UGC NET Questions (Paper – 1)

Statements A, B, C and E correctly describe central ideas in meta-analysis. Effect sizes allow results from different studies to be put on a comparable scale, and larger samples often receive more weight in pooled estimates. Meta-analysis can reveal overall trends, and examining heterogeneity is vital for understanding variation across studies. Statement D is false because critical appraisal of primary study quality is still essential to avoid misleading pooled conclusions.

Option A:
Option A is incomplete as it omits E, failing to mention that heterogeneity can influence whether it is appropriate to pool studies and how results should be interpreted. Ignoring heterogeneity can lead to oversimplified conclusions.

Option B:
Option B is incorrect because it includes D, wrongly implying that quality appraisal is unnecessary once a meta-analysis is conducted. Including D undermines the emphasis on methodological rigour in research synthesis.

Option C:
Option C is correct because it collects the statements that describe how effect sizes, weighting, pattern detection and heterogeneity analysis work together in meta-analysis. It excludes D, which minimises the importance of evaluating individual studies.

Option D:
Option D is wrong because it also retains D and omits A, thereby neglecting the role of effect sizes and accepting the false idea that quality appraisal can be ignored. This produces an incomplete and conceptually flawed account of meta-analysis.