UGC NET Questions (Paper – 1)

The table of contents presents the structure of the thesis by listing major chapters, sections and sometimes subsections with their page numbers. It helps readers locate different parts of the document quickly and understand its overall organisation. This section is typically placed near the beginning after the abstract and acknowledgements. Because the stem refers to a page listing chapter titles and their page numbers, table of contents is the correct term.

Option A:
An index appears at the end of some books and lists key topics alphabetically with page references, helping readers find specific concepts scattered throughout the text. It is not the standard front-matter listing of chapter titles. Therefore, index does not match the description in the question.

Option B:
The table of contents functions as a navigational map for the reader, showing the logical flow of argument and the relative placement of different chapters. It is a required element of formal theses and dissertations. These characteristics correspond exactly to the stem’s description, confirming table of contents as the right answer.

Option C:
Acknowledgements are placed near the front of the thesis but serve to thank individuals and institutions that supported the work; they do not list chapters or page numbers. Hence, acknowledgements is not the appropriate completion.

Option D:
A glossary is an alphabetical list of specialised terms and their definitions, usually at the end of the document. It clarifies vocabulary rather than guiding readers to chapter locations. Consequently, glossary does not fit the stem.