SarkariPYQ

SSC GD 2025 PYQ — Question 5

SSC GD Const 2025 (English) - 13 Feb 2025 - Shift 3 • English • Q5

Back to paper

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.

Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 1.

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: B

Explanation

The correct answer is option 2 i.e. help.

Context: The passage begins by stating that reducing work hours and optimising shifts can alleviate stress.

Meaning of the words:
Heal – Usually refers to curing physical or emotional wounds; partially fits but less precise
Help – Correct; provides general support, fits context perfectly
Hive – Irrelevant; a beehive or cluster
Host – Irrelevant; does not fit the context

Correct word: Help

Reason: Only help correctly conveys the idea of reducing hours to alleviate stress, burnout, and conflict.

Final Sentence: Reducing the hours worked and optimising shift rostering could help alleviate stress, burnout and work family conflict for healthcare workers.

Hence, the chosen option will be correct.