UPSC Prelims 2026 · CSAT Paper 2 · Set DMathematicsQ 9 / 80

UPSC Prelims 2026 CSAT Paper 2 — Question 9

Question

Three variables x, y and z take values 2, 3, 4 or 5 such that their values are always distinct. If M and N denote the largest possible value and the smallest possible value, respectively, for the expression {(x × y) + z}; then M − N is

(a)11
(b)12
(c)13
(d)14

UnlockIAS answer: (c)13

Solution

Maximum = 4 × 5 + 3 = 23 (z is the largest remaining value). Minimum = 2 × 3 + 4 = 10. So M − N = 23 − 10 = 13.

UnlockIAS expert key, prepared 24 May 2026 and cross-verified by re-deriving the answer — this is our key, not the official UPSC provisional key (awaited).

Section

Mathematics

Topic Reference

Numeracy — Maxima and minima

Official UPSC key still awaited

UPSC has announced (PIB Release 2262441, 18 May 2026) that the provisional answer key for CSE Prelims 2026 will be released “soon after Exam”. Until then, use the CSAT score calculator for your qualifying-status estimate, and join the per-question discussion below.

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Official Notification

PIB Release 2262441

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