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Question

Read the following statement carefully and identify the action that follows.
A manager finds data manipulation in quarterly reports.
Course of Action:
1. Conduct an internal audit.
2. Take strict action against guilty staff.

This question was previously asked in
SSC CGL 2025 Tier 1 Question Paper (25-Sep-2025) (Shift 3)
The correct answer is
Both follow

Data Manipulation: Course of Action Analysis

The scenario involves a manager discovering data manipulation in quarterly reports. This is a serious issue requiring appropriate responses.

Evaluating Course of Action 1: Internal Audit

Conducting an internal audit is a critical first step. This action aims to:

  • Verify the extent and nature of the data manipulation.
  • Identify the specific reports and data points affected.
  • Gather evidence regarding the manipulation.
  • Understand the root cause and potential systemic issues.

An audit provides the necessary factual basis before deciding on further steps.

Evaluating Course of Action 2: Strict Action

Taking strict action against guilty staff is also essential. This action addresses:

  • Accountability for misconduct.
  • Deterrence against future data manipulation.
  • Maintaining the integrity of reporting processes.
  • Upholding organizational ethical standards.

Action is necessary to enforce rules and maintain trust, but it typically follows or is informed by an investigation (like an audit).

Conclusion on Both Actions

Discovering data manipulation necessitates both investigation and accountability. An internal audit (Action 1) is required to confirm the facts and scope. Based on the audit findings, strict action (Action 2) against those responsible becomes necessary to uphold integrity and deter future occurrences. Therefore, both courses of action are appropriate and often sequential.

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Important Questions from Course of Action

  1. In this question, a statement is followed by two courses of action, numbered I and II. You must assume everything in the statement to be true and on the basis of the information given in the statement, decide which course of action/s logically follows for pursuing.

    Statement: A large number of the people of the city are diagnosed to be suffering from Malaria disease.

    Course of Action:

    I. The city municipal authorities should take immediate steps to carry out extensive fumigation in the city.

    II. The people in the area should be advised to take steps to avoid mosquito bites.

  2. In this question, a statement is followed by two courses of action, numbered I and II. You must assume everything in the statement to be true and on the basis of the information given in the statement, decide which course of action/s logically follows for pursuing.

    Statement: There is a large increase in migration of villagers to urban areas as repeated crop failure has put them into financial problems.

    Course of action:

    I. The villagers should be provided with an alternate source of income in their villages which will make them stay there only.

    II. To ensure their survival, the migrated villagers should be given access to all housing options in urban areas.

  3. In this question, a statement is followed by two courses of actions, numbered I and II. You must assume everything in the statement to be true and on the basis of the information given in the statement, decide which of the course of action/s logically follow for pursuing.

    Statement: Some serious mistakes were found in the technical section of a company. Course of Action:

    I. An efficient technical team should be appointed to check the technical errors.

    II. A reason explanation notice should be issued to all the employees involved in the irregularities.

  4. Read the given statement and courses of action carefully. Assuming that the information given in the statement is true, even if it appears to be at variance with commonly known facts, decide which of the given courses of action logically follow(s) from the statement.

    Statement:

    Road accidents are going to increase day by day.

    Courses of Action:

    I. Government should start awareness programmes that promote following traffic rules strictly.

    II. Government should put a limit on registration of new vehicles.

  5. Consider the given statement to be true and decide which of the given courses of action logically follow(s) from the statement.

    Statement:

    Many private schools in Bangalore charge more fees than the government-prescribed limits.

    Course of Action:

    1. Strict action should be taken against such schools.

    2. Such schools should be shut down.

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