Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 3.

In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and select the most appropriate option to fill in each blank.

Reducing the hours worked and optimising shift rostering could (1)________________ alleviate stress, burnout and work family (2)___________________ for healthcare workers. All this is likely to improve staff retention. Any reduction (3)__________________ staff turnaround would save on direct costs associated (4)____________________ hiring new staff. The cost to replace a highly specialised healthcare professional can reach up to 200% of their annual salary. Also, (5)_______________________ shorter shifts may increase the uptake of shift times that are usually hard to fill. Measures like shorter shifts could also appeal to part time workers or those who have retired.

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: C

Explanation

The correct answer is option 3 i.e. in.

Context: The sentence refers to a reduction in staff turnaround.

Meaning of the words:
At – Incorrect; does not fit with “reduction”
Off – Incorrect; unrelated meaning
In – Correct; standard phrase is “reduction in something”
About – Incorrect; not idiomatic here

Correct word: In

Reason: Only in correctly completes the expression “reduction in staff turnaround.”

Final Sentence: Any reduction in staff turnaround would save on direct costs associated on hiring new staff.

Hence, the chosen option will be correct.

SSC GD 2025 PYQ — Question 3