Question

In the following question, select the word which cannot be formed using the letters of the given word. QUARRELSOME

• A. AIR
• B. SOME
• C. QUARREL
• D. LOAM

Answer 1

Answer:

A. AIR

Word Formation Rules

• The primary rule for this type of question is that every letter used to form a new word must exist in the source word.
• If the source word contains a letter only once, it cannot be used twice in the new word unless the source word also contains it multiple times.
• The source word QUARRELSOME consists of the following 11 letters: Q, U, A, R, R, E, L, S, O, M, E.
• Frequency count of letters in QUARRELSOME:
  • E: 2
  • R: 2
  • Q, U, A, L, S, O, M: 1 each

Common Pitfalls in Exams

• Over-usage of letters: Candidates often overlook the frequency of letters. For instance, if a candidate tries to form a word requiring three 'E's, it is impossible because the source word only contains two.
• Non-existent letters: Any word containing a letter not present in the source string (e.g., 'T', 'N', 'I') is immediately disqualified.
• Scanning efficiency: To solve these questions quickly in competitive exams, break down the source word into its constituent letters and compare them against the options provided.