Formal and informal communication in institutions – UGC NET Question

Statements A, B, D and F are correct, whereas C and E are incorrect. Formal communication indeed uses official structures, while informal talk often arises spontaneously in social moments. Informal networks can clarify or reinterpret formal messages, and in most institutions both systems operate side by side. Formal communication often produces written records, and informal interactions also influence institutional climate, so C and E are false. Thus A, B, D and F make up the correct set of statements.

Option A:
Option A is incomplete because it leaves out F, ignoring the fact that formal and informal networks usually coexist within the same institution. Though A, B and D are accurate, the omission of F means the option does not give a full picture of institutional communication. Therefore A, B and D only cannot be the correct answer.

Option B:
Option B is wrong since it includes E as if it were correct, claiming that only formal communication affects climate. In practice, gossip, informal support and hallway conversations strongly shape how people feel about the institution. Including E makes this combination inconsistent with organisational communication realities.

Option C:
Option C is incorrect because it omits A and treats B, D, E and F as correct, thereby accepting E and ignoring the definition of formal communication. Without A, the option fails to define formal channels, and with E it underestimates the impact of informal networks. This combination therefore cannot be chosen.

Option D:
Option D is correct because it gathers A, B, D and F, reflecting both the dual-channel nature of institutions and the roles each channel plays. It excludes C, which denies written records, and E, which sidelines informal influence. Hence A, B, D and F only is the appropriate answer.