Mock Test

Exam: SSC CGL Subject: General Intelligence and Reasoning Topic: Critical Thinking

Total Questions: 20

Q1. A city council proposes a new public transportation system, stating it will reduce traffic congestion. This proposal assumes:

A significant number of people will choose to use the new system. The existing roads will not be improved. Public transportation is inherently more efficient than private vehicles. The cost of using the new system will be lower than driving.
Q2. Disappointment with a negative outcome can lead a critical thinker to:

Blame others without investigation Re-evaluate the process and learn from mistakes Avoid similar situations in the future without analysis Become overly optimistic
Q3. Which word often signals a conclusion in an argument?

Since As Hence Given
Q4. An economist argues, "Free trade agreements will lead to greater economic prosperity for all participating nations." What is a crucial unstated assumption?

All nations benefit equally from free trade agreements. Protectionist policies are inherently detrimental to economic growth. The domestic industries of participating nations are sufficiently competitive to thrive in a free trade environment. Labor and environmental standards will not be negatively impacted by free trade.
Q5. In the context of meta-analysis, a researcher identifies a significant publication bias where studies with statistically significant results are more likely to be published. Which of the following techniques is MOST crucial for mitigating the impact of this bias on the overall effect size estimate?

Sensitivity analysis using random-effects models. Performing Egger's regression test. Excluding outlier studies from the analysis. Using funnel plots to visually assess asymmetry.
Q6. If a plant receives sunlight, it tends to...

Die Wither Grow Shrink
Q7. You're given instructions for a task. What's the first step in critical thinking?

Start the task immediately. Read and understand all instructions. Ask someone else to do it. Assume the instructions are correct.
Q8. If P implies Q, and Q is false, what can be validly concluded about P?

P is true P is false P may be true or false P is necessarily false
Q9. Which of the following is a characteristic of creative thinking?

Skepticism towards new ideas Emphasis on proven methods Willingness to experiment and take risks A focus on established facts
Q10. When someone says, 'He is late because his car broke down,' what is assumed?

He always drives a reliable car. This is the first time his car has broken down. He does not have alternative transportation. His car is old.
Q11. When evaluating alternatives, a critical thinker prioritizes:

The most familiar option The option with the fewest risks The option that best aligns with the problem's objectives The option that requires the least thought
Q12. When assessing the risk of a disease, if you know many people who have had it, you might believe it is more common than it is. This is an example of the:

Representativeness Heuristic Availability Heuristic Fundamental Attribution Error Confirmation Bias
Q13. A negotiator who practices critical thinking will be more likely to:

Enter negotiations unprepared. Focus on winning at all costs. Build long-term, sustainable relationships. Make impulsive decisions.
Q14. A study uses a convenience sample of university students to investigate the effects of a new learning strategy. The researchers conclude that the strategy will be effective for all learners. A critical thinker would MOST likely question the study's:

Construct validity. Internal validity. External validity. Statistical conclusion validity.
Q15. Which emotion can lead to a tendency to jump to conclusions without sufficient evidence?

Patience Impatience Reflectiveness Composure
Q16. Being open to changing your mind when presented with new evidence is a sign of:

Weakness Stubbornness Intellectual flexibility Ignorance
Q17. Premise: All squares are rectangles. Fact: Shape A is a rectangle. What can be concluded about Shape A?

Shape A is definitely a square. Shape A might be a square. Shape A is definitely not a square. Shape A has four equal sides.
Q18. What is a common cognitive bias that can hinder critical thinking in research?

Serendipity Objectivity Confirmation bias Empiricism
Q19. Consider a scenario where an individual consistently relies on anecdotal evidence to support their claims, ignoring statistical data that contradicts their assertions. Which element of critical thinking is most significantly lacking in this individual's approach?

Intellectual empathy Fairness Objectivity and reliance on evidence Intellectual autonomy
Q20. What is a 'straw man' fallacy, and why is it important to identify it when evaluating arguments?

A fallacy where an argument is supported by a weak example; important for evaluating evidence. A fallacy where an opponent's argument is misrepresented to make it easier to attack; important for identifying manipulative tactics. A fallacy that relies on an emotional appeal; important for assessing logical soundness. A fallacy that assumes a cause and effect relationship where none exists; important for understanding correlation.

Seamless prep with the tools you already use.

Study across devices, save bookmarks, get smart reminders, and track progress—so your mock tests and AI plans stay in sync.

Start free Browse exams

Elevate your prep today

Streamline practice, track weak topics, and improve faster with AI-guided revision. Try Meltwish free.

Create Free Account