Consider the following statements about the step ‘Selecting an alternative’:
(A) Selecting an alternative is the real point of decision making.
(B) Sometimes, a combination of plans may be selected instead of one best course.
(C) At this step, the pros and cons of each alternative are weighed against each other.
(D) The manager may have to apply permutations and combinations to select the best possible course of action.
(E) This is the step where other managerial functions also come into the picture.
How many of the above statements are correct?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → Three
(A) Selecting an alternative is the real point of decision making. — Correct. At this step the best plan is chosen and adopted.
(B) Sometimes, a combination of plans may be selected instead of one best course. — Correct. The manager may pick more than one course together.
(C) At this step, the pros and cons of each alternative are weighed against each other. — Incorrect. Weighing pros and cons is the earlier step, evaluating alternative courses.
(D) The manager may have to apply permutations and combinations to select the best possible course of action. — Correct. Trying different mixes of plans helps find the best course.
(E) This is the step where other managerial functions also come into the picture. — Incorrect. This line describes the next step, implementing the plan.
NCERT (2026-27 Edition): “(iv) Evaluating alternative courses: The next step is to weigh the pros and cons of each alternative. …” “(v) Selecting an alternative: This is the real point of decision making. The best plan has to be adopted and implemented. The ideal plan, of course, would be the most feasible, profitable and with least negative consequences. Most plans may not always be subjected to a mathematical analysis. In such cases, subjectivity and the manager’s experience, judgement and at times, intuition play an important part in selecting the most viable alternative. Sometimes, a combination of plans may be selected instead of one best course. The manager will have to apply permutations and combinations and select the best possible course of action.” “(vi) Implementing the plan: This is the step where other managerial functions also come into the picture. …” |