Defence Aptitude Assessment (DAA) — Questions and Answers
Question 1: MEAGRE means the opposite of …
- Substantial (Correct answer)
- Miserable
- Paltry
- Poor
Correct answer: Substantial
Explanation: <br> "Meagre" means lacking in quantity or quality, while "Substantial" means ample or considerable. Thus, "Substantial" is the opposite of "Meagre." "Poor," "Paltry," and "Miserable" are synonyms for "meagre," not opposites.
Question 2: Read the passage and answer the question that follows: 'Effective communication is a cornerstone of successful military operations. Orders must be conveyed with clarity and precision to avoid misinterpretation, especially in high-stress environments. The 'repeat-back' method, where the recipient of a message repeats it verbatim to the sender, is a standard procedure to ensure mutual understanding. This practice is critical in coordinating movements between different units, such as infantry and armour, where a misunderstanding of timing or location could have severe consequences.' What is the primary purpose of the 'repeat-back' method described in the passage?
- To create an official record of all communications.
- To test the recipient's memory under pressure.
- To slow down the pace of operations.
- To confirm that the message was received and understood correctly. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: To confirm that the message was received and understood correctly.
The passage explicitly states that the 'repeat-back' method 'is a standard procedure to ensure mutual understanding.' This directly supports the idea that its primary purpose is to confirm the message was received and understood correctly. The other options are not supported by the text.
Question 3: Read the following scenario and answer the question: 'During a navigation exercise, trainees are given a map, a compass, and a set of coordinates. The instructions state: 'Proceed to Checkpoint Alpha. From there, travel 2km on a bearing of 090 degrees to reach Checkpoint Bravo. Any deviation from the specified bearing is to be avoided to conserve time.' Trainee Jones successfully reaches Checkpoint Alpha. However, he misreads his compass and travels 2km on a bearing of 190 degrees.' Based on the passage, what is the most likely outcome for Trainee Jones?
- He will be following the instructions correctly.
- He will find a shorter route to Checkpoint Bravo.
- He will reach Checkpoint Bravo ahead of schedule.
- He will fail to reach Checkpoint Bravo. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: He will fail to reach Checkpoint Bravo.
The instructions required Trainee Jones to travel on a bearing of 090 degrees to reach Checkpoint Bravo. By traveling on a bearing of 190 degrees, he is going in a significantly different direction. Therefore, it is most likely he will not reach the intended checkpoint.
Question 4: A military vehicle travels at 80 km/h for 2 hours, then at 60 km/h for 3 hours. What is the total distance covered?
- 340 km (Correct answer)
- 300 km
- 320 km
- 260 km
Correct answer: 340 km
First leg: 80 × 2 = 160 km; second leg: 60 × 3 = 180 km; total = 340 km.
Question 5: A cyclist leaves town at 8:00 AM at 12 km/h. A car leaves the same town at 9:00 AM in the same direction at 48 km/h. At what time does the car overtake the cyclist?
- 9:15 AM
- 9:20 AM (Correct answer)
- 9:10 AM
- 9:30 AM
Correct answer: 9:20 AM
At 9:00 AM the cyclist has a 12 km lead; closing speed = 36 km/h; 12 ÷ 36 = 1/3 hr = 20 min, so 9:20 AM.
Question 6: What is the importance of interdisciplinary knowledge in DAA technical knowledge?
- It is unnecessary and distracting from core competencies
- It provides broader context and enhances problem-solving through multiple perspectives (Correct answer)
- It only matters for senior professionals
- It replaces the need for specialized knowledge
Correct answer: It provides broader context and enhances problem-solving through multiple perspectives
Interdisciplinary knowledge enriches understanding by providing multiple perspectives, enabling more comprehensive analysis and more creative problem-solving approaches.
Question 7: How are technical knowledge standards typically updated in DAA?
- By popular vote among all practitioners
- Through periodic review by expert panels incorporating new research and best practices (Correct answer)
- Only when government legislation requires changes
- Standards never change once established
Correct answer: Through periodic review by expert panels incorporating new research and best practices
Professional standards are periodically reviewed and updated by expert panels who incorporate new research findings, technological advances, and evolving best practices.
Question 8: ODOMETER is to DISTANCE as COMPASS is to?
- SPEED
- NEEDLE
- HIKING
- DIRECTION (Correct answer)
Correct answer: DIRECTION
An odometer is an instrument used to measure distance. A compass is an instrument used to determine direction.
Question 9: A unit has 48 soldiers split equally into 6 squads. How many soldiers are in each squad?
- 9
- 8 (Correct answer)
- 7
- 6
Correct answer: 8
48 ÷ 6 = 8 soldiers per squad.
Question 10: The line graph below shows the number of personnel deployed from two different bases, Base X and Base Y, over 6 months. [A line graph would show two lines. Base X (Blue): Jan=200, Feb=220, Mar=250, Apr=230, May=280, Jun=300. Base Y (Red): Jan=210, Feb=230, Mar=240, Apr=260, May=270, Jun=280] In which month was the absolute difference in personnel deployed between Base X and Base Y the greatest?
- March
- May
- April (Correct answer)
- June
Correct answer: April
Calculate the absolute difference between Base X and Base Y for each month: - Jan: |200 - 210| = 10 - Feb: |220 - 230| = 10 - Mar: |250 - 240| = 10 - Apr: |230 - 260| = 30 - May: |280 - 270| = 10 - Jun: |300 - 280| = 20 The greatest difference was 30, which occurred in April.
Question 11: A man rows downstream at 12 km/h and upstream at 6 km/h. What is the speed of the current?
- 6 km/h
- 3 km/h (Correct answer)
- 2 km/h
- 4 km/h
Correct answer: 3 km/h
Current speed = (downstream − upstream) ÷ 2 = (12 − 6) ÷ 2 = 3 km/h.
Question 12: Which word is a synonym for UBIQUITOUS?
- Hidden
- Rare
- Local
- Widespread (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Widespread
'Ubiquitous' means present, appearing, or found everywhere. 'Widespread' similarly means found or distributed over a large area or number of people. 'Rare' is an antonym, while 'Hidden' and 'Local' have opposite meanings.
Question 13: A car travels at 90 km/h. How long will it take to travel 225 km?
- 3 hours
- 2.5 hours (Correct answer)
- 3.5 hours
- 2 hours
Correct answer: 2.5 hours
Time = distance ÷ speed = 225 ÷ 90 = 2.5 hours.
Question 14: Four pulley systems are lifting an identical weight. System A has one fixed pulley. System B has one fixed and one movable pulley. System C has two fixed and two movable pulleys. System D has three fixed pulleys. Assuming the pulleys and ropes are weightless and frictionless, which system requires the least amount of effort to lift the weight?
- System B
- System D
- System C (Correct answer)
- System A
Correct answer: System C
The mechanical advantage of a pulley system is determined by the number of rope segments supporting the load. System A (one fixed pulley) has a mechanical advantage of 1. System B (one fixed, one movable) has 2 supporting ropes, giving a mechanical advantage of 2. System C (two fixed, two movable) has 4 supporting ropes, giving a mechanical advantage of 4. System D (three fixed pulleys) only changes the direction of the force and has a mechanical advantage of 1. System C requires the least effort because it has the highest mechanical advantage.
Question 15: The first figure is a triangle. The second is a square. The third is a pentagon. What is the next figure in the sequence?
- A hexagon (Correct answer)
- A triangle
- An octagon
- A circle
Correct answer: A hexagon
The pattern is based on the number of sides of the shape. A triangle has 3 sides, a square has 4, and a pentagon has 5. The number of sides increases by one at each step, so the next shape must have 6 sides, which is a hexagon.
Question 16: Which word is an antonym for ESOTERIC?
- Complex
- Profound
- Obscure
- Manifest (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Manifest
'Esoteric' means intended for or likely to be understood by only a small number of people with a specialized knowledge or interest. The opposite is something that is common or generally known. 'Manifest' means clear or obvious to the eye or mind, making it a suitable antonym.
Question 17: If Gear A turns clockwise and is meshed directly with Gear B, which way will Gear B turn?
- Clockwise
- It will not turn
- Counter-clockwise (Correct answer)
- In the same direction as Gear A
Correct answer: Counter-clockwise
When two external gears are meshed directly, they always rotate in opposite directions. Therefore, if Gear A turns clockwise, Gear B must turn counter-clockwise.
Question 18: STEEPLE is to TOWER as SAFE is to …
- Silo
- Store
- Vault (Correct answer)
- Magazine
Correct answer: Vault
Explanation: <br> The relationship between "steeple" and "tower" is that a steeple is a feature commonly found on a tower, just as a safe is a secure storage device commonly found in a vault. A silo, magazine, and store are all types of storage, but they do not represent the same relationship as "steeple" to "tower."
Question 19: A person walks 3 km in 45 minutes. What is their speed in km/h?
- 3 km/h
- 4 km/h (Correct answer)
- 5 km/h
- 4.5 km/h
Correct answer: 4 km/h
Convert 45 minutes to 0.75 hours; speed = 3 ÷ 0.75 = 4 km/h.
Question 20: The image shows four interconnected containers of different shapes. If water is poured into the container on the far left, what will be the final water level in all four containers when the water comes to rest?
- The water level will be highest in the container on the far right.
- The water level will be the same in all four containers. (Correct answer)
- The water level will be highest in the narrowest container.
- The water level will be highest in the widest container.
Correct answer: The water level will be the same in all four containers.
This demonstrates the principle of communicating vessels. In a set of interconnected containers, a liquid at rest will balance out to the same level in all containers, regardless of their shape or volume. This is because the pressure exerted by a fluid at a given depth is constant, and the liquid will flow until the pressure is equalized across the bottom of all containers.
Question 21: The functionality of the entire GPS system is dependent on what?
- Smartphone mapping applications
- Ground-based radio towers
- A network of orbiting satellites (Correct answer)
- The removal of Selective Availability
Correct answer: A network of orbiting satellites
The passage states, 'The system relies on a constellation of satellites orbiting the Earth, each transmitting precise time signals.' This shows that the satellites are the core component upon which the system depends.
Question 22: No restricted areas are open to recruits. Zone 7 is a restricted area. Which must be true?
- Zone 7 is not open to recruits (Correct answer)
- Zone 7 is open to recruits
- Zone 7 may be open to recruits
- Some recruits can enter Zone 7
Correct answer: Zone 7 is not open to recruits
Since no restricted areas are open to recruits and Zone 7 is restricted, Zone 7 is not open to recruits.
Question 23: A soldier saves $150 per month. How many months to save $1,350?
- 8
- 7
- 9 (Correct answer)
- 10
Correct answer: 9
1,350 ÷ 150 = 9 months.
Question 24: Which statement is NOT true?
- 86 x 0 = 0
- 86 + 0 = 86
- 86 ÷ 86 = 1
- 86 ÷ 0 = 1 (Correct answer)
Correct answer: 86 ÷ 0 = 1
Explanation: <br> Division by zero is undefined in mathematics. Therefore, the statement 86 ÷ 0 = 1 is not true.
Question 25: CHAPTER is to BOOK as ROOM is to?
- HOTEL
- CEILING
- HOUSE (Correct answer)
- DOOR
Correct answer: HOUSE
A chapter is a distinct part of a whole book. Similarly, a room is a distinct part of a whole house.
Question 26: A car travels the first half of a journey at 60 km/h and the second half at 90 km/h. What is the average speed for the entire journey?
- 72 km/h (Correct answer)
- 75 km/h
- 74 km/h
- 70 km/h
Correct answer: 72 km/h
Average speed = 2 × 60 × 90 ÷ (60 + 90) = 10800 ÷ 150 = 72 km/h.
Question 27: A boat's speed in still water is 15 km/h and the river current flows at 3 km/h. How long will it take the boat to travel 108 km downstream?
- 5 hours
- 8 hours
- 6 hours (Correct answer)
- 7 hours
Correct answer: 6 hours
Downstream speed = 15 + 3 = 18 km/h; time = 108 ÷ 18 = 6 hours.
Question 28: Which word is a synonym for CANDID?
- Frank (Correct answer)
- Vague
- Secretive
- Polite
Correct answer: Frank
'Candid' means truthful and straightforward. 'Frank' also means open, honest, and direct in speech or writing. The other options are incorrect: 'Secretive' is an antonym, 'Vague' means unclear, and 'Polite' relates to manners, not necessarily honesty.
Question 29: A car travels 180 km at a speed of 60 km/h. How long does the journey take?
- 2 hours
- 3.5 hours
- 2.5 hours
- 3 hours (Correct answer)
Correct answer: 3 hours
Time = distance ÷ speed = 180 ÷ 60 = 3 hours.
Question 30: A car travels from City A to City B at 60 km/h and returns at 40 km/h. What is the average speed for the entire round trip?
- 52 km/h
- 45 km/h
- 50 km/h
- 48 km/h (Correct answer)
Correct answer: 48 km/h
Average speed = 2 × 60 × 40 ÷ (60 + 40) = 4800 ÷ 100 = 48 km/h.
Question 31: A military unit's total weekly fuel consumption of 3,000 litres is allocated as shown in the pie chart below. [A pie chart would be displayed with the following allocations: Patrol Vehicles=45%, Transport Trucks=30%, Generators=15%, Helicopters=10%] If the fuel allocation for Generators is reduced by 20%, how many litres of fuel will be allocated to Generators next week?
- 400 litres
- 450 litres
- 360 litres (Correct answer)
- 90 litres
Correct answer: 360 litres
First, calculate the current fuel allocation for Generators: 15% of 3,000 litres = 0.15 * 3000 = 450 litres. Next, calculate the 20% reduction: 20% of 450 litres = 0.20 * 450 = 90 litres. Finally, subtract the reduction from the original allocation: 450 - 90 = 360 litres.
Question 32: A ration pack feeds 2 soldiers for 1 day. How many packs are needed for 20 soldiers for 3 days?
- 24
- 33
- 30 (Correct answer)
- 27
Correct answer: 30
One pack covers 2 soldier-days; 20 soldiers × 3 days = 60 soldier-days; 60 ÷ 2 = 30 packs.
Question 33: 33 Officers and 75 Ratings are each allocated 4 white t-shirts and 2 blue t-shirts. How many t-shirts are issued in total?
- 724
- 716
- None of these
- 648 (Correct answer)
Correct answer: 648
Explanation: <br> To find the total number of t-shirts, multiply the number of officers and ratings by the total number of t-shirts each receives, then add them together. For officers: 33 officers × (4 white t-shirts + 2 blue t-shirts) = 33 × 6 = 198 t-shirts. For ratings: 75 ratings × (4 white t-shirts + 2 blue t-shirts) = 75 × 6 = 450 t-shirts. Adding these together gives a total of 198 (officers) + 450 (ratings) = 648 t-shirts. Therefore, the total number of t-shirts issued is 648.
Question 34: A base has 360 personnel. One-third are on leave. How many remain on base?
- 240 (Correct answer)
- 270
- 120
- 180
Correct answer: 240
One-third of 360 = 120 are on leave, so 360 − 120 = 240 remain.
Question 35: Which word is a synonym for CONCUR?
- Agree (Correct answer)
- Decide
- Disagree
- Object
Correct answer: Agree
'To concur' means to be of the same opinion; to agree. Therefore, 'Agree' is a direct synonym. The other options are antonyms ('Disagree', 'Object') or related to a different concept ('Decide').
Question 36: A supply run occurs every third day starting on day 1. On which days does it occur in the first 10 days?
- 3, 6, 9
- 1, 4, 7, 10 (Correct answer)
- 1, 2, 3
- 1, 3, 6, 9
Correct answer: 1, 4, 7, 10
Starting on day 1 and adding 3 each time gives days 1, 4, 7, and 10.
Question 37: If fewer than 10 troops are available, a patrol is cancelled. There are 9 troops available. What happens?
- More troops are requested
- The patrol proceeds
- The patrol is cancelled (Correct answer)
- The patrol is delayed
Correct answer: The patrol is cancelled
9 is fewer than 10, so the cancellation condition is met and the patrol is cancelled.
Question 38: Two soldiers can guard 4 posts. How many soldiers are needed to guard 10 posts using the same ratio?
- 8
- 4
- 5 (Correct answer)
- 6
Correct answer: 5
The ratio is 1 soldier per 2 posts; 10 posts require 5 soldiers.
Question 39: If the alarm sounds, all personnel must evacuate. The alarm has not sounded. What follows?
- Personnel are not required to evacuate (Correct answer)
- Evacuation is mandatory at all times
- Personnel should prepare to evacuate
- Personnel must evacuate anyway
Correct answer: Personnel are not required to evacuate
The evacuation requirement is triggered only by the alarm; without it sounding, the requirement does not apply.
Question 40: The table below shows the results of a fitness test for 1,200 recruits, categorized by age group and test outcome. | Age Group | Pass | Fail | Total | |-----------|------|------|-------| | 18-21 | 450 | 50 | 500 | | 22-25 | 360 | 40 | 400 | | 26-30 | 270 | 30 | 300 | | Total | 1080 | 120 | 1200 | Which of the following statements is true based on the data?
- More than half of the recruits who passed were in the 18-21 age group.
- The 18-21 age group had the lowest pass rate.
- The 22-25 age group had a pass rate of 85%.
- Exactly 10% of all recruits failed the test. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Exactly 10% of all recruits failed the test.
Let's evaluate each statement: A) Pass rates: 18-21 is 450/500=90%; 22-25 is 360/400=90%; 26-30 is 270/300=90%. All are equal, so A is false. B) The 22-25 pass rate is 360/400 = 90%, so B is false. C) Total fails are 120. Total recruits are 1200. (120/1200) * 100 = 10%. This statement is true. D) Total who passed is 1080. Half of this is 540. The 18-21 group had 450 passes, which is less than half. So D is false.
Question 41: Two trains 80 m and 120 m long approach each other at 54 km/h and 36 km/h respectively. How long does it take them to completely pass each other?
- 6 seconds
- 7 seconds
- 8 seconds (Correct answer)
- 10 seconds
Correct answer: 8 seconds
Combined speed = 90 km/h = 25 m/s; total length = 200 m; time = 200 ÷ 25 = 8 seconds.
Question 42: A test has 40 questions. A candidate answers 32 correctly. What is their percentage score?
- 85%
- 80% (Correct answer)
- 75%
- 70%
Correct answer: 80%
32 ÷ 40 × 100 = 80%.
Question 43: Which word is a synonym for PRAGMATIC?
- Idealistic
- Theoretical
- Careless
- Practical (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Practical
'Pragmatic' means dealing with things sensibly and realistically in a way that is based on practical rather than theoretical considerations. 'Practical' is the closest synonym, as it also refers to the actual doing or use of something rather than theory.
Question 44: STREAM is to RIVER as DINGHY is to …
- Canoe
- Speedboat
- Yacht (Correct answer)
- Frigate
Correct answer: Yacht
Explanation: <br> The relationship between "stream" and "river" is that a stream is a smaller body of water that often feeds into a river. Similarly, a dinghy is a smaller boat often associated with a larger vessel, such as a yacht.
Question 45: 23 x 19 = 437 <br> 24 x 19 = 437 + X <br> therefore X equals?
- 19 (Correct answer)
- 437
- 23
- 10
Correct answer: 19
Explanation: <br> To find the value of X, we first need to find the product of 24 × 19. <br> 24 × 19 = 456 <br> So, 24 × 19 = 456. <br><br> Now, we have: <br> 24 × 19 = 437 + X <br><br> Subtracting 437 from both sides: <br> 456 − 437 = 437 − 437 + X <br> 19 = X
Question 46: In a pulley system, a load of 100N is lifted by an effort of 25N. What is the mechanical advantage of the system?
- 4 (Correct answer)
- 2
- 5
- 3
Correct answer: 4
Mechanical Advantage (MA) is calculated by dividing the Load by the Effort (MA = Load / Effort). In this case, MA = 100N / 25N = 4. This means the pulley system multiplies the applied force by four times.
Question 47: Read the following passage and answer the question below: 'Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, have transformed modern surveillance and reconnaissance operations. Their ability to remain airborne for extended periods, coupled with advanced sensor technology, allows for persistent monitoring of areas of interest without risking pilot safety. However, the widespread use of UAVs presents new challenges, including the management of vast amounts of collected data and the development of countermeasures against enemy drone technology. Integrating UAVs effectively into combined arms operations requires new doctrines and continuous adaptation.' According to the passage, which of the following is NOT mentioned as a challenge associated with the use of UAVs?
- Developing countermeasures against hostile drone technology.
- The high cost of manufacturing advanced sensor technology. (Correct answer)
- Integrating UAVs effectively with other military units.
- Managing large volumes of data gathered by UAVs.
Correct answer: The high cost of manufacturing advanced sensor technology.
The passage mentions challenges related to data management, enemy countermeasures, and integration into combined arms operations. It does not, however, make any mention of the manufacturing cost of the sensor technology, focusing instead on the operational challenges.
Question 48: All officers complete basic training. James is an officer. What can be concluded?
- Nothing can be concluded
- James may skip basic training
- James is exempt from training
- James has completed basic training (Correct answer)
Correct answer: James has completed basic training
Since all officers complete basic training and James is an officer, it logically follows that James has completed basic training.
Question 49: In a gear train, Gear A (driver) turns clockwise. It meshes with Gear B, which in turn meshes with Gear C. What direction does Gear C turn?
- Counter-clockwise
- It depends on the gear size
- Clockwise (Correct answer)
- It will not turn
Correct answer: Clockwise
Gear A (clockwise) turns Gear B (counter-clockwise). Gear B (counter-clockwise) then turns Gear C (clockwise). Gear B is an 'idler' gear, and its effect is to make the final gear (C) turn in the same direction as the first gear (A).
Question 50: A rectangular barracks floor is 15 m long and 8 m wide. What is its area?
- 100 m²
- 120 m² (Correct answer)
- 110 m²
- 130 m²
Correct answer: 120 m²
Area = length × width = 15 × 8 = 120 m².
Question 51: FISH is to SCHOOL as WOLF is to?
- HERD
- COLONY
- PACK (Correct answer)
- FLOCK
Correct answer: PACK
This is an analogy of collective nouns. A group of fish is called a school, and a group of wolves is called a pack.
Question 52: SCALPEL is to SURGEON as CHISEL is to?
- HAMMER
- WOOD
- SCULPTOR (Correct answer)
- STONE
Correct answer: SCULPTOR
The relationship is between a tool and the professional who uses it. A scalpel is the primary tool of a surgeon, just as a chisel is a primary tool for a sculptor.
Question 53: When did a significant boom in commercial and personal GPS applications occur?
- In the 1980s
- After the year 2000 (Correct answer)
- Immediately after the project was codenamed NAVSTAR
- During the 1970s
Correct answer: After the year 2000
The text explains that 'Selective Availability' was removed in 2000, 'leading to a boom in commercial and personal GPS applications'. This indicates the growth happened after this policy change.
Question 54: A code is valid only if it has exactly 6 digits. The code 84392 is entered. Is it valid?
- No, it has only 5 digits (Correct answer)
- Validity cannot be determined
- Yes, if the system accepts it
- Yes, it is valid
Correct answer: No, it has only 5 digits
84392 contains 5 digits, which does not meet the exactly-6-digit requirement, so it is invalid.
Question 55: Two pendulums are set to swing. Pendulum A has a string length of 1 metre and a mass of 10kg. Pendulum B has a string length of 2 metres and a mass of 5kg. Which pendulum will have the shorter period (i.e., swing back and forth more quickly)?
- Pendulum A, because it is shorter. (Correct answer)
- Pendulum A, because it is heavier.
- They will have the same period.
- Pendulum B, because it is lighter.
Correct answer: Pendulum A, because it is shorter.
The period of a simple pendulum is determined primarily by its length and the acceleration due to gravity, not its mass. A shorter pendulum will have a shorter period, meaning it will swing back and forth more quickly than a longer pendulum. The mass of the bob has no significant effect on the period.
Question 56: A seesaw is a classic example of which class of lever?
- Class 3 Lever
- Class 1 Lever (Correct answer)
- Compound Lever
- Class 2 Lever
Correct answer: Class 1 Lever
A Class 1 lever has the fulcrum (pivot point) positioned between the effort and the load. On a seesaw, the pivot is in the middle, with the effort (person pushing down) on one side and the load (person on the other side) on the other.
Question 57: OREGANO is to HERB as TURMERIC is to ...
- Pepper
- Spice (Correct answer)
- Cayenne
- Vegetable
Correct answer: Spice
Explanation: <br> The relationship between "oregano" and "herb" is that oregano is a specific type of herb, just as turmeric is a specific type of spice. Pepper and cayenne are also types of spices, but they do not represent the same relationship as "oregano" to "herb." "Vegetable" is not the correct answer as turmeric is not a vegetable but a spice.
Question 58: What was the official codename for the GPS project mentioned in the passage?
- GPS
- NAVSTAR (Correct answer)
- STARNAV
- DOD
Correct answer: NAVSTAR
The second sentence of the passage provides this information: 'Codenamed NAVSTAR, the project was initiated in the 1970s...'.
Question 59: Either the convoy travels by road or by air. It does not travel by air. What follows?
- The convoy travels by sea
- The convoy does not move
- Nothing can be determined
- The convoy travels by road (Correct answer)
Correct answer: The convoy travels by road
This is a disjunctive syllogism: when one of two options is eliminated, the other must be true.
Question 60: Sergeant Torres ranks above Corporal Singh. Corporal Singh ranks above Private Walsh. Who ranks lowest?
- Corporal Singh
- Sergeant Torres
- Private Walsh (Correct answer)
- They are equal
Correct answer: Private Walsh
Transitive reasoning: Torres > Singh > Walsh, making Private Walsh the lowest in rank.
Question 61: A train travels 300 km in 4 hours. What is its speed in km/h?
- 75 km/h (Correct answer)
- 80 km/h
- 65 km/h
- 70 km/h
Correct answer: 75 km/h
Speed = distance ÷ time = 300 ÷ 4 = 75 km/h.
Question 62: A runner travels at 8 km/h for 3 hours. How far does she travel?
- 24 km (Correct answer)
- 16 km
- 32 km
- 11 km
Correct answer: 24 km
Distance = speed × time = 8 × 3 = 24 km.
Question 63: Five soldiers line up by height tallest to shortest: A, B, C, D, E. Who is the median height?
- A
- C (Correct answer)
- D
- B
Correct answer: C
With five people ranked 1–5, the middle (median) position is the third, which is C.
Question 64: CARROT is to VEGETABLE as BUS is to …
- Vehicle (Correct answer)
- Coach
- Truck
- Motorbike
Correct answer: Vehicle
Explanation: <br> The relationship between "carrot" and "vegetable" is that a carrot is a specific type of vegetable. Likewise, a bus is a specific type of vehicle, making "Vehicle" the correct analogy. The other options (coach, truck, motorbike) are all specific types of vehicles but do not represent the same relationship as "carrot" to "vegetable."
Question 65: A reconnaissance plane flies from base to a target at 600 km/h and returns at 400 km/h. What is the average speed for the round trip?
- 480 km/h (Correct answer)
- 520 km/h
- 500 km/h
- 490 km/h
Correct answer: 480 km/h
Average speed = 2 × 600 × 400 ÷ (600 + 400) = 480000 ÷ 1000 = 480 km/h.
Question 66: Twenty-seven tiles each measuring 25cm by 25cm fit along one edge of a room exactly. What is the length of the room?
- 7.5m
- 7.25m
- 6m
- 6.75m (Correct answer)
Correct answer: 6.75m
Explanation: <br> Each tile covers 25cm, and 27 tiles cover 27 × 25 = 675 cm. Converting 675 cm to meters, we get 675 ÷ 100 = 6.75 meters. So, the length of the room is 6.75 meters.
Question 67: A driver gear with 50 teeth rotates at 100 RPM. It drives a gear with 25 teeth. What is the rotational speed of the smaller gear?
- 100 RPM
- 50 RPM
- 400 RPM
- 200 RPM (Correct answer)
Correct answer: 200 RPM
The speeds are inversely proportional to the number of teeth. The ratio is 50:25 or 2:1. This means the smaller gear will turn twice as fast as the larger gear. Speed of small gear = 100 RPM * (50 / 25) = 100 * 2 = 200 RPM.
Question 68: A soldier earns $3,200 per month. After a 15% tax deduction, what is their take-home pay?
- $2,680
- $2,560
- $2,840
- $2,720 (Correct answer)
Correct answer: $2,720
15% of $3,200 = $480; $3,200 − $480 = $2,720.
Question 69: Which word is an antonym for MITIGATE?
- Soothe
- Alleviate
- Reduce
- Aggravate (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Aggravate
'To mitigate' means to make something bad less severe, serious, or painful. 'To aggravate' means to make a problem or offense worse or more serious. Therefore, 'aggravate' is the direct opposite.
Question 70: A unit deploys only when conditions A and B are both met. Condition A is met. What happens?
- The unit deploys at half strength
- Condition B is automatically met
- The unit deploys
- The unit does not deploy unless B is also met (Correct answer)
Correct answer: The unit does not deploy unless B is also met
Both A and B must be satisfied; meeting only A is insufficient for deployment.
Question 71: A car completes a journey in 6 hours at 80 km/h. How long would the same journey take at 96 km/h?
- 5.5 hours
- 4.5 hours
- 4 hours
- 5 hours (Correct answer)
Correct answer: 5 hours
Distance = 6 × 80 = 480 km; time at 96 km/h = 480 ÷ 96 = 5 hours.
Question 72: Read the passage and determine which statement can be inferred: 'The Royal Navy's carrier strike group capability represents a significant projection of maritime power. The Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers are designed to operate fifth-generation stealth jets, providing a formidable offensive and defensive platform. The operational effectiveness of the carrier, however, is not solely dependent on the vessel itself but on the entire strike group, which includes destroyers, frigates, and support ships. Each vessel has a specialised role, from air defence to anti-submarine warfare, creating a multi-layered shield around the carrier.' Which of the following can be logically inferred from the passage?
- Fifth-generation stealth jets can only operate from aircraft carriers.
- An aircraft carrier operating alone is highly vulnerable. (Correct answer)
- The Queen Elizabeth-class carriers are the largest ships ever built.
- Destroyers are more important than frigates in a carrier strike group.
Correct answer: An aircraft carrier operating alone is highly vulnerable.
The passage states that the carrier's effectiveness depends on the entire strike group, which provides a 'multi-layered shield' with roles like air defence and anti-submarine warfare. This strongly implies that without this protective group, the carrier would be exposed and vulnerable. The other statements are not supported: the passage doesn't compare the carrier's size to all other ships, it doesn't rank the importance of destroyers vs. frigates, and it doesn't claim the jets can *only* operate from carriers.
Question 73: According to the text, what is the minimum number of satellites a receiver needs to receive signals from to determine its location?
- Three
- One
- Twenty-four
- Four (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Four
The passage states, 'A receiver on the ground can determine its exact location by calculating the time difference between receiving signals from at least four different satellites.' This specifies the minimum requirement.
Question 74: What ONE number can replace BOTH question marks? <br> <br> 1/? = ?/36
- None of these
- 9
- 3
- 6 (Correct answer)
Correct answer: 6
Explanation: <br> To find the missing number, cross multiply: 1 × 36 = 6 × ?. This simplifies to 36 = 6?. Divide both sides by 6:36/6 = 6?/6. This gives 6 = ?. Therefore, the missing number that can replace both question marks is 6.
Question 75: 1 kilogram = 1000 grams. How many grams are there in 0.7 kilograms?
- 750
- 700 (Correct answer)
- 70
- None of these
Correct answer: 700
Explanation: <br> To find out how many grams are there in 0.7 kilograms, we can use the conversion factor: 1 kilogram = 1000 grams. <br><br> So, to convert 0.7 kilograms to grams, we multiply 0.7 by 1000: <br> 0.7 kilograms × 1000 grams/kilogram = 700 grams
Question 76: Read the following passage and answer the question below: 'Military readiness is contingent upon a multitude of factors, including robust training programmes, advanced equipment, and the physical and mental well-being of service personnel. A key component of this is logistical support, which ensures that troops have the necessary supplies, from ammunition to rations, precisely when and where they are needed. Without a highly efficient logistical chain, even the best-equipped and best-trained forces can be rendered ineffective. Therefore, significant investment in logistics is not merely a background necessity but a strategic priority for modern armed forces.' Based on the passage, which of the following is the most accurate statement?
- Advanced equipment is the single most important factor in military readiness.
- Military training programmes are independent of the logistical chain.
- The well-being of service personnel is less important than logistical support.
- Logistical support is considered a strategic priority for modern military forces. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Logistical support is considered a strategic priority for modern military forces.
The passage explicitly states that 'significant investment in logistics is not merely a background necessity but a strategic priority for modern armed forces.' The other options are either contradicted or not supported by the text. The passage lists equipment as one of several factors, not the most important. It doesn't compare the importance of personnel well-being to logistics, and implies training would be ineffective without logistical support.
Question 77: Three teams — Alpha, Bravo, Charlie — finish a race. Alpha beats Bravo; Bravo beats Charlie. What is the finishing order?
- Alpha, Charlie, Bravo
- Charlie, Bravo, Alpha
- Alpha, Bravo, Charlie (Correct answer)
- Bravo, Alpha, Charlie
Correct answer: Alpha, Bravo, Charlie
Alpha > Bravo > Charlie by transitivity, giving first, second, and third place respectively.
Question 78: In the gear system shown, Gear A has 10 teeth and turns clockwise. Gear B has 20 teeth, and Gear C has 5 teeth. Which of the following statements is true?
- Gear C will turn anti-clockwise and faster than Gear A.
- Gear C will turn anti-clockwise and slower than Gear A.
- Gear C will turn clockwise and at the same speed as Gear A.
- Gear C will turn clockwise and faster than Gear A. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Gear C will turn clockwise and faster than Gear A.
When two gears mesh, they turn in opposite directions. Since Gear A turns clockwise, Gear B will turn anti-clockwise. Since Gear B turns anti-clockwise, Gear C will turn clockwise. Regarding speed, a smaller gear will always turn faster than a larger gear it is meshed with. Gear C has the fewest teeth (5), so it will rotate the fastest. Gear A has 10 teeth, so Gear C will turn faster than Gear A.
Question 79: If no snipers are recruits and all recruits wear red berets, which statement must be true?
- All snipers wear red berets
- None of the above (Correct answer)
- Some snipers wear red berets
- No snipers wear red berets
Correct answer: None of the above
Recruits wear red berets, but since no snipers are recruits, we cannot determine whether snipers wear red berets or not — it is not necessarily true that no sniper wears one.
Question 80: A cyclist rides at 15 km/h. How far will she travel in 2.5 hours?
- 37.5 km (Correct answer)
- 35 km
- 40 km
- 30 km
Correct answer: 37.5 km
Distance = speed × time = 15 × 2.5 = 37.5 km.
Question 81: 3b + 7c = 7c + therefore equals?
- 6b
- 3b (Correct answer)
- None of these
- 7c
Correct answer: 3b
Explanation: <br> In the given equation 3b + 7c = 7c+, we can see that the term 7c is present on both sides. By subtracting 7c from both sides of the equation, it cancels out, leaving 3b = on one side. Therefore, the equation simplifies to 3b =, indicating that 3b is the result.
Question 82: DATED means the opposite of …
- Contemporary (Correct answer)
- Archaic
- Antiquated
- Obsolete
Correct answer: Contemporary
Explanation: <br> "Dated" means old-fashioned or belonging to a previous time period. Its opposite, "Contemporary," refers to something that is modern or current, thus contrasting with "Dated." "Antiquated" and "Archaic" are synonyms of "Obsolete," not opposites.
Question 83: 20% of 60 equals?
- 20
- 12 (Correct answer)
- 15
- None of these
Correct answer: 12
Explanation: <br> To find 20% of a number, you multiply the number by 0.20 or simply move the decimal point two places to the left. Therefore, 20% × 60 = 0.20 × 60 = 12. So, 20% of 60 is 12.
Question 84: What is the primary purpose of a rack and pinion gear system?
- To disengage the drive shaft
- To convert rotational motion to linear motion (Correct answer)
- To increase torque significantly
- To change the direction of rotation
Correct answer: To convert rotational motion to linear motion
A rack and pinion system is used to convert rotational motion into linear motion, or vice versa. The pinion is a circular gear that engages with the teeth on the rack, which is a linear gear bar. This mechanism is commonly found in vehicle steering systems.
Question 85: Two cyclists start from opposite ends of a 120 km road at the same time. Cyclist A rides at 20 km/h and Cyclist B at 25 km/h. After how long will they meet?
- 2 hours
- 2 hours 20 minutes
- 3 hours
- 2 hours 40 minutes (Correct answer)
Correct answer: 2 hours 40 minutes
Combined speed = 45 km/h; time = 120 ÷ 45 = 8/3 hours = 2 hours 40 minutes.
Question 86: A sequence of squares is shown. The first square has a small dot in the top-left corner. The second has the dot in the top-right corner. The third has the dot in the bottom-right corner. What is the fourth square in the series?
- A square with a dot in the top-right corner
- A square with a dot in the bottom-left corner (Correct answer)
- A square with a dot in the center
- A square with a dot in the top-left corner
Correct answer: A square with a dot in the bottom-left corner
The rule is that the dot moves one corner clockwise with each step. Starting from the top-left, it moves to the top-right, then to the bottom-right. The next logical position is the bottom-left corner.
Question 87: A mission requires at least 4 personnel. There are 3 available. What is the outcome?
- The minimum is waived
- The mission cannot proceed (Correct answer)
- The mission proceeds with 3
- The mission proceeds at reduced capacity
Correct answer: The mission cannot proceed
The requirement of at least 4 is not met with only 3 personnel, so the mission cannot proceed.
Question 88: A jeep travels at 60 km/h. How long does it take to cover 90 km?
- 2 hours
- 1.5 hours (Correct answer)
- 2.5 hours
- 1 hour
Correct answer: 1.5 hours
Time = distance ÷ speed = 90 ÷ 60 = 1.5 hours.
Question 89: CAT is to FELINE as NECKLACE is to …
- Charm
- Jewelry (Correct answer)
- Brooch
- Trinket
Correct answer: Jewelry
Explanation: <br> The relationship between "cat" and "feline" is that a cat is a specific type of feline, just as a necklace is a specific type of jewelry. The other options (brooch, trinket, charm) are all types of jewelry or accessories but do not represent the same relationship as "cat" to "feline."
Question 90: LAVISH means the same as …
- Frugal
- Excessive (Correct answer)
- Scanty
- Sparse
Correct answer: Excessive
Explanation: <br> Lavish describes something that is abundant or extravagant in quantity or quality. It implies excessive spending or indulgence, contrasting with being frugal, scanty, or sparse, which all denote limited or restrained amounts. Lavish means abundant or extravagant, which is the opposite of frugal, scanty, or sparse.
Question 91: What is the ideal mechanical advantage (IMA) of a single fixed pulley?
- It depends on the load
- 1 (Correct answer)
- 0
- 2
Correct answer: 1
A single fixed pulley does not multiply the force applied; it only changes the direction of the force. Therefore, the effort required to lift the load is equal to the weight of the load, giving it a mechanical advantage of 1.
Question 92: What is the primary purpose of technical knowledge in DAA - Defence Aptitude Assessment?
- To limit the number of qualified professionals
- To generate revenue for testing organizations
- To assess competency in technical knowledge concepts and application (Correct answer)
- To replace all other assessment methods
Correct answer: To assess competency in technical knowledge concepts and application
Technical Knowledge assessment evaluates understanding and application of core concepts, ensuring candidates meet established competency standards.
Question 93: Intelligence report A says the bridge is intact; report B says it is destroyed. Both cannot be correct. What is the logical status?
- Both are false
- Both are true
- At least one is false (Correct answer)
- One must be true and the other false
Correct answer: At least one is false
Two contradictory statements cannot both be true; at least one of them must be false.
Question 94: A fishing rod, when casting a line, functions as which class of lever?
- Class 1 Lever
- Not a lever
- Class 3 Lever (Correct answer)
- Class 2 Lever
Correct answer: Class 3 Lever
A Class 3 lever has the effort applied between the fulcrum and the load. When casting a fishing rod, one hand acts as the fulcrum at the end of the rod, the other hand applies the effort in the middle, and the load is the weight of the line and lure at the tip.
Question 95: TIMID is to BRAVE as FRUGAL is to?
- POOR
- THRIFTY
- EXTRAVAGANT (Correct answer)
- WEALTHY
Correct answer: EXTRAVAGANT
The words in the first pair are antonyms (opposites). Timid is the opposite of brave. Frugal, meaning saving or sparing, is the opposite of extravagant, which means spending excessively.
Question 96: If a soldier passes the fitness test, they advance. Private Lee did not advance. What can be inferred?
- Nothing can be inferred
- Private Lee did not take the test
- Private Lee passed but was held back
- Private Lee failed the fitness test (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Private Lee failed the fitness test
By contrapositive: if a soldier did not advance, they did not pass the fitness test.
Question 97: If a small gear drives a large gear, what is the effect on the output speed and torque of the large gear?
- Speed and torque both increase
- Speed decreases, torque increases (Correct answer)
- Speed increases, torque decreases
- Speed and torque both decrease
Correct answer: Speed decreases, torque increases
When a small gear (high speed, low torque) drives a large gear, the large gear will rotate more slowly but with greater torque. This setup is used to decrease speed and increase turning force.
Question 98: Two cars start from the same point and travel in opposite directions. Car A travels at 60 km/h and Car B at 80 km/h. How far apart are they after 3 hours?
- 360 km
- 420 km (Correct answer)
- 480 km
- 540 km
Correct answer: 420 km
Combined speed = 60 + 80 = 140 km/h; distance = 140 × 3 = 420 km.
Question 99: What role does critical analysis play in DAA technical knowledge?
- It only applies to theoretical contexts
- It replaces the need for factual knowledge
- It is not relevant to this field
- It enables evaluation of information quality and identification of logical reasoning (Correct answer)
Correct answer: It enables evaluation of information quality and identification of logical reasoning
Critical analysis is essential for evaluating information, identifying valid reasoning, recognizing errors, and making well-supported decisions in professional contexts.
Question 100: Which of the following designs for a vehicle would be the most stable and least likely to tip over while cornering?
- A high center of gravity and a wide base.
- A high center of gravity and a narrow base.
- A low center of gravity and a narrow base.
- A low center of gravity and a wide base. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: A low center of gravity and a wide base.
An object's stability is increased by having a low center of gravity and a wide base of support. A low center of gravity means the object is less likely to have its center of gravity move outside its base of support when tilted. A wide base provides a larger area for the center of gravity to remain within, preventing tipping. Racing cars, for example, are built very low and wide for this reason.
Question 101: All armored vehicles are heavy. Some heavy vehicles require special bridges. Which must be true?
- All armored vehicles require special bridges
- All heavy vehicles are armored
- No armored vehicles require special bridges
- Some armored vehicles may require special bridges (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Some armored vehicles may require special bridges
Since some heavy vehicles require special bridges and all armored vehicles are heavy, it is possible — but not certain — that some armored vehicles fall into that subset.
Question 102: To lift a 200kg box using a lever, you apply force 4 metres from the fulcrum. The box is 1 metre from the fulcrum. How much effort (force) is required? (Assume g = 10 m/s²)
- 400N
- 200N
- 500N (Correct answer)
- 800N
Correct answer: 500N
First, calculate the load force: 200kg * 10 m/s² = 2000N. The principle of moments states Effort × Effort Arm = Load × Load Arm. So, Effort × 4m = 2000N × 1m. Effort = 2000 / 4 = 500N.
Question 103: A person is using a crowbar to lift a heavy crate. To get the maximum mechanical advantage and make the lift as easy as possible, where should the fulcrum be placed?
- As close as possible to the person's hands.
- As close as possible to the crate. (Correct answer)
- Exactly in the middle of the crowbar.
- It does not matter where the fulcrum is placed.
Correct answer: As close as possible to the crate.
A lever provides the greatest mechanical advantage when the distance from the effort (the person's hands) to the fulcrum is maximized, and the distance from the fulcrum to the load (the crate) is minimized. By placing the fulcrum as close as possible to the crate, the person increases the length of the effort arm, requiring less force to lift the heavy load.
Question 104: Two gears are meshed. Gear A has 60 teeth and Gear B has 20 teeth. For every one full rotation of Gear A, how many rotations does Gear B complete?
- One
- Sixty
- One-third
- Three (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Three
The gear ratio is 60:20, which simplifies to 3:1. This means that for every one rotation of the larger gear (A), the smaller gear (B) must complete three rotations to make all 60 teeth of gear A pass by.
Question 105: What is the ideal mechanical advantage of a pulley system with 3 movable pulleys and 1 fixed pulley, where the rope is attached to the fixed support?
- 7
- 4
- 6 (Correct answer)
- 3
Correct answer: 6
The ideal mechanical advantage (IMA) of a pulley system is typically equal to the number of rope segments directly supporting the load. In a standard block and tackle arrangement, this is equal to the number of pulleys in the system, but more accurately, it's the number of supporting strands. With 3 movable pulleys, there will be 6 supporting strands, giving an IMA of 6.
Question 106: Unit X deploys on odd-numbered days. Today is the 14th. Does Unit X deploy?
- Yes
- Cannot be determined
- No (Correct answer)
- Only if ordered
Correct answer: No
14 is an even number, so the odd-day deployment rule does not apply today.
Question 107: If 5 vehicles can transport 60 soldiers, how many soldiers can 8 vehicles transport?
- 96 (Correct answer)
- 88
- 100
- 80
Correct answer: 96
Each vehicle carries 60 ÷ 5 = 12 soldiers; 8 × 12 = 96 soldiers.
Question 108: A train 200 m long passes a stationary pole in 10 seconds. What is the speed of the train in km/h?
- 54 km/h
- 60 km/h
- 80 km/h
- 72 km/h (Correct answer)
Correct answer: 72 km/h
Speed = 200 ÷ 10 = 20 m/s; converting: 20 × 3.6 = 72 km/h.
Question 109: DISORDER means the same as …
- Unrest (Correct answer)
- Composed
- Serene
- Calm
Correct answer: Unrest
Explanation: <br> Disorder refers to a state of unrest or lack of order. It implies chaos or confusion rather than calmness, serenity, or composure. Disorder is the opposite of calm, serene, and composed, indicating a lack of order or disturbance.
Question 110: A driver gear has 10 teeth and the driven gear has 40 teeth. What is the gear ratio?
- 1:1
- 4:1 (Correct answer)
- 10:40
- 1:4
Correct answer: 4:1
The gear ratio is calculated as the number of teeth on the driven gear divided by the number of teeth on the driver gear. In this case, it is 40 / 10 = 4. This is expressed as a ratio of 4:1.
Question 111: A wheelbarrow is an example of which class of lever?
- Class 1 Lever
- It is not a lever
- Class 3 Lever
- Class 2 Lever (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Class 2 Lever
A Class 2 lever has the load positioned between the fulcrum and the effort. In a wheelbarrow, the wheel's axle is the fulcrum, the load is in the basin, and the effort is applied at the handles.
Defence Aptitude Assessment (DAA)
The Defence Aptitude Assessment (DAA) is a computer-based cognitive test used by the UK Armed Forces (RAF, Royal Navy, Army) to assess candidates' suitability for specific roles. It consists of six timed sections covering verbal, numerical, spatial, mechanical, and electrical reasoning.
Exam Rules
- You can skip questions and return to them later
- Flag questions for review before submitting
- No feedback shown until you submit the entire exam
- Unanswered questions count as wrong — answer everything
- 10 pretest questions are mixed in and don't affect your score
- Timer auto-submits when time runs out
- Your progress is auto-saved every 30 seconds
These practice questions were written with AI tools. They are not real exam questions. Exam facts are checked against the official sources listed below. Not reviewed by a subject-matter expert. Editorial policy
Sources & references
Exam facts on this page (fees, format, dates, passing scores) are checked against these official sources; the date is our last check. Editorial policy
- royalnavy.mod.uk — Exam format, passing score, test dates, eligibility, retake policy, test delivery, score release, time limit · verified Oct 2026
- recruitment.raf.mod.uk — Test delivery, time limit · verified Oct 2026