Encoding and decoding processes – UGC NET Question

Statements A, B and C are correct, while D is incorrect. A is true because encoding involves turning ideas into symbols such as words, diagrams or sounds. B is true since decoding is the receiver’s act of interpreting those symbols. C is true because effective communication depends on the receiver’s interpretation approximating the sender’s intended meaning. D is false because encoding is relevant in all forms of communication, including interpersonal exchanges, not just mass communication.

Option A:
Option A is incorrect because it includes only A and B and omits C. Although it recognises the basic processes of encoding and decoding, it fails to mention the requirement that decoded meaning approximate the intended meaning for communication to be effective. Thus A and B only does not capture all the correct statements.

Option B:
Option B is incorrect because it groups B and C but leaves out A. Excluding A ignores the initial step of transforming ideas into communicable symbols, which is fundamental to the communication process. Therefore B and C only is incomplete.

Option C:
Option C is correct because it brings together A, B and C, covering encoding, decoding and the need for shared meaning. It also implicitly rejects D, which restricts encoding to mass communication. As it includes all and only the true statements, this option is the correct answer.

Option D:
Option D is incorrect because it treats all four statements as correct, including D. D misrepresents encoding as a process unique to mass communication and neglects its role in everyday interpersonal messages. Consequently this option mixes a false statement with true ones and cannot be accepted.