (possible)
(D) y, z odd and x even: even + odd + odd = even (possible)
Hence, the statement “All of them may be odd” is not correct.
Shortcut Method
A sum of three numbers is even only when the number of odd terms is 0 or 2
All three odd = 3 odd terms, so the sum is odd
Example: 1 + 3 + 5 = 9 (odd)
Answer: (A) All of them may be odd.
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Q. In a pond, the number of lotus becomes double in the next day. If it takes 15 days to cover half of the pond, then in how many days the entire pond will be covered by lotus?
(A) 16 days
(B) 30 days
(C) 29 days
(D) None of the above
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 16 days
Explanation
The number of lotus doubles every day
The pond is half covered on day 15
On day 16, cover = 2 × (1/2)
= full pond
Hence, the entire pond will be covered in 16 days.
Shortcut Method
For doubling growth, full = half + 1 day
= 15 + 1
= 16 days
Answer: (A) 16 days
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Q. Two stations X and Y are 465 km distant. A train starts from X towards Y at 10 am with a speed of 65 km/hr. Another train leaves from Y towards X at 11 am at a speed of 35 km/hr. Find the time when both the trains meet.
(A) 2 pm
(B) 5 pm
(C) 4 pm
(D) 3 pm
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 3 pm
Explanation
Distance XY = 465 km
Speed of train from X = 65 km/hr (starts at 10 am)
Distance covered by it till 11 am = 65 × 1 = 65 km
Remaining distance at 11 am = 465 − 65 = 400 km
Relative speed (opposite directions) = 65 + 35 = 100 km/hr
Time to meet = 400 ÷ 100 = 4 hours
Meeting time = 11 am + 4 hours = 3 pm
Hence, the two trains meet at 3 pm.
Shortcut Method
Let them meet t hours after 10 am
65t + 35(t − 1) = 465
100t = 500, so t = 5 hours
10 am + 5 hours = 3 pm
Answer: (D) 3 pm
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Q. A student went to the school by cycle in 10 km/hr speed and returned back in 15 km/hr speed. What is the average speed of the entire ride?
(A) 12.5 km/hr
(B) 14 km/hr
(C) 12 km/hr
(D) 13.5 km/hr
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 12 km/hr
Explanation
Let the distance one way = D km
Time going = D/10 hr
Time returning = D/15 hr
Average speed = Total distance ÷ Total time
= 2D ÷ (D/10 + D/15)
= 2D ÷ (5D/30)
= 2D × 30/(5D)
= 12 km/hr
Hence, the average speed of the entire ride is 12 km/hr.
Shortcut Method
Average speed = 2xy/(x + y) (for equal distances)
= (2 × 10 × 15)/(10 + 15)
= 300/25
= 12 km/hr
Answer: (C) 12 km/hr
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Q. 9 – 1 2/9 of 3 3/11 ÷ 5 1/7 of 7/9 = ?
(A) 11
(B) 8
(C) 9
(D) 7
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 8
Explanation
Expression = 9 − 1 2/9 of 3 3/11 ÷ 5 1/7 of 7/9
Convert: 1 2/9 = 11/9, 3 3/11 = 36/11, 5 1/7 = 36/7
By BODMAS, “of” is done first
11/9 of 36/11 = (11/9) × (36/11) = 36/9 = 4
36/7 of 7/9 = (36/7) × (7/9) = 36/9 = 4
Division: 4 ÷ 4 = 1
Subtraction: 9 − 1 = 8
Hence, the value of the expression is 8.
Shortcut Method
Both “of” parts cancel to 36/9 = 4
= 9 − (4 ÷ 4)
= 9 − 1 = 8
Answer: (B) 8
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Q. Present population of a town is 2,00,000. The population will increase by 10% in the 1st year and 15% in the 2nd year. The population of the town after two years is
(A) 2,53,000
(B) 3,50,000
(C) 3,00,000
(D) 2,35,000
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 2,53,000
Explanation
Present population (P) = 2,00,000
Increase in 1st year = 10%, in 2nd year = 15%
Population after 1 year = 200000 × 110/100 = 2,20,000
Population after 2 years = 220000 × 115/100
= 2,53,000
Hence, the population of the town after two years is 2,53,000.
Shortcut Method
Net % increase = a + b + (a × b)/100
= 10 + 15 + (10 × 15)/100 = 26.5%
Population = 200000 × 126.5/100 = 2,53,000
Answer: (A) 2,53,000
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Q. Choose the greatest number among the following:
[(5+5)^2]^2, [5×5×5]^2, [5+5+5]^3, [5^5+5^5+5^5+5^5]
(A) [(5+5)^2]^2
(B) [5×5×5]^2
(C) [5+5+5]^3
(D) [5^5+5^5+5^5+5^5]
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) [5×5×5]^2
Explanation
[(5+5)^2]^2 = (10^2)^2 = 100^2 = 10,000
[5×5×5]^2 = 125^2 = 15,625
[5+5+5]^3 = 15^3 = 3,375
[5^5+5^5+5^5+5^5] = 4 × 5^5
= 4 × 3125 = 12,500
Comparing: 15,625 > 12,500 > 10,000 > 3,375
Hence, the greatest number is [5×5×5]^2 = 15,625.
Shortcut Method
Write all as powers: 10^4, 5^6, 15^3, 4 × 5^5
5^6 = 5 × 5^5, which is more than 4 × 5^5
5^6 = 15625 is more than 10^4 = 10000, and 15^3 = 3375 is the smallest
So the greatest is (B)
Answer: (B) [5×5×5]^2
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Q. Two taps A and B can fill a tank in 5 hours and 20 hours respectively. If both the taps are open then due to a leakage, it took 30 minutes more to fill the tank. If the tank is full, how long will it take for the leakage alone to empty the tank?
(A) 4 1/2 hours
(B) 9 hours
(C) 18 hours
(D) 36 hours
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 36 hours
Explanation
Tap A fills in 5 hours, so A’s 1 hour work = 1/5
Tap B fills in 20 hours, so B’s 1 hour work = 1/20
(A + B)’s 1 hour work = 1/5 + 1/20 = 5/20 = 1/4
Without the leak, the tank fills in 4 hours
With the leak, time = 4 hours + 30 minutes = 9/2 hours
(A + B − Leak)’s 1 hour work = 2/9
Leak’s 1 hour work = 1/4 − 2/9
= (9 − 8)/36 = 1/36
Hence, the leakage alone will empty the full tank in 36 hours.
Shortcut Method
Leak time = (t1 × t2)/(t2 − t1), where t1 = 4 and t2 = 4.5
= (4 × 4.5)/(4.5 − 4)
= 18/0.5
= 36 hours
Answer: (D) 36 hours
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Q. If the L.C.M. and H.C.F. of two 2-digit numbers x and y are 36 and 6 respectively and x ≤ y, then x : y is
(A) 2 : 3
(B) 1 : 2
(C) 3 : 5
(D) 4 : 5
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 2 : 3
Explanation
HCF = 6, so let x = 6a and y = 6b (a and b co-prime)
LCM = 6ab = 36
ab = 6
Co-prime pairs (a, b) with a ≤ b: (1, 6) and (2, 3)
(1, 6) gives 6 and 36, but 6 is not a 2-digit number
(2, 3) gives x = 12 and y = 18 (both 2-digit)
x : y = 12 : 18 = 2 : 3
Hence, x : y is 2 : 3.
Shortcut Method
Product of numbers = LCM × HCF = 36 × 6 = 216
Check option (A): 2 : 3 gives 12 and 18, and 12 × 18 = 216
LCM(12, 18) = 36 and HCF(12, 18) = 6, so (A) is correct
Answer: (A) 2 : 3
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Q. What is the converted speed of 2 2/9 m/s in km/hr.?
(A) 6 km/hr
(B) 12 km/hr
(C) 8 km/hr
(D) 10 km/hr
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 8 km/hr
Explanation
Speed = 2 2/9 m/s = 20/9 m/s
1 m/s = 18/5 km/hr
Speed in km/hr = 20/9 × 18/5
= 360/45
= 8 km/hr
Hence, 2 2/9 m/s = 8 km/hr.
Shortcut Method
m/s to km/hr: multiply by 3.6
= (20/9) × 3.6 = 72/9
= 8 km/hr
Answer: (C) 8 km/hr
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Q. What is the least positive integer to be added with 8270, so that it will be divisible by 16?
(A) 2
(B) 4
(C) 8
(D) 6
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 2
Explanation
Given number = 8270
Divisor = 16
8270 ÷ 16 = 516, remainder 14
(16 × 516 = 8256 and 8270 − 8256 = 14)
Least number to be added = Divisor − Remainder
= 16 − 14
= 2
Check: 8270 + 2 = 8272 = 16 × 517
Hence, the least positive integer to be added is 2.
Shortcut Method
8270 = 8000 + 270, and 8000 = 16 × 500 is already divisible
270 ÷ 16 leaves remainder 14 (16 × 16 = 256)
Number to add = 16 − 14 = 2
Answer: (A) 2
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Q. A merchant buys two kinds of coffee, one at the rate of ₹ 8,000 per quintal and another at the rate of ₹ 10,000 per quintal. He mixed them in a proportion of 10:6 respectively. If he wants to have a profit of 20% on the whole transaction, then at what price per quintal he must sell the mixture of the coffee?
(A) ₹ 10,500
(B) ₹ 3,500
(C) ₹ 9,500
(D) ₹ 10,200
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) ₹ 10,500
Explanation
Quantity of 1st coffee = 10 quintals at Rs. 8,000 per quintal
Quantity of 2nd coffee = 6 quintals at Rs. 10,000 per quintal
Cost of 1st coffee = 10 × 8,000 = Rs. 80,000
Cost of 2nd coffee = 6 × 10,000 = Rs. 60,000
Total cost of 16 quintals = 80,000 + 60,000 = Rs. 1,40,000
CP of mixture per quintal = 1,40,000 ÷ 16 = Rs. 8,750
Profit = 20%
SP = CP × (100 + Profit%)/100
= 8,750 × 120/100
= Rs. 10,500
Hence, the mixture must be sold at Rs. 10,500 per quintal.
Shortcut Method
Ratio 10 : 6 = 5 : 3
Average CP = (5 × 8,000 + 3 × 10,000)/8 = 70,000/8 = Rs. 8,750
SP = 8,750 × 1.2
= Rs. 10,500
Answer: (A) ₹ 10,500
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Q. The market price of a bicycle is ₹ 4,000. While selling the bicycle if two successive discounts of 20% and 10% are allowed, then the customer will save for it
(A) ₹ 800
(B) ₹ 320
(C) ₹ 1,120
(D) ₹ 480
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) ₹ 1,120
Explanation
Marked Price (MP) = Rs. 4,000
First discount = 20%
Price after 1st discount = 4,000 × 80/100 = Rs. 3,200
Second discount = 10% on Rs. 3,200
Price after 2nd discount = 3,200 × 90/100 = Rs. 2,880
Amount saved = MP − Final price
= 4,000 − 2,880
= Rs. 1,120
Hence, the customer saves Rs. 1,120.
Shortcut Method
Equivalent discount = a + b − (a × b)/100
= 20 + 10 − (20 × 10)/100
= 28%
Saving = 28% of 4,000 = Rs. 1,120
Answer: (C) ₹ 1,120
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Q. The population of a city is 6000 and 3/12th of the population is male and rest of them are female. If the 30% of the males are married, then the percentage of married females in the city is
(A) 10%
(B) 15%
(C) 25%
(D) 35%
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 10%
Explanation
Total population = 6000
Males = 3/12 × 6000 = 1500
Females = 6000 − 1500 = 4500
Married males = 30% of 1500 = (30/100) × 1500 = 450
Each married man has one wife, so married females = 450
Percentage of married females = (450/4500) × 100
= 10%
Hence, 10% of the females in the city are married.
Shortcut Method
Male : Female = 3/12 : 9/12 = 1 : 3
Married females % = 30% × (1/3)
= 10%
Answer: (A) 10%
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Q. X is twice as good as Y and together they complete a piece of work in 20 days. In how many days will X alone finish the work?
(A) 22 days
(B) 30 days
(C) 35 days
(D) 40 days
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 30 days
Explanation
X is twice as good as Y
Efficiency of X = 2 units/day
Efficiency of Y = 1 unit/day
Together = 2 + 1 = 3 units/day
Total work = 3 × 20 = 60 units
Time taken by X alone = Total work ÷ Efficiency of X
= 60 ÷ 2
= 30 days
Hence, X alone will finish the work in 30 days.
Shortcut Method
X alone = Together time × (Sum of efficiencies)/(Efficiency of X)
= 20 × 3/2
= 30 days
Answer: (B) 30 days
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Q. A man decided to cover a distance of 6 km in 84 minutes. He decided to cover 2/3rd of the distance at 4 km/hr and the remaining at some different speed. Find the speed after the 2/3rd distance has been covered.
(A) 4·5 km/hr
(B) 5 km/hr
(C) 5·5 km/hr
(D) 6 km/hr
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 5 km/hr
Explanation
Total distance = 6 km
Total time = 84 minutes
First part = 2/3 × 6 = 4 km at 4 km/hr
Time for first part = Distance ÷ Speed = 4 ÷ 4 = 1 hr = 60 minutes
Remaining distance = 6 − 4 = 2 km
Remaining time = 84 − 60 = 24 minutes = 24/60 hr = 2/5 hr
Required speed = Distance ÷ Time
= 2 ÷ 2/5
= 2 × 5/2
= 5 km/hr
Hence, the speed for the remaining distance is 5 km/hr.
Shortcut Method
Speed (km/hr) = Distance (km) × 60 ÷ Time (minutes)
= 2 × 60 ÷ 24
= 5 km/hr
Answer: (B) 5 km/hr
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Q. In one hour, a boat goes 11 km/hr along the stream and 5 km/hr against the stream. The speed of the boat in still water (in km/hr) is
(A) 3 km/hr
(B) 5 km/hr
(C) 8 km/hr
(D) 9 km/hr
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 8 km/hr
Explanation
Downstream speed (D) = 11 km/hr
Upstream speed (U) = 5 km/hr
Speed of boat in still water = (D + U)/2
= (11 + 5)/2
= 16/2
= 8 km/hr
Speed of stream = (D − U)/2 = (11 − 5)/2 = 3 km/hr
Hence, the speed of the boat in still water is 8 km/hr.
Shortcut Method
Boat speed = average of downstream and upstream speeds
= (11 + 5)/2
= 8 km/hr
(3 km/hr, option A, is the speed of the stream)
Answer: (C) 8 km/hr
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Q. The ratio of the present ages of father, mother and their son is 6 : 5 : 1. When the son will attain the present age of his father, at that time the sum of their ages will be 135 years. Find the present age of the mother.
(A) 30 years
(B) 36 years
(C) 25 years
(D) 35 years
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 25 years
Explanation
Let present ages of Father, Mother and Son = 6x, 5x and x years
Son reaches father’s present age (6x) after = 6x − x = 5x years
After 5x years:
Father = 6x + 5x = 11x
Mother = 5x + 5x = 10x
Son = x + 5x = 6x
Sum = 11x + 10x + 6x = 27x
27x = 135
x = 5
Mother’s present age = 5x = 5 × 5 = 25 years
Hence, the present age of the mother is 25 years.
Shortcut Method
Present sum = 6x + 5x + x = 12x; each of 3 persons gains 5x years
12x + 3 × 5x = 27x = 135, so x = 5
Mother = 5 × 5 = 25 years
Answer: (C) 25 years
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Q. The average of 10 numbers is 20. If each number is increased by 5, then what is the new average?
(A) 24
(B) 20
(C) 30
(D) 25
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 25
Explanation
Number of values = 10
Average = 20
Sum = 10 × 20 = 200
Increase in sum = 10 × 5 = 50
New sum = 200 + 50 = 250
New average = 250 ÷ 10
= 25
Hence, the new average is 25.
Shortcut Method
If every number increases by 5, the average also increases by 5
New average = 20 + 5
= 25
Answer: (D) 25
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Q. There are 62 questions in a test. Each correct answer gives 2 marks and for each wrong answer 1 mark is deducted. Ramen scored 34 marks and he attempted all questions. Find the number of questions Ramen answered correctly.
(A) 34
(B) 28
(C) 33
(D) 32
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 32
Explanation
Total questions = 62 (all attempted)
Let correct answers = c
Wrong answers = 62 − c
Marks = 2 × correct − 1 × wrong
2c − (62 − c) = 34
3c − 62 = 34
3c = 96
c = 32
Check: 32 × 2 − 30 × 1 = 64 − 30 = 34
Hence, Ramen answered 32 questions correctly.
Shortcut Method
If all 62 were correct, marks = 62 × 2 = 124
Each wrong answer loses 2 + 1 = 3 marks
Wrong = (124 − 34) ÷ 3 = 30
Correct = 62 − 30 = 32
Answer: (D) 32
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Q. 20 men can complete a job in 10 days. After 5 days 20 more men join the group. Then, how many total days are needed to complete the entire job?
(A) 7·5 days
(B) 8 days
(C) 8·5 days
(D) 6 days
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 7·5 days
Explanation
Total work = 20 men × 10 days = 200 man-days
Work done in first 5 days = 20 × 5 = 100 man-days
Remaining work = 200 − 100 = 100 man-days
Men after 5 days = 20 + 20 = 40
Days for remaining work = 100 ÷ 40 = 2.5 days
Total days = 5 + 2.5
= 7.5 days
Hence, the entire job is completed in 7.5 days.
Shortcut Method
In 5 days, half the job is done (5/10)
Men are doubled, so the other half takes half the time = 5 ÷ 2 = 2.5 days
Total = 5 + 2.5 = 7.5 days
Answer: (A) 7·5 days
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Q. Complete the series:
7, 11, 19, 35, 67, ?
(A) 99
(B) 134
(C) 98
(D) 131
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 131
Explanation
The differences between terms are 11 − 7 = 4, 19 − 11 = 8, 35 − 19 = 16, 67 − 35 = 32, i.e. they double each time. The next difference is 64, so the next term is 67 + 64 = 131, option (D).
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Q. If day after tomorrow is Saturday, what day was 3 days before yesterday?
(A) Monday
(B) Sunday
(C) Tuesday
(D) Wednesday
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) Sunday
Explanation
If the day after tomorrow is Saturday, then today is Thursday. So yesterday was Wednesday, and 3 days before Wednesday is Sunday (Wednesday → Tuesday → Monday → Sunday). The answer is (B) Sunday.
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WBPSC Clerkship Mathematics Questions 2019 1st Shfit
Q. If A : B = 2 : 3, B : C = 4 : 5, C : D = 3 : 7, then the ratio of A : B : C : D is
(A) 8 : 12 : 15 : 35
(B) 8 : 15 : 12 : 35
(C) 12 : 8 : 15 : 35
(D) 12 : 8 : 35 : 15
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 8 : 12 : 15 : 35
Explanation
A : B = 2 : 3
B : C = 4 : 5
C : D = 3 : 7
Make B equal in the first two ratios (LCM of 3 and 4 = 12)
A : B = 2 × 4 : 3 × 4 = 8 : 12
B : C = 4 × 3 : 5 × 3 = 12 : 15
So A : B : C = 8 : 12 : 15
Make C equal (C = 15, so multiply C : D by 5)
C : D = 3 × 5 : 7 × 5 = 15 : 35
A : B : C : D = 8 : 12 : 15 : 35
Hence, A : B : C : D = 8 : 12 : 15 : 35.
Shortcut Method
A = 2 × 4 × 3 = 24
B = 3 × 4 × 3 = 36
C = 3 × 5 × 3 = 45
D = 3 × 5 × 7 = 105
A : B : C : D = 24 : 36 : 45 : 105 = 8 : 12 : 15 : 35
Answer: (A) 8 : 12 : 15 : 35
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Q. A boat can be rowed 9 km. upstream or 18 km. downstream in a period of 3 hrs. What is the speed of the boat in still water in km/hr?
(A) 4 km/hr
(B) 4.5 km/hr
(C) 3 km/hr
(D) 3.5 km/hr
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 4.5 km/hr
Explanation
Upstream distance = 9 km in 3 hrs
Upstream speed (U) = 9/3 = 3 km/hr
Downstream distance = 18 km in 3 hrs
Downstream speed (D) = 18/3 = 6 km/hr
Speed of boat in still water = (D + U)/2
= (6 + 3)/2
= 4.5 km/hr
Hence, the speed of the boat in still water is 4.5 km/hr.
Shortcut Method
Boat speed = (18 + 9)/(2 × 3)
= 27/6
= 4.5 km/hr
Answer: (B) 4.5 km/hr
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Q. Two pipes can seperately fill a tank in 9 hours and 12 hours respectively. If both pipes are in operation, the tank will be filled in
(A) 5 1/7 hours
(B) 5 2/7 hours
(C) 5 3/7 hours
(D) 5 hours
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 5 1/7 hours
Explanation
Pipe A fills the tank in 9 hours, so in 1 hour it fills 1/9
Pipe B fills the tank in 12 hours, so in 1 hour it fills 1/12
Work of both in 1 hour = 1/9 + 1/12
= (4 + 3)/36
= 7/36
Time taken by both = 36/7 hours
= 5 1/7 hours
Hence, the tank will be filled in 5 1/7 hours.
Shortcut Method
Time = (a × b)/(a + b)
= (9 × 12)/(9 + 12)
= 108/21
= 5 1/7 hours
Answer: (A) 5 1/7 hours
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Q. Sum of three consecutive even integers is 54. Find the least among them.
(A) 18
(B) 15
(C) 20
(D) 16
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 16
Explanation
Let the three consecutive even integers be x, x + 2 and x + 4
Sum = x + (x + 2) + (x + 4) = 54
3x + 6 = 54
3x = 48
x = 16
Numbers are 16, 18 and 20
Hence, the least number is 16.
Shortcut Method
Middle number = Sum/3 = 54/3 = 18
Least number = 18 − 2
= 16
Answer: (D) 16
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Q. Two numbers are in the ratio 5 : 7 and their LCM is 315, their product is
(A) 2358
(B) 2538
(C) 2835
(D) 2853
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 2835
Explanation
Let the numbers be 5x and 7x
LCM of 5x and 7x = 35x
35x = 315
x = 9
Numbers = 5 × 9 = 45 and 7 × 9 = 63
Product = 45 × 63
= 2835
Hence, the product of the numbers is 2835.
Shortcut Method
HCF = x = 9
Product = HCF × LCM
= 9 × 315
= 2835
Answer: (C) 2835
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Q. 150 gm of sugar solution has 20% sugar in it. How much sugar should be added to make it 25% in the solution?
(A) 10 gms
(B) 35 gms
(C) 40 gms
(D) 45 gms
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 10 gms
Explanation
Total solution = 150 gm
Sugar = 20% of 150 = (20/100) × 150 = 30 gm
Water = 150 − 30 = 120 gm
After adding sugar, water stays 120 gm and becomes 75% of the new solution
New solution = 120 × (100/75)
= 160 gm
Sugar to be added = 160 − 150
= 10 gm
Hence, 10 gm of sugar should be added.
Shortcut Method
Sugar added = Solution × (New% − Old%)/(100 − New%)
= 150 × (25 − 20)/(100 − 25)
= 150 × 5/75
= 10 gm
Answer: (A) 10 gms
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Q. A person travels from P to Q at a speed of 40 kmph and returns by increasing his speed by 50%. What is his average speed for both the trips?
(A) 36 kmph
(B) 45 kmph
(C) 48 kmph
(D) 50 kmph
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 48 kmph
Explanation
Speed from P to Q = 40 kmph
Return speed = 40 + 50% of 40 = 40 + 20 = 60 kmph
Distance is the same both ways
Average speed = 2xy/(x + y)
= (2 × 40 × 60)/(40 + 60)
= 4800/100
= 48 kmph
Hence, his average speed for both the trips is 48 kmph.
Shortcut Method
Take distance = LCM of 40 and 60 = 120 km
Total time = 120/40 + 120/60 = 3 + 2 = 5 hrs
Average speed = 240/5
= 48 kmph
Answer: (C) 48 kmph
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Q. A can do 1/3 of a work in 5 days and B can do 2/5 of the work in 10 days. In how many days both A and B can do the work?
(A) 7 3/4 days
(B) 9 3/8 days
(C) 8 4/5 days
(D) 10 days
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 9 3/8 days
Explanation
A does 1/3 of the work in 5 days
A does the whole work in 5 × 3 = 15 days
B does 2/5 of the work in 10 days
B does the whole work in 10 × (5/2) = 25 days
Work of A and B in 1 day = 1/15 + 1/25
= (5 + 3)/75
= 8/75
Time taken together = 75/8 days
= 9 3/8 days
Hence, A and B together can do the work in 9 3/8 days.
Shortcut Method
Time = (a × b)/(a + b)
= (15 × 25)/(15 + 25)
= 375/40
= 9 3/8 days
Answer: (B) 9 3/8 days
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Q. Find the smallest number which when divided by 57, 76 and 190, leaves the remainder 1 in each case.
(A) 1140
(B) 1141
(C) 1150
(D) 1151
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 1141
Explanation
Required number = LCM of 57, 76 and 190 + 1
57 = 3 × 19
76 = 2 × 2 × 19
190 = 2 × 5 × 19
LCM = 2 × 2 × 3 × 5 × 19
= 1140
Required number = 1140 + 1
= 1141
Hence, the smallest number is 1141.
Shortcut Method
All three numbers are multiples of 19: 57 = 19 × 3, 76 = 19 × 4, 190 = 19 × 10
LCM = 19 × LCM(3, 4, 10) = 19 × 60 = 1140
Number = 1140 + 1 = 1141
Answer: (B) 1141
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Q. 2/3rd of a number is 26. Find out 25% of that number.
(A) 9.25
(B) 9.35
(C) 9.55
(D) 9.75
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 9.75
Explanation
Let the number be x
(2/3) × x = 26
x = 26 × (3/2)
x = 39
25% of 39 = (25/100) × 39
= 39/4
= 9.75
Hence, 25% of the number is 9.75.
Shortcut Method
1/3 of the number = 26/2 = 13
Number = 39
25% = 1/4 of 39 = 9.75
Answer: (D) 9.75
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Q. The simple interest on Rs. 500 for 6 years at 5% per annum is
(A) Rs. 250
(B) Rs. 150
(C) Rs. 140
(D) Rs. 120
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) Rs. 150
Explanation
Principal (P) = Rs. 500
Rate (R) = 5% per annum
Time (T) = 6 years
Simple Interest (SI) = (P × R × T)/100
= (500 × 5 × 6)/100
= 15000/100
= Rs. 150
Hence, the simple interest is Rs. 150.
Shortcut Method
Total rate = R × T = 5 × 6 = 30%
SI = 30% of 500
= Rs. 150
Answer: (B) Rs. 150
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Q. If 5 5/3 − 3 8/9 − * = 1, then the * mark place is
(A) 2/3
(B) 3/2
(C) 16/9
(D) 2 1/7
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 16/9
Explanation
5 5/3 = (5 × 3 + 5)/3 = 20/3 = 60/9
3 8/9 = (3 × 9 + 8)/9 = 35/9
60/9 − 35/9 − * = 1
25/9 − * = 1
* = 25/9 − 1
= 25/9 − 9/9
= 16/9
Hence, the value in place of * is 16/9.
Shortcut Method
5 5/3 = 6 2/3 = 6 6/9
6 6/9 − 3 8/9 = 2 7/9
* = 2 7/9 − 1 = 1 7/9 = 16/9
Answer: (C) 16/9
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Q. A alone can do a piece of work in 12 days. B, who is 60% more efficient than A, will finish the work in
(A) 7 1/2 days
(B) 6 1/4 days
(C) 8 days
(D) 6 days
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 7 1/2 days
Explanation
A does the work in 12 days
B is 60% more efficient than A
Efficiency of A : Efficiency of B = 100 : 160 = 5 : 8
Time is inversely proportional to efficiency
Time of A : Time of B = 8 : 5
Time of B = 12 × (5/8)
= 60/8
= 7 1/2 days
Hence, B will finish the work in 7 1/2 days.
Shortcut Method
Time of B = 12 × 100/160
= 12/1.6
= 7.5 days
Answer: (A) 7 1/2 days
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Q. Successive discount of 10% and 30% are equivalent to a single discount of ________.
(A) 33%
(B) 37%
(C) 40%
(D) 47%
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 37%
Explanation
Let the marked price be Rs. 100
After first discount of 10% = 100 − 10 = Rs. 90
Second discount of 30% on 90 = (30/100) × 90 = Rs. 27
Final price = 90 − 27 = Rs. 63
Total discount = 100 − 63 = Rs. 37
Single equivalent discount = 37%
Hence, the single equivalent discount is 37%.
Shortcut Method
Single discount = a + b − (a × b)/100
= 10 + 30 − (10 × 30)/100
= 40 − 3
= 37%
Answer: (B) 37%
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Q. Find the amount on Rs. 10,000 for 3 years at 10% compound interest, interest being payable annually.
(A) Rs. 12,340
(B) Rs. 13,210
(C) Rs. 13,320
(D) Rs. 13,310
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) Rs. 13,310
Explanation
Principal (P) = Rs. 10,000
Rate (R) = 10% per annum, compounded annually
Time (n) = 3 years
Amount (A) = P × (1 + R/100)^n
= 10000 × (1 + 10/100)^3
= 10000 × (11/10)^3
= 10000 × 1331/1000
= Rs. 13,310
Hence, the amount is Rs. 13,310.
Shortcut Method
Year 1: 10000 + 1000 = 11000
Year 2: 11000 + 1100 = 12100
Year 3: 12100 + 1210 = Rs. 13,310
Answer: (D) Rs. 13,310
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Q. The simplified value of (2.3×2.3×2.3 − 0.027) / (2.3×2.3 + 0.69 + 0.09)
(A) 1
(B) 2
(C) 3
(D) 4
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 2
Explanation
Let a = 2.3 and b = 0.3
Then 0.027 = 0.3 × 0.3 × 0.3 = b^3
0.69 = 2.3 × 0.3 = a × b
0.09 = 0.3 × 0.3 = b^2
Expression = (a^3 − b^3)/(a^2 + ab + b^2)
Formula: a^3 − b^3 = (a − b)(a^2 + ab + b^2)
Expression = a − b
= 2.3 − 0.3
= 2
Hence, the simplified value is 2.
Shortcut Method
(a^3 − b^3)/(a^2 + ab + b^2) = a − b
= 2.3 − 0.3
= 2
Answer: (B) 2
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Q. If 50% of P = 25% of Q, then P = x% of Q. Find x = ?
(A) 0.5
(B) 2
(C) 50
(D) 0.005
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 50
Explanation
50% of P = 25% of Q
(50/100) × P = (25/100) × Q
P = (25/50) × Q
P = (1/2) × Q
P = 50% of Q
So x = 50
Hence, the value of x is 50.
Shortcut Method
x = (25/50) × 100
= 50
Answer: (C) 50
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Q. The ratio of two numbers is 10 : 7 and their difference is 105. The sum of the numbers is
(A) 595
(B) 805
(C) 1190
(D) 1610
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 595
Explanation
Let the numbers be 10x and 7x
Difference = 10x − 7x = 105
3x = 105
x = 35
Numbers = 10 × 35 = 350 and 7 × 35 = 245
Sum = 350 + 245
= 595
Hence, the sum of the numbers is 595.
Shortcut Method
Difference of ratio terms = 10 − 7 = 3 parts = 105, so 1 part = 35
Sum = 17 parts = 17 × 35
= 595
Answer: (A) 595
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Q. A fruit seller bought 11 apples for Rs. 10 and sold 10 apples for Rs. 11. How much profit or loss did he make?
(A) 20% loss
(B) 21% loss
(C) 20% profit
(D) 21% profit
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 21% profit
Explanation
Cost Price (CP) of 1 apple = Rs. 10/11
Selling Price (SP) of 1 apple = Rs. 11/10
SP/CP = (11/10) ÷ (10/11)
= (11/10) × (11/10)
= 121/100
Profit% = (121 − 100)/100 × 100
= 21%
Hence, he made a profit of 21%.
Shortcut Method
Take LCM of apples = 110
CP of 110 apples = 10 × 10 = Rs. 100
SP of 110 apples = 11 × 11 = Rs. 121
Profit = 21 on 100 = 21% profit
Answer: (D) 21% profit
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Q. The ratio of the ages of A, B and C is 5 : 8 : 9. If the sum of the ages of A and C be 56 years, then the age of B is
(A) 20 years
(B) 32 years
(C) 36 years
(D) 40 years
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 32 years
Explanation
Ratio of ages A : B : C = 5 : 8 : 9
Let the ages be 5x, 8x and 9x
A + C = 5x + 9x = 56
14x = 56
x = 4
Age of B = 8x = 8 × 4
= 32 years
Hence, the age of B is 32 years.
Shortcut Method
A + C = 5 + 9 = 14 parts = 56, so 1 part = 4
B = 8 parts = 8 × 4
= 32 years
Answer: (B) 32 years
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Q. A certain number when divided by 175 leaves a remainder 132. When the same number is divided by 25, the remainder is
(A) 6
(B) 7
(C) 8
(D) 9
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 7
Explanation
Let the number = 175k + 132
175 is divisible by 25 (175 = 25 × 7)
So 175k leaves remainder 0 when divided by 25
Remainder = remainder of 132 ÷ 25
132 = 25 × 5 + 7
Remainder = 7
Hence, the remainder is 7.
Shortcut Method
Since 25 divides 175, remainder = 132 ÷ 25
= 5 remainder 7
Answer = 7
Answer: (B) 7
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Q. 0.2 + 0.2 − 0.2 ÷ 0.2 × (0.2 × 0.2), on simplification is
(A) 0.04
(B) 0.2
(C) 1
(D) 0.36
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 0.36
Explanation
Expression = 0.2 + 0.2 − 0.2 ÷ 0.2 × (0.2 × 0.2)
Apply BODMAS: Bracket first
0.2 × 0.2 = 0.04
= 0.2 + 0.2 − 0.2 ÷ 0.2 × 0.04
Division next: 0.2 ÷ 0.2 = 1
= 0.2 + 0.2 − 1 × 0.04
Multiplication next: 1 × 0.04 = 0.04
= 0.4 − 0.04
= 0.36
Hence, the simplified value is 0.36.
Shortcut Method
0.2 ÷ 0.2 = 1, so the expression = 0.4 − 0.04
= 0.36
Answer: (D) 0.36
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Q. A sum of money becomes 27 times of itself in 3 years at compound interest. The rate of interest per annum is
(A) 100%
(B) 150%
(C) 75%
(D) 200%
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 200%
Explanation
Let the Principal (P) = 1
Amount (A) = 27 × P = 27
Time (n) = 3 years
A = P × (1 + R/100)^n
27 = 1 × (1 + R/100)^3
3^3 = (1 + R/100)^3
1 + R/100 = 3
R/100 = 2
R = 200%
Hence, the rate of interest is 200% per annum.
Shortcut Method
Cube root of 27 = 3, so money triples every year
Rate = (3 − 1) × 100
= 200%
Answer: (D) 200%
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Q. √(0.02 + √0.0049) = ?
(A) 0.03
(B) 0.42
(C) 0.003
(D) 0.3
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 0.3
Explanation
√0.0049 = 0.07 (since 0.07 × 0.07 = 0.0049)
√(0.02 + √0.0049) = √(0.02 + 0.07)
= √0.09
= 0.3 (since 0.3 × 0.3 = 0.09)
Hence, the value is 0.3.
Shortcut Method
√49 = 7, so √0.0049 = 0.07
0.02 + 0.07 = 0.09
√0.09 = 0.3
Answer: (D) 0.3
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Q. If 579 * 2 be divisible by 11, the * mark digit is
(A) 3
(B) 7
(C) 9
(D) 11
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 9
Explanation
Number = 5 7 9 * 2
Divisibility rule of 11: (sum of digits at odd places) − (sum of digits at even places) = 0 or a multiple of 11
Odd places from right (1st, 3rd, 5th): 2 + 9 + 5 = 16
Even places from right (2nd, 4th): * + 7
16 − (* + 7) = 0
9 − * = 0
* = 9
Check: 57992 ÷ 11 = 5272
Hence, the digit in place of * is 9.
Shortcut Method
Option D (11) is not a single digit, so it is out
Try 9: 2 + 9 + 5 = 16 and 9 + 7 = 16
Difference = 0, so * = 9
Answer: (C) 9
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Q. In a 200 m. race, A runs at 5 km/hr. A gives B a start of 8 m and still beats him by 8 seconds. Find the speed of B in metre per second.
(A) 48/19 m/sec
(B) 24/19 m/sec
(C) 32/19 m/sec
(D) 60/19 m/sec
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 24/19 m/sec
Explanation
Speed of A = 5 km/hr
= 5 × 5/18 m/sec
= 25/18 m/sec
Time taken by A for 200 m = 200 ÷ (25/18)
= 200 × 18/25
= 144 sec
B gets a start of 8 m, so distance run by B = 200 − 8 = 192 m
A beats B by 8 sec, so time taken by B = 144 + 8 = 152 sec
Speed of B = Distance/Time
= 192/152
= 24/19 m/sec
Hence, the speed of B is 24/19 m/sec.
Shortcut Method
Speed of B = (200 − start) ÷ (time of A + 8)
= 192 ÷ (200 × 18/25 + 8)
= 192 ÷ 152
= 24/19 m/sec
Answer: (B) 24/19 m/sec
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Q. A, B, C can do a piece of work in 6, 12 and 24 days respectively. They all together will complete the work in
(A) 7 3/4 days
(B) 9 3/8 days
(C) 8 3/4 days
(D) 3 3/7 days
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 3 3/7 days
Explanation
A’s 1 day work = 1/6
B’s 1 day work = 1/12
C’s 1 day work = 1/24
(A + B + C)’s 1 day work = 1/6 + 1/12 + 1/24
= (4 + 2 + 1)/24
= 7/24
Time taken together = 24/7 days
= 3 3/7 days
Hence, A, B and C together will complete the work in 3 3/7 days.
Shortcut Method
Total work = LCM of 6, 12, 24 = 24 units
Efficiency of A, B, C = 4, 2, 1 units/day
Together = 4 + 2 + 1 = 7 units/day
Time = 24/7 = 3 3/7 days
Quick check: together they must finish faster than A alone (6 days), and only 3 3/7 days is less than 6.
Answer: (D) 3 3/7 days
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Q. A certain principal amounts to Rs. 560 in 3 years and Rs. 600 in 5 years. Determine the rate of interest per annum.
(A) 2%
(B) 4%
(C) 6%
(D) 8%
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 4%
Explanation
Amount after 5 years = Rs. 600
Amount after 3 years = Rs. 560
SI for 2 years = 600 − 560 = Rs. 40
SI for 1 year = 40/2 = Rs. 20
SI for 3 years = 20 × 3 = Rs. 60
Principal (P) = 560 − 60 = Rs. 500
Rate (R) = (SI × 100)/(P × T)
= (20 × 100)/(500 × 1)
= 4%
Hence, the rate of interest is 4% per annum.
Shortcut Method
P = (A1 × T2 − A2 × T1)/(T2 − T1)
= (560 × 5 − 600 × 3)/(5 − 3)
= (2800 − 1800)/2 = Rs. 500
R = (20/500) × 100 = 4%
Answer: (B) 4%
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Q. The value of √0.01 + √0.81 + √1.21 + √0.0009 is
(A) 2.03
(B) 2.1
(C) 2.11
(D) 2.13
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 2.13
Explanation
√0.01 = 0.1
√0.81 = 0.9
√1.21 = 1.1
√0.0009 = 0.03
Sum = 0.1 + 0.9 + 1.1 + 0.03
= 2.1 + 0.03
= 2.13
Hence, the value is 2.13.
Shortcut Method
Square root of a decimal has half the number of decimal places
√0.0009 = √9 with 4/2 = 2 decimal places = 0.03
0.1 + 0.9 + 1.1 = 2.1
2.1 + 0.03 = 2.13
Answer: (D) 2.13
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Q. If the ratio of cost price and selling price of an article be 10 : 11, what is the profit per cent?
(A) 5%
(B) 10%
(C) 15%
(D) 20%
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 10%
Explanation
Let Cost Price (CP) = 10x and Selling Price (SP) = 11x
Profit = SP − CP
= 11x − 10x
= x
Profit % = (Profit/CP) × 100
= (x/10x) × 100
= 10%
Hence, the profit is 10%.
Shortcut Method
Profit % = (SP term − CP term)/CP term × 100
= (11 − 10)/10 × 100
= 10%
Answer: (B) 10%
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WBPSC Clerkship Mathematics Questions 2019 2nd Shfit
Q. A sum of money becomes 4 times of itself in 2 years at compound interest. The rate of interest per annum is
(A) 150%
(B) 100%
(C) 200%
(D) 75%
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 100%
Explanation
Let Principal = P, Amount after 2 years = 4P, Rate = R% p.a.
Formula: A = P × (1 + R/100)^n
4P = P × (1 + R/100)^2
(1 + R/100)^2 = 4
1 + R/100 = 2
R/100 = 1
R = 100%
Hence, the rate of interest is 100% per annum.
Shortcut Method
Sum becomes x times in n years: R = (x^(1/n) − 1) × 100
= (√4 − 1) × 100
= (2 − 1) × 100 = 100%
Answer: (B) 100%
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Q. A alone can do 1/2 of a work in 5 days and B alone can do 1/3 of the same work in 4 days. How many days working together will they finish the work?
(A) 2 2/9 days
(B) 3 days
(C) 9 days
(D) 5 5/11 days
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 5 5/11 days
Explanation
A does 1/2 work in 5 days
A alone does full work in 5 × 2 = 10 days
B does 1/3 work in 4 days
B alone does full work in 4 × 3 = 12 days
(A + B)’s 1 day work = 1/10 + 1/12
= (6 + 5)/60
= 11/60
Time taken together = 60/11 days
= 5 5/11 days
Hence, working together they finish the work in 5 5/11 days.
Shortcut Method
Together time = (a × b)/(a + b)
= (10 × 12)/(10 + 12)
= 120/22 = 60/11 = 5 5/11 days
Answer: (D) 5 5/11 days
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Q. What rate per cent is 1 minute 48 seconds to an hour?
(A) 1%
(B) 2%
(C) 3%
(D) 4%
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 3%
Explanation
1 minute 48 seconds = 60 + 48 = 108 seconds
1 hour = 60 × 60 = 3600 seconds
Required per cent = (108/3600) × 100
= 10800/3600
= 3%
Hence, 1 minute 48 seconds is 3% of an hour.
Shortcut Method
1 minute 48 seconds = 1.8 minutes
Per cent = (1.8/60) × 100
= 180/60 = 3%
Answer: (C) 3%
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Q. A 60 metre long train is running at a speed of 40 km per hour. It will cross a railway platform 90 metre long in
(A) 14 seconds
(B) 13.5 seconds
(C) 14.5 seconds
(D) 13 seconds
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 13.5 seconds
Explanation
Length of train = 60 m
Length of platform = 90 m
Total distance to cover = 60 + 90 = 150 m
Speed = 40 km/hr = 40 × 5/18 m/s = 100/9 m/s
Time = Distance / Speed
= 150 ÷ (100/9)
= 150 × 9/100
= 13.5 seconds
Hence, the train crosses the platform in 13.5 seconds.
Shortcut Method
Time = (Total length × 18)/(Speed in km/hr × 5)
= (150 × 18)/(40 × 5)
= 2700/200 = 13.5 seconds
Answer: (B) 13.5 seconds
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Q. A fruit seller bought 15 apples for Rs. 12 and sold 12 apples for Rs. 15. How much profit or loss did he make?
(A) 56.25% profit
(B) 56.35% profit
(C) 56.25% loss
(D) 56.35% loss
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 56.25% profit
Explanation
CP of 15 apples = Rs. 12
CP of 1 apple = 12/15 = Rs. 0.80
SP of 12 apples = Rs. 15
SP of 1 apple = 15/12 = Rs. 1.25
Profit per apple = 1.25 − 0.80 = Rs. 0.45
Profit % = (Profit/CP) × 100
= (0.45/0.80) × 100
= 56.25%
Hence, the fruit seller made a profit of 56.25%.
Shortcut Method
Profit % = [(SP per item/CP per item) − 1] × 100
= [(15/12) ÷ (12/15) − 1] × 100
= [(15 × 15)/(12 × 12) − 1] × 100
= (225/144 − 1) × 100 = (81/144) × 100 = 56.25% profit
Answer: (A) 56.25% profit
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Q. On simplification, 3034 − (1002 ÷ 20.04) is equal to
(A) 2543
(B) 2984
(C) 2993
(D) 3029
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 2984
Explanation
Expression = 3034 − (1002 ÷ 20.04)
First solve the bracket (BODMAS)
1002 ÷ 20.04 = 100200 ÷ 2004
= 50
Expression = 3034 − 50
= 2984
Hence, the value of the expression is 2984.
Shortcut Method
20.04 × 50 = 1002, so 1002 ÷ 20.04 = 50
= 3034 − 50 = 2984
Answer: (B) 2984
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Q. Successive discount of 20% and 25% are equivalent to a single discount of
(A) 33%
(B) 40%
(C) 35%
(D) 45%
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 40%
Explanation
First discount = 20%, Second discount = 25%
Let marked price = Rs. 100
Price after 20% discount = 100 − 20 = Rs. 80
Price after 25% discount on 80 = 80 − (25/100) × 80
= 80 − 20
= Rs. 60
Total discount = 100 − 60 = Rs. 40 on Rs. 100
Single equivalent discount = 40%
Hence, the single equivalent discount is 40%.
Shortcut Method
Single discount = a + b − (a × b)/100
= 20 + 25 − (20 × 25)/100
= 45 − 5 = 40%
Answer: (B) 40%
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Q. 15% loss on selling price is what per cent loss on the cost price?
(A) 13 1/23 %
(B) 23 1/3 %
(C) 13 2/23 %
(D) 23 2/23 %
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 13 1/23 %
Explanation
Let Selling Price (SP) = Rs. 100
Loss = 15% of SP = Rs. 15
Cost Price (CP) = SP + Loss
= 100 + 15
= Rs. 115
Loss % on CP = (Loss/CP) × 100
= (15/115) × 100
= 300/23
= 13 1/23 %
Hence, the loss on cost price is 13 1/23 %.
Shortcut Method
Loss % on CP = x/(100 + x) × 100, where x = loss % on SP
= 15/115 × 100
= 300/23 = 13 1/23 %
Answer: (A) 13 1/23 %
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Q. The ratio of the ages of three persons is 7 : 5 : 4. The sum of the ages of the first and third exceeds the double of the age of the second person by 5 years. Determine the age of the second person.
(A) 20 years
(B) 25 years
(C) 27 years
(D) 30 years
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 25 years
Explanation
Let the ages be 7x, 5x and 4x years
Sum of first and third = 7x + 4x = 11x
Double of second = 2 × 5x = 10x
Given: 11x = 10x + 5
x = 5
Age of second person = 5x = 5 × 5
= 25 years
Hence, the age of the second person is 25 years.
Shortcut Method
Difference in ratio units = (7 + 4) − 2 × 5 = 1 unit
1 unit = 5 years
Second person = 5 units = 25 years
Answer: (B) 25 years
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Q. Find smallest number which when divided by 20, 42 and 63, leaves the remainder 1 in each case.
(A) 1241
(B) 1261
(C) 1259
(D) 1239
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 1261
Explanation
Required number = LCM of (20, 42, 63) + 1
20 = 2^2 × 5
42 = 2 × 3 × 7
63 = 3^2 × 7
LCM = 2^2 × 3^2 × 5 × 7
= 4 × 9 × 35
= 1260
Required number = 1260 + 1 = 1261
Hence, the smallest such number is 1261.
Shortcut Method
Option check: number − 1 must be divisible by 20, 42 and 63
1261 − 1 = 1260 = 20 × 63 = 42 × 30
Other options − 1 = 1240, 1258, 1238, none divisible by 63, so 1261
Answer: (B) 1261
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Q. If 20 1/2 + 30 1/3 − * = 35 2/3, then the * mark place is
(A) 15 1/2
(B) 15 1/4
(C) 15 1/6
(D) 15 1/7
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 15 1/6
Explanation
20 1/2 + 30 1/3 − * = 35 2/3
* = 20 1/2 + 30 1/3 − 35 2/3
Whole numbers: 20 + 30 − 35 = 15
Fractions: 1/2 + 1/3 − 2/3
= 3/6 + 2/6 − 4/6
= 1/6
* = 15 + 1/6
= 15 1/6
Hence, the value in place of * is 15 1/6.
Shortcut Method
Whole part = 20 + 30 − 35 = 15
Fraction part = 1/2 + 1/3 − 2/3 = 1/2 − 1/3 = 1/6
= 15 1/6
Answer: (C) 15 1/6
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Q. The price of coal is increased by 20%. By what per cent a family should decrease its consumption so that expenditure remains same?
(A) 40%
(B) 23 1/3 %
(C) 20%
(D) 16 2/3 %
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 16 2/3 %
Explanation
Let original price = Rs. 100 per unit and consumption = 100 units
Original expenditure = 100 × 100 = Rs. 10000
New price = 100 + 20% of 100 = Rs. 120
New consumption = 10000 ÷ 120
= 83 1/3 units
Decrease in consumption = 100 − 83 1/3
= 16 2/3 units out of 100
Hence, the family should reduce consumption by 16 2/3 %.
Shortcut Method
Reduction % = R/(100 + R) × 100
= 20/120 × 100
= 50/3 = 16 2/3 %
Answer: (D) 16 2/3 %
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Q. A tap can empty a tank in 30 minutes while second tap empty it in 20 minutes. If both the taps are kept open, how much time is required to empty the cistern?
(A) 12 minutes
(B) 25 minutes
(C) 50 minutes
(D) 55 minutes
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 12 minutes
Explanation
First tap empties the tank in 30 minutes
Work of first tap in 1 minute = 1/30
Second tap empties the tank in 20 minutes
Work of second tap in 1 minute = 1/20
Both taps in 1 minute = 1/30 + 1/20
= (2 + 3)/60
= 5/60 = 1/12
Time to empty = 12 minutes
Hence, both taps together empty the cistern in 12 minutes.
Shortcut Method
Time = (a × b)/(a + b)
= (30 × 20)/(30 + 20)
= 600/50 = 12 minutes
Answer: (A) 12 minutes
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Q. A certain principal amounts to Rs. 500 in 3 years and Rs. 540 in 5 years. Find the rate of interest per annum.
(A) 52/11 %
(B) 50/11 %
(C) 56/11 %
(D) 54/11 %
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 50/11 %
Explanation
Amount in 5 years = Rs. 540
Amount in 3 years = Rs. 500
SI for 2 years = 540 − 500 = Rs. 40
SI for 1 year = 40/2 = Rs. 20
SI for 3 years = 20 × 3 = Rs. 60
Principal (P) = 500 − 60 = Rs. 440
Rate (R) = (SI × 100)/(P × T)
= (20 × 100)/(440 × 1)
= 2000/440
= 50/11 %
Hence, the rate of interest is 50/11 % per annum.
Shortcut Method
R = (A2 − A1) × 100/(A1 × T2 − A2 × T1)
= (540 − 500) × 100/(500 × 5 − 540 × 3)
= 4000/(2500 − 1620) = 4000/880 = 50/11 %
Answer: (B) 50/11 %
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Q. 300 gm of sugar solution has 40% sugar in it. How much sugar should be added to make it 50% in the solution?
(A) 10 gms
(B) 40 gms
(C) 60 gms
(D) 8 gms
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 60 gms
Explanation
Total solution = 300 gm
Sugar = 40% of 300 = 120 gm
Water = 300 − 120 = 180 gm
Let x gm sugar be added
New sugar = 120 + x, New solution = 300 + x
(120 + x)/(300 + x) = 50/100 = 1/2
2(120 + x) = 300 + x
240 + 2x = 300 + x
x = 60 gm
Hence, 60 gm of sugar should be added.
Shortcut Method
Water stays 180 gm and must become 50% of the new solution
New solution = 180 × 2 = 360 gm
Sugar added = 360 − 300 = 60 gm
Answer: (C) 60 gms
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Q. If 45337 * 2 be divisible by 11, the * mark digit is
(A) 8
(B) 6
(C) 4
(D) 2
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 8
Explanation
Number = 4 5 3 3 7 * 2
Rule: a number is divisible by 11 if (sum of digits at odd places) − (sum of digits at even places) is 0 or a multiple of 11
Digits at odd places from right: 2, 7, 3, 4
Sum = 2 + 7 + 3 + 4 = 16
Digits at even places from right: *, 3, 5
Sum = * + 3 + 5 = * + 8
Difference = 16 − (* + 8) = 8 − *
For divisibility, 8 − * = 0
* = 8
Hence, the digit in place of * is 8.
Shortcut Method
Odd-place sum = 16, even-place sum without * = 8
* = 16 − 8 = 8
Check: 4533782 ÷ 11 = 412162
Answer: (A) 8
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Q. Find the amount on Rs. 625 for 2 years at 4% compound interest, interest being payble annually.
(A) Rs. 756
(B) Rs. 676
(C) Rs. 767
(D) Rs. 675
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) Rs. 676
Explanation
Principal (P) = Rs. 625, Rate (R) = 4% p.a., Time (n) = 2 years
Formula: A = P × (1 + R/100)^n
A = 625 × (1 + 4/100)^2
= 625 × (26/25)^2
= 625 × 676/625
= Rs. 676
Hence, the amount is Rs. 676.
Shortcut Method
Effective rate for 2 years = 4 + 4 + (4 × 4)/100 = 8.16%
A = 625 + 8.16% of 625
= 625 + 51 = Rs. 676
Answer: (B) Rs. 676
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Q. If A : B = 4 : 3, B : C = 3 : 5 and C : D = 10 : 9 then the ratio A : B : C : D is
(A) 8 : 6 : 9 : 10
(B) 8 : 9 : 6 : 10
(C) 8 : 6 : 10 : 9
(D) 6 : 8 : 10 : 9
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 8 : 6 : 10 : 9
Explanation
A : B = 4 : 3
B : C = 3 : 5
B is 3 in both, so A : B : C = 4 : 3 : 5
C : D = 10 : 9
Make C equal: multiply A : B : C by 2
A : B : C = 8 : 6 : 10
A : B : C : D = 8 : 6 : 10 : 9
Hence, A : B : C : D = 8 : 6 : 10 : 9.
Shortcut Method
A : B : C : D = (4 × 3 × 10) : (3 × 3 × 10) : (3 × 5 × 10) : (3 × 5 × 9)
= 120 : 90 : 150 : 135
= 8 : 6 : 10 : 9
Answer: (C) 8 : 6 : 10 : 9
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Q. A alone can do a piece of work in 21 days. B, who is 40% more efficient than A, will finish the work in
(A) 10 days
(B) 12 days
(C) 15 days
(D) 18 days
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 15 days
Explanation
A does the work in 21 days
Let A’s efficiency = 100
B’s efficiency = 100 + 40 = 140
Efficiency ratio A : B = 100 : 140 = 5 : 7
Time ratio A : B = 7 : 5 (time is inverse of efficiency)
B’s time = 21 × 5/7
= 15 days
Hence, B will finish the work in 15 days.
Shortcut Method
Time of B = Time of A × 100/(100 + 40)
= 21 × 100/140
= 15 days
Answer: (C) 15 days
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Q. The value of √(0.01 + √0.0064) + √0.16 is
(A) 0.4
(B) 0.3
(C) 0.7
(D) 0.8
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 0.7
Explanation
√0.0064 = 0.08
0.01 + 0.08 = 0.09
√0.09 = 0.3
√0.16 = 0.4
Value = 0.3 + 0.4
= 0.7
Hence, the value of the expression is 0.7.
Shortcut Method
√(0.01 + 0.08) + 0.4
= √0.09 + 0.4
= 0.3 + 0.4 = 0.7
Answer: (C) 0.7
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Q. Two numbers are in the ratio 3 : 5 and their HCF 12, their product is
(A) 1620
(B) 1800
(C) 1980
(D) 2160
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 2160
Explanation
Ratio of numbers = 3 : 5, HCF = 12
First number = 3 × 12 = 36
Second number = 5 × 12 = 60
Product = 36 × 60
= 2160
Hence, the product of the two numbers is 2160.
Shortcut Method
Product = HCF^2 × (product of ratio terms)
= 12^2 × 3 × 5
= 144 × 15 = 2160
Answer: (D) 2160
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Q. The simplified value of:
(8.73 × 8.73 × 8.73 + 4.27 × 4.27 × 4.27) / (8.73 × 8.73 + 4.27 × 4.27 − 8.73 × 4.27)
(A) 11
(B) 14
(C) 13
(D) 15
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 13
Explanation
Let a = 8.73 and b = 4.27
Numerator = a × a × a + b × b × b = a^3 + b^3
Denominator = a × a + b × b − a × b = a^2 + b^2 − ab
Formula: a^3 + b^3 = (a + b)(a^2 − ab + b^2)
Expression = (a + b)(a^2 − ab + b^2) / (a^2 − ab + b^2)
= a + b
= 8.73 + 4.27
= 13
Hence, the simplified value is 13.
Shortcut Method
(a^3 + b^3) / (a^2 − ab + b^2) = a + b
= 8.73 + 4.27
= 13
Answer: (C) 13
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Q. If 60% of P = 30% of Q, then P = x% of Q. Find x = ?
(A) 0.5
(B) 2
(C) 50
(D) 0.005
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 50
Explanation
Given: 60% of P = 30% of Q
(60/100) × P = (30/100) × Q
60P = 30Q
P = (30/60) × Q
= (1/2) × Q
= (50/100) × Q
= 50% of Q
So, x = 50
Hence, the value of x is 50.
Shortcut Method
x = (30 ÷ 60) × 100
= 0.5 × 100
= 50
Answer: (C) 50
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Q. The simple interest on Rs. 400 for 5 years at 6% per annum is
(A) Rs. 140
(B) Rs. 120
(C) Rs. 110
(D) Rs. 124
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) Rs. 120
Explanation
Principal (P) = Rs. 400
Rate (R) = 6% per annum
Time (T) = 5 years
Simple Interest (SI) = (P × R × T)/100
= (400 × 6 × 5)/100
= 12000/100
= Rs. 120
Hence, the simple interest is Rs. 120.
Shortcut Method
SI for 1 year = 6% of 400 = Rs. 24
SI for 5 years = 24 × 5
= Rs. 120
Answer: (B) Rs. 120
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Q. The average of 7 consecutive numbers is 20. The largest of these numbers is
(A) 24
(B) 23
(C) 22
(D) 25
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 23
Explanation
Let the 7 consecutive numbers be x, x + 1, x + 2, x + 3, x + 4, x + 5, x + 6
Sum = 7x + 21
Average = Sum/7
20 = (7x + 21)/7
140 = 7x + 21
7x = 119
x = 17
Largest number = x + 6
= 17 + 6
= 23
Hence, the largest of these numbers is 23.
Shortcut Method
For consecutive numbers, average = middle (4th) number = 20
Largest = 4th number + 3
= 20 + 3
= 23
Answer: (B) 23
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Q. A boat running downstream covers a distance of 24 kms in 4 hours, while for covering the distance upstream it takes 6 hours. What is the speed of the boat in still water?
(A) 5.5 km/hr
(B) 6 km/hr
(C) 3.5 km/hr
(D) 5 km/hr
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 5 km/hr
Explanation
Distance = 24 km
Downstream Speed = 24/4 = 6 km/hr
Upstream Speed = 24/6 = 4 km/hr
Speed of boat in still water = (Downstream Speed + Upstream Speed)/2
= (6 + 4)/2
= 10/2
= 5 km/hr
Hence, the speed of the boat in still water is 5 km/hr.
Shortcut Method
Still water speed = (24/4 + 24/6)/2
= (6 + 4)/2
= 5 km/hr
Answer: (D) 5 km/hr
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Q. 2/3 rd of a number is 36. Find out 25% of that number.
(A) 13.25
(B) 13.5
(C) 13.51
(D) 13.65
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 13.5
Explanation
Let the number be N
(2/3) × N = 36
N = 36 × (3/2)
= 54
25% of N = (25/100) × 54
= 54/4
= 13.5
Hence, 25% of the number is 13.5.
Shortcut Method
25% of N = (1/4) × N and N = 36 × 3/2
Required value = 36 × (3/2) × (1/4)
= 36 × 3/8
= 13.5
Answer: (B) 13.5
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Q. A number when divided by 119 leaves remainder 19. The same number when divided by 17, will leave remainder
(A) 2
(B) 7
(C) 10
(D) 5
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 2
Explanation
Let the number be N
N = 119 × q + 19 (q = quotient)
119 = 17 × 7, so 119 × q is exactly divisible by 17
Remainder of N ÷ 17 = Remainder of 19 ÷ 17
19 = 17 × 1 + 2
= 2
Hence, the remainder when the number is divided by 17 is 2.
Shortcut Method
If the first divisor (119) is a multiple of the second divisor (17),
Required remainder = remainder of (first remainder ÷ second divisor)
= remainder of (19 ÷ 17)
= 2
Answer: (A) 2
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Q. A person travels from A to B at a speed of 40 kmph and returns by decreasing his speed by 50%. What is his average speed for both the trips?
(A) 16 2/3 kmph
(B) 26 kmph
(C) 36 2/3 kmph
(D) 26 2/3 kmph
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 26 2/3 kmph
Explanation
Speed from A to B (x) = 40 kmph
Return speed = 40 − 50% of 40 = 40 − 20 = 20 kmph (y)
Let the distance AB = 40 km (any value)
Time from A to B = 40/40 = 1 hour
Time from B to A = 40/20 = 2 hours
Average Speed = Total Distance/Total Time
= (40 + 40)/(1 + 2)
= 80/3
= 26 2/3 kmph
Hence, his average speed for both the trips is 26 2/3 kmph.
Shortcut Method
Average Speed (same distance) = 2xy/(x + y)
= (2 × 40 × 20)/(40 + 20)
= 1600/60
= 26 2/3 kmph
Answer: (D) 26 2/3 kmph
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Q. In a 100m race, A runs at 8 km per hour. If A gives B a start of 4m and still beats him by 15 seconds, find the speed of B in m/sec.
(A) 3 7/15 m/sec
(B) 3 1/15 m/sec
(C) 3 2/15 m/sec
(D) 8/5 m/sec
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 8/5 m/sec
Explanation
Speed of A = 8 km/hr = 8 × (5/18) m/sec = 20/9 m/sec
Time taken by A to run 100 m = 100 ÷ (20/9)
= 100 × 9/20
= 45 sec
B gets a start of 4 m, so B runs 100 − 4 = 96 m
A beats B by 15 sec, so time taken by B = 45 + 15 = 60 sec
Speed of B = Distance/Time
= 96/60
= 8/5 m/sec
Hence, the speed of B is 8/5 m/sec (1.6 m/sec).
Shortcut Method
Time of A = 100/(8 × 5/18) = 45 sec
Speed of B = (100 − 4)/(45 + 15)
= 96/60
= 8/5 m/sec
Answer: (D) 8/5 m/sec
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WBPSC Clerkship Mathematics Questions 2009 1st Shfit
Q. The sum of the present ages of a father and his son is 80 years. 4 years ago, the ratio of their ages was 2:1. What is the present age of the father?
(A) 18 years
(B) 50 years
(C) 52 years
(D) 54 years
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 52 years
Explanation
Let the present age of the father = F years and of the son = S years
F + S = 80
4 years ago, sum of their ages = 80 − 4 − 4 = 72 years
Ratio of their ages 4 years ago = 2 : 1
Father’s age 4 years ago = (2/3) × 72 = 48 years
Son’s age 4 years ago = (1/3) × 72 = 24 years
Father’s present age = 48 + 4
= 52 years
Check: Son’s present age = 24 + 4 = 28, and 52 + 28 = 80
Hence, the present age of the father is 52 years.
Shortcut Method
Sum 4 years ago = 80 − 2 × 4 = 72
Father then = 72 × 2/3 = 48
Father now = 48 + 4
= 52 years
Answer: (C) 52 years
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Q. If A:B = 3:4 and B:C = 6:5, then A:C = ?
(A) 10:9
(B) 9:10
(C) 8:9
(D) 9:8
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 9:10
Explanation
A : B = 3 : 4
B : C = 6 : 5
Make B the same in both ratios (LCM of 4 and 6 = 12)
A : B = 3 × 3 : 4 × 3 = 9 : 12
B : C = 6 × 2 : 5 × 2 = 12 : 10
So A : B : C = 9 : 12 : 10
A : C = 9 : 10
Hence, A : C = 9 : 10.
Shortcut Method
A/C = (A/B) × (B/C)
= (3/4) × (6/5)
= 18/20
= 9 : 10
Answer: (B) 9:10
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Q. Last year Rajani’s height was 144 cm. This year her height is 148.5 cm. By what percentage has her height changed?
(A) 3%
(B) 3 1/2 %
(C) 3 1/5 %
(D) 3 1/8 %
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 3 1/8 %
Explanation
Height last year = 144 cm
Height this year = 148.5 cm
Increase = 148.5 − 144 = 4.5 cm
Percentage change = (Increase / Original height) × 100
= (4.5/144) × 100
= 450/144
= 3.125%
= 3 1/8 %
Hence, her height has increased by 3 1/8 %.
Shortcut Method
1% of 144 = 1.44 cm
3% = 4.32 cm, remaining 4.5 − 4.32 = 0.18 cm
0.18/1.44 = 1/8 %
Total = 3 1/8 %
Answer: (D) 3 1/8 %
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Q. The marked price of a book is Rs. 165 and it is sold for Rs. 132. What percentage of discount is allowed on the book?
(A) 16%
(B) 18%
(C) 20%
(D) 22%
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 20%
Explanation
Marked Price (MP) = Rs. 165
Selling Price (SP) = Rs. 132
Discount = MP − SP
= 165 − 132
= Rs. 33
Discount % = (Discount / MP) × 100
= (33/165) × 100
= 20%
Hence, the discount allowed on the book is 20%.
Shortcut Method
SP/MP = 132/165 = 4/5 = 80%
Discount = 100% − 80%
= 20%
Answer: (C) 20%
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Q. What should be subtracted from 72.5 to get 18.76?
(A) 90.5
(B) 90.76
(C) 53.01
(D) 74.12
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 53.01
Explanation
Let the required number = x
72.5 − x = 18.76
x = 72.5 − 18.76
= 72.50 − 18.76
= 53.74
Check: 72.5 − 53.74 = 18.76
53.74 is not among the options, so the question has a misprint; the nearest option is 53.01
The printed key shows (D) 74.12, but 74.12 is larger than 72.5, so it cannot be subtracted from 72.5 to leave 18.76
Hence, the correct value is 53.74, and the closest option is (C) 53.01.
Shortcut Method
The number subtracted must be less than 72.5
Options (A) 90.5, (B) 90.76 and (D) 74.12 are all larger than 72.5, so they are rejected
Only (C) 53.01 remains (exact value 72.5 − 18.76 = 53.74)
Answer: (C) 53.01
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Q. 1 minute 48 seconds is what percent of 1 hour?
(A) 2%
(B) 3%
(C) 4%
(D) 5%
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 3%
Explanation
1 hour = 60 minutes = 60 × 60 = 3600 seconds
1 minute 48 seconds = 60 + 48 = 108 seconds
Required % = (108/3600) × 100
= 10800/3600
= 3%
Hence, 1 minute 48 seconds is 3% of 1 hour.
Shortcut Method
1 minute 48 seconds = 1.8 minutes
% of 1 hour = (1.8/60) × 100
= 3%
Answer: (B) 3%
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Q. What is the mean proportional between 1/4 and 1/36?
(A) 1/6
(B) 1/8
(C) 1/10
(D) 1/12
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 1/12
Explanation
Mean proportional of a and b = √(a × b)
a = 1/4, b = 1/36
Mean proportional = √(1/4 × 1/36)
= √(1/144)
= 1/12
Hence, the mean proportional between 1/4 and 1/36 is 1/12.
Shortcut Method
√(1/4) = 1/2 and √(1/36) = 1/6
Mean proportional = 1/2 × 1/6
= 1/12
Answer: (D) 1/12
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Q. The price of mangoes has risen from Rs. 20 per kg to Rs. 23 per kg. By what percentage has the price increased?
(A) 10%
(B) 12%
(C) 15%
(D) 18%
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 15%
Explanation
Old price = Rs. 20 per kg
New price = Rs. 23 per kg
Increase = 23 − 20 = Rs. 3
Percentage increase = (Increase/Old price) × 100
= (3/20) × 100
= 15%
Hence, the price has increased by 15%.
Shortcut Method
Rs. 1 out of Rs. 20 = 5%
Rs. 3 increase = 3 × 5%
= 15%
Answer: (C) 15%
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Q. The ratio of the daily wages of two workers is 4:3. If one worker earns Rs. 9 more than the other, what is the daily wage of the first worker?
(A) Rs. 24
(B) Rs. 28
(C) Rs. 32
(D) Rs. 36
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) Rs. 36
Explanation
Ratio of daily wages = 4 : 3
Let the wages be 4x and 3x
Difference = 4x − 3x = x
x = Rs. 9
First worker’s wage = 4x
= 4 × 9
= Rs. 36
Hence, the daily wage of the first worker is Rs. 36.
Shortcut Method
Difference of ratio terms = 4 − 3 = 1 part
1 part = Rs. 9
First worker = 4 parts = 4 × 9 = Rs. 36
Answer: (D) Rs. 36
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Q. In the annual examination, Mahua got 10% fewer marks in mathematics than Sutapa. Mahua got 81 marks. How many marks did Sutapa get?
(A) 85
(B) 87
(C) 88
(D) 90
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 90
Explanation
Let Sutapa’s marks = x
Mahua’s marks = x − 10% of x = 90% of x
90% of x = 81
x = (81 × 100)/90
= 8100/90
= 90
Hence, Sutapa got 90 marks.
Shortcut Method
90% → 81
100% → 81 × 100/90
= 90
Answer: (D) 90
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Q. By what number should 1083 be multiplied so that the product becomes a perfect square?
(A) 2
(B) 3
(C) 4
(D) 5
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 3
Explanation
Prime factorisation of 1083:
1083 = 3 × 361
= 3 × 19 × 19
19 is already in a pair; 3 is unpaired
Required multiplier = 3
1083 × 3 = 3249 = 57^2
Hence, 1083 must be multiplied by 3 to make it a perfect square.
Shortcut Method
Digit sum of 1083 = 12, so 1083 is divisible by 3
1083 ÷ 3 = 361 = 19^2 (a perfect square)
So multiply by the leftover factor 3
Answer: (B) 3
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Q. A and B together complete a piece of work in 12 days, and B alone completes the work in 30 days. In how many days can A alone complete the work?
(A) 15 days
(B) 18 days
(C) 20 days
(D) 25 days
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 20 days
Explanation
(A + B)’s 1 day work = 1/12
B’s 1 day work = 1/30
A’s 1 day work = 1/12 − 1/30
= (5 − 2)/60
= 3/60 = 1/20
Hence, A alone can complete the work in 20 days.
Shortcut Method
A alone = (12 × 30)/(30 − 12)
= 360/18
= 20 days
Answer: (C) 20 days
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Q. A man incurs a loss of 10% by selling an article for Rs. 180. At what price should he sell it to make a profit of 10%?
(A) 210
(B) 215
(C) 220
(D) 225
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 220
Explanation
Selling Price (SP) = Rs. 180
Loss = 10%
CP = SP × 100/(100 − Loss%)
= 180 × 100/90
= Rs. 200
New SP for 10% profit = CP × (100 + 10)/100
= 200 × 110/100
= Rs. 220
Hence, he should sell it for Rs. 220 to make a profit of 10%.
Shortcut Method
New SP = Old SP × (100 + 10)/(100 − 10)
= 180 × 110/90
= Rs. 220
Answer: (C) 220
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Q. The product of two numbers is 15552 and their HCF is 36. What is their LCM?
(A) 428
(B) 429
(C) 432
(D) 434
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 432
Explanation
Product of two numbers = HCF × LCM
15552 = 36 × LCM
LCM = 15552/36
= 432
Hence, the LCM of the two numbers is 432.
Shortcut Method
LCM must be a multiple of HCF 36
Check options: only 432 ÷ 36 = 12 exactly
LCM = 432
Answer: (C) 432
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Q. A camp had food stocked for 30 children for 18 days. 6 more children joined the camp. For how many days will that food last?
(A) 14 days
(B) 15 days
(C) 16 days
(D) 17 days
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 15 days
Explanation
Food for 30 children lasts 18 days
Total food = 30 × 18 = 540 child-days
New number of children = 30 + 6 = 36
Days food will last = 540/36
= 15 days
Hence, the food will last for 15 days.
Shortcut Method
M1 × D1 = M2 × D2
30 × 18 = 36 × D2
D2 = 540/36 = 15 days
Answer: (B) 15 days
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Q. A 360-metre-long train crosses an electric pole in 18 seconds. What is the speed of the train?
(A) 65 km/h
(B) 68 km/h
(C) 70 km/h
(D) 72 km/h
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 72 km/h
Explanation
Length of train = 360 m
Time to cross a pole = 18 s
Distance covered = length of train = 360 m
Speed = Distance/Time
= 360/18
= 20 m/s
Speed in km/h = 20 × 18/5
= 72 km/h
Hence, the speed of the train is 72 km/h.
Shortcut Method
Speed (km/h) = (Length/Time) × 18/5
= (360/18) × 18/5
= 360/5 = 72 km/h
Answer: (D) 72 km/h
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Q. If the selling price of a piece of cloth is Rs. 80 and a profit of 25% is made on it, what is the cost price of the cloth?
(A) Rs. 60
(B) Rs. 62
(C) Rs. 64
(D) Rs. 66
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) Rs. 64
Explanation
Selling Price (SP) = Rs. 80
Profit = 25%
CP = SP × 100/(100 + Profit%)
= 80 × 100/125
= 8000/125
= Rs. 64
Hence, the cost price of the cloth is Rs. 64.
Shortcut Method
25% = 1/4, so SP = CP + CP/4 = 5/4 of CP
CP = 80 × 4/5
= Rs. 64
Answer: (C) Rs. 64
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Q. Mohan bought a radio for Rs. 675 and sold it at a profit of 12%. What is the selling price of the radio?
(A) Rs. 750
(B) Rs. 754
(C) Rs. 756
(D) Rs. 758
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) Rs. 756
Explanation
Cost Price (CP) = Rs. 675
Profit = 12% of CP
Profit = (12/100) × 675 = Rs. 81
Selling Price (SP) = CP + Profit
= 675 + 81
= Rs. 756
Hence, the selling price of the radio is Rs. 756.
Shortcut Method
SP = CP × (112/100)
= 675 × 1.12
= Rs. 756
Answer: (C) Rs. 756
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Q. The price of tea has increased by 30%. If the present price of 1 kg of tea is Rs. 78, what was the price of 1 kg of tea before the increase?
(A) Rs. 50
(B) Rs. 55
(C) Rs. 60
(D) Rs. 65
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) Rs. 60
Explanation
Let the original price = Rs. x
Increase = 30%
New price = x × (130/100)
x × 130/100 = 78
x = 78 × 100/130
= 7800/130
= Rs. 60
Hence, the price of 1 kg of tea before the increase was Rs. 60.
Shortcut Method
130% → Rs. 78
100% → 78 × 100/130
= Rs. 60
Answer: (C) Rs. 60
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Q. Among the following four, in which is a dialogue found?
(A) Almirah
(B) Book
(C) Board
(D) Chair
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) Book
Explanation
A dialogue is a conversation between characters written down in a text, so among an almirah, a book, a board and a chair it is found only in a book (in plays, novels and stories). This is a simple association question: find the item that contains written conversation.
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Q. 15, 18, X, 14, 21, 26, 8, 16 — What is the value of X?
(A) 9
(B) 10
(C) 11
(D) 12
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 10
Explanation
Take the terms in pairs: (15, 18), (X, 14), (21, 26), (8, 16). In the first pair the second term exceeds the first by 3 and in the third pair by 5, so the second pair should differ by 4, giving X = 14 − 4 = 10, which matches the printed key (B). The last pair (8, 16) differs by 8 and breaks the pattern, so the series is probably misprinted, but 10 is the only option that fits the 3, 4, 5 progression.
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Q. Ram and Shyam can do a piece of work in 15 days and 20 days respectively. They completed the work together. What is the ratio of their earnings?
(A) 1:1
(B) 3:5
(C) 3:4
(D) 4:3
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 4:3
Explanation
Ram’s time = 15 days, Shyam’s time = 20 days
Earnings are shared in the ratio of work done, i.e. the ratio of one day’s work
Ram’s 1 day’s work = 1/15
Shyam’s 1 day’s work = 1/20
Ratio = 1/15 : 1/20
Multiply both by LCM 60
= 4 : 3
Hence, the ratio of their earnings is 4 : 3.
Shortcut Method
When they work together for the same time, earnings ratio = inverse of time ratio
Time ratio = 15 : 20 = 3 : 4
Earnings ratio = 4 : 3
Answer: (D) 4:3
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Q. When a number is decreased by 10%, it becomes 54. By what percentage must it be increased so that the number becomes 72?
(A) 15%
(B) 18%
(C) 20%
(D) 22%
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 20%
Explanation
Let the number be x
After 10% decrease, value = 90% of x
(90/100) × x = 54
x = 54 × 100/90
= 60
Required increase = 72 − 60 = 12
Percentage increase = (12/60) × 100
= 20%
Hence, the number must be increased by 20% to become 72.
Shortcut Method
90% = 54, so 10% = 6 and 100% = 60
72 − 60 = 12 = 2 × 6 = 2 × 10%
= 20%
Answer: (C) 20%
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Q. If 2% = 8.7, then 100% = ?
(A) 430 kg
(B) 435 kg
(C) 440 kg
(D) 445 kg
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 435 kg
Explanation
2% = 8.7
1% = 8.7/2 = 4.35
100% = 4.35 × 100
= 435
Hence, 100% = 435, i.e. 435 kg (the units appear only in the options).
Shortcut Method
100% = 2% × 50
= 8.7 × 50
= 435
Answer: (B) 435 kg
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Q. In how much time will the interest on Rs. 4500 be Rs. 675, if the annual rate of interest is 6%?
(A) 2 years
(B) 2 1/3 years
(C) 2 1/2 years
(D) 2 1/4 years
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 2 1/2 years
Explanation
Principal (P) = Rs. 4500
Simple Interest (SI) = Rs. 675
Rate (R) = 6% per annum
Time (T) = (SI × 100)/(P × R)
= (675 × 100)/(4500 × 6)
= 67500/27000
= 2.5 years
Hence, the interest will be Rs. 675 in 2 1/2 years.
Shortcut Method
Interest for 1 year = 6% of 4500 = Rs. 270
T = 675/270
= 2.5 years = 2 1/2 years
Answer: (C) 2 1/2 years
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Q. An article is sold for Rs. 720 at a loss of 10%. What is the cost price of the article?
(A) Rs. 780
(B) Rs. 800
(C) Rs. 820
(D) Rs. 840
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) Rs. 800
Explanation
Selling Price (SP) = Rs. 720
Loss = 10% of CP
SP = CP × (100 − Loss%)/100
720 = CP × 90/100
CP = 720 × 100/90
= Rs. 800
Hence, the cost price of the article is Rs. 800.
Shortcut Method
10% loss means SP = 9/10 of CP
CP = 720 × 10/9
= Rs. 800
Answer: (B) Rs. 800
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Q. An article is sold at a profit of 18%. If the profit is Rs. 14, what is the selling price of the article?
(A) Rs. 90
(B) Rs. 91 7/9
(C) Rs. 92
(D) Rs. 91
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) Rs. 91 7/9
Explanation
Profit = Rs. 14
Profit% = 18%
Profit = 18% of CP
CP = 14 × 100/18
= 700/9
= Rs. 77 7/9
SP = CP + Profit
= 77 7/9 + 14
= Rs. 91 7/9
Hence, the selling price of the article is Rs. 91 7/9.
Shortcut Method
SP = Profit × (100 + Profit%)/Profit%
= 14 × 118/18
= 826/9
= Rs. 91 7/9
Answer: (B) Rs. 91 7/9
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Q. An article was sold for Rs. 467.50. B’s profit is Rs. 27.50. What is his percentage of profit?
(A) 6.5%
(B) 6.25%
(C) 6%
(D) 6.75%
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 6.25%
Explanation
Selling Price (SP) = Rs. 467.50
Profit = Rs. 27.50
CP = SP − Profit
= 467.50 − 27.50
= Rs. 440
Profit% = (Profit/CP) × 100
= (27.50/440) × 100
= 6.25%
Hence, the percentage of profit is 6.25%.
Shortcut Method
Profit/CP = 27.50/440
= 1/16
= 6.25%
Answer: (B) 6.25%
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Q. Two-sevenths of a number is 152. What is the number?
(A) 530
(B) 532
(C) 534
(D) 536
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 532
Explanation
Let the number = x
(2/7) × x = 152
x = 152 × 7/2
= 76 × 7
= 532
Hence, the number is 532.
Shortcut Method
2 parts = 152, so 1 part (1/7 of the number) = 76
Number = 7 parts = 76 × 7
= 532
Answer: (B) 532
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Q. Which number, when divided by 12, 15, 18 and 24, leaves a remainder of 5 in each case?
(A) 355
(B) 360
(C) 365
(D) 370
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 365
Explanation
Required number = LCM of (12, 15, 18, 24) + Remainder
12 = 2^2 × 3
15 = 3 × 5
18 = 2 × 3^2
24 = 2^3 × 3
LCM = 2^3 × 3^2 × 5
= 8 × 9 × 5
= 360
Required number = 360 + 5
= 365
Note: The printed key shows (B) 360, but 360 is exactly divisible by all four numbers and leaves remainder 0, not 5.
Hence, the required number is 365.
Shortcut Method
(Number − 5) must be divisible by 12, 15, 18 and 24
365 − 5 = 360 = LCM, so 365 works
355 − 5 = 350 and 370 − 5 = 365 are not divisible by 12
Answer: (C) 365
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Q. 25% of P = 20% of Q. P is what % of Q?
(A) 75%
(B) 80%
(C) 85%
(D) 90%
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 80%
Explanation
25% of P = 20% of Q
(25/100) × P = (20/100) × Q
P = (20/25) × Q
P = (4/5) × Q
P as % of Q = (4/5) × 100
= 80%
Hence, P is 80% of Q.
Shortcut Method
P/Q = 20/25
= 0.8
= 80%
Answer: (B) 80%
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Q. A sum of money is divided between two persons in the ratio 5:8. If the first share is Rs. 250, what is the whole amount?
(A) Rs. 650
(B) Rs. 660
(C) Rs. 670
(D) Rs. 680
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) Rs. 650
Explanation
Ratio of shares = 5 : 8
Sum of ratio terms = 5 + 8 = 13
First share = (5/13) × Total = Rs. 250
Total = 250 × 13/5
= 50 × 13
= Rs. 650
Hence, the whole amount is Rs. 650.
Shortcut Method
5 parts = Rs. 250, so 1 part = Rs. 50
Total = 13 parts = 13 × 50
= Rs. 650
Answer: (A) Rs. 650
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Q. In an alloy, tin and zinc are in the ratio 3:4. How much tin is there in 10.5 grams of the alloy?
(A) 4 grams
(B) 5 grams
(C) 4.5 grams
(D) 5.5 grams
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 4.5 grams
Explanation
Tin : Zinc = 3 : 4
Sum of ratio terms = 3 + 4 = 7
Weight of alloy = 10.5 grams
Tin = (3/7) × 10.5
= 3 × 1.5
= 4.5 grams
Hence, there are 4.5 grams of tin in the alloy.
Shortcut Method
7 parts = 10.5 g, so 1 part = 1.5 g
Tin = 3 parts = 3 × 1.5
= 4.5 g
Answer: (C) 4.5 grams
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Q. The sum of two numbers is twice their difference. What is the ratio of the numbers?
(A) 2:4
(B) 4:2
(C) 3:1
(D) 1:3
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 3:1
Explanation
Let the numbers be x and y
Sum = 2 × Difference
x + y = 2(x − y)
x + y = 2x − 2y
3y = x
x : y = 3 : 1
Hence, the ratio of the numbers is 3 : 1.
Shortcut Method
(x + y)/(x − y) = 2/1
By componendo-dividendo, x/y = (2 + 1)/(2 − 1)
= 3/1
Answer: (C) 3:1
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Q. 15 men can do a piece of work in 14 days. In how many days can 7 men do the work?
(A) 30
(B) 29
(C) 31
(D) 28
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 30
Explanation
M1 = 15 men, D1 = 14 days
M2 = 7 men, D2 = ?
M1 × D1 = M2 × D2
15 × 14 = 7 × D2
D2 = (15 × 14)/7
= 15 × 2
= 30 days
Hence, 7 men can do the work in 30 days.
Shortcut Method
Total work = 15 × 14 = 210 man-days
Days for 7 men = 210 ÷ 7
= 30 days
Answer: (A) 30
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Q. In an examination, Renu got 480 marks out of 750. What percentage of marks did she get?
(A) 60%
(B) 62%
(C) 64%
(D) 66%
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 64%
Explanation
Marks obtained = 480
Total marks = 750
Percentage = (Marks obtained/Total marks) × 100
= (480/750) × 100
= 48000/750
= 64%
Hence, Renu got 64% marks.
Shortcut Method
480/750 = 16/25
= 64/100
= 64%
Answer: (C) 64%
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Q. The production price of a radio increases successively by 10% each time. By what percentage will the price of the radio set increase?
(A) 20%
(B) 20.5%
(C) 21%
(D) 21.5%
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 21%
Explanation
Let the original price = Rs. 100
After first increase of 10% = 100 + 10 = Rs. 110
After second increase of 10% = 110 + 11 = Rs. 121
Total increase = 121 − 100 = Rs. 21
Percentage increase = (21/100) × 100 = 21%
Hence, the price of the radio set increases by 21% after two successive 10% increases.
Shortcut Method
Net % change = a + b + (a × b)/100
= 10 + 10 + (10 × 10)/100
= 21%
Answer: (C) 21%
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Q. The prices of 2 kg of potatoes and 4 kg of onions are Rs. 6 and Rs. 15 respectively. What is the ratio of the market rates of potatoes and onions?
(A) 5:4
(B) 3:2
(C) 4:5
(D) 2:3
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 4:5
Explanation
Price of 2 kg potatoes = Rs. 6
Rate of potatoes = 6 ÷ 2 = Rs. 3 per kg
Price of 4 kg onions = Rs. 15
Rate of onions = 15 ÷ 4 = Rs. 3.75 per kg
Ratio of rates = 3 : 3.75
= 300 : 375
= 4 : 5
Hence, the ratio of the market rates of potatoes and onions is 4 : 5.
Shortcut Method
Ratio = 6/2 : 15/4
Multiply both by 4: 12 : 15
= 4 : 5
Answer: (C) 4:5
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Q. If 4 oranges are sold at the cost price of 5 oranges, what is the percentage of profit?
(A) 15%
(B) 20%
(C) 25%
(D) 30%
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 25%
Explanation
Let CP of 1 orange = Rs. 1
CP of 4 oranges = Rs. 4
SP of 4 oranges = CP of 5 oranges = Rs. 5
Profit = 5 − 4 = Rs. 1
Profit% = (Profit/CP) × 100
= (1/4) × 100
= 25%
Hence, the profit is 25%.
Shortcut Method
Profit% = (Difference/Number sold) × 100
= (5 − 4)/4 × 100
= 25%
Answer: (C) 25%
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Q. If 961 soldiers are arranged in a square, how many soldiers will there be in each line?
(A) 29
(B) 30
(C) 31
(D) 32
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 31
Explanation
Number of soldiers = 961
In a square, number of rows = number of soldiers in each row
Soldiers in each row = √961
961 = 31 × 31
√961 = 31
Hence, there will be 31 soldiers in each line.
Shortcut Method
961 ends in 1, so the square root ends in 1 or 9
30^2 = 900 and 32^2 = 1024, so the root lies between 30 and 32
Root = 31 (check: 31 × 31 = 961)
Answer: (C) 31
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Q. When a sum of money is reduced by 5%, it becomes Rs. 133. What is the original sum?
(A) Rs. 135
(B) Rs. 137
(C) Rs. 138
(D) Rs. 140
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) Rs. 140
Explanation
Let the original sum = Rs. x
After reducing by 5%, sum = (100 − 5)% of x
(95/100) × x = 133
x = 133 × 100/95
= 13300/95
= Rs. 140
Hence, the original sum is Rs. 140.
Shortcut Method
95% = Rs. 133, so 1% = 133 ÷ 95 = Rs. 1.40
100% = Rs. 140
Check: 5% of 140 = 7, and 140 − 7 = 133
Answer: (D) Rs. 140
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WBPSC Clerkship Mathematics Questions 2007 1st Shfit
Q. 5 cultivators can weed out 8 bighas of land in 4 days. 25 cultivators take to weed out 70 bighas of land in :
(A) 5 days
(B) 6 days
(C) 7 days
(D) 8 days
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 7 days
Explanation
Given: 5 cultivators weed 8 bighas in 4 days
Formula: (M1 × D1)/W1 = (M2 × D2)/W2
(5 × 4)/8 = (25 × D2)/70
D2 = (5 × 4 × 70)/(8 × 25)
= 1400/200
= 7 days
Hence, 25 cultivators will take 7 days to weed 70 bighas.
Shortcut Method
1 cultivator weeds 8/(5 × 4) = 0.4 bigha per day
25 cultivators weed 25 × 0.4 = 10 bighas per day
Days = 70 ÷ 10 = 7 days
Answer: (C) 7 days
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Q. The square of the sum of two numbers is 625, and the square of their difference is 81. The numbers are :
(A) 17, 8
(B) 16, 9
(C) 18, 7
(D) 20, 5
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 17, 8
Explanation
Let the numbers be a and b
(a + b)^2 = 625, so a + b = √625 = 25
(a − b)^2 = 81, so a − b = √81 = 9
Adding the two: 2a = 25 + 9 = 34
a = 34 ÷ 2 = 17
b = 25 − 17 = 8
Hence, the numbers are 17 and 8.
Shortcut Method
Check the options: 17 + 8 = 25 and 25^2 = 625
17 − 8 = 9 and 9^2 = 81
Only (A) satisfies both conditions
Answer: (A) 17, 8
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Q. A cloth of length 24 1/2 metre is cut into pieces, each of length being 1 1/6 metre. How many such pieces can be cut?
(A) 18
(B) 19
(C) 20
(D) 21
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 21
Explanation
Length of cloth = 24 1/2 m = 49/2 m
Length of each piece = 1 1/6 m = 7/6 m
Number of pieces = Total length ÷ Length of one piece
= 49/2 ÷ 7/6
= 49/2 × 6/7
= 294/14
= 21
Hence, 21 pieces can be cut.
Shortcut Method
Convert both to sixths: 24 1/2 m = 147/6 m and 1 1/6 m = 7/6 m
Pieces = 147 ÷ 7
= 21
Answer: (D) 21
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Q. If 15 is added to 5 times a number the sum is 6 times the number. The number is :
(A) 15
(B) 16
(C) 17
(D) 18
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 15
Explanation
Let the number be x
5 times the number + 15 = 6 times the number
5x + 15 = 6x
6x − 5x = 15
x = 15
Hence, the number is 15.
Shortcut Method
6x − 5x = x, so the number equals the 15 that was added
Check: 5 × 15 + 15 = 90 = 6 × 15
Answer: (A) 15
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Q. Ram, Shyam and Jadu individually can plough a garden in 18, 21 and 24 hours respectively. If they work together, to finish the work they will take :
(A) 6 66/73 hrs
(B) 5 36/53 hrs
(C) 7 17/49 hrs
(D) 4 9/23 hrs
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 6 66/73 hrs
Explanation
Ram’s 1 hour work = 1/18
Shyam’s 1 hour work = 1/21
Jadu’s 1 hour work = 1/24
Together 1 hour work = 1/18 + 1/21 + 1/24
LCM of 18, 21 and 24 = 504
= (28 + 24 + 21)/504
= 73/504
Time taken = 504/73 hours
= 6 66/73 hours
Hence, working together they will take 6 66/73 hours.
Shortcut Method
Total work = LCM = 504 units
Ram = 504/18 = 28, Shyam = 504/21 = 24, Jadu = 504/24 = 21 units per hour
Time = 504 ÷ (28 + 24 + 21)
= 504/73 = 6 66/73 hours
Answer: (A) 6 66/73 hrs
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Q. By how much does the sum of 17.443 and 29.657 exceed the sum of 13.687 and 18.548?
(A) 14.285
(B) 14.658
(C) 14.865
(D) 14.586
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 14.865
Explanation
First sum = 17.443 + 29.657 = 47.100
Second sum = 13.687 + 18.548 = 32.235
Required excess = First sum − Second sum
= 47.100 − 32.235
= 14.865
Hence, the first sum exceeds the second sum by 14.865.
Shortcut Method
Pair the numbers: (17.443 − 13.687) + (29.657 − 18.548)
= 3.756 + 11.109
= 14.865
Answer: (C) 14.865
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Q. A fruit vendor sold 32 baskets of mango at Rs. 55 per basket, 41 baskets at Rs. 35 per basket and 15 baskets at Rs. 46 per basket. The average price of mango per basket is :
(A) Rs. 44.15
(B) Rs. 44
(C) Rs. 44.25
(D) Rs. 45
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) Rs. 44.15
Explanation
Amount from 32 baskets = 32 × 55 = Rs. 1760
Amount from 41 baskets = 41 × 35 = Rs. 1435
Amount from 15 baskets = 15 × 46 = Rs. 690
Total amount = 1760 + 1435 + 690 = Rs. 3885
Total baskets = 32 + 41 + 15 = 88
Average price = Total amount ÷ Total baskets
= 3885 ÷ 88
= Rs. 44.147… ≈ Rs. 44.15
Hence, the average price per basket is about Rs. 44.15.
Shortcut Method
Assume average = Rs. 44
Deviations: 32 × 11 + 41 × (−9) + 15 × 2 = 352 − 369 + 30 = 13
Average = 44 + 13/88
= 44 + 0.15 = Rs. 44.15
Answer: (A) Rs. 44.15
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Q. A man travels 516 m in 6 mins. His speed per hour is :
(A) 0.0516 km
(B) 0.516 km
(C) 5.16 km
(D) 51.6 km
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 5.16 km
Explanation
Distance = 516 m
Time = 6 min
Speed per minute = 516 ÷ 6 = 86 m
Speed per hour = 86 × 60 = 5160 m
= 5160 ÷ 1000 km
= 5.16 km
Hence, his speed is 5.16 km per hour.
Shortcut Method
6 min = 1/10 hour, so multiply the distance by 10
= 516 × 10 = 5160 m
= 5.16 km per hour
Answer: (C) 5.16 km
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Q. A man earns Rs. 3600 per month. His income is increased in the ratio 12 : 13. His new monthly income is :
(A) Rs. 3500
(B) Rs. 3700
(C) Rs. 3900
(D) Rs. 4100
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) Rs. 3900
Explanation
Old income = Rs. 3600
Ratio of old income to new income = 12 : 13
New income = 3600 × 13/12
= 300 × 13
= Rs. 3900
Hence, his new monthly income is Rs. 3900.
Shortcut Method
1 part = 3600 ÷ 12 = Rs. 300
New income = 13 parts = 13 × 300 = Rs. 3900
Answer: (C) Rs. 3900
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Q. Value of √2 is :
(A) 1.441
(B) 1.414
(C) 1.144
(D) 1.5
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 1.414
Explanation
√2 lies between 1 and 2 because 1^2 = 1 and 2^2 = 4
Square option (B): 1.414 × 1.414 = 1.999396 ≈ 2
Square the other options: 1.441^2 = 2.076, 1.144^2 = 1.309, 1.5^2 = 2.25
Only 1.414 gives a square closest to 2
Hence, √2 = 1.414 (approximately); the printed key shows (C) 1.144, but 1.144^2 is only 1.309, so the correct answer is (B).
Shortcut Method
Remember the standard values: √2 = 1.414, √3 = 1.732, √5 = 2.236
√2 = 1.414
Answer: (B) 1.414
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Q. The ratio between the length and width of a rectangular sheet of paper is 7 : 5. If the width of the sheet is 20.5 cm the length is :
(A) 28.7 cm
(B) 27.5 cm
(C) 27.8 cm
(D) 28.9 cm
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 28.7 cm
Explanation
Length : Width = 7 : 5
Width = 20.5 cm
Length = Width × 7/5
= 20.5 × 7/5
= 143.5/5
= 28.7 cm
Hence, the length of the sheet is 28.7 cm.
Shortcut Method
1 part = 20.5 ÷ 5 = 4.1 cm
Length = 7 parts = 7 × 4.1 = 28.7 cm
Answer: (A) 28.7 cm
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Q. A can finish a work in 12 days and B does it in 10 days. A alone works for 8 days and then B joins him to finish the work together. The work will be finished in :
(A) 5 5/11 days
(B) 2 9/11 days
(C) 1 9/11 days
(D) 3 6/11 days
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 1 9/11 days
Explanation
A’s 1 day work = 1/12
B’s 1 day work = 1/10
Work done by A in 8 days = 8 × 1/12 = 2/3
Remaining work = 1 − 2/3 = 1/3
(A + B)’s 1 day work = 1/12 + 1/10 = (5 + 6)/60 = 11/60
Time for remaining work = 1/3 ÷ 11/60
= 1/3 × 60/11
= 20/11
= 1 9/11 days
Hence, after B joins, the work will be finished in 1 9/11 days.
Shortcut Method
Total work = LCM (12, 10) = 60 units; A = 5 units/day, B = 6 units/day
A in 8 days = 8 × 5 = 40 units, remaining = 20 units
Time = 20 ÷ (5 + 6) = 20/11 = 1 9/11 days
Answer: (C) 1 9/11 days
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Q. Value of 5.3̇ + 3.2̇5̇ + 12.1̇ is :
(A) 20.0̇69̇
(B) 20.06̇9
(C) 20.069̇
(D) 20.6̇9̇
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 20.6̇9̇
Explanation
5.3̇ = 5 + 3/9 = 5 + 1/3
3.2̇5̇ = 3 + 25/99
12.1̇ = 12 + 1/9
Sum of whole numbers = 5 + 3 + 12 = 20
Sum of fractions = 1/3 + 25/99 + 1/9
= 33/99 + 25/99 + 11/99
= 69/99
= 0.696969… = 0.6̇9̇
Total = 20 + 0.6̇9̇ = 20.6̇9̇
Hence, the value is 20.6̇9̇.
Shortcut Method
Write each to 6 places: 5.333333 + 3.252525 + 12.111111
= 20.696969…
= 20.6̇9̇
Answer: (D) 20.6̇9̇
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Q. 30 children at a camp have provisions for 18 days. They are joined by 6 more children. How long will the provisions last?
(A) 10 days
(B) 12 days
(C) 15 days
(D) 17 days
Answer & Explanation
v
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Q. A alone can knit a sweater in 3 hours, and B alone can knit it in 4 hours. How much time would they take working together to knit 14 sweaters?
(A) 14 hours
(B) 18 hours
(C) 21 hours
(D) 24 hours
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 24 hours
Explanation
A knits 1 sweater in 3 hours, so A’s 1 hour work = 1/3 sweater
B knits 1 sweater in 4 hours, so B’s 1 hour work = 1/4 sweater
(A + B)’s 1 hour work = 1/3 + 1/4 = 7/12 sweater
Time for 1 sweater together = 12/7 hours
Time for 14 sweaters = 14 × 12/7
= 24 hours
Hence, working together they will take 24 hours to knit 14 sweaters.
Shortcut Method
In 12 hours (LCM of 3 and 4), A knits 4 and B knits 3 = 7 sweaters
14 sweaters = 2 × 7, so time = 2 × 12 = 24 hours
Answer: (D) 24 hours
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Q. 6 cows can plough 12 hectares of land in 25 days. Number of hectares of land that will be ploughed by 10 cows in 20 days is :
(A) 12 hectares
(B) 14 hectares
(C) 16 hectares
(D) 20 hectares
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 16 hectares
Explanation
M1 = 6 cows, D1 = 25 days, W1 = 12 hectares
M2 = 10 cows, D2 = 20 days, W2 = ?
Formula: (M1 × D1)/W1 = (M2 × D2)/W2
(6 × 25)/12 = (10 × 20)/W2
W2 = (12 × 10 × 20)/(6 × 25)
= 2400/150
= 16 hectares
Hence, 10 cows will plough 16 hectares in 20 days.
Shortcut Method
1 cow ploughs 12/(6 × 25) = 0.08 hectare per day
10 cows in 20 days = 10 × 20 × 0.08
= 16 hectares
Answer: (C) 16 hectares
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Q. The total capacity of a tank is 200 litres. At present it is 60% full with water. Some water is taken from the tank and it is found that the tank is now 35% full. The quantity of water taken is :
(A) 30 litres
(B) 40 litres
(C) 45 litres
(D) 50 litres
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 50 litres
Explanation
Total capacity = 200 litres
Water at present = 60% of 200 = 120 litres
Water after some is taken out = 35% of 200 = 70 litres
Water taken = 120 − 70
= 50 litres
Hence, 50 litres of water was taken from the tank.
Shortcut Method
Water taken = (60% − 35%) of 200
= 25% of 200 = 1/4 × 200
= 50 litres
Answer: (D) 50 litres
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Q. If 2 dozen apples weigh 3 kg 600 gm, how many apples are there in 3 boxes weighing 26 kg 250 gm each?
(A) 500
(B) 510
(C) 515
(D) 525
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 525
Explanation
2 dozen apples = 24 apples
Weight of 24 apples = 3 kg 600 gm = 3600 gm
Weight of 1 apple = 3600 ÷ 24 = 150 gm
Weight of 3 boxes = 3 × 26 kg 250 gm = 3 × 26250 gm = 78750 gm
Number of apples = 78750 ÷ 150
= 525
Hence, there are 525 apples in the 3 boxes.
Shortcut Method
Apples in 1 box = 26250 ÷ 150 = 175
Apples in 3 boxes = 3 × 175 = 525
Answer: (D) 525
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Q. An ore contains 2% of copper. How much quantity of the ore is required to get 8.7 kg of copper?
(A) 400 kg
(B) 410 kg
(C) 425 kg
(D) 435 kg
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 435 kg
Explanation
Copper in the ore = 2%
Let the required quantity of ore = x kg
2% of x = 8.7 kg
(2/100) × x = 8.7
x = 8.7 × 100/2
= 870/2
= 435 kg
Hence, 435 kg of ore is required.
Shortcut Method
2% = 1/50, so Ore = 50 × Copper
= 50 × 8.7 = 435 kg
Answer: (D) 435 kg
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Q. The average daily rainfall during the month of February in the year 1808 in a city was 4.7 mm. What is the total rainfall during the month of February?
(A) 13.63 cm
(B) 13.00 cm
(C) 13.05 cm
(D) 13.25 cm
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 13.63 cm
Explanation
1808 is divisible by 4 and is not a century year, so it is a leap year
Days in February 1808 = 29
Average daily rainfall = 4.7 mm
Total rainfall = 29 × 4.7
= 136.3 mm
= 136.3 ÷ 10 cm
= 13.63 cm
Hence, the total rainfall in February 1808 was 13.63 cm.
Shortcut Method
29 × 4.7 = 30 × 4.7 − 4.7
= 141 − 4.7 = 136.3 mm = 13.63 cm
With 28 days the total would be 13.16 cm (not an option), so the leap year is the trick
Answer: (A) 13.63 cm
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Q. Grains are bought at 4 kg for Rs. 28 and sold at 3 kg for Rs. 27. The gain or loss made by selling 80 kg grains is :
(A) Gain Rs. 100
(B) Gain Rs. 160
(C) Loss Rs. 50
(D) Loss Rs. 80
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) Gain Rs. 160
Explanation
CP of 4 kg = Rs. 28, so CP of 1 kg = 28 ÷ 4 = Rs. 7
SP of 3 kg = Rs. 27, so SP of 1 kg = 27 ÷ 3 = Rs. 9
SP > CP, so there is a gain
Gain per kg = SP − CP = 9 − 7 = Rs. 2
Gain on 80 kg = 80 × 2
= Rs. 160
Hence, there is a gain of Rs. 160 on selling 80 kg.
Shortcut Method
CP of 80 kg = 80 × 7 = Rs. 560
SP of 80 kg = 80 × 9 = Rs. 720
Gain = 720 − 560 = Rs. 160
Answer: (B) Gain Rs. 160
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Q. 10 pumps can raise 75 tons of water in 10 hrs. Time taken by 15 pumps to raise 100 tons of water is :
(A) 7 hrs
(B) 8 hrs
(C) 8 8/9 hrs
(D) 9 hrs
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 8 8/9 hrs
Explanation
M1 = 10 pumps, T1 = 10 hrs, W1 = 75 tons
M2 = 15 pumps, T2 = ?, W2 = 100 tons
Formula: (M1 × T1)/W1 = (M2 × T2)/W2
(10 × 10)/75 = (15 × T2)/100
T2 = (10 × 10 × 100)/(75 × 15)
= 10000/1125
= 80/9
= 8 8/9 hrs
Hence, 15 pumps will take 8 8/9 hours.
Shortcut Method
T2 = 10 × (10/15) × (100/75)
= 10 × 2/3 × 4/3
= 80/9 = 8 8/9 hrs
Answer: (C) 8 8/9 hrs
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Q. Value of 4 1/2% of 12 m is :
(A) 50 cm
(B) 52 cm
(C) 54 cm
(D) 56 cm
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 54 cm
Explanation
12 m = 12 × 100 = 1200 cm
4 1/2% = 9/2 % = 9/200
Required value = 1200 × 9/200
= 6 × 9
= 54 cm
Hence, 4 1/2% of 12 m is 54 cm.
Shortcut Method
1% of 1200 cm = 12 cm
4.5% = 4.5 × 12 = 54 cm
Answer: (C) 54 cm
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Q. Find the number which when decreased by 8% becomes 506 :
(A) 510
(B) 520
(C) 540
(D) 550
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 550
Explanation
Let the number be x
After an 8% decrease, value = x × (100 − 8)/100 = 92x/100
92x/100 = 506
x = 506 × 100/92
= 50600/92
= 550
Hence, the number is 550.
Shortcut Method
92% of the number = 506, so 1% = 506 ÷ 92 = 5.5
100% = 5.5 × 100 = 550
Answer: (D) 550
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Q. By selling a tape recorder for Rs. 600 a loss of Rs. 100 is suffered. If the tape recorder be sold in order to gain 16%, the price is :
(A) Rs. 800
(B) Rs. 806
(C) Rs. 812
(D) Rs. 818
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) Rs. 812
Explanation
SP = Rs. 600, Loss = Rs. 100
CP = SP + Loss = 600 + 100 = Rs. 700
Required gain = 16%
New SP = CP × (100 + 16)/100
= 700 × 116/100
= 7 × 116
= Rs. 812
Hence, the tape recorder should be sold for Rs. 812.
Shortcut Method
SP = CP × 1.16
= 700 × 1.16 = Rs. 812
The gain rate is cut off in the scan; 812 ÷ 700 = 1.16 confirms it is 16%
Answer: (C) Rs. 812
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Q. If 125 men can do a piece of work in 120 days, then in 100 days the work can be done by :
(A) 110 men
(B) 120 men
(C) 135 men
(D) 150 men
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 150 men
Explanation
M1 = 125 men, D1 = 120 days
M2 = ?, D2 = 100 days
Formula: M1 × D1 = M2 × D2
125 × 120 = M2 × 100
M2 = 15000 ÷ 100
= 150 men
Hence, 150 men can do the work in 100 days.
Shortcut Method
Men and days are inversely proportional
M2 = 125 × 120/100 = 125 × 6/5 = 150 men
The day figure is cut off in the scan; only 100 days gives an option
Answer: (D) 150 men
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Q. The price of diesel increases from Rs. 12 per litre to Rs. 16 per litre. Find the percentage increase in the price :
(A) 33%
(B) 33 1/2%
(C) 33 1/3%
(D) 33 1/5%
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 33 1/3%
Explanation
Old price = Rs. 12 per litre
New price = Rs. 16 per litre
Increase = 16 − 12 = Rs. 4
Percentage increase = (Increase ÷ Old price) × 100
= (4/12) × 100
= 100/3
= 33 1/3%
Hence, the price increased by 33 1/3%.
Shortcut Method
Increase as a fraction = 4/12 = 1/3
1/3 = 33 1/3%
Answer: (C) 33 1/3%
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Q. Find the difference between 13/15 of Rs. 675 and 9/16 of Rs. 656 :
(A) Rs. 204
(B) Rs. 208
(C) Rs. 212
(D) Rs. 216
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) Rs. 216
Explanation
13/15 of Rs. 675 = 13 × 675/15 = 13 × 45 = Rs. 585
9/16 of Rs. 656 = 9 × 656/16 = 9 × 41 = Rs. 369
Difference = 585 − 369
= Rs. 216
Hence, the difference is Rs. 216.
Shortcut Method
675 ÷ 15 = 45 and 656 ÷ 16 = 41
Difference = 13 × 45 − 9 × 41
= 585 − 369 = Rs. 216
Answer: (D) Rs. 216
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Q. 12 cakes of soap weigh 5 kg and 604 gm. Find the weight of 5 cakes in kg :
(A) 233.5
(B) 23.35
(C) 2.335
(D) 2.533
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 2.335
Explanation
Weight of 12 cakes = 5 kg 604 gm = 5604 gm
Weight of 1 cake = 5604 ÷ 12 = 467 gm
Weight of 5 cakes = 5 × 467
= 2335 gm
= 2335 ÷ 1000 kg
= 2.335 kg
Hence, 5 cakes of soap weigh 2.335 kg.
Shortcut Method
Weight of 5 cakes = 5.604 × 5/12
= 28.02 ÷ 12 = 2.335 kg
Check: 5 cakes must weigh less than half of 5.604 kg (2.802 kg), so only 2.335 fits
Answer: (C) 2.335
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Q. A boy goes 6 km straight to the east and from there goes 8 km straight to the north. What is his displacement?
(A) 14 km
(B) 8 km
(C) 10 km
(D) 2 km
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 10 km
Explanation
Distance towards East = 6 km
Distance towards North = 8 km
East and North are at right angles, so the path forms a right-angled triangle.
Displacement = shortest straight distance from start to end point = hypotenuse
Displacement = √(6^2 + 8^2)
= √(36 + 64)
= √100
= 10 km
Hence, the displacement of the boy is 10 km (towards the north-east), while the distance travelled is 6 + 8 = 14 km.
Shortcut Method
6 : 8 = 2 × (3 : 4), and 3-4-5 is a Pythagorean triplet
Hypotenuse = 2 × 5
= 10 km
Answer: (C) 10 km
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Q. An article is bought for Rs. 750 and is sold at a gain of 20%. How much more will be gained, if the article is sold at a gain of 30%?
(A) Rs. 75
(B) Rs. 70
(C) Rs. 65
(D) Rs. 60
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) Rs. 75
Explanation
Cost Price (CP) = Rs. 750
Gain at 20% = (20/100) × 750 = Rs. 150
Gain at 30% = (30/100) × 750 = Rs. 225
Extra gain = 225 − 150
= Rs. 75
Hence, Rs. 75 more will be gained by selling at 30% gain.
Shortcut Method
Extra gain = (30% − 20%) of CP
= 10% of 750
= Rs. 75
Answer: (A) Rs. 75
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Q. Number of tiles each 2 1/3 dm by 1 dm, required to cover the floor of a room, 20 m by 14 m is :
(A) 120
(B) 1200
(C) 12000
(D) 120000
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 12000
Explanation
Length of room = 20 m = 200 dm (1 m = 10 dm)
Breadth of room = 14 m = 140 dm
Area of floor = 200 × 140 = 28000 sq. dm
Area of one tile = 2 1/3 × 1 = 7/3 sq. dm
Number of tiles = Area of floor ÷ Area of one tile
= 28000 ÷ 7/3
= 28000 × 3/7
= 4000 × 3
= 12000
Hence, 12000 tiles are required.
Shortcut Method
Tiles along 20 m = 200 ÷ 1 = 200
Tiles along 14 m = 140 ÷ 7/3 = 60
Number of tiles = 200 × 60 = 12000
Answer: (C) 12000
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Q. The perimeter of a square field having twice the area of a rectangular field, 9 m by 8 m is :
(A) 24 m
(B) 48 m
(C) 64 m
(D) 72 m
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 48 m
Explanation
Area of rectangular field = Length × Breadth
= 9 × 8
= 72 sq. m
Area of square field = 2 × 72 = 144 sq. m
Side of square = √144 = 12 m
Perimeter of square = 4 × Side
= 4 × 12
= 48 m
Hence, the perimeter of the square field is 48 m.
Shortcut Method
Perimeter = 4 × √(2 × 9 × 8)
= 4 × √144
= 48 m
Answer: (B) 48 m
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Q. Interest on Rs. 600 for 5 years amounted to Rs. 60. The rate of interest is :
(A) 1.5%
(B) 2%
(C) 2.5%
(D) 3%
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 2%
Explanation
Principal (P) = Rs. 600
Time (T) = 5 years
Simple Interest (SI) = Rs. 60
Rate (R) = (SI × 100) / (P × T)
= (60 × 100) / (600 × 5)
= 6000 / 3000
= 2%
Hence, the rate of interest is 2% per annum.
Shortcut Method
Interest per year = 60 ÷ 5 = Rs. 12
R = (12 / 600) × 100
= 2%
Answer: (B) 2%
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Q. The area of the path one metre wide surrounding a playground 60 metres long and 40 metres broad is :
(A) 264 sq. m
(B) 240 sq. m
(C) 204 sq. m
(D) 206 sq. m
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 204 sq. m
Explanation
Length of playground = 60 m, Breadth = 40 m
Width of path (outside) = 1 m on every side
Outer length = 60 + 2 × 1 = 62 m
Outer breadth = 40 + 2 × 1 = 42 m
Outer area = 62 × 42 = 2604 sq. m
Inner area = 60 × 40 = 2400 sq. m
Area of path = Outer area − Inner area
= 2604 − 2400
= 204 sq. m
Hence, the area of the path is 204 sq. m.
Shortcut Method
Area of outer path = 2w(L + B + 2w)
= 2 × 1 × (60 + 40 + 2)
= 2 × 102
= 204 sq. m
Answer: (C) 204 sq. m
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Q. Number of stones each 1 1/4 metres square, will cover a roof 40 metres square is :
(A) 1004
(B) 1040
(C) 1440
(D) 1024
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 1024
Explanation
“1 1/4 metres square” means a square of side 1 1/4 m, and “40 metres square” means a square of side 40 m.
Area of roof = 40 × 40 = 1600 sq. m
Side of one stone = 1 1/4 m = 5/4 m
Area of one stone = 5/4 × 5/4 = 25/16 sq. m
Number of stones = Area of roof ÷ Area of one stone
= 1600 ÷ 25/16
= 1600 × 16/25
= 64 × 16
= 1024
Hence, 1024 stones will cover the roof.
Shortcut Method
Stones along one side = 40 ÷ 5/4 = 32
Number of stones = 32 × 32
= 1024
Answer: (D) 1024
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Q. A sum of money triples itself, the rate of interest being 5% per annum. The time is :
(A) 10 years
(B) 20 years
(C) 30 years
(D) 40 years
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 40 years
Explanation
Let Principal = P
Amount = 3P (the sum triples)
Simple Interest (SI) = 3P − P = 2P
Rate (R) = 5% per annum
Time (T) = (SI × 100) / (P × R)
= (2P × 100) / (P × 5)
= 200 / 5
= 40 years
Hence, the time taken is 40 years.
Shortcut Method
If a sum becomes n times at R% simple interest, T = (n − 1) × 100 / R
= (3 − 1) × 100 / 5
= 40 years
Answer: (D) 40 years
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Q. The greatest number of 5 digits which is a perfect square is :
(A) 10001
(B) 99685
(C) 99865
(D) 99856
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 99856
Explanation
Greatest 5-digit number = 99999
√99999 lies between 316 and 317
316^2 = 99856
317^2 = 100489 (6 digits)
So, the greatest 5-digit perfect square = 316^2 = 99856
Hence, the greatest 5-digit perfect square is 99856.
Shortcut Method
Find the remainder when 99999 is divided by its square root (long division)
99999 − 316^2 = 99999 − 99856 = 143
Greatest square = 99999 − 143
= 99856
Answer: (D) 99856
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Q. Interest on Rs. 250 for 2 years 6 months at 6 paise per rupee per month is :
(A) Rs. 450
(B) Rs. 425
(C) Rs. 400
(D) Rs. 375
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) Rs. 450
Explanation
Principal (P) = Rs. 250
Rate = 6 paise per rupee per month = Rs. 0.06 per rupee per month
Time (T) = 2 years 6 months = 30 months
Interest = P × Rate × T
= 250 × 0.06 × 30
= 15 × 30
= Rs. 450
Hence, the interest is Rs. 450.
Shortcut Method
6 paise per rupee per month = 6% per month = 72% per year
SI = 250 × 72 × 2.5 / 100
= Rs. 450
Answer: (A) Rs. 450
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Q. The least number which should be added to 10000 so that the sum is exactly divisible by 237 is :
(A) 10191
(B) 19011
(C) 10911
(D) 19110
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 10191
Explanation
Given number = 10000
Divisor = 237
10000 ÷ 237 = 42, remainder 46 (237 × 42 = 9954)
Number to be added = Divisor − Remainder
= 237 − 46
= 191
Sum = 10000 + 191 = 10191 = 237 × 43
Hence, the least number to be added is 191, which makes the sum 10191; the options list the resulting sum, so option (A) 10191 is the answer.
Shortcut Method
Next multiple of 237 after 10000 = 237 × 43
= 10191
Check: 10191 ÷ 237 = 43 exactly
Answer: (A) 10191
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Q. The smallest number by which 2187 is to be divided so that the quotient may be a perfect square is :
(A) 3
(B) 5
(C) 7
(D) 9
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 3
Explanation
2187 = 3 × 3 × 3 × 3 × 3 × 3 × 3 = 3^7
For a perfect square, every prime must have an even power.
3^7 = 3^6 × 3
Remove one 3 by dividing by 3:
2187 ÷ 3 = 729 = 3^6 = 27^2
Hence, the smallest number to divide by is 3.
Shortcut Method
Divide 2187 by each option, smallest first:
2187 ÷ 3 = 729 = 27 × 27
Answer is 3
Answer: (A) 3
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Q. The amount from Rs. 360 for 1 year 4 months at 2 p.c. per annum is :
(A) Rs. 362.50
(B) Rs. 365
(C) Rs. 368
(D) Rs. 369.60
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) Rs. 369.60
Explanation
Principal (P) = Rs. 360
Rate (R) = 2% per annum
Time (T) = 1 year 4 months = 1 4/12 = 4/3 years
SI = (P × R × T) / 100
= (360 × 2 × 4/3) / 100
= 960 / 100
= Rs. 9.60
Amount = P + SI
= 360 + 9.60
= Rs. 369.60
Hence, the amount is Rs. 369.60.
Shortcut Method
SI for 1 year = 2% of 360 = Rs. 7.20
SI for 4/3 years = 7.20 × 4/3 = Rs. 9.60
Amount = 360 + 9.60 = Rs. 369.60
Answer: (D) Rs. 369.60
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Q. Simplify : 5 − [3 − 1 − {2 − (5 + 3 − 2)}]
(A bar (vinculum) is drawn over 3 − 2.)
(A) 0
(B) −1
(C) 1
(D) −2
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) −1
Explanation
The bar (vinculum) over 3 − 2 is solved first.
3 − 2 = 1
(5 + 1) = 6
{2 − 6} = −4
[3 − 1 − (−4)] = 3 − 1 + 4 = 6
5 − 6 = −1
Hence, the value of the expression is −1.
Shortcut Method
BODMAS order: Vinculum → ( ) → { } → [ ]
5 − [2 − {2 − 6}]
= 5 − [2 + 4]
= 5 − 6 = −1
Answer: (B) −1
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Q. The least number which on adding 10 is exactly divisible by 48, 72, 84 is :
(A) 1008
(B) 1018
(C) 998
(D) 990
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 998
Explanation
Required number + 10 must be divisible by 48, 72 and 84, so it equals their LCM.
48 = 2^4 × 3
72 = 2^3 × 3^2
84 = 2^2 × 3 × 7
LCM = 2^4 × 3^2 × 7
= 16 × 9 × 7
= 1008
Required number = LCM − 10
= 1008 − 10
= 998
Hence, the least number is 998.
Shortcut Method
Check options: (number + 10) must be a multiple of 1008
998 + 10 = 1008 = LCM
Answer is 998
Answer: (C) 998
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Q. A gardener plants an orchard with 5776 trees and arranges them so that the number of rows equals the number of trees in each row. The number of rows are :
(A) 74
(B) 75
(C) 76
(D) 77
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 76
Explanation
Number of rows = Number of trees in each row = x
Total trees = x × x = x^2
x^2 = 5776
x = √5776
5776 = 2^4 × 19^2
x = 2^2 × 19
= 76
Hence, the number of rows is 76.
Shortcut Method
5776 ends in 6, so the root ends in 4 or 6
75^2 = 5625 < 5776 < 6400 = 80^2, so the root is between 75 and 80
Root = 76 (check: 76 × 76 = 5776)
Answer: (C) 76
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Q. The interest on a sum of money for 5 years at 6% is Rs. 75. The sum is :
(A) Rs. 200
(B) Rs. 225
(C) Rs. 250
(D) Rs. 275
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) Rs. 250
Explanation
Simple Interest (SI) = Rs. 75
Rate (R) = 6% per annum
Time (T) = 5 years
Principal (P) = (SI × 100) / (R × T)
= (75 × 100) / (6 × 5)
= 7500 / 30
= Rs. 250
Hence, the sum is Rs. 250.
Shortcut Method
Interest for 5 years at 6% = 30% of P
30% of P = 75
P = 75 × 100/30 = Rs. 250
Answer: (C) Rs. 250
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Q. The fraction by which 35/42 should be multiplied so that the square root of the product is 1 is :
(A) 1 1/5
(B) 35/42
(C) 24/53
(D) 8/7
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 1 1/5
Explanation
Let the required fraction be x.
√(35/42 × x) = 1
35/42 × x = 1^2 = 1
x = 42/35
= 6/5
= 1 1/5
Hence, the required fraction is 1 1/5.
Shortcut Method
Square root of product = 1 means product = 1, so x = reciprocal of 35/42
x = 42/35 = 6/5 = 1 1/5
Answer: (A) 1 1/5
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Q. Interest on a sum of money for 3 years 4 months is 2/15 of the principal. Rate percent per annum is :
(A) Rs. 3
(B) Rs. 4
(C) Rs. 4.50
(D) Rs. 5
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) Rs. 4
Explanation
Let Principal = P
Simple Interest (SI) = 2/15 × P
Time (T) = 3 years 4 months = 3 4/12 = 10/3 years
Rate (R) = (SI × 100) / (P × T)
= (2P/15 × 100) / (P × 10/3)
= (40/3) ÷ (10/3)
= 4% per annum
Hence, the rate is 4% per annum (the options misprint “Rs.” in place of %).
Shortcut Method
SI/P as a percent = 2/15 × 100 = 40/3 %
R = (40/3) ÷ (10/3)
= 4%
Answer: (B) Rs. 4
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Q. The H.C.F. and L.C.M. of two numbers are 9 and 270 respectively. If one of the numbers is 54, the other number is :
(A) 40
(B) 45
(C) 50
(D) 55
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 45
Explanation
HCF = 9, LCM = 270
First number = 54
Product of two numbers = HCF × LCM
54 × Second number = 9 × 270
Second number = (9 × 270) / 54
= 2430 / 54
= 45
Hence, the other number is 45.
Shortcut Method
Second number = HCF × LCM ÷ First number
= 270 ÷ (54 ÷ 9)
= 270 ÷ 6 = 45
Answer: (B) 45
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Q. Standing on the side of a railway track a man finds that a train of length 280 m crosses him in 14 seconds. The speed of the train is :
(A) 55 km/hr
(B) 66 km/hr
(C) 72 km/hr
(D) 80 km/hr
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 72 km/hr
Explanation
Length of train = 280 m
Time to cross a standing man = 14 seconds
To cross a man, the train covers its own length.
Speed = Distance / Time
= 280 / 14
= 20 m/s
Speed in km/hr = 20 × 18/5
= 72 km/hr
Hence, the speed of the train is 72 km/hr.
Shortcut Method
Speed (km/hr) = (Length ÷ Time) × 3.6
= 20 × 3.6
= 72 km/hr
Answer: (C) 72 km/hr
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Q. The H.C.F. of two numbers is P and their L.C.M. is Q. If one of the numbers be R, then the other number is :
(A) PQ/R
(B) PQ/Q
(C) (option not printed in the paper)
(D) 1
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) PQ/R
Explanation
HCF = P, LCM = Q
One number = R, other number = x
Product of two numbers = HCF × LCM
R × x = P × Q
x = PQ / R
Hence, the other number is PQ/R (option C is not printed in the paper; this does not affect the answer).
Shortcut Method
Check with numbers: 4 and 6 have HCF 2, LCM 12
Other number = (2 × 12) / 4 = 6, which is correct
So the formula is PQ/R
Answer: (A) PQ/R
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Q. The letters of which of the following series does not show lateral inversion infront of a mirror?
(A) APC
(B) PSR
(C) OMU
(D) BDO
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) OMU
Explanation
A letter shows no lateral inversion in a plane mirror only if it is symmetrical about a vertical line. In OMU, all three letters O, M and U are vertically symmetrical, so they look the same in a mirror. Every other option contains at least one letter (P, C, S, R, B, D) that appears reversed.
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WBPSC Clerkship Mathematics Questions 2007 2nd Shfit
Q. A rectangular court 60 metre long and 40 metre broad has within it a path 2 metre wide round it. The area of the path is :
(A) 348 sq.m
(B) 384 sq.m
(C) 380 sq.m
(D) 388 sq.m
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 384 sq.m
Explanation
Length of court = 60 m, Breadth = 40 m
Area of court = 60 × 40 = 2400 sq.m
Path is 2 m wide inside, so inner length = 60 − 2 × 2 = 56 m
Inner breadth = 40 − 2 × 2 = 36 m
Inner area = 56 × 36 = 2016 sq.m
Area of path = Outer area − Inner area
= 2400 − 2016
= 384 sq.m
Hence, the area of the path is 384 sq.m.
Shortcut Method
Area of path inside = 2w(L + B) − 4w^2
= 2 × 2 × (60 + 40) − 4 × 4
= 400 − 16
= 384 sq.m
Answer: (B) 384 sq.m
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Q. The perimeter of a square equal in area to two squares whose sides are 8 m and 15 m respectively in length is :
(A) 17 m
(B) 34 m
(C) 68 m
(D) 289 m
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 68 m
Explanation
Side of first square = 8 m, Area = 8^2 = 64 sq.m
Side of second square = 15 m, Area = 15^2 = 225 sq.m
Area of required square = 64 + 225 = 289 sq.m
Side of required square = √289 = 17 m
Perimeter = 4 × Side
= 4 × 17
= 68 m
Hence, the perimeter of the required square is 68 m.
Shortcut Method
Side = √(8^2 + 15^2) = 17 m (8, 15, 17 is a Pythagorean triplet)
Perimeter = 4 × 17
= 68 m
Answer: (C) 68 m
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Q. The principal that will amount to Rs. 1300 in 2 1/2 years at 12% per annum is :
(A) Rs. 900
(B) Rs. 1000
(C) Rs. 1100
(D) Rs. 1200
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) Rs. 1000
Explanation
Amount (A) = Rs. 1300, R = 12% per annum, T = 2 1/2 years
SI = P × R × T / 100
SI = P × 12 × (5/2) / 100 = 30P/100 = 3P/10
A = P + SI
1300 = P + 3P/10 = 13P/10
P = 1300 × 10 / 13
= Rs. 1000
Hence, the principal is Rs. 1000.
Shortcut Method
Total interest rate = 12 × 2.5 = 30%
A = P × 130/100
P = 1300 × 100/130
= Rs. 1000
Answer: (B) Rs. 1000
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Q. An article is sold for Rs. 1350 at a loss of Rs. 150. Find the loss as percent :
(A) 8%
(B) 9%
(C) 10%
(D) 11%
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 10%
Explanation
Selling Price (SP) = Rs. 1350, Loss = Rs. 150
Cost Price (CP) = SP + Loss
= 1350 + 150
= Rs. 1500
Loss % = (Loss / CP) × 100
= (150 / 1500) × 100
= 10%
Hence, the loss percent is 10%.
Shortcut Method
Loss % = Loss × 100 / (SP + Loss)
= 150 × 100 / 1500
= 10%
Answer: (C) 10%
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Q. Find the fraction which is as much greater than 5/8 as is less than 3/4 :
(A) 3/8
(B) 3/16
(C) 11/16
(D) 13/16
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 11/16
Explanation
Let the required fraction be x
x − 5/8 = 3/4 − x
2x = 3/4 + 5/8
2x = 6/8 + 5/8 = 11/8
x = 11/16
Hence, the required fraction is 11/16.
Shortcut Method
Required fraction = average of the two fractions
= (5/8 + 3/4) / 2
= (11/8) / 2
= 11/16
Answer: (C) 11/16
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Q. The least number of 4 digits which is perfect square is :
(A) 1000
(B) 1042
(C) 1024
(D) 1100
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 1024
Explanation
Smallest 4-digit number = 1000
√1000 ≈ 31.6, so 31^2 = 961 is a 3-digit number
Next square = 32^2
= 32 × 32
= 1024
Hence, the least 4-digit perfect square is 1024.
Shortcut Method
Square just above 1000: 30^2 = 900, 31^2 = 961, 32^2 = 1024
1042 ends in 2, and no perfect square ends in 2, 3, 7 or 8
= 1024
Answer: (C) 1024
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Q. The amount from Rs. 200 for 3 years at 1 paise per rupee per month interest is :
(A) Rs. 200
(B) Rs. 72
(C) Rs. 272
(D) Rs. 250
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) Rs. 272
Explanation
Principal (P) = Rs. 200, T = 3 years
Rate = 1 paise per rupee per month = 1% per month
Rate per annum (R) = 1 × 12 = 12%
SI = P × R × T / 100
= 200 × 12 × 3 / 100
= Rs. 72
Amount = P + SI
= 200 + 72
= Rs. 272
Hence, the amount is Rs. 272. (The printed key shows (B) Rs. 72, which is only the interest; the question asks for the amount.)
Shortcut Method
Interest = 1 paise × 200 × 36 months = 7200 paise = Rs. 72
Amount = 200 + 72
= Rs. 272
Answer: (C) Rs. 272
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Q. Interest on Rs. 400 for 2 years 6 months at 7 1/2% per annum is :
(A) Rs. 65
(B) Rs. 70
(C) Rs. 75
(D) Rs. 80
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) Rs. 75
Explanation
Principal (P) = Rs. 400, R = 7 1/2% = 15/2%
Time (T) = 2 years 6 months = 2 1/2 years = 5/2 years
SI = P × R × T / 100
= 400 × (15/2) × (5/2) / 100
= 400 × 75 / 400
= Rs. 75
Hence, the interest is Rs. 75.
Shortcut Method
Total rate = 7.5 × 2.5 = 18.75%
SI = 18.75% of 400
= 18.75 × 4
= Rs. 75
Answer: (C) Rs. 75
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Q. The smallest number by which 486 is to be multiplied to make the product a perfect square is :
(A) 2
(B) 3
(C) 4
(D) 6
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 6
Explanation
Prime factorisation: 486 = 2 × 3 × 3 × 3 × 3 × 3
= 2 × 3^5
= 2 × 3^4 × 3
Unpaired factors = 2 and 3
Required multiplier = 2 × 3
= 6
Check: 486 × 6 = 2916 = 54^2
Hence, the smallest multiplier is 6.
Shortcut Method
486 = 81 × 6, and 81 is already a perfect square
So multiply by the leftover factor 6
486 × 6 = 2916 = 54^2
Answer: (D) 6
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Q. A sum of money doubles itself, the rate of interest per annum being 12%. The time is :
(A) 8 years
(B) 8 1/3 years
(C) 8 1/2 years
(D) 8 1/4 years
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 8 1/3 years
Explanation
Let Principal = P, then Amount = 2P
SI = 2P − P = P
R = 12% per annum
T = SI × 100 / (P × R)
= P × 100 / (P × 12)
= 100/12
= 8 1/3 years
Hence, the time is 8 1/3 years.
Shortcut Method
Time to double at SI = 100 / R
= 100 / 12
= 8 1/3 years
Answer: (B) 8 1/3 years
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Q. The sum lent at 5% interest p.a. will produce 1 rupee interest a day is :
(A) Rs. 7300
(B) Rs. 7030
(C) Rs. 7003
(D) Rs. 7303
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) Rs. 7300
Explanation
Interest per day = Re 1
Interest per year (SI) = 1 × 365 = Rs. 365
R = 5%, T = 1 year
P = SI × 100 / (R × T)
= 365 × 100 / (5 × 1)
= 36500 / 5
= Rs. 7300
Hence, the sum lent is Rs. 7300.
Shortcut Method
P = 365 × 100 / R
= 36500 / 5
= Rs. 7300
Answer: (A) Rs. 7300
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Q. The number multiplied by itself, will give 172225 is :
(A) 400
(B) 415
(C) 420
(D) 425
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 415
Explanation
Required number = √172225
172225 = 25 × 6889
√25 = 5, √6889 = 83
√172225 = 5 × 83
= 415
Check: 415 × 415 = 172225
Hence, the number is 415.
Shortcut Method
Number ends in 25, so its square root ends in 5
Pair the digits: 17 | 22 | 25; 4^2 = 16 ≤ 17, so the root starts with 4
Square of a number ending in 5: 41 × 42 = 1722, then attach 25
So 415^2 = 172225
Answer: (B) 415
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Q. The largest 4 digit number which is exactly divisible by 135 is :
(A) 9999
(B) 9099
(C) 9990
(D) 9009
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 9990
Explanation
Largest 4-digit number = 9999
9999 ÷ 135 gives quotient 74 and remainder 9
(135 × 74 = 9990)
Required number = 9999 − Remainder
= 9999 − 9
= 9990
Hence, the largest 4-digit number divisible by 135 is 9990.
Shortcut Method
135 = 5 × 27, so the number must end in 0 or 5 and be divisible by 27
Options ending in 0: only 9990
9990 ÷ 135 = 74
Answer: (C) 9990
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Q. The interest on Rs. 425 for 5 years is Rs. 21.25. Rate of interest is :
(A) 1%
(B) 1.25%
(C) 1.50%
(D) 1.75%
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 1%
Explanation
Principal (P) = Rs. 425, T = 5 years, SI = Rs. 21.25
R = SI × 100 / (P × T)
= 21.25 × 100 / (425 × 5)
= 2125 / 2125
= 1%
Hence, the rate of interest is 1% per annum.
Shortcut Method
Interest per year = 21.25 / 5 = Rs. 4.25
R = 4.25 / 425 × 100
= 1%
Answer: (A) 1%
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Q. The smallest whole number by which 49/27 should be multiplied so that the product is a fraction which is a perfect square is :
(A) 3
(B) 5
(C) 7
(D) 9
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 3
Explanation
Given fraction = 49/27
49 = 7^2, which is already a perfect square
27 = 3^3 = 3^2 × 3, so one factor 3 is unpaired
Multiply by 3: (49/27) × 3 = 147/27 = 49/9
49/9 = (7/3)^2
Hence, the smallest whole number is 3.
Shortcut Method
Only the denominator 27 = 3^3 has an odd power
Multiply by 3 to make it 3^2 after cancelling
49/27 × 3 = 49/9 = (7/3)^2
Answer: (A) 3
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Q. Simplify :
1 − x / [1 − 1 / {1 + x/(1 − x)}]
(A) 1
(B) zero
(C) x
(D) 1 + x
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) zero
Explanation
Start from the innermost part:
1 + x/(1 − x) = (1 − x + x)/(1 − x) = 1/(1 − x)
1 / [1/(1 − x)] = 1 − x
1 − (1 − x) = x
x / x = 1
Expression = 1 − 1
= 0
Hence, the value is zero. (The printed key shows (A) 1, which is only the value of the fraction part; the leading “1 −” makes the answer 0.)
Shortcut Method
Put x = 0.5: 1 + 0.5/0.5 = 2, 1/2 = 0.5, 1 − 0.5 = 0.5
0.5 / 0.5 = 1
1 − 1 = 0
Answer: (B) zero
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Q. Time taken by a train of length 120 m moving with a speed of 60 km/hr to cross a bridge of length 330 m is :
(A) 20 sec
(B) 24 sec
(C) 27 sec
(D) 30 sec
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 27 sec
Explanation
Length of train = 120 m, Length of bridge = 330 m
Total distance = 120 + 330 = 450 m
Speed = 60 km/hr = 60 × 5/18 = 50/3 m/s
Time = Distance / Speed
= 450 ÷ (50/3)
= 450 × 3/50
= 27 sec
Hence, the train takes 27 seconds.
Shortcut Method
Time = (Sum of lengths × 18) / (Speed × 5)
= 450 × 18 / 300
= 27 sec
Answer: (C) 27 sec
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Q. Two numbers are in the ratio 4 : 7; and their difference is 18. The greater number is :
(A) 24
(B) 42
(C) 12
(D) 21
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 42
Explanation
Let the numbers be 4x and 7x
Difference = 7x − 4x = 3x
3x = 18
x = 6
Greater number = 7x
= 7 × 6
= 42
Hence, the greater number is 42.
Shortcut Method
Difference of ratio terms = 7 − 4 = 3 parts = 18
1 part = 6
Greater number = 7 × 6 = 42
Answer: (B) 42
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Q. The L.C.M. and G.C.M. of two numbers are 4/5 and 1/5 respectively. If reciprocal of one number is 6 1/4, the other number will be :
(A) 16/625
(B) 1
(C) 25
(D) 625/16
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 1
Explanation
Product of two numbers = LCM × HCF (GCM)
LCM = 4/5, HCF = 1/5
Product = 4/5 × 1/5 = 4/25
Reciprocal of one number = 6 1/4 = 25/4, so that number = 4/25
Other number = Product ÷ First number
= (4/25) ÷ (4/25)
= 1
Hence, the other number is 1.
Shortcut Method
Other number = LCM × HCF × (reciprocal of first number)
= 4/5 × 1/5 × 25/4
= 1
Answer: (B) 1
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Q. 4 persons can finish a piece of work in 8 days working 7 hrs a day. Number of persons who will finish that work in 4 days working 8 hrs a day is :
(A) 7
(B) 8
(C) 9
(D) 10
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 7
Explanation
Formula: M1 × D1 × H1 = M2 × D2 × H2
M1 = 4 persons, D1 = 8 days, H1 = 7 hrs/day
D2 = 4 days, H2 = 8 hrs/day
4 × 8 × 7 = M2 × 4 × 8
M2 = (4 × 8 × 7) / (4 × 8)
= 7
Hence, 7 persons will finish the work.
Shortcut Method
Total work = 4 × 8 × 7 = 224 person-hours
Persons needed = 224 / (4 × 8)
= 7
Answer: (A) 7
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Q. The ratio between male and female teachers in a School is 5 : 8. If there are 56 female teachers in the School, the total number of teachers is :
(A) 35
(B) 65
(C) 70
(D) 91
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 91
Explanation
Ratio of male : female = 5 : 8
Female teachers = 8 parts = 56
1 part = 56 / 8 = 7
Total parts = 5 + 8 = 13
Total teachers = 13 × 7
= 91
Hence, the total number of teachers is 91.
Shortcut Method
Total = Female × (5 + 8)/8
= 56 × 13/8
= 91
Answer: (D) 91
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Q. In a camp, there was sufficient food for 250 students to last for 18 days. Find how long the food last if 50 additional students join the camp?
(A) 15 days
(B) 12 days
(C) 16 days
(D) 20 days
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 15 days
Explanation
Students = 250, Days = 18
Total food = 250 × 18 = 4500 student-days
New number of students = 250 + 50 = 300
Days = Total food / New students
= 4500 / 300
= 15 days
Hence, the food will last 15 days.
Shortcut Method
Days ∝ 1/Students
New days = 18 × 250/300
= 15 days
Answer: (A) 15 days
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Q. The product of two numbers is 45 and the sum of their squares is 106. The numbers are :
(A) 5, 9
(B) 3, 15
(C) 45, 1
(D) 12, 4
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 5, 9
Explanation
Let the numbers be a and b
ab = 45 and a^2 + b^2 = 106
(a + b)^2 = a^2 + b^2 + 2ab = 106 + 90 = 196, so a + b = 14
(a − b)^2 = a^2 + b^2 − 2ab = 106 − 90 = 16, so a − b = 4
a = (14 + 4)/2 = 9, b = (14 − 4)/2 = 5
Hence, the numbers are 5 and 9.
Shortcut Method
Check options: 5 × 9 = 45 and 25 + 81 = 106
3, 15: 9 + 225 = 234 (wrong); 45, 1: 2025 + 1 (wrong)
= 5, 9
Answer: (A) 5, 9
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Q. A, B and C individually can do a work in 6 days, 8 days and 12 days respectively. If they work together, they will finish the work in :
(A) 2 1/4 days
(B) 3 1/2 days
(C) 3 1/3 days
(D) 2 2/3 days
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 2 2/3 days
Explanation
A’s 1 day work = 1/6, B’s 1 day work = 1/8, C’s 1 day work = 1/12
(A + B + C)’s 1 day work = 1/6 + 1/8 + 1/12
LCM of 6, 8, 12 = 24
= 4/24 + 3/24 + 2/24
= 9/24 = 3/8
Time taken together = 8/3 days
= 2 2/3 days
Hence, they will finish the work in 2 2/3 days.
Shortcut Method
Total work = LCM (6, 8, 12) = 24 units
Daily work = 4 + 3 + 2 = 9 units
Time = 24/9 = 8/3 = 2 2/3 days
Answer: (D) 2 2/3 days
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Q. A and B together can do a work in 4 days. A alone would take 6 days to do it. How much time would B alone take to do the same work?
(A) 8 days
(B) 10 days
(C) 12 days
(D) 14 days
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 12 days
Explanation
Time taken by A and B together = 4 days
Time taken by A alone = 6 days
(A + B)’s 1 day work = 1/4
A’s 1 day work = 1/6
B’s 1 day work = 1/4 − 1/6
= (3 − 2)/12
= 1/12
So, B alone takes 12 days.
Hence, B alone would take 12 days to do the work.
Shortcut Method
B alone = (A × Together)/(A − Together)
= (6 × 4)/(6 − 4)
= 24/2
= 12 days
Answer: (C) 12 days
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Q. Three strings of length 50 m 75 cm, 68 m 58 cm and 121 m 3 cm are joined together to get a single longer string. If this single string is divided into 12 equal pieces, the length of each piece is :
(A) 20 m
(B) 20.1 m
(C) 20.3 m
(D) 20.03 m
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 20.03 m
Explanation
First string = 50 m 75 cm = 50.75 m
Second string = 68 m 58 cm = 68.58 m
Third string = 121 m 3 cm = 121.03 m
Total length = 50.75 + 68.58 + 121.03
= 240.36 m
Length of each piece = 240.36 ÷ 12
= 20.03 m
Hence, the length of each piece is 20.03 m.
Shortcut Method
Work in cm: 5075 + 6858 + 12103 = 24036 cm
24036 ÷ 12 = 2003 cm
= 20 m 3 cm = 20.03 m
Answer: (D) 20.03 m
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Q. A travelled 5 km in an hour. Distance travelled by him in 5 minutes is :
(A) 4.166 m
(B) 0.4166 m
(C) 416.67 m
(D) 4166.7 m
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 416.67 m
Explanation
Speed = 5 km per hour = 5000 m per 60 minutes
Distance in 1 minute = 5000/60 m
Distance in 5 minutes = (5000/60) × 5
= 25000/60
= 416.67 m
Hence, the distance travelled in 5 minutes is 416.67 m. The printed key shows (B) 0.4166 m, which is wrong; 0.4166 would be correct only in km.
Shortcut Method
5 minutes = 5/60 = 1/12 hour
Distance = 5000 × 1/12
= 416.67 m
Answer: (C) 416.67 m
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Q. If 45 is subtracted from 5 times a number, the difference is 100. The number is :
(A) 145
(B) 125
(C) 75
(D) 29
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 29
Explanation
5 × Number − 45 = 100
5 × Number = 100 + 45
= 145
Number = 145/5
= 29
Hence, the number is 29.
Shortcut Method
Number = (100 + 45)/5
= 145/5
= 29
Check: 5 × 29 − 45 = 145 − 45 = 100
Answer: (D) 29
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Q. The greatest number of 3 digits which is exactly divisible by 28 and 40 is :
(A) 999
(B) 100
(C) 109
(D) 840
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 840
Explanation
A number divisible by both 28 and 40 must be divisible by their LCM.
28 = 2^2 × 7
40 = 2^3 × 5
LCM = 2^3 × 5 × 7
= 280
Greatest 3-digit number = 999
999 ÷ 280 = 3, remainder 159
Required number = 999 − 159
= 840
Hence, the greatest 3-digit number divisible by 28 and 40 is 840.
Shortcut Method
LCM (28, 40) = 280
Largest multiple of 280 below 1000 = 280 × 3
= 840
Answer: (D) 840
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Q. A can finish a work in 12 days and B does it in 10 days. A and B, working together, can finish 5 times the work in :
(A) 20 days
(B) 20 2/3 days
(C) 25 1/4 days
(D) 27 3/11 days
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 27 3/11 days
Explanation
A’s 1 day work = 1/12
B’s 1 day work = 1/10
(A + B)’s 1 day work = 1/12 + 1/10
= (5 + 6)/60
= 11/60
Time for 1 work = 60/11 days
Time for 5 works = 5 × 60/11
= 300/11
= 27 3/11 days
Hence, A and B together can finish 5 times the work in 27 3/11 days.
Shortcut Method
Time for 1 work = (12 × 10)/(12 + 10) = 120/22 = 60/11 days
Time for 5 works = 5 × 60/11
= 27 3/11 days
Answer: (D) 27 3/11 days
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Q. Average daily income of 8 men is Rs. 13.20 and that of another group of 14 men is Rs. 12.10. The average daily income of these 22 men is :
(A) Rs. 12
(B) Rs. 12.50
(C) Rs. 13
(D) Rs. 13.25
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) Rs. 12.50
Explanation
Total income of 8 men = 8 × 13.20
= Rs. 105.60
Total income of 14 men = 14 × 12.10
= Rs. 169.40
Total income of 22 men = 105.60 + 169.40
= Rs. 275
Average = 275 ÷ 22
= Rs. 12.50
Hence, the average daily income of the 22 men is Rs. 12.50.
Shortcut Method
Take 12.10 as base: extra of first group = 8 × 1.10 = 8.80
Average = 12.10 + 8.80/22
= 12.10 + 0.40
= Rs. 12.50
Answer: (B) Rs. 12.50
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Q. A typist types 70 pages in 3 hours 30 minutes. How long will she take to type 300 pages?
(A) 12 hours
(B) 14 hours
(C) 15 hours
(D) 16 hours
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 15 hours
Explanation
Time for 70 pages = 3 hours 30 minutes = 3.5 hours
Pages typed per hour = 70 ÷ 3.5
= 20 pages
Time for 300 pages = 300 ÷ 20
= 15 hours
Hence, she will take 15 hours to type 300 pages.
Shortcut Method
Time = 3.5 × (300/70)
= 3.5 × 30/7
= 15 hours
Answer: (C) 15 hours
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Q. 15 men earn Rs. 630 in 12 days. 4 men will earn Rs. 112 in :
(A) 6 days
(B) 8 days
(C) 10 days
(D) 12 days
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 8 days
Explanation
Earning of 15 men in 12 days = Rs. 630
Earning of 1 man in 1 day = 630 ÷ (15 × 12)
= 630 ÷ 180
= Rs. 3.50
Earning of 4 men in 1 day = 4 × 3.50
= Rs. 14
Days for Rs. 112 = 112 ÷ 14
= 8 days
Hence, 4 men will earn Rs. 112 in 8 days.
Shortcut Method
Earning/(Men × Days) is constant:
630/(15 × 12) = 112/(4 × D)
D = (112 × 15 × 12)/(630 × 4)
= 8 days
Answer: (B) 8 days
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Q. Product of two numbers is 4032 and their H.C.F. is 12. Their L.C.M. is :
(A) 330
(B) 340
(C) 336
(D) 346
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 336
Explanation
Product of two numbers = HCF × LCM
Product = 4032, HCF = 12
LCM = Product ÷ HCF
= 4032 ÷ 12
= 336
Hence, their LCM is 336.
Shortcut Method
LCM must be a multiple of HCF 12
Check options: only 336 (= 12 × 28) is divisible by 12
= 336
Answer: (C) 336
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Q. Value of √3 is :
(A) 1.372
(B) 1.273
(C) 1.732
(D) 1.700
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 1.732
Explanation
√3 lies between √1 = 1 and √4 = 2
1.7^2 = 2.89
1.73^2 = 2.9929
1.732^2 = 2.999824
So, √3 = 1.732 (approx.)
Hence, the value of √3 is 1.732.
Shortcut Method
Remember standard roots:
√2 = 1.414, √3 = 1.732, √5 = 2.236
Check by option: 1.732 × 1.732 = 2.9998 ≈ 3
Answer: (C) 1.732
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Q. 25 men can dig a pond, 12 m long, in 20 days. In 25 days 21 m long pond can be dug by :
(A) 30 men
(B) 32 men
(C) 35 men
(D) 38 men
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 35 men
Explanation
Formula: (M1 × D1)/W1 = (M2 × D2)/W2
M1 = 25 men, D1 = 20 days, W1 = 12 m
M2 = ?, D2 = 25 days, W2 = 21 m
(25 × 20)/12 = (M2 × 25)/21
M2 = (25 × 20 × 21)/(12 × 25)
= 420/12
= 35 men
Hence, 35 men can dig the 21 m long pond in 25 days.
Shortcut Method
M2 = 25 × (21/12) × (20/25)
= 25 × 7/4 × 4/5
= 35 men
Answer: (C) 35 men
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Q. If the mean of 15, 18, x, 14, 21, 26, 8 is 16, find the value of x :
(A) 8
(B) 9
(C) 10
(D) 11
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 10
Explanation
Mean = Sum of observations ÷ Number of observations
Number of observations = 7
Sum = 16 × 7
= 112
Sum of known numbers = 15 + 18 + 14 + 21 + 26 + 8
= 102
x = 112 − 102
= 10
Hence, the value of x is 10.
Shortcut Method
Deviations from 16: −1, +2, −2, +5, +10, −8 = +6
x must balance them: x = 16 − 6
= 10
Answer: (C) 10
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Q. What fraction is 270 gm of 3 kilogram?
(A) 3/50
(B) 9/100
(C) 7/50
(D) 9/80
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 9/100
Explanation
3 kilogram = 3 × 1000 = 3000 gm
Required fraction = 270/3000
= 27/300
= 9/100
Hence, 270 gm is 9/100 of 3 kilogram.
Shortcut Method
270 gm out of 3000 gm = 270/3000
= 0.09
= 9/100
Answer: (B) 9/100
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Q. 6 men can unload coal from one truck in 5 hours. Number of hours taken by 15 men to unload coal from 3 trucks is :
(A) 4 hours
(B) 6 hours
(C) 8 hours
(D) 10 hours
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 6 hours
Explanation
Man-hours for 1 truck = 6 × 5
= 30 man-hours
Man-hours for 3 trucks = 30 × 3
= 90 man-hours
Time taken by 15 men = 90 ÷ 15
= 6 hours
Hence, 15 men will take 6 hours to unload 3 trucks.
Shortcut Method
(M1 × H1)/W1 = (M2 × H2)/W2
(6 × 5)/1 = (15 × H)/3
H = 90/15 = 6 hours
Answer: (B) 6 hours
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Q. 25 gms NaCl is present in 250 ml solution. The percentage strength of the solution is :
(A) 11.1%
(B) 9%
(C) 10%
(D) 25%
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 10%
Explanation
Mass of NaCl = 25 g
Volume of solution = 250 ml
Percentage strength (w/v) = (Mass of solute ÷ Volume of solution) × 100
= (25/250) × 100
= 10%
Hence, the percentage strength of the solution is 10%.
Shortcut Method
25 out of 250 = 1/10
= 10%
Answer: (C) 10%
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Q. What per cent is 26 seconds of 6 minutes 30 seconds?
(A) 6%
(B) 6 1/2 %
(C) 6 1/3 %
(D) 6 2/3 %
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (D) 6 2/3 %
Explanation
6 minutes 30 seconds = 6 × 60 + 30
= 390 seconds
Required per cent = (26/390) × 100
= (1/15) × 100
= 20/3
= 6 2/3 %
Hence, 26 seconds is 6 2/3 % of 6 minutes 30 seconds.
Shortcut Method
26/390 = 1/15
1/15 = 6.666…%
= 6 2/3 %
Answer: (D) 6 2/3 %
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Q. Value of (.81 × .005)/.45 is :
(A) .009
(B) .009
(C) .9
(D) .009
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) .009
Explanation
Numerator = .81 × .005
= 0.00405
Value = 0.00405 ÷ 0.45
= 405/45000
= 9/1000
= 0.009
Hence, the value is .009. The paper misprints options (A), (B) and (D) all as .009, so the printed key’s (A) is taken.
Shortcut Method
.81/.45 = 1.8
1.8 × .005
= 0.009
Answer: (A) .009
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Q. Length of fencing required to fence a square field of 441 square metre is :
(A) 42 m
(B) 84 m
(C) 48 m
(D) 24 m
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 84 m
Explanation
Area of square field = 441 sq m
Side = √441
= 21 m
Length of fencing = Perimeter = 4 × Side
= 4 × 21
= 84 m
Hence, 84 m of fencing is required.
Shortcut Method
Perimeter of square = 4√Area
= 4 × √441
= 4 × 21 = 84 m
Answer: (B) 84 m
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Q. If 2.5% of a number is 15, the number is :
(A) 500
(B) 550
(C) 600
(D) 650
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) 600
Explanation
Let the number = x
2.5% of x = 15
(2.5/100) × x = 15
x = (15 × 100)/2.5
= 1500/2.5
= 600
Hence, the number is 600.
Shortcut Method
2.5% = 1/40
x = 15 × 40
= 600
Answer: (C) 600
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Q. Find the number which when increased by 30% becomes 39 :
(A) 30
(B) 32
(C) 34
(D) 36
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 30
Explanation
Let the number = x
Increase = 30% of x
New value = x + 30% of x = 130% of x
(130/100) × x = 39
x = (39 × 100)/130
= 3900/130
= 30
Hence, the number is 30.
Shortcut Method
130% = 39
100% = 39/1.3
= 30
Answer: (A) 30
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Q. The number of voters in a town is 1,20,000. Out of them, 75% go for poll for an election between A and B. If B gets 45% of the votes polled, the votes polled for A is :
(A) 49,500
(B) 47,000
(C) 49,000
(D) 47,900
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 49,500
Explanation
Total voters = 1,20,000
Votes polled = 75% of 1,20,000
= 90,000
B’s votes = 45% of polled votes
A’s votes = (100 − 45)% = 55% of polled votes
= (55/100) × 90,000
= 49,500
Hence, A gets 49,500 votes.
Shortcut Method
A’s votes = 1,20,000 × 0.75 × 0.55
= 90,000 × 0.55
= 49,500
Answer: (A) 49,500
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Q. The circumference of a steam roller is 2 metres and it is 6 decimetres wide. Ground passed over by the roller in 120 complete revolutions is :
(A) 140 sq.m
(B) 144 sq.m
(C) 148 sq.m
(D) 160 sq.m
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 144 sq.m
Explanation
Circumference of roller = 2 m
Width of roller = 6 dm = 0.6 m
Area covered in 1 revolution = Circumference × Width
= 2 × 0.6
= 1.2 sq m
Area covered in 120 revolutions = 120 × 1.2
= 144 sq m
Hence, the ground covered in 120 revolutions is 144 sq m.
Shortcut Method
Area = Revolutions × Circumference × Width
= 120 × 2 × 0.6
= 144 sq m
Answer: (B) 144 sq.m
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Q. 12% of a money is Rs. 63. What is 40% of the money?
(A) Rs. 200
(B) Rs. 210
(C) Rs. 220
(D) Rs. 230
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) Rs. 210
Explanation
12% of the money = Rs. 63
1% of the money = 63/12
= Rs. 5.25
40% of the money = 40 × 5.25
= Rs. 210
Hence, 40% of the money is Rs. 210.
Shortcut Method
40% = (40/12) × 12%
= (10/3) × 63
= Rs. 210
Answer: (B) Rs. 210
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Q. A shop-keeper buys three articles for Rs. 375, Rs. 580 and Rs. 428. He is able to sell these articles for Rs. 436, Rs. 635 and Rs. 350 respectively. The loss or gain to the shop-keeper on the whole is :
(A) Gain Rs. 40
(B) Loss Rs. 40
(C) Gain Rs. 38
(D) Loss Rs. 38
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (C) Gain Rs. 38
Explanation
Total Cost Price (CP) = 375 + 580 + 428
= Rs. 1383
Total Selling Price (SP) = 436 + 635 + 350
= Rs. 1421
SP > CP, so there is a gain.
Gain = SP − CP
= 1421 − 1383
= Rs. 38
Hence, the shop-keeper gains Rs. 38 on the whole.
Shortcut Method
Gain/loss on each article: +61, +55, −78
Net = 61 + 55 − 78
= Gain Rs. 38
Answer: (C) Gain Rs. 38
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Q. A piece of cloth is 24.5 m long. How many pieces, each of length 1.75 m can be cut from it?
(A) 14
(B) 15
(C) 16
(D) 17
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (A) 14
Explanation
Length of cloth = 24.5 m
Length of each piece = 1.75 m
Number of pieces = 24.5 ÷ 1.75
= 2450 ÷ 175
= 14
Hence, 14 pieces can be cut from the cloth.
Shortcut Method
1.75 = 7/4, so pieces = 24.5 × 4/7
= 98/7
= 14
Answer: (A) 14
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Q. A florist bought 240 roses at Rs. 9 per dozen. If he sold all of them at Re. 1 each, his profit percentage is :
(A) 33 1/2 %
(B) 33 1/3 %
(C) 33 1/4 %
(D) 33 1/5 %
Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: (B) 33 1/3 %
Explanation
Number of roses = 240 = 240/12 = 20 dozen
Cost Price (CP) = 20 × 9
= Rs. 180
Selling Price (SP) = 240 × 1
= Rs. 240
Profit = SP − CP
= 240 − 180
= Rs. 60
Profit % = (60/180) × 100
= 33 1/3 %
Hence, his profit percentage is 33 1/3 %.
Shortcut Method
CP of 1 dozen = Rs. 9, SP of 1 dozen = Rs. 12
Profit % = (3/9) × 100
= 33 1/3 %
Answer: (B) 33 1/3 %
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