UPSC Interview Prep: 10 Questions You Should Be Ready to Answer

The Union Public Service Commission Civil Service Examination (UPSC CSE) and similar competitive exams are not just about knowledge but also about gauging the intelligence and presence of mind of prospective candidates. The interview round, in particular, is known for posing thought-provoking questions that may appear strange at first glance but have simple answers. In this blog, we present ten such tricky questions often encountered in competitive exams and the straightforward answers that require a touch of clever thinking.

1. Forest vs. Jungle: Spotting the Difference

Question 1: What is the difference between a forest and a jungle?

Answer: A forest is an expansive area of land covered with trees, plants, and various forms of vegetation, typically found in both equatorial and tropical climatic zones. In contrast, a jungle refers to land covered with trees and dense, impenetrable vegetation.

2. The Non-Growing Body Part

Question 2: Which part of the body never grows from childhood to old age?

Answer: The eye.

3. Filling the Room with Rs 10

Question 3: What can you buy for Rs 10 that will fill an entire room?

Answer: You can purchase incense sticks or candles for Rs 10. When lit, their light and fragrance can fill the entire room.

4. The Unconsumed Purchase

Question 4: What is something you buy for eating but never consume?

Answer: A plate.

5. Why Do We Drink Water?

Question 5: Why do we drink water?

Answer: We drink water because we cannot eat or chew it. It's essential for hydration.

6. Crafting the Number 23

Question 6: How can you represent the number 23 using only the digit 2?

Answer: 22 + (2/2)

7. The Unusual Gold Item

Question 7: What gold item cannot be found at a goldsmith's place?

Answer: A cot, as it is used for sleeping and not crafted by goldsmiths.

8. Surviving Without Sleep

Question 8: How can a person live without sleeping for ten days?

Answer: By avoiding daytime naps and ensuring sufficient nighttime sleep.

9. A Play on Words: Opposite of Nag Panchami

Question 9: What is the opposite of Nag Panchami?

Answer: A playful twist: "Naag Do Not Punch Me!"

10. Number Games: Company and Crowd

Question 10: If 2 is called "company" and 3 is called "crowd," what are 4 and 5 in this context?

Answer: 4 and 5 are always 9 in this imaginative naming scheme.

These questions may be unconventional, but they serve as an intriguing way to assess a candidate's ability to think on their feet and approach challenges with creativity. So, if you're preparing for UPSC or any competitive interview, keep your mind agile and ready for the unexpected!