What can be inferred about Mr. Thompson's role in the community?
Appeared in: DSSSB 14 August 2024
Explanation
The question requires an inference, which is a logical conclusion based on reasoning, not an explicitly stated fact.
In literary and social contexts, a named character with a defined community role (especially one related to education or culture, like books) is typically portrayed as a positive and influential figure.
Fostering a love for reading is a significant, positive contribution to a community's cultural and educational well-being, making it the most plausible and logical inference for a key figure like Mr. Thompson.
This role aligns with the archetype of a mentor or guide who enriches the community through knowledge and shared culture.
Why Other Options Were Wrong
Option B: This option is logically inconsistent. A person whose role is defined by books within a community would not be indifferent to them; their role is predicated on their interest and involvement.
Option C: This describes an antisocial trait that is contrary to building a community. Fostering reading often involves creating social opportunities like book clubs, readings, and library events.
Option D: This is an overly specific business detail. A person's community role is about their impact and function, not their specific sales model. Fostering a love for reading is a broader and more fundamental role.
Related Visual
Clinical Relevance
Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Reading Comprehension and Inference as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
This type of question tests critical thinking and the ability to make logical inferences from incomplete information, a skill essential in any professional field for interpreting situations and data that are not explicitly stated.
In a professional setting, one must often infer the needs of a client, patient, or colleague based on subtle cues and context, similar to inferring a character's role in a story.
What if? If the question had described Mr. Thompson as running a dusty, forgotten bookshop, the inference might change. In that case, one might infer his role is one of preserving a dying tradition or that the community's interest in reading has waned, rather than him being a currently active and key figure.
How to Approach the Question
First, identify the question type. This is an inference question, asking you to draw a conclusion that is not explicitly stated.
Analyze the keywords in the stem: 'inferred,' 'Mr. Thompson's role,' and 'community.' This points toward understanding the character's function and impact within a social group.
Evaluate the options based on logical consistency and common character archetypes found in literature and society.
Eliminate options that are contradictory or negative without supporting context. A community figure is generally positive unless stated otherwise. Therefore, being 'indifferent' or 'discouraging gatherings' are unlikely inferences.
Rule out options that are too specific or require information not provided. 'Only sells digital books' is a narrow detail that cannot be concluded without more evidence.
Select the option that represents the most logical, broad, and positive role that aligns with the given information (a community figure associated with books).
Concept Tested & Keywords
Concept Tested: Reading Comprehension and Inference
Stem keywords: inferred, Mr. Thompson, role, community
Lead-in keywords: What can be inferred
Clinical cues: The care setting changes urgency, monitoring level, and the expected nursing action.
Negative lead-in flag: false
Question ID
Q6hnA0UF1Gtq2FNRNmwC9H
Practise the full DSSSB 14 August 2024
Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.