UGC NET Questions (Paper – 1)

A scanner captures information from physical documents and transmits it to the computer as digital data. This process feeds information into the system rather than sending results out to the user. In classification of hardware, such devices are grouped as input devices. Hence, the blank must be filled with input.

Option A:
Option A is correct because input devices are defined as hardware components used to enter data and instructions into a computer, and a scanner clearly performs this role by digitising paper content.

Option B:
Option B, output, devices such as monitors and printers present processed information to the user and do not capture external data.

Option C:
Option C, storage, devices primarily hold data over time and are not directly involved in acquiring it from outside sources.

Option D:
Option D, processing, refers to components like the CPU that manipulate data but do not acquire it from the external environment.

Statement C is the only wrong statement because it reverses the actual function of a scanner. A scanner converts physical documents or images into digital form, not the other way round. Statements A, B and D correctly describe the roles of keyboard, monitor and speakers as input and output devices. Therefore, the correct option is the one that selects only statement C as wrong.

Option A:
Option A is incorrect because it lists both A and C as wrong statements. Statement A correctly identifies the keyboard as a common input device used to enter text and commands. By treating a true statement as wrong, this option does not match the factual understanding of input devices.

Option B:
Option B is correct because it isolates statement C as the only wrong statement. Statement C mischaracterises the function of a scanner, while the other three statements accurately describe standard input and output devices. Since the question asks for the wrong statement(s), choosing only C matches the requirement.

Option C:
Option C is incorrect because it groups A, B and C as wrong statements. Both A and B correctly refer to the keyboard and monitor and should not be considered wrong. By including true statements alongside the false one, this combination cannot be the right answer.

Option D:
Option D is incorrect because it marks B, C and D as wrong statements. Both B and D correctly describe the monitor and speakers as output devices. Including these accurate descriptions among the wrong statements makes this option conceptually inconsistent.

The keyboard is designed with alphanumeric keys, function keys and special keys to facilitate text and command entry. It mimics the layout of typewriters while adding control keys suitable for computers. In most desktop setups, it remains the default means of entering written information. Therefore the principal text entry device is the keyboard.

Option A:
Option A is correct because the keyboard allows users to input letters, numbers and symbols directly into applications like word processors and browsers. It supports shortcuts and combinations that enhance typing efficiency. Its layout is standardised, making it the most common text input tool.

Option B:
Option B, the joystick, is mainly used for gaming or specialised control tasks where directional movement is important. It is not optimised for entering continuous text or document preparation. Hence it does not fit the description.

Option C:
Option C, the scanner, converts printed images or documents into digital form but does not allow direct character-by-character typing. It is helpful for digitisation, not for ongoing text composition.

Option D:
Option D, the microphone, captures audio input and may support speech-to-text systems, but such use presupposes additional software and is not yet the standard method for text entry in typical desktop environments.

Input devices are used to enter data and instructions into a computer, while output devices present processed results to users. A keyboard is a classic example of an input device because it allows users to type commands and text. A monitor displays information visually, functioning as a standard output device. Hence, this pair correctly reflects the input-output distinction.

Option A:
This option reverses the functions of the printer and scanner. A printer produces hard-copy output from digital data, so it is an output device. A scanner converts physical documents into digital form, making it an input device. Since the roles are interchanged, the option is incorrect.

Option B:
This option labels the mouse as an output device, although it is clearly an input device that sends user commands to the computer. Similarly, speakers play sound output generated by the system and are not used for input. Thus, both components are misclassified.

Option C:
This option treats the microphone as an output device and the plotter as an input device. In reality, a microphone captures audio signals from the user, so it is an input device. A plotter draws vector graphics on paper, serving as an output device. The pair is therefore incorrect.

Option D: