SSC Stenographer 2026 PYQ — Question 169

SSC Stenographer - 09 Sep 2026 - Shift 2 • English • Q169

In the following question, some of the words in the passage have been left out. Read the passage carefully and choose the correct answer to each question out of the four alternatives and fill in the blanks.
Graphic novels have revolutionised modern storytelling by combining the power of words with visual art. Unlike traditional text-only books, they tell a complete story using comic-strip formats, illustrations, and dialogue bubbles. This unique blend makes reading highly engaging and easier to understand, especially for students who find long blocks of text (1)_____. It also helps capture their attention for longer than text-only books do. Graphic novels gained popularity because of their ability to (2)_____ rather than just tell. A single drawing can instantly express deep emotions, set a mysterious mood, or showcase a complex action scene that might otherwise take pages to describe. This dual format activates different parts of the brain simultaneously, improving visual literacy and memory retention. This also helps enhance creative (3)_____ among students reading them and their ability to interpret context very well. Furthermore, graphic novels are not just for children; they tackle serious, mature themes like history, mental health, and social justice. They provide a voice to diverse perspectives, making complex global issues accessible to everyone. By weaving fine art with literature, graphic novels have proven that images can be just as powerful as written words in creating a deep, lasting (4)_____ impact on (5)_____.
What should come in blank 1?

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: A

Explanation

Correct Answer: Intimidating
Explanation:
• Intimidating means daunting, overwhelming, or frightening.
• The context discusses how graphic novels make reading easier for learners who feel discouraged or overwhelmed when faced with dense, continuous paragraphs of standard text.
• Words like exciting or interesting convey positive feelings, which contradicts the problem graphic novels help solve. Transforming does not fit the intended meaning.