“Which of the following statements is true?” — It’s a phrase we’ve all encountered in tests, job assessments, or logic puzzles. Whether you’re preparing for a multiple-choice exam, trying to solve a riddle, or simply seeking clarity on a topic, understanding how to approach this question format is essential.
In this guide, we’ll break down what this question really means, how to tackle it confidently, and provide real-life examples across categories like science, grammar, reasoning, and more. By the end, you’ll not only know how to identify the correct statement — you’ll also know how to think like a test-maker and ace the logic behind it.What Does “Which of the Following Statements Is True” Mean?
This type of question typically appears in multiple-choice tests and aims to evaluate:
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Your knowledge of factual information.
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Your reasoning skills — especially in logic or comprehension sections.
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Your attention to detail in evaluating subtle differences.
It’s often accompanied by four or five similar-sounding options, but only one is factually or logically accurate.
Where Is This Question Format Commonly Found?
| Context | Purpose |
|---|---|
| School/College Exams | Tests factual knowledge or logic |
| Job Assessments | Evaluates decision-making and comprehension |
| Competitive Exams (e.g. SAT, GRE) | Assesses logic, grammar, or math accuracy |
| Science and Math Quizzes | Tests accuracy of technical knowledge |
| Reading Comprehension | Checks for inference or detail recognition |
How to Approach a “Which of the Following Statements Is True?” Question
To master this type of question, follow this proven strategy:
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Read the question carefully: Understand what is being asked. Is it logic-based, grammar-related, or fact-checking?
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Eliminate wrong answers: Use the process of elimination — if one word is incorrect, the whole statement is invalid.
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Watch for distractors: These are statements that sound almost right but include a twist or exaggeration.
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Verify facts: If the statement refers to a known fact, double-check its accuracy.
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Choose the most accurate and relevant option.
Examples by Category
1. Grammar & English Usage
Question:
Which of the following statements is true?
a) Its a nice day today.
b) It’s raining cats and dogs outside.
c) Their going to the store.
d) The books is on the table.
Correct Answer:
b) It’s raining cats and dogs outside.
✅ Explanation:
“It’s” is the correct contraction of “it is.” The rest contain grammatical errors like incorrect use of “its,” “their,” and subject-verb agreement.
2. Science
Question:
Which of the following statements is true?
a) The sun revolves around the Earth.
b) Water boils at 50°C.
c) Humans have 46 chromosomes.
d) Plants breathe in oxygen and release carbon dioxide.
Correct Answer:
c) Humans have 46 chromosomes.
✅ Explanation:
This is a factual biological truth. The other statements contain scientific inaccuracies.
3. Math/Logic
Question:
Which of the following statements is true?
a) 3 × 4 = 11
b) The square root of 16 is 5
c) 12 is a multiple of 3
d) 100 is less than 50
Correct Answer:
c) 12 is a multiple of 3
✅ Explanation:
12 divided by 3 equals 4, making it a multiple. The others are mathematically incorrect.
4. Critical Thinking
Question:
Which of the following statements is true?
a) All birds can fly.
b) No mammals live in the ocean.
c) Penguins are birds that cannot fly.
d) Insects have five legs.
Correct Answer:
c) Penguins are birds that cannot fly.
✅ Explanation:
Penguins are flightless birds — a known exception to the “all birds fly” misconception.
5. General Knowledge
Question:
Which of the following statements is true?
a) Tokyo is the capital of China.
b) The Eiffel Tower is in Berlin.
c) Mount Everest is the highest mountain above sea level.
d) The Amazon River is the longest river in the world.
Correct Answer:
c) Mount Everest is the highest mountain above sea level.
✅ Explanation:
Everest stands at 8,848.86 meters and holds the title globally. While the Amazon is vast, the Nile is often considered the longest by most measures.
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Common Tricks Test-Makers Use
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All of the above / none of the above: Adds confusion unless each option is carefully validated.
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Double negatives: Phrases like “Which of the following is not untrue” create unnecessary complexity.
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Similar-sounding facts: E.g., mixing up dates, names, or units.
Pro Tip: When in doubt, reread every word — accuracy often lies in the details.
How to Practice These Questions Effectively
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Use flashcards with sample questions.
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Take timed quizzes online in your topic of interest (grammar, science, logic, etc.).
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Create your own statements — both true and false — to sharpen your recognition skills.
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Explain why incorrect answers are wrong — this builds deeper understanding.
FAQ
What is the best way to answer “Which of the following statements is true?”
The best method is to use the process of elimination, fact-check each option, and look out for subtle differences or misleading phrasing.
Why do exams ask “Which of the following is true”?
This question format tests your ability to distinguish between similar concepts, apply knowledge, and identify key facts or logical consistency.
Is there always only one true statement?
In standardized tests, yes — unless the question specifies that more than one may be correct. Always read the instructions carefully.
Can this phrase be used outside of tests?
Yes. It’s also used in discussions, interviews, and debates where fact-checking and critical thinking are important.
Conclusion
The phrase “Which of the following statements is true?” may seem simple, but it’s a powerful tool to test knowledge, logic, and attention to detail. From school exams to real-world scenarios, mastering this question type gives you a clear edge.
Next time you see it, don’t panic — just analyze, eliminate, and choose wisely.