Practice IBPS Clerk 2025 Prelims English PYQ – 5 Oct 2025 Shift 1 (30 Questions with Solutions)

Directions (36-44): Read the following passage and answer the given questions.

Solo travel is often romanticized in movies and travel blogs, yet the reality of venturing out alone requires not just enthusiasm, but a great deal of strength and conviction. For many, the idea of traveling solo is both exciting and intimidating. The freedom of making your own plans, waking up without a set schedule, and discovering new cultures at your own pace can be liberating. But it also comes with its own set of challenges that many people are hesitant to face.

One of the first hurdles is the initial hesitation. People often fear loneliness, safety concerns, or simply the discomfort of doing things alone. A surprisingly common fear is eating alone in a public space. The thought of sitting in a restaurant without company, with others watching, makes many people self-conscious. They worry about what others might think, and this anxiety is sometimes enough to discourage them from solo travel altogether.

However, those who do take the plunge often discover that the benefits far outweigh the fears. Solo travel builds resilience. It teaches you how to _____________ for yourself, how to plan with precision, and how to handle unexpected situations with calm. With every solo trip, travelers gain more confidence in their decisions, and a stronger sense of independence.

Staying safe while traveling alone is, understandably, a top concern. This is where preparation becomes key. Carrying travel insurance, knowing emergency contacts, researching local customs, and keeping a close watch on surroundings are all essential parts of traveling alone responsibly. It's not about being paranoid, but about being prepared and aware.

A solo traveler must learn to make smart choices that keep them safe while still allowing for exploration and adventure.

Moreover, solo travel allows deep personal reflection.

Without distractions, many travelers find a sense of peace and clarity. They meet new people not because they have to, but because they genuinely want to. They engage in conversations, take risks, and often come back home changed in subtle but meaningful ways.

In the end, solo travel isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay. But for those who are willing to move past hesitation and face the journey alone, it becomes a transformative experience.

It is not just about seeing new places—it is about seeing oneself with new eyes, built on the foundation of courage, planning, and conviction.

Which of the following best explains why many people hesitate to travel alone?

Directions (36-44): Read the following passage and answer the given questions.

Solo travel is often romanticized in movies and travel blogs, yet the reality of venturing out alone requires not just enthusiasm, but a great deal of strength and conviction. For many, the idea of traveling solo is both exciting and intimidating. The freedom of making your own plans, waking up without a set schedule, and discovering new cultures at your own pace can be liberating. But it also comes with its own set of challenges that many people are hesitant to face.

One of the first hurdles is the initial hesitation. People often fear loneliness, safety concerns, or simply the discomfort of doing things alone. A surprisingly common fear is eating alone in a public space. The thought of sitting in a restaurant without company, with others watching, makes many people self-conscious. They worry about what others might think, and this anxiety is sometimes enough to discourage them from solo travel altogether.

However, those who do take the plunge often discover that the benefits far outweigh the fears. Solo travel builds resilience. It teaches you how to _____________ for yourself, how to plan with precision, and how to handle unexpected situations with calm. With every solo trip, travelers gain more confidence in their decisions, and a stronger sense of independence.

Staying safe while traveling alone is, understandably, a top concern. This is where preparation becomes key. Carrying travel insurance, knowing emergency contacts, researching local customs, and keeping a close watch on surroundings are all essential parts of traveling alone responsibly. It's not about being paranoid, but about being prepared and aware.

A solo traveler must learn to make smart choices that keep them safe while still allowing for exploration and adventure.

Moreover, solo travel allows deep personal reflection.

Without distractions, many travelers find a sense of peace and clarity. They meet new people not because they have to, but because they genuinely want to. They engage in conversations, take risks, and often come back home changed in subtle but meaningful ways.

In the end, solo travel isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay. But for those who are willing to move past hesitation and face the journey alone, it becomes a transformative experience.

It is not just about seeing new places—it is about seeing oneself with new eyes, built on the foundation of courage, planning, and conviction.

What does the passage suggest about the emotional impact of solo travel?

Directions (36-44): Read the following passage and answer the given questions.

Solo travel is often romanticized in movies and travel blogs, yet the reality of venturing out alone requires not just enthusiasm, but a great deal of strength and conviction. For many, the idea of traveling solo is both exciting and intimidating. The freedom of making your own plans, waking up without a set schedule, and discovering new cultures at your own pace can be liberating. But it also comes with its own set of challenges that many people are hesitant to face.

One of the first hurdles is the initial hesitation. People often fear loneliness, safety concerns, or simply the discomfort of doing things alone. A surprisingly common fear is eating alone in a public space. The thought of sitting in a restaurant without company, with others watching, makes many people self-conscious. They worry about what others might think, and this anxiety is sometimes enough to discourage them from solo travel altogether.

However, those who do take the plunge often discover that the benefits far outweigh the fears. Solo travel builds resilience. It teaches you how to _____________ for yourself, how to plan with precision, and how to handle unexpected situations with calm. With every solo trip, travelers gain more confidence in their decisions, and a stronger sense of independence.

Staying safe while traveling alone is, understandably, a top concern. This is where preparation becomes key. Carrying travel insurance, knowing emergency contacts, researching local customs, and keeping a close watch on surroundings are all essential parts of traveling alone responsibly. It's not about being paranoid, but about being prepared and aware.

A solo traveler must learn to make smart choices that keep them safe while still allowing for exploration and adventure.

Moreover, solo travel allows deep personal reflection.

Without distractions, many travelers find a sense of peace and clarity. They meet new people not because they have to, but because they genuinely want to. They engage in conversations, take risks, and often come back home changed in subtle but meaningful ways.

In the end, solo travel isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay. But for those who are willing to move past hesitation and face the journey alone, it becomes a transformative experience.

It is not just about seeing new places—it is about seeing oneself with new eyes, built on the foundation of courage, planning, and conviction.

According to the passage, which of the following is not mentioned as a way to stay safe during solo travel?

Directions (36-44): Read the following passage and answer the given questions.

Solo travel is often romanticized in movies and travel blogs, yet the reality of venturing out alone requires not just enthusiasm, but a great deal of strength and conviction. For many, the idea of traveling solo is both exciting and intimidating. The freedom of making your own plans, waking up without a set schedule, and discovering new cultures at your own pace can be liberating. But it also comes with its own set of challenges that many people are hesitant to face.

One of the first hurdles is the initial hesitation. People often fear loneliness, safety concerns, or simply the discomfort of doing things alone. A surprisingly common fear is eating alone in a public space. The thought of sitting in a restaurant without company, with others watching, makes many people self-conscious. They worry about what others might think, and this anxiety is sometimes enough to discourage them from solo travel altogether.

However, those who do take the plunge often discover that the benefits far outweigh the fears. Solo travel builds resilience. It teaches you how to _____________ for yourself, how to plan with precision, and how to handle unexpected situations with calm. With every solo trip, travelers gain more confidence in their decisions, and a stronger sense of independence.

Staying safe while traveling alone is, understandably, a top concern. This is where preparation becomes key. Carrying travel insurance, knowing emergency contacts, researching local customs, and keeping a close watch on surroundings are all essential parts of traveling alone responsibly. It's not about being paranoid, but about being prepared and aware.

A solo traveler must learn to make smart choices that keep them safe while still allowing for exploration and adventure.

Moreover, solo travel allows deep personal reflection.

Without distractions, many travelers find a sense of peace and clarity. They meet new people not because they have to, but because they genuinely want to. They engage in conversations, take risks, and often come back home changed in subtle but meaningful ways.

In the end, solo travel isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay. But for those who are willing to move past hesitation and face the journey alone, it becomes a transformative experience.

It is not just about seeing new places—it is about seeing oneself with new eyes, built on the foundation of courage, planning, and conviction.

Identify the statement that is incorrect according to the passage:

(I) Solo travel always leads to social anxiety, even after repeated attempts.

(II) Personal growth is one of the outcomes of overcoming solo travel fears.

(III) Confidence and independence can be developed through solo travel.

Directions (36-44): Read the following passage and answer the given questions.

Solo travel is often romanticized in movies and travel blogs, yet the reality of venturing out alone requires not just enthusiasm, but a great deal of strength and conviction. For many, the idea of traveling solo is both exciting and intimidating. The freedom of making your own plans, waking up without a set schedule, and discovering new cultures at your own pace can be liberating. But it also comes with its own set of challenges that many people are hesitant to face.

One of the first hurdles is the initial hesitation. People often fear loneliness, safety concerns, or simply the discomfort of doing things alone. A surprisingly common fear is eating alone in a public space. The thought of sitting in a restaurant without company, with others watching, makes many people self-conscious. They worry about what others might think, and this anxiety is sometimes enough to discourage them from solo travel altogether.

However, those who do take the plunge often discover that the benefits far outweigh the fears. Solo travel builds resilience. It teaches you how to _____________ for yourself, how to plan with precision, and how to handle unexpected situations with calm. With every solo trip, travelers gain more confidence in their decisions, and a stronger sense of independence.

Staying safe while traveling alone is, understandably, a top concern. This is where preparation becomes key. Carrying travel insurance, knowing emergency contacts, researching local customs, and keeping a close watch on surroundings are all essential parts of traveling alone responsibly. It's not about being paranoid, but about being prepared and aware.

A solo traveler must learn to make smart choices that keep them safe while still allowing for exploration and adventure.

Moreover, solo travel allows deep personal reflection.

Without distractions, many travelers find a sense of peace and clarity. They meet new people not because they have to, but because they genuinely want to. They engage in conversations, take risks, and often come back home changed in subtle but meaningful ways.

In the end, solo travel isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay. But for those who are willing to move past hesitation and face the journey alone, it becomes a transformative experience.

It is not just about seeing new places—it is about seeing oneself with new eyes, built on the foundation of courage, planning, and conviction.

Choose the synonym of the word “safe” based on its usage in the passage:

Directions (36-44): Read the following passage and answer the given questions.

Solo travel is often romanticized in movies and travel blogs, yet the reality of venturing out alone requires not just enthusiasm, but a great deal of strength and conviction. For many, the idea of traveling solo is both exciting and intimidating. The freedom of making your own plans, waking up without a set schedule, and discovering new cultures at your own pace can be liberating. But it also comes with its own set of challenges that many people are hesitant to face.

One of the first hurdles is the initial hesitation. People often fear loneliness, safety concerns, or simply the discomfort of doing things alone. A surprisingly common fear is eating alone in a public space. The thought of sitting in a restaurant without company, with others watching, makes many people self-conscious. They worry about what others might think, and this anxiety is sometimes enough to discourage them from solo travel altogether.

However, those who do take the plunge often discover that the benefits far outweigh the fears. Solo travel builds resilience. It teaches you how to _____________ for yourself, how to plan with precision, and how to handle unexpected situations with calm. With every solo trip, travelers gain more confidence in their decisions, and a stronger sense of independence.

Staying safe while traveling alone is, understandably, a top concern. This is where preparation becomes key. Carrying travel insurance, knowing emergency contacts, researching local customs, and keeping a close watch on surroundings are all essential parts of traveling alone responsibly. It's not about being paranoid, but about being prepared and aware.

A solo traveler must learn to make smart choices that keep them safe while still allowing for exploration and adventure.

Moreover, solo travel allows deep personal reflection.

Without distractions, many travelers find a sense of peace and clarity. They meet new people not because they have to, but because they genuinely want to. They engage in conversations, take risks, and often come back home changed in subtle but meaningful ways.

In the end, solo travel isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay. But for those who are willing to move past hesitation and face the journey alone, it becomes a transformative experience.

It is not just about seeing new places—it is about seeing oneself with new eyes, built on the foundation of courage, planning, and conviction.

Choose the antonym of the word “watch” as used in the passage:

Directions (36-44): Read the following passage and answer the given questions.

Solo travel is often romanticized in movies and travel blogs, yet the reality of venturing out alone requires not just enthusiasm, but a great deal of strength and conviction. For many, the idea of traveling solo is both exciting and intimidating. The freedom of making your own plans, waking up without a set schedule, and discovering new cultures at your own pace can be liberating. But it also comes with its own set of challenges that many people are hesitant to face.

One of the first hurdles is the initial hesitation. People often fear loneliness, safety concerns, or simply the discomfort of doing things alone. A surprisingly common fear is eating alone in a public space. The thought of sitting in a restaurant without company, with others watching, makes many people self-conscious. They worry about what others might think, and this anxiety is sometimes enough to discourage them from solo travel altogether.

However, those who do take the plunge often discover that the benefits far outweigh the fears. Solo travel builds resilience. It teaches you how to _____________ for yourself, how to plan with precision, and how to handle unexpected situations with calm. With every solo trip, travelers gain more confidence in their decisions, and a stronger sense of independence.

Staying safe while traveling alone is, understandably, a top concern. This is where preparation becomes key. Carrying travel insurance, knowing emergency contacts, researching local customs, and keeping a close watch on surroundings are all essential parts of traveling alone responsibly. It's not about being paranoid, but about being prepared and aware.

A solo traveler must learn to make smart choices that keep them safe while still allowing for exploration and adventure.

Moreover, solo travel allows deep personal reflection.

Without distractions, many travelers find a sense of peace and clarity. They meet new people not because they have to, but because they genuinely want to. They engage in conversations, take risks, and often come back home changed in subtle but meaningful ways.

In the end, solo travel isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay. But for those who are willing to move past hesitation and face the journey alone, it becomes a transformative experience.

It is not just about seeing new places—it is about seeing oneself with new eyes, built on the foundation of courage, planning, and conviction.

Choose the synonym of the word “conviction”

based on its usage in the passage:

Directions (36-44): Read the following passage and answer the given questions.

Solo travel is often romanticized in movies and travel blogs, yet the reality of venturing out alone requires not just enthusiasm, but a great deal of strength and conviction. For many, the idea of traveling solo is both exciting and intimidating. The freedom of making your own plans, waking up without a set schedule, and discovering new cultures at your own pace can be liberating. But it also comes with its own set of challenges that many people are hesitant to face.

One of the first hurdles is the initial hesitation. People often fear loneliness, safety concerns, or simply the discomfort of doing things alone. A surprisingly common fear is eating alone in a public space. The thought of sitting in a restaurant without company, with others watching, makes many people self-conscious. They worry about what others might think, and this anxiety is sometimes enough to discourage them from solo travel altogether.

However, those who do take the plunge often discover that the benefits far outweigh the fears. Solo travel builds resilience. It teaches you how to _____________ for yourself, how to plan with precision, and how to handle unexpected situations with calm. With every solo trip, travelers gain more confidence in their decisions, and a stronger sense of independence.

Staying safe while traveling alone is, understandably, a top concern. This is where preparation becomes key. Carrying travel insurance, knowing emergency contacts, researching local customs, and keeping a close watch on surroundings are all essential parts of traveling alone responsibly. It's not about being paranoid, but about being prepared and aware.

A solo traveler must learn to make smart choices that keep them safe while still allowing for exploration and adventure.

Moreover, solo travel allows deep personal reflection.

Without distractions, many travelers find a sense of peace and clarity. They meet new people not because they have to, but because they genuinely want to. They engage in conversations, take risks, and often come back home changed in subtle but meaningful ways.

In the end, solo travel isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay. But for those who are willing to move past hesitation and face the journey alone, it becomes a transformative experience.

It is not just about seeing new places—it is about seeing oneself with new eyes, built on the foundation of courage, planning, and conviction.

Choose the most suitable option to fill the given blank:

Directions (36-44): Read the following passage and answer the given questions.

Solo travel is often romanticized in movies and travel blogs, yet the reality of venturing out alone requires not just enthusiasm, but a great deal of strength and conviction. For many, the idea of traveling solo is both exciting and intimidating. The freedom of making your own plans, waking up without a set schedule, and discovering new cultures at your own pace can be liberating. But it also comes with its own set of challenges that many people are hesitant to face.

One of the first hurdles is the initial hesitation. People often fear loneliness, safety concerns, or simply the discomfort of doing things alone. A surprisingly common fear is eating alone in a public space. The thought of sitting in a restaurant without company, with others watching, makes many people self-conscious. They worry about what others might think, and this anxiety is sometimes enough to discourage them from solo travel altogether.

However, those who do take the plunge often discover that the benefits far outweigh the fears. Solo travel builds resilience. It teaches you how to _____________ for yourself, how to plan with precision, and how to handle unexpected situations with calm. With every solo trip, travelers gain more confidence in their decisions, and a stronger sense of independence.

Staying safe while traveling alone is, understandably, a top concern. This is where preparation becomes key. Carrying travel insurance, knowing emergency contacts, researching local customs, and keeping a close watch on surroundings are all essential parts of traveling alone responsibly. It's not about being paranoid, but about being prepared and aware.

A solo traveler must learn to make smart choices that keep them safe while still allowing for exploration and adventure.

Moreover, solo travel allows deep personal reflection.

Without distractions, many travelers find a sense of peace and clarity. They meet new people not because they have to, but because they genuinely want to. They engage in conversations, take risks, and often come back home changed in subtle but meaningful ways.

In the end, solo travel isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay. But for those who are willing to move past hesitation and face the journey alone, it becomes a transformative experience.

It is not just about seeing new places—it is about seeing oneself with new eyes, built on the foundation of courage, planning, and conviction.

Why is travel insurance emphasized for solo travelers in the passage?

Directions (45-49): The following five sentences, labeled (A) to (E), are jumbled. Rearrange them to form a coherent and meaningful paragraph. Then answer the follow-up questions.

A. This early opening time is rare, especially for a bookstore in a quiet town.

B. A cozy bookstore near the riverbank surprises many by opening its doors at 5 AM.

C. He believes inspiration often strikes in silence, and he wants the store to reflect that.

D. The owner, a former writer himself, understands the unusual rhythm of the creative mind.

E. As a result, the place has become a quiet haven for early-rising poets and novelists.

Which of the following is the FIRST sentence after rearrangement?