UGC NET Questions (Paper – 1)

Statement C is the only wrong statement because selecting analysis procedures solely after seeing interesting results encourages data dredging and increases the risk of biased conclusions. Statements A and B correctly stress that analysis planning should precede data collection, and D recognises the role of software in managing and analysing data. Statement E is also true, as qualitative researchers often plan coding approaches even while allowing for emergent categories.

Option A:
Option A is correct as it isolates C as the statement that conflicts with principles of research rigour and transparency. It endorses careful advance planning for both quantitative and qualitative analysis while accepting that some flexibility may remain.

Option B:
Option B is incorrect because it adds A to the wrong set, implying that preparing an analysis plan before data collection is undesirable. This goes against standard methodological advice that planning supports coherence between questions, data and analysis.

Option C:
Option C is also wrong because it includes D as a wrong statement, even though the use of software tools for data handling and analysis is common and appropriate. Labeling D as wrong underestimates the role of such tools in modern research.

Option D:
Option D is incorrect because it misclassifies B and E along with C. Both B and E correctly describe thoughtful preparation for quantitative and qualitative analysis, and including them as wrong statements contradicts accepted practice.