UGC NET Questions (Paper – 1)

A flowchart is a schematic diagram that represents a process through a series of boxes, usually indicating activities or decisions, connected by arrows that show the order of steps. In research, flowcharts are often used to depict sampling procedures, data-processing steps or logical sequences in the design. They help clarify complex processes at a glance. Because the stem mentions boxes and arrows showing sequence of steps or decisions, flowchart is the correct term.

Option A:
A histogram is a bar-type graph used to display the frequency distribution of continuous data, not a representation of procedural steps. It focuses on data values rather than the logic of a process. Thus, histogram does not match the description in the question.

Option B:
A flowchart helps researchers and readers visualise how different stages in a study connect, reducing ambiguity and supporting clear planning. It can show alternative decision paths and outcomes. These features align perfectly with the stem, confirming flowchart as the appropriate completion.

Option C:
A pie chart shows proportions of categories as slices of a circle, useful for depicting relative shares but not for representing sequences of actions or decisions. Therefore, pie chart is not suitable for the situation described.

Option D:
A scatterplot displays pairs of quantitative data points on two axes to explore relationships between variables. It does not show procedural steps or decision paths. Hence, scatterplot is not the correct term here.