CUET UG Categorised PYQ Business Studies Unit 4
Business studies
📌 Answers are locked once submitted — results and explanations appear at the end.
QUESTION 1 OF 26
Mr. Raj is the MD of the wrist watch company. He has systematically divided the work among all the departments to ensure clarity in thought and action, so that work is carried on smoothly without any interruptions. Identify the importance of planning highlighted in the above case. (PYQ 2022)
QUESTION 2 OF 26
Planning is decided in advance what to do and now to do. Choose the correct sequence of steps to make the process of planning.
Statements:
(A) Developing premises
(B) Follow up action
(C) Evaluating alternatives
(D) Identifying alternatives
(E) Selecting an alternative
Choose the correct answer from the option given below: (PYQ 2022)
QUESTION 3 OF 26
Which of the following statements are related to limitations of planning?
Statements:
(A) Planning leads to rigidity
(B) Planning is futuristic
(C) Planning reduces creativity
(D) Planning does not guarantee success
(E) Planning involves decision making
Choose the correct answer from the option given below: (PYQ 2022)
QUESTION 4 OF 26
Arrange the following steps in the process of planning after the objectives have been identified.
Statements:
(A) Evaluating alternative courses
(B) Implementing the plan
(C) Selecting an alternative
(D) Identifying alternative courses of action
(E) Developing premises
Choose the correct answer from the options given below: (PYQ 2023)
QUESTION 5 OF 26
Identify the step of planning process mentioned in the case. (PYQ 2023)
QUESTION 6 OF 26
Arrange the steps of Planning process in the correct sequence.
Statements:
(A) Setting Objectives
(B) Developing premises
(C) Identifying alternative courses of action
(D) Evaluating alternative courses
(E) Selecting an alternative
Choose the correct answer from the options given below: (PYQ 2023)
QUESTION 7 OF 26
Match List-I with List-II.
| List-I | List-II |
|---|---|
| A. Strategy | I. What you would like to achieve |
| B. Programme | II. Sequence of steps for performing work in a given manner |
| C. Procedure | III. A Comprehensive plan for accomplishing an organisation's objectives |
| D. Objectives | IV. Detailed statements with each and every minute detail |
QUESTION 8 OF 26
Rearrange the following steps of planning process to be followed after developing premises:
Statements:
(A) Selecting an alternative
(B) Identifying alternative courses of action
(C) Follow-up action
(D) Implementing the plan
(E) Evaluating alternative courses of action
Choose the correct answer from the options given below: (PYQ 2023)
QUESTION 9 OF 26
Match List-I with List-II.
| List-I | List-II |
|---|---|
| A. Procedures | I. Plan to get dominant position in market |
| B. Strategy | II. Single use plan |
| C. Project | III. Standing plan |
| D. Assumptions about the future | IV. Developing Premises |
QUESTION 10 OF 26
Identify the general plan prepared by top Management outlining resource allocation, priorities and takes into consideration the business environment and competition. (PYQ 2023)
QUESTION 11 OF 26
'Sales forecasting is the basis on which a business firm prepares it's annual plan for production and sales'. Identify the feature of planning highlighted in the above sentence. (PYQ 2023)
QUESTION 12 OF 26
Which is the correct sequence of steps in the process of planning?
Statements:
(A) Developing premises
(B) Implementing the plan
(C) Setting objectives
(D) Identifying alternative courses of action and evaluating them
(E) Selecting an alternative
Choose the correct answer from the options given below: (PYQ 2024)
QUESTION 13 OF 26
"Planning helps the manager to look into future and make a choice amongst alternative courses of action." Identify the importance of Planning in the above statement. (PYQ 2024)
QUESTION 14 OF 26
Which feature of Planning function of Management is discussed in the statement - "All other Managerial functions are performed within the framework of plans drawn"? (PYQ 2024)
QUESTION 15 OF 26
Planning requires application of mind involving foresight, intelligent imagination and sound judgement. Which feature of planning is being highlighted in this statement? (PYQ 2024)
QUESTION 16 OF 26
Identify the function of management highlighted in the above case. (PYQ 2024)
QUESTION 17 OF 26
"If the goals are well defined, employees are aware of what the organisation has to do and what they must do to achieve those goals." Identify the significance of managerial function highlighted in this statement. (PYQ 2024)
QUESTION 18 OF 26
"Changes or events cannot be eliminated, but they can be anticipated and managerial responses to them can be developed." Identify the significance of managerial function highlighted in this statement. (PYQ 2024)
QUESTION 19 OF 26
"Policy formation serves as the basis of coordinating the activities and efforts of different divisions, departments and individuals. It helps in avoiding confusion and misunderstanding." Identify the significance of managerial function highlighted in this statement. (PYQ 2024)
QUESTION 20 OF 26
"Manager can look into the future and make a choice from amongst various alternative courses of action." Identify the significance of managerial function highlighted in this statement. (PYQ 2024)
QUESTION 21 OF 26
Identify the correct sequence of steps under the Planning function:
Statements:
(A) Setting objectives
(B) Identifying alternative courses of action
(C) Developing premises
(D) Evaluating alternative courses of action
Choose the correct answer from the options given below: (PYQ 2024)
QUESTION 22 OF 26
"Planning bridges the gap between where we are and where we want to go." Identify the features of planning. (PYQ 2025)
QUESTION 23 OF 26
Arrange in correct sequence:
Statements:
(i) Setting objective
(ii) Identifying alternatives
(iii) Developing premises
(iv) Evaluating options
QUESTION 24 OF 26
Which of these is a strategic plan? (PYQ 2025)
QUESTION 25 OF 26
A manager at a textile company aims to introduce a new eco-friendly product. Which steps would he follow?
Statements:
(A) Analyse multiple options
(B) Implement plan
(C) Define objectives
(D) Monitor progress
(E) Set assumptions
Choose the correct answer from the options given below: (PYQ 2025)
QUESTION 26 OF 26
Arrange the steps of Planning Process in a proper order:
Statements:
(A) Implementation of plan and follow-up action
(B) Developing Premises
(C) Identification and evaluation of alternative courses of action
(D) Setting up of objectives
(E) Selecting an alternative
Choose the correct answer from the options given below: (PYQ 2025)
Test Complete!
Answer Review
1 Mr. Raj is the MD of the wrist watch company. He has systematically divided the work among all the departments to ensure clarity in thought and action, so that work is carried on smoothly without any interruptions. Identify the importance of planning highlighted in the above case. (PYQ 2022)
Work is systematically divided. Clarity prevents confusion. Smooth work reduces overlapping and wastage.
(Detailed) → Planning provides clear direction to different departments and employees. → When work is systematically divided, everyone knows what has to be done. → This avoids confusion, duplication of work, interruptions, and wasteful activities. → The case highlights "clarity in thought and action" and "smoothly without interruptions". → Therefore, the importance highlighted is that planning reduces overlapping and wasteful activities.
- B) Planning promotes innovative ideas → This refers to new ideas and creative thinking, which is not highlighted in the case.
- C) Planning facilitates decision making → This refers to choosing among alternatives, which is not the main focus here.
- D) Planning reduces the risk of uncertainty → This refers to preparing for future uncertainties, not division of work.
Used
- Option A → Matches clarity, smooth work, and no interruptions.
- Option B → No mention of new ideas.
- Option C → No mention of alternatives.
- Option D → No mention of future risk.
- Final Answer → Systematic division of work points to reduced overlapping and wasteful activities.
2 Planning is decided in advance what to do and now to do. Choose the correct sequence of steps to make the process of planning.
Statements:
(A) Developing premises
(B) Follow up action
(C) Evaluating alternatives
(D) Identifying alternatives
(E) Selecting an alternative
Choose the correct answer from the option given below: (PYQ 2022)
First develop premises. Then identify and evaluate alternatives. Finally select and follow up.
(Detailed) → The process of planning follows a logical sequence. → After setting objectives, the next step is developing premises. → Then alternative courses of action are identified. → After that, alternatives are evaluated and the best alternative is selected. → Finally, follow-up action is taken to check whether plans are properly implemented. → Correct sequence: (A) Developing premises → (D) Identifying alternatives → (C) Evaluating alternatives → (E) Selecting an alternative → (B) Follow up action. → Hence, (A), (D), (C), (E), (B) is the correct answer.
- B) (A), (B), (C), (E), (D) → Follow up action is wrongly placed before evaluating and selecting alternatives.
- C) (D), (A), (C), (B), (E) → Identifying alternatives is placed before developing premises, which is incorrect.
- D) (C), (B), (A), (D), (E) → Evaluating alternatives and follow up are wrongly placed at the beginning.
Used
- Option A → Correct logical planning sequence.
- Option B → Follow up placed too early.
- Option C → Premises not developed first.
- Option D → Starts with evaluation, which is incorrect.
- Final Answer → Premises → Identify → Evaluate → Select → Follow up.
3 Which of the following statements are related to limitations of planning?
Statements:
(A) Planning leads to rigidity
(B) Planning is futuristic
(C) Planning reduces creativity
(D) Planning does not guarantee success
(E) Planning involves decision making
Choose the correct answer from the option given below: (PYQ 2022)
Limitations are negative aspects of planning. Planning may create rigidity and reduce creativity. Planning does not guarantee success.
(Detailed) → Planning has certain limitations which may restrict managerial flexibility. → Statement (A) is correct because planning leads to rigidity when managers are forced to follow pre-decided plans. → Statement (C) is correct because planning reduces creativity when employees simply follow instructions instead of thinking independently. → Statement (D) is correct because planning does not guarantee success due to changing future conditions. → Statement (B) is not a limitation because planning being futuristic is a feature. → Statement (E) is not a limitation because planning involving decision making is also a feature. → Hence, (A), (C) and (D) only is the correct answer.
- A) (A), (B), (C) and (D) only → It includes (B), but "Planning is futuristic" is a feature, not a limitation.
- C) (B), (C), (D) and (E) only → It includes (B) and (E), which are features of planning, not limitations.
- D) (A), (C), (D) and (E) only → It includes (E), but "Planning involves decision making" is a feature, not a limitation.
Used
- Statement (A) → Negative point, so it is a limitation.
- Statement (B) → Feature of planning, not limitation.
- Statement (C) → Negative point, so it is a limitation.
- Statement (D) → Negative point, so it is a limitation.
- Statement (E) → Feature of planning, not limitation.
- Final Answer → (A), (C) and (D) only.
4 Arrange the following steps in the process of planning after the objectives have been identified.
Statements:
(A) Evaluating alternative courses
(B) Implementing the plan
(C) Selecting an alternative
(D) Identifying alternative courses of action
(E) Developing premises
Choose the correct answer from the options given below: (PYQ 2023)
After objectives, planning premises are developed. Then alternatives are identified and evaluated. Finally, the best alternative is selected and implemented.
(Detailed) → The planning process begins with setting objectives. → Since the question asks for steps after objectives have been identified, the next step is developing premises. → (E) Developing premises means making assumptions about future conditions. → After that, (D) Identifying alternative courses of action is done. → Then (A) Evaluating alternative courses is carried out. → After evaluation, (C) Selecting an alternative is done. → Finally, (B) Implementing the plan takes place. → Correct sequence: (E) Developing premises → (D) Identifying alternative courses of action → (A) Evaluating alternative courses → (C) Selecting an alternative → (B) Implementing the plan. → Hence, (E), (D), (A), (C), (B) is the correct answer.
- A) (B), (C), (A), (E), (D) → This is incorrect because implementing the plan cannot be the first step after objectives.
- B) (E), (A), (C), (D), (B) → This is incorrect because alternatives must be identified before they are evaluated.
- D) (B), (A), (C), (E), (D) → This is incorrect because implementation is placed at the beginning and premises are placed too late.
Used
- Statement (E) → First step after objectives.
- Statement (D) → Alternatives must be identified before evaluation.
- Statement (A) → Evaluation comes after identification.
- Statement (C) → Selection comes after evaluation.
- Statement (B) → Implementation comes after selection.
- Final Answer → Premises → Identify → Evaluate → Select → Implement.
5
Identify the step of planning process mentioned in the case. (PYQ 2023)
The company targets 20% market share. Objectives are specific goals to be achieved. Setting objectives is the first step of planning.
(Detailed) → Setting objectives is the first step in the planning process. → Objectives define what the organisation wants to achieve. → In the case, RS Infotech targets to achieve 20% market share in the first 2 years of entering the organic products market. → This target is specific, measurable and time-bound. → Therefore, the step of planning mentioned is Setting objectives. → Hence, Setting objectives is the correct answer.
- A) Developing Premises → This means making assumptions about future conditions.
- B) Follow up action → This is done after implementation to check whether plans are being followed.
- C) Identifying alternatives → This means finding different ways to achieve objectives.
Used
- Option A → Future assumptions.
- Option B → Checking implementation.
- Option C → Finding alternative courses.
- Option D → Setting a specific target.
- Final Answer → "20% market share in first 2 years" indicates Setting objectives.
6 Arrange the steps of Planning process in the correct sequence.
Statements:
(A) Setting Objectives
(B) Developing premises
(C) Identifying alternative courses of action
(D) Evaluating alternative courses
(E) Selecting an alternative
Choose the correct answer from the options given below: (PYQ 2023)
Planning starts with setting objectives. Premises are developed after objectives. Alternatives are identified, evaluated and then selected.
(Detailed) → Planning is a step-by-step process of deciding future course of action. → The first step is (A) Setting Objectives. → After objectives, (B) Developing premises is done by making assumptions about the future. → Then (C) Identifying alternative courses of action is done. → After that, (D) Evaluating alternative courses is carried out. → Finally, (E) Selecting an alternative is done. → Correct sequence: (A) Setting Objectives → (B) Developing premises → (C) Identifying alternative courses of action → (D) Evaluating alternative courses → (E) Selecting an alternative. → Hence, (A), (B), (C), (D), (E) is the correct answer.
- A) (A), (B), (D), (E), (C) → This is incorrect because alternatives must be identified before they are evaluated and selected.
- B) (A), (C), (E), (D), (B) → This is incorrect because premises should be developed before identifying and selecting alternatives.
- C) (A), (B), (C), (E), (D) → This is incorrect because alternatives must be evaluated before selecting the best alternative.
Used
- Statement (A) → First step.
- Statement (B) → Second step.
- Statement (C) → Third step.
- Statement (D) → Fourth step.
- Statement (E) → Fifth step.
- Final Answer → Objectives → Premises → Alternatives → Evaluation → Selection.
7 Match List-I with List-II.
| List-I | List-II |
|---|---|
| A. Strategy | I. What you would like to achieve |
| B. Programme | II. Sequence of steps for performing work in a given manner |
| C. Procedure | III. A Comprehensive plan for accomplishing an organisation's objectives |
| D. Objectives | IV. Detailed statements with each and every minute detail |
- Strategy is a comprehensive plan.
- Programme includes detailed statements.
- Procedure gives sequence of steps.
- Objectives state what is to be achieved.
(Detailed) → (A) Strategy matches with (III) A Comprehensive plan for accomplishing an organisation's objectives because strategy is a broad plan made to achieve organisational goals. → (B) Programme matches with (IV) Detailed statements with each and every minute detail because a programme includes detailed steps, policies, procedures and rules. → (C) Procedure matches with (II) Sequence of steps for performing work in a given manner because procedure shows the order in which work should be done. → (D) Objectives matches with (I) What you would like to achieve because objectives are desired results or goals. → Hence, (A)-(III), (B)-(IV), (C)-(II), (D)-(I) is the correct answer.
- B) (A)-(III), (B)-(IV), (C)-(I), (D)-(II) → This wrongly matches Procedure with objectives and Objectives with sequence of steps.
- C) (A)-(IV), (B)-(III), (C)-(II), (D)-(I) → This wrongly matches Strategy with detailed statements and Programme with comprehensive plan.
- D) (A)-(IV), (B)-(III), (C)-(I), (D)-(II) → This wrongly matches Strategy, Programme, Procedure and Objectives with incorrect meanings.
Used
- (A) Strategy → Comprehensive plan.
- (B) Programme → Detailed statements.
- (C) Procedure → Sequence of steps.
- (D) Objectives → What to achieve.
- Final Answer → Correct mapping is (A)-(III), (B)-(IV), (C)-(II), (D)-(I).
8 Rearrange the following steps of planning process to be followed after developing premises:
Statements:
(A) Selecting an alternative
(B) Identifying alternative courses of action
(C) Follow-up action
(D) Implementing the plan
(E) Evaluating alternative courses of action
Choose the correct answer from the options given below: (PYQ 2023)
After premises, alternatives are identified. Alternatives are evaluated and the best one is selected. The plan is implemented and follow-up is done.
(Detailed) → After developing premises, the next step in planning is identifying alternative courses of action. → Then the alternatives are evaluated to compare their merits and limitations. → After evaluation, the best alternative is selected. → Then the selected plan is implemented. → Finally, follow-up action is taken to check whether the plan is working properly. → Correct sequence: (B) Identifying alternative courses of action → (E) Evaluating alternative courses of action → (A) Selecting an alternative → (D) Implementing the plan → (C) Follow-up action. → Hence, (B), (E), (A), (D), (C) is the correct answer.
- A) (A), (B), (C), (D), (E) → This is incorrect because selection cannot happen before identifying and evaluating alternatives.
- B) (C), (D), (E), (A), (B) → This is incorrect because follow-up cannot be the first step.
- D) (D), (C), (E), (A), (B) → This is incorrect because implementation cannot come before identifying and selecting alternatives.
Used
- Statement (B) → First after premises.
- Statement (E) → Evaluation follows identification.
- Statement (A) → Selection follows evaluation.
- Statement (D) → Implementation follows selection.
- Statement (C) → Follow-up is last.
- Final Answer → Identify → Evaluate → Select → Implement → Follow-up.
9 Match List-I with List-II.
| List-I | List-II |
|---|---|
| A. Procedures | I. Plan to get dominant position in market |
| B. Strategy | II. Single use plan |
| C. Project | III. Standing plan |
| D. Assumptions about the future | IV. Developing Premises |
Procedures are standing plans.
- Strategy is a plan to get a dominant market position.
- Project is a single-use plan.
- Assumptions about future are called developing premises.
(Detailed) → (A) Procedures match with (III) Standing plan because procedures are used repeatedly for similar activities. → (B) Strategy matches with (I) Plan to get dominant position in market because strategy is a broad competitive plan. → (C) Project matches with (II) Single use plan because a project is made for a specific one-time objective. → (D) Assumptions about the future matches with (IV) Developing Premises because premises are assumptions about future conditions. → Hence, (A)-(III), (B)-(I), (C)-(II), (D)-(IV) is the correct answer.
- B) (A)-(II), (B)-(I), (C)-(III), (D)-(IV) → This wrongly matches Procedures with single-use plan and Project with standing plan.
- C) (A)-(III), (B)-(II), (C)-(I), (D)-(IV) → This wrongly matches Strategy with single-use plan and Project with market-dominance plan.
- D) (A)-(IV), (B)-(I), (C)-(II), (D)-(III) → This wrongly matches Procedures with developing premises and Assumptions with standing plan.
Used
- (A) Procedures → Standing plan.
- (B) Strategy → Dominant market position.
- (C) Project → Single-use plan.
- (D) Assumptions → Developing premises.
- Final Answer → Correct mapping is (A)-(III), (B)-(I), (C)-(II), (D)-(IV).
10 Identify the general plan prepared by top Management outlining resource allocation, priorities and takes into consideration the business environment and competition. (PYQ 2023)
- Strategy is a broad plan.
- It is prepared by top management.
- It considers resources, competition and business environment.
(Detailed) → Strategy is a comprehensive plan made for achieving organisational objectives. → It is generally prepared by top management. → It considers the business environment, competition, priorities and allocation of resources. → Since the question describes a broad top-level plan, the correct answer is Strategy. → Hence, Strategy is the correct answer.
- A) Objectives → Objectives are goals to be achieved, not a complete plan of action.
- C) Budget → Budget is a numerical or financial plan, not a broad competitive plan.
- D) Programme → Programme is a detailed plan for a specific project or activity.
Used
- Option A → Desired results.
- Option B → Broad competitive plan.
- Option C → Financial estimate.
- Option D → Detailed action plan.
- Final Answer → Resource allocation and competition indicate Strategy.
11 'Sales forecasting is the basis on which a business firm prepares it's annual plan for production and sales'. Identify the feature of planning highlighted in the above sentence. (PYQ 2023)
Sales forecasting predicts future sales. Planning is based on future expectations. Therefore, the feature highlighted is futuristic nature of planning.
(Detailed) → Planning means deciding in advance what is to be done and how it is to be done. → It is futuristic because it is based on future conditions and predictions. → Sales forecasting estimates future sales. → A firm prepares its annual production and sales plan on the basis of future demand. → Hence, Planning is futuristic is the correct answer.
- A) Planning is dynamic → This means planning can change according to circumstances, but the case focuses on forecasting.
- B) Planning is a primary function of management → This explains the order of planning, not the future-based feature.
- C) Planning is a mental exercise → Planning does require thinking, but the sentence specifically highlights future forecasting.
Used
- Option A → Adaptability feature.
- Option B → First function of management.
- Option C → Thinking-based feature.
- Option D → Future-oriented feature.
- Final Answer → Sales forecasting indicates Planning is futuristic.
12 Which is the correct sequence of steps in the process of planning?
Statements:
(A) Developing premises
(B) Implementing the plan
(C) Setting objectives
(D) Identifying alternative courses of action and evaluating them
(E) Selecting an alternative
Choose the correct answer from the options given below: (PYQ 2024)
First, objectives are set. Then premises are developed. Alternatives are identified, evaluated, selected and implemented.
(Detailed) → Planning starts with setting objectives because managers must first decide what is to be achieved. → After setting objectives, planning premises are developed. → Then alternative courses of action are identified and evaluated. → After evaluation, the best alternative is selected. → Finally, the plan is implemented. → Correct sequence: (C) Setting objectives → (A) Developing premises → (D) Identifying alternative courses of action and evaluating them → (E) Selecting an alternative → (B) Implementing the plan. → Hence, (C), (A), (D), (E), (B) is the correct answer.
- B) (D), (B), (C), (A), (E) → This is incorrect because planning cannot start with identifying alternatives and implementation cannot come before objectives.
- C) (A), (B), (C), (D), (E) → This is incorrect because objectives must be set before developing premises and implementation is wrongly placed too early.
- D) (A), (B), (D), (E), (C) → This is incorrect because objectives are placed at the end and implementation is placed too early.
Used
- Statement (C) → First step.
- Statement (A) → Second step.
- Statement (D) → Alternatives stage.
- Statement (E) → Selection stage.
- Statement (B) → Implementation stage.
- Final Answer → Objectives → Premises → Alternatives → Select → Implement.
13 "Planning helps the manager to look into future and make a choice amongst alternative courses of action." Identify the importance of Planning in the above statement. (PYQ 2024)
The statement talks about choosing alternatives. Choosing among alternatives is decision making. Planning helps managers select the best course of action.
(Detailed) → Planning facilitates decision making because it involves choosing the best alternative from various available courses of action. → Managers look into the future and analyse different possible ways to achieve objectives. → After comparing the alternatives, they select the most suitable plan. → The phrase "make a choice amongst alternative courses of action" directly indicates decision making. → Hence, Planning facilitates Decision Making is the correct answer.
- A) Planning promotes New ideas → This refers to creativity and innovation, not choosing among alternatives.
- B) Planning provides Direction → This refers to guiding employees through clearly defined goals.
- D) Planning reduces Risk of Uncertainty → This refers to anticipating future changes and risks.
Used
- Option A → New ideas.
- Option B → Clear goals and direction.
- Option C → Choice among alternatives.
- Option D → Future risk reduction.
- Final Answer → "Choice amongst alternatives" indicates decision making.
14 Which feature of Planning function of Management is discussed in the statement - "All other Managerial functions are performed within the framework of plans drawn"? (PYQ 2024)
Planning comes before all other functions. Other managerial functions depend on plans. It provides the basic framework for management.
(Detailed) → Planning is called the primary function of management because it comes before organising, staffing, directing and controlling. → All other managerial functions are performed according to the plans prepared earlier. → The statement says that other functions are performed within the framework of plans drawn. → This clearly shows that planning is the foundation of all managerial activities. → Hence, Planning is primary function of management is the correct answer.
- A) Planning is pervasive → This means planning is required at all levels and in all departments.
- B) Planning is futuristic → This means planning is concerned with future actions.
- C) Planning is continuous → This means planning is an ongoing process.
Used
- Option A → Applies everywhere.
- Option B → Future-oriented.
- Option C → Ongoing process.
- Option D → First and basic function.
- Final Answer → "Framework of plans" indicates primary function.
15 Planning requires application of mind involving foresight, intelligent imagination and sound judgement. Which feature of planning is being highlighted in this statement? (PYQ 2024)
Planning requires thinking. It involves foresight and imagination. Sound judgement shows mental activity.
(Detailed) → Planning is a mental exercise because it involves intellectual thinking. → Managers must analyse situations, imagine future conditions and use sound judgement. → The statement directly mentions "application of mind," "foresight," "intelligent imagination" and "sound judgement." → These words show that planning requires mental effort. → Hence, Planning is a mental exercise is the correct answer.
- A) Planning involves decision making → Planning does involve decision making, but the statement mainly highlights thinking and mental effort.
- B) Planning is a primary function of management → This refers to planning being the first function of management.
- C) Planning is continuous → This refers to the ongoing nature of planning.
Used
- Option A → Choice among alternatives.
- Option B → First function.
- Option C → Ongoing process.
- Option D → Application of mind and judgement.
- Final Answer → "Application of mind" indicates mental exercise.
16
Identify the function of management highlighted in the above case. (PYQ 2024)
The case talks about goals and future action. It mentions anticipation of changes. It also refers to policy formation and choosing alternatives. These are features of planning.
(Detailed) → Planning is the function of management that involves deciding in advance what is to be done and how it is to be done. → It includes setting objectives, developing premises, choosing alternatives and preparing policies. → In the case, Indian Oil plans to expand its business operations and invest in acquisitions. → The passage also mentions well-defined goals, anticipation of future changes, policy formation and choosing from alternative courses of action. → These points clearly highlight the function of Planning. → Therefore, the correct answer is Planning.
- A) Organising → Organising deals with division of work, departmentation and authority relationships, not future planning.
- B) Staffing → Staffing deals with recruitment, selection, training and development of employees.
- C) Directing → Directing deals with guiding, motivating, leading and communicating with employees.
Used
- Option A → Rejected because the passage is not about organisational structure.
- Option B → Rejected because the passage is not about recruitment or training.
- Option C → Rejected because the passage is not about leadership or motivation.
- Option D → Selected because the case uses keywords like goals, future, policies and alternatives.
- Final Answer → Based on the concept of planning as thinking before doing.
17
"If the goals are well defined, employees are aware of what the organisation has to do and what they must do to achieve those goals." Identify the significance of managerial function highlighted in this statement. (PYQ 2024)
Well-defined goals guide employees. Employees understand what has to be done. Planning gives direction to organisational activities.
(Detailed) → Planning provides direction by clearly stating the objectives of the organisation. → When goals are well defined, employees become aware of what the organisation wants to achieve. → It also helps employees understand what they must do to achieve those goals. → This reduces confusion and gives a clear path of action. → Therefore, the significance highlighted in the statement is Provides direction.
- A) Facilitates decision making → This is related to choosing the best alternative, not simply defining goals.
- B) Reduces overlapping and wasteful activities → This is related to avoiding duplication of work, not mainly goal clarity.
- C) Reduces risks of uncertainty → This is related to anticipating future changes and risks.
Used
- Option A → Rejected because the statement does not focus on choosing alternatives.
- Option B → Rejected because the statement does not focus on duplication or wasteful activities.
- Option C → Rejected because the statement does not focus on uncertainty.
- Option D → Selected because "well defined goals" directly provide direction.
- Final Answer → Based on the keyword "goals are well defined."
18
"Changes or events cannot be eliminated, but they can be anticipated and managerial responses to them can be developed." Identify the significance of managerial function highlighted in this statement. (PYQ 2024)
The statement talks about future changes. Planning cannot remove uncertainty completely. It helps managers prepare responses in advance.
(Detailed) → Planning helps managers look ahead and anticipate future events. → Changes and uncertainties cannot be fully eliminated from the business environment. → However, planning helps reduce the risks connected with such uncertainties. → By preparing managerial responses in advance, the organisation becomes better prepared for future situations. → Therefore, the significance highlighted is Reduces risks of uncertainty.
- A) Provides direction → This is related to defining goals and guiding employees.
- C) Reduces overlapping and wasteful activities → This is related to coordination and avoiding duplication.
- D) Facilitates decision making → This is related to choosing from alternative courses of action.
Used
- Option A → Rejected because the statement is not about goal direction.
- Option B → Selected because "anticipated" and "changes" indicate uncertainty.
- Option C → Rejected because the statement does not mention duplication or waste.
- Option D → Rejected because the statement does not focus on selecting alternatives.
- Final Answer → Based on the keyword "anticipated."
19
"Policy formation serves as the basis of coordinating the activities and efforts of different divisions, departments and individuals. It helps in avoiding confusion and misunderstanding." Identify the significance of managerial function highlighted in this statement. (PYQ 2024)
Policies coordinate work among departments. Coordination avoids duplication of activities. It reduces confusion and misunderstanding.
(Detailed) → Planning helps in reducing overlapping and wasteful activities by coordinating the efforts of different departments and individuals. → Policy formation gives a common basis for action. → When everyone follows planned policies, duplication of work and unnecessary activities are reduced. → It also helps avoid confusion and misunderstanding among departments. → Therefore, the significance highlighted is Reduces overlapping and wasteful activities.
- A) Facilitates decision making → This relates to selecting the best alternative, not mainly coordination of activities.
- B) Reduces risks of uncertainty → This relates to anticipating future changes.
- C) Provides direction → This relates to defining goals and guiding employees.
Used
- Option A → Rejected because the statement does not focus on choosing alternatives.
- Option B → Rejected because uncertainty is not the main idea here.
- Option C → Rejected because goal direction is not the central focus.
- Option D → Selected because coordination avoids confusion and overlapping.
- Final Answer → Based on the keywords "coordinating," "confusion" and "misunderstanding."
20
"Manager can look into the future and make a choice from amongst various alternative courses of action." Identify the significance of managerial function highlighted in this statement. (PYQ 2024)
The statement talks about choosing from alternatives. Planning helps evaluate different options. Selection of the best course of action is decision making.
(Detailed) → Planning facilitates decision making because it involves choosing the best course of action from various alternatives. → Managers look into the future and consider different possible ways to achieve objectives. → After evaluating these alternatives, they select the most suitable one. → This process directly supports managerial decision making. → Therefore, the significance highlighted is Facilitates decision making.
- A) Provides direction → This is related to defining objectives and guiding employees.
- B) Reduces risks of uncertainty → This is related to anticipating future events and preparing responses.
- C) Reduces overlapping and wasteful activities → This is related to coordination and avoiding duplication.
Used
- Option A → Rejected because the statement is not mainly about direction.
- Option B → Rejected because the statement is not mainly about uncertainty.
- Option C → Rejected because the statement is not about overlapping activities.
- Option D → Selected because "choice from alternatives" directly means decision making.
- Final Answer → Based on the keyword "choice from amongst various alternative courses of action."
21 Identify the correct sequence of steps under the Planning function:
Statements:
(A) Setting objectives
(B) Identifying alternative courses of action
(C) Developing premises
(D) Evaluating alternative courses of action
Choose the correct answer from the options given below: (PYQ 2024)
First, objectives are set. Then planning premises are developed. After that, alternatives are identified. Then alternatives are evaluated.
(Detailed) → Planning begins with setting objectives because managers must first know what is to be achieved. → After setting objectives, planning premises are developed. These are assumptions about the future. → Then alternative courses of action are identified. → After identifying alternatives, they are evaluated on the basis of feasibility, cost, benefits and consequences. → Correct sequence: Setting objectives → Developing premises → Identifying alternative courses of action → Evaluating alternative courses of action. → Therefore, the correct answer is (A), (C), (B), (D).
- A) (A), (B), (C), (D) → Developing premises should come before identifying alternatives.
- C) (B), (A), (D), (C) → Planning cannot start with identifying alternatives before setting objectives.
- D) (C), (B), (D), (A) → Objectives should be set first, not last.
Used
- Option A → Rejected because premises are placed after alternatives.
- Option B → Selected because it follows the NCERT planning process.
- Option C → Rejected because objectives are not first.
- Option D → Rejected because objectives are wrongly placed at the end.
- Final Answer → Based on planning sequence: Objectives → Premises → Alternatives → Evaluation.
22 "Planning bridges the gap between where we are and where we want to go." Identify the features of planning. (PYQ 2025)
Planning looks ahead. It connects present position with future goals. "Where we want to go" indicates future orientation.
(Detailed) → Planning is futuristic because it involves looking ahead and preparing for future actions. → It decides in advance what is to be done and how it is to be done. → The statement says planning bridges the gap between where we are and where we want to go. → This means planning connects the present situation with future goals. → Hence, Futuristic is the correct answer.
- A) Pervasiveness → Pervasiveness means planning is required at all levels of management, not the future focus shown here.
- B) Focused on Action → This refers to action orientation, but the statement mainly highlights future direction.
- D) Decision-making → Planning involves decision-making, but the given statement is more directly about future goals.
Used
- Option A → Applies at all levels.
- Option B → Action-related feature.
- Option C → Future-oriented feature.
- Option D → Choice among alternatives.
- Final Answer → "Where we want to go" indicates Futuristic.
23 Arrange in correct sequence:
Statements:
(i) Setting objective
(ii) Identifying alternatives
(iii) Developing premises
(iv) Evaluating options
Objectives are set first. Premises are developed after objectives. Alternatives are identified and then evaluated.
(Detailed) → The planning process follows a logical order. → First, objectives are set to define what is to be achieved. → After that, premises or assumptions about the future are developed. → Then alternative courses of action are identified. → Finally, these alternatives are evaluated. → Correct sequence: (i) Setting objective → (iii) Developing premises → (ii) Identifying alternatives → (iv) Evaluating options. → Hence, (i), (iii), (ii), (iv) is the correct answer.
- A) (i), (ii), (iii), (iv) → Developing premises should come before identifying alternatives.
- B) (iii), (ii), (i), (iv) → Objectives must be set before developing premises and identifying alternatives.
- D) (iii), (i), (ii), (iv) → Premises cannot come before setting objectives.
Used
- Option A → Premises placed after alternatives, which is incorrect.
- Option B → Objectives placed too late.
- Option C → Correct planning sequence.
- Option D → Premises wrongly placed before objectives.
- Final Answer → Objective → Premise → Alternatives → Evaluation.
24 Which of these is a strategic plan? (PYQ 2025)
Strategic plans are long-term plans. They focus on broad organisational goals. Entering an international market shows future expansion.
(Detailed) → A strategic plan defines the long-term direction and major objectives of an organisation. → It focuses on growth, expansion, competition and overall organisational success. → Entering a new international market within five years is a long-term and broad decision. → It affects the future position and expansion strategy of the organisation. → Hence, Plan to enter a new international market within five years is the correct answer.
- A) Plan to increase daily production by 10%. → This is a short-term operational plan related to daily production.
- B) Plan to reduce employee turnover by 5%. → This is more of a functional or tactical HR-related plan.
- D) Plan to organize a training workshop next month. → This is a short-term operational activity.
Used
- Option A → Daily production means short-term plan.
- Option B → Employee turnover relates to functional planning.
- Option C → Long-term expansion and international market entry.
- Option D → Next month workshop means short-term activity.
- Final Answer → Strategic plan = Long-term and broad organisational goal.
25 A manager at a textile company aims to introduce a new eco-friendly product. Which steps would he follow?
Statements:
(A) Analyse multiple options
(B) Implement plan
(C) Define objectives
(D) Monitor progress
(E) Set assumptions
Choose the correct answer from the options given below: (PYQ 2025)
Planning starts with defining objectives. Assumptions are set after objectives. Alternatives are analysed, plan is implemented and progress is monitored.
(Detailed) → The case refers to the planning process. → First, the manager must define objectives for introducing the eco-friendly product. → Then assumptions or premises are set about future conditions. → After that, multiple options are analysed. → The selected plan is implemented. → Finally, progress is monitored. → Correct sequence: (C) Define objectives → (E) Set assumptions → (A) Analyse multiple options → (B) Implement plan → (D) Monitor progress. → Hence, (C), (E), (A), (B), (D) is the correct answer.
- A) (C), (A), (B), (E), (D) → This is incorrect because assumptions should be set before analysing options and implementing the plan.
- B) (A), (E), (C), (D), (B) → This is incorrect because planning cannot start with analysing options before setting objectives.
- D) (E), (C), (B), (A), (D) → This is incorrect because objectives should be defined before assumptions and implementation cannot come before analysis.
Used
- Statement (C) → Objective setting.
- Statement (E) → Premises/assumptions.
- Statement (A) → Analysis of options.
- Statement (B) → Implementation.
- Statement (D) → Monitoring/follow-up.
- Final Answer → Define → Assume → Analyse → Implement → Monitor.
26 Arrange the steps of Planning Process in a proper order:
Statements:
(A) Implementation of plan and follow-up action
(B) Developing Premises
(C) Identification and evaluation of alternative courses of action
(D) Setting up of objectives
(E) Selecting an alternative
Choose the correct answer from the options given below: (PYQ 2025)
Planning starts with setting objectives. Premises are developed next. Alternatives are identified, evaluated, selected and implemented.
(Detailed) → Planning begins with (D) Setting up of objectives because objectives define what is to be achieved. → Then (B) Developing Premises is done by making assumptions about future conditions. → After that, (C) Identification and evaluation of alternative courses of action is done. → Then (E) Selecting an alternative is done after evaluation. → Finally, (A) Implementation of plan and follow-up action is carried out. → Hence, (D), (B), (C), (E), (A) is the correct answer.
- A) (B), (D), (E), (A), (C) → This is incorrect because objectives should be set before developing premises.
- B) (B), (C), (E), (D), (A) → This is incorrect because objectives are placed too late.
- D) (A), (B), (C), (D), (E) → This is incorrect because implementation cannot be the first step.
Used
- Statement (D) → First step.
- Statement (B) → Future assumptions.
- Statement (C) → Alternatives stage.
- Statement (E) → Selection stage.
- Statement (A) → Implementation and follow-up.
- Final Answer → Objectives → Premises → Alternatives → Select → Implement.
