UGC NET Questions (Paper – 1)

Statements A, B, C, D and F provide a sound framework for evaluating causal arguments, whereas E is false. Causal chains may involve remote and intermediate causes, and mixing up mere conditions with true causes can distort explanations. The post hoc fallacy warns against inferring causation from mere temporal sequence, and good arguments should check alternative hypotheses. UGC NET sometimes presents data scenarios where candidates must select the most plausible causal explanation. E is wrong because a single correlation rarely suffices to establish strong causation.

Option A:
Option A is incomplete because it omits F, failing to mention how these ideas are used in UGC NET data and reasoning items. While A, B, C and D are true, they do not reference the exam context, which the question invites by including F. Hence A, B, C and D only is not fully adequate.

Option B:
Option B is correct as it collects all the true statements and excludes E, which conflates correlation with causation. It captures both conceptual standards for evaluating causal arguments and their exam application. Therefore A, B, C, D and F only is the appropriate answer.

Option C:
Option C is wrong because it includes E, which overstates the evidential power of a single correlation, and omits A, thereby leaving out the idea of multi-step causal chains. This mixture of omission and error makes B, C, D, E and F only unsuitable.

Option D:
Option D is incorrect since it includes E and omits B, ignoring the crucial distinction between enabling conditions and genuine causes while accepting an over-strong claim about correlation. Thus A, C, D, E and F only cannot be chosen as correct.

A, B and C correctly describe causal reasoning (difference-making, often-inductive inference, and the need to consider alternatives). E is true because UGC NET DI sets may test weak vs strong causal claims. D is false since correlation alone does not always establish causation. Hence A, B, C and E only are correct.

Option A:
Option A is correct because it includes all true statements and excludes D (false).

Option B:
Option B is incomplete because it omits E (exam context).

Option C:
Option C is incorrect because it includes D (false) and omits A (true).

Option D:
Option D is incorrect because it omits B (inductive nature) and includes D (false).

The survey result describes a correlation between two behaviours: low sleep and higher coffee consumption. Logical reasoning requires us not to jump directly from correlation to causation. Several causal models are possible, including common underlying factors like stress or work patterns. A cautious interpretation acknowledges the association while calling for further study to clarify any causal link.

Option A:
Option A prematurely attributes causation in one direction without ruling out other possibilities.

Option B:
Option B simply reverses the direction of causality and is equally unwarranted based on the correlation alone.

Option C:
Option C states what the data actually show—an association—and correctly notes that more rigorous analysis is necessary to identify cause and effect, if any.

Option D:
Option D dismisses the association entirely, which is not justified simply because correlation does not specify causation.