SarkariPYQ

SSC Stenographer 2024 PYQ — Question 57

SSC Stenographer - 11/12/2024 (12:30 PM to 2:30 PM) • English • Q57

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In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and select the most appropriate option to fill in each blank.
Centuries ago, Aryabhata, one of the most famous Indian mathematicians and astronomers (1)__________ the concept of zero, the base of the present (2)_______ system. With time, zero became a stepping stone to (3)_______ simplified computations, (4)______ the ways for development of algebra, algorithms and calculus, three pillars of modern mathematics, while eventually laying the (5)______ for computers.

Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank 4.

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: D

Explanation

 The correct answer is option 4 i.e. paving.

The sentence is: '...zero became a stepping stone to much simplified computations, (4)______ the ways for development of algebra...'

Here, paving is the correct participle form because it continues the idea from the previous clause and shows the result of zero becoming a stepping stone.

The structure is similar to: '...became a tool for solving problems, opening the door to innovation.'

Why not the others?

have paved – Would require a different structure and subject; not parallel with the sentence flow.

has been paved – Passive voice, which changes the meaning and doesn’t fit logically.

was paved – Past simple tense; doesn’t match the continuous/resulting action needed here.