Question

The four sentences (labelled 1, 2, 3 and 4) below, when properly sequenced, would yield a coherent paragraph. Decide on the proper sequencing of the order of the sentences and key in the sequence of the four numbers as your answer:
1. The creative element in product design has become of paramount importance as it is one of the few ways
a firm or industry can sustain a competitive advantage over its rivals.
2. In fact, the creative element in the value of world industry would be larger still, if we added the
contribution of the creative element in other industries, such as the design of tech accessories.
3. The creative industry is receiving a lot of attention today as its growth rate is faster than that of the world
economy as a whole.
4. It is for this reason that today’s trade issues are increasingly involving intellectual property, as Western
countries have an interest in protecting their revenues along with freeing trade in non-tangibles.

• A. 3142
• B. 3214
• C. 3241
• D. 3421

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

This question has moderate difficulty. Sentence 3 undoubtedly serves as the best start for the paragraph. Following 3, sentences 1 or 2 are both plausible as they both discuss the creative element. However, examining sentence 4 provides a clearer idea of the correct sequence. Sentence 4 states, 'it is for this reason that today’s trade issues are increasingly involving intellectual property rights.' Why would companies seek intellectual property? The answer is to gain a competitive advantage over their rivals. Thus, sentences 1 and 4 form a pair. The correct sequence should be 3214, where 2 should come after 3 to maintain the 31 pair, and not be placed at the end. Its best position is after 3.