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Question 19: The passage given below is followed by four alternate summaries. Choose the option that best captures the essence of the passage.
All humans make decisions based on one or a combination of two factors. This is either intuition or information. Decisions made through intuition are usually fast, people donât even think about the problem. It is quite philosophical, meaning that someone who made a decision based on intuition will have difficulty explaining the reasoning behind it. The decision-maker would often utilize her senses in drawing conclusions, which again is based on some experience in the field of study. On the other side of the spectrum, we have decisions made based on information. These decisions are rational â it is based on facts and figures, which unfortunately also means that it can be quite slow. The decision-maker would frequently use reports, analyses, and indicators to form her conclusion. This methodology results in accurate, quantifiable decisions, meaning that a person can clearly explain the rationale behind it.
Options:
A. It is better to make decisions based on information because it is more accurate, and the rationale behind it can be explained.
B. Decisions based on intuition and information result in differential speed and ability to provide a rationale.
C. While decisions based on intuition can be made fast, the reasons that led to these cannot be spelt out.
D. We make decisions based on intuition or information on the basis of the time available.
Solution with Explanation
Correct Answer: B
Detailed Explanation by Wordpandit:
The passage explains that humans rely on either intuition or information when making decisions. Intuition-based decisions are fast, sensory-driven, and difficult to rationalize. In contrast, information-based decisions are slower, involve data and analysis, and are easy to explain.Option A is incorrect because it suggests that information-based decisions are inherently better, which the passage does not claim. It merely outlines characteristics without implying superiority.Option C narrows the focus too much to just one type of decision (intuition), missing the balanced comparison presented in the passage.Option D implies that time is the deciding factor in choosing a decision-making method. While speed is mentioned, the passage does not suggest that time determines which method is used.Option B correctly summarizes the core contrast: intuition versus information leads to differences in decision-making speed and the ability to articulate reasoning. It covers both types equally and reflects the authorâs intent without inserting bias.
Thus, Option B is the most accurate summary of the passage.
Word 1: Intuition
Context:
"This is either intuition or information." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
âIntuitionâ refers to the ability to understand or know something immediately, without the need for conscious reasoning or evidence. Itâs a kind of instinctive knowledge or gut feeling that arises without deliberate thought. In the context given, âintuitionâ is contrasted with âinformationââsuggesting a decision or idea can come either from concrete facts or from an internal sense of knowing. Intuition is often associated with creativity, experience, or subconscious pattern recognition.
Meaning: The ability to understand something instinctively, without the need for conscious reasoning (Noun)
Pronunciation: in-too-ISH-un
Difficulty Level: ââ Beginner
Etymology: From Late Latin *intuitio*, meaning âa looking atâ or âcontemplation,â from *intueri* (to look at, contemplate).
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Intuition is often undervalued in logic-heavy environments but is critical in fields like art, leadership, counseling, and even science. Many breakthroughs start with a hunch. Itâs that inner signal that says: "Something feels right (or wrong), even if I can't explain why."
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: instinct, gut feeling, sixth sense, insight, perception
Antonyms: logic, reasoning, analysis, evidence, deduction
Usage Examples:
- She had an intuition that something was wrong, even though everything looked fine.
- Great leaders often rely on a mix of data and intuition when making decisions.
- His intuition told him not to trust the offer, and he was right.
- Scientists sometimes begin with an intuition, which they later test through research.
Cultural Reference:
Psychologist Carl Jung emphasized the importance of **intuition** as one of the four major psychological functions, alongside thinking, feeling, and sensationâmaking it a central concept in personality theory.
Think About It:
Can intuition be trusted as much as reason? When should we listen to our gutâand when should we question it?
Quick Activity:
Recall a time when you followed your intuition. What happened? Would you make the same decision again?
Memory Tip:
âIntuitionâ starts with âinâ because it comes from **inside** youâan inner knowing without outward proof.
Real-World Application:
Intuition is used in everyday decisions, creative fields, leadership, emergency response, and even artificial intelligenceâwhere researchers try to replicate intuitive judgment in machines.
Word 2: Philosophical
WORD-2: Philosophical
Context:
"It is quite philosophical, meaning that someone who made a decision based on intuition will have difficulty explaining the reasoning behind it." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
âPhilosophicalâ refers to anything related to the study of fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, values, reason, and the mind. It can also describe a thoughtful or reflective attitude, especially toward abstract ideas or lifeâs complexities. In the given context, the word highlights how decisions based on intuition often lack clear, step-by-step logic and instead belong more to the philosophical realmâwhere people explore meanings, beliefs, and truths that aren't always easy to define or justify in practical terms.
Meaning: Relating to the study of fundamental truths about life, existence, and reasoning; thoughtful or abstract in nature (Adjective)
Pronunciation: fih-luh-SOF-i-kuhl
Difficulty Level: âââ Intermediate
Etymology: From Greek philosophia (love of wisdom), from philo- (loving) + sophia (wisdom).
Prashant Sir's Notes:
This word is useful in academic writing, particularly in essays that involve abstract thinking, reasoning, or critical analysis. It can also describe a calm, reasoned attitude in tough situations: âShe remained philosophical in the face of failure.â
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: reflective, abstract, theoretical, thoughtful, contemplative
Antonyms: practical, emotional, unthinking, reactive
Usage Examples:
- The debate soon became philosophical, focusing on the nature of justice and truth.
- He gave a philosophical answer rather than a scientific one.
- Her approach to adversity is philosophicalâcalm, patient, and accepting.
- Discussions about intuition often lead into philosophical territory.
Cultural Reference:
Philosophical thinking traces back to thinkers like Plato, Aristotle, and Confucius, who explored questions of ethics, reality, and knowledgeâmany of which still shape modern education, law, and politics.
Think About It:
Why do some decisions or beliefs feel âphilosophicalâ rather than logical? Do we always need evidence to know something is true?
Quick Activity:
Write one sentence about a situation where someone responded in a philosophical wayâeither by reflecting deeply or staying calm despite difficulty.
Memory Tip:
âPhilosophicalâ = love of wisdom â Think of someone sitting under a tree, pondering lifeâs biggest questions.
Real-World Application:
âPhilosophicalâ is used in academic writing, critical thinking, debates, and even personal developmentâhelping us examine deeper meanings behind choices, ethics, and knowledge systems.
Word 3: Rational
Context:
"These decisions are rational â it is based on facts and figures, which unfortunately also means that it can be quite slow." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
âRationalâ describes a thought process or decision that is based on logic, objective reasoning, and evidence rather than emotion, impulse, or intuition. In this context, the word emphasizes that certain decisions are made using data, analysis, and factual input, making them rational. However, such logical and methodical approaches can also result in slower decision-making, as they require careful evaluation and consideration of many variables before reaching a conclusion.
Meaning: Based on reason, logic, or facts rather than emotion or instinct (Adjective)
Pronunciation: RASH-uh-nuhl
Difficulty Level: ââ Beginner
Etymology: From Latin rationalis, from ratio meaning âreason,â related to reri (to reckon or think).
Prashant Sir's Notes:
âRationalâ is essential in academic and formal writing. It's the opposite of impulsive or emotional. When you argue a point, being rational gives your writing credibility. But note: sometimes rationality needs to be balanced with human emotion and practicality.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: logical, reasoned, analytical, sensible, objective
Antonyms: irrational, emotional, illogical, impulsive, unreasonable
Usage Examples:
- He took a rational approach to solving the problem, weighing all options before acting.
- Rational decision-making is crucial in fields like engineering and finance.
- Although her argument was emotional, it wasnât very rational.
- These decisions are rational, but because they rely on data, they can be slow.
Cultural Reference:
The Enlightenment era, also called the Age of Reason, promoted rational thinking as a foundation for science, ethics, and governanceârejecting superstition and tradition-based authority.
Think About It:
Is it always best to make decisions rationally? What role should intuition or emotion play in decision-making?
Quick Activity:
Describe one situation where a rational decision helped you. Then describe one where acting on emotion worked better. Compare the outcomes.
Memory Tip:
âRationalâ = reason-based â Think of a robot using facts, not feelings, to make a choice.
Real-World Application:
âRationalâ thinking is a cornerstone of professional fields like law, science, medicine, and policymaking, where sound reasoning leads to fair and effective decisions.
Word 4: Analyses
Context:
"The decision-maker would frequently use reports, analyses, and indicators to form her conclusion." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
âAnalysesâ is the plural form of âanalysis,â referring to detailed examinations or evaluations of information, data, or situations. It involves breaking down complex information into parts to understand how it works, identify patterns, or make informed decisions. In this context, the term indicates that the decision-maker relies on multiple assessments or evaluationsâeach analysis providing insights that help form a logical and well-supported conclusion.
Meaning: Detailed examinations of elements or structure of something, typically as a basis for discussion or interpretation (Noun â plural)
Pronunciation: uh-NAL-uh-seez
Difficulty Level: âââ Intermediate
Etymology: From Greek analusis (a breaking up), from ana- (up) + lysis (a loosening); the plural âanalysesâ retains the original Greek-style spelling and pronunciation.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Remember: âanalysisâ is singular, âanalysesâ is plural. Itâs a high-utility academic word often seen in science, research, business, and policymaking. Always clarify what kind of analysis you're referring toâstatistical, literary, strategic, etc.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: evaluations, assessments, examinations, investigations, studies
Antonyms: guesses, assumptions, speculation, generalizations
Usage Examples:
- The scientist reviewed multiple analyses before publishing her findings.
- The CEO used financial analyses to guide investment decisions.
- Her conclusion was based on demographic and behavioral analyses.
- Reports, analyses, and metrics all contributed to the final strategy.
Cultural Reference:
In intelligence agencies and think tanks, analysts produce various analyses to inform national security, economic policy, or military decisionsâoften blending data with geopolitical insights.
Think About It:
What makes an analysis trustworthy? Is it the method, the data source, or the person interpreting the results?
Quick Activity:
Write a sentence using the word âanalysesâ in an academic or business context. What kinds of information are being examined?
Memory Tip:
âAnalysesâ = multiple deep dives â Think of several magnifying glasses examining different parts of a puzzle.
Real-World Application:
âAnalysesâ are crucial in fields like economics, medicine, engineering, education, and public policyâwhere decisions must be backed by multiple layers of evidence and reasoning.
Word 5: Quantifiable
Context:
"This methodology results in accurate, quantifiable decisions, meaning that a person can clearly explain the rationale behind it." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
âQuantifiableâ refers to something that can be measured or expressed in numerical terms. It suggests objectivity, precision, and clarityâqualities that make something easy to analyze, compare, or justify. In the context of decision-making, a quantifiable decision is one based on data or metrics, allowing the decision-maker to clearly articulate the reasoning and support it with evidence. This contrasts with subjective or intuitive choices, which are harder to measure or prove.
Meaning: Capable of being measured or expressed as a quantity (Adjective)
Pronunciation: kwon-tuh-FY-uh-buhl
Difficulty Level: âââ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin quantus (how much) + English suffix -fy (to make) + -able (capable of); literally âable to be made into a quantity.â
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Use âquantifiableâ when discussing data-driven thinking or results. Itâs especially relevant in fields like business, science, economics, and education, where measurement matters. Remember: if you can count it, track it, or chart it, it's quantifiable.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: measurable, countable, calculable, assessable, trackable
Antonyms: unquantifiable, immeasurable, vague, subjective, incalculable
Usage Examples:
- Customer satisfaction is difficult to make fully quantifiable, but surveys help.
- We need quantifiable goals to track our marketing success.
- The policyâs impact should be assessed using clear, quantifiable indicators.
- This methodology results in accurate, quantifiable decisions that are easy to defend.
Cultural Reference:
In evidence-based management and data-driven education, quantifiable results are considered essentialâleading to the rise of metrics, KPIs (Key Performance Indicators), and performance dashboards in modern systems.
Think About It:
Can everything important in life be quantified? Where do we draw the line between what is measurable and what is meaningful?
Quick Activity:
List three things you can quantify (e.g., test scores, revenue). Then list three things that are hard to quantify (e.g., love, creativity). Why is the distinction important?
Memory Tip:
âQuantifiableâ = related to âquantityâ â If you can assign a number to it, it's quantifiable!
Real-World Application:
âQuantifiableâ is essential in data science, performance evaluation, goal-setting, and scientific researchâwhere clarity, accountability, and comparability are key.
