The correct characteristic feature of Planning is :
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The correct answer is Option (3) → Planning is a mental exercise
Option (1) Planning is a one time process — Incorrect. A plan is made for a fixed period. When that period ends, a new plan is made to suit the new conditions. Planning is therefore a continuous function.
Option (2) Planning involves departmentalisation — Incorrect. Grouping activities into departments is a step of organising, not of planning.
Option (3) Planning is a mental exercise — Correct. Planning means deciding in advance what to do, how to do it, when to do it and who will do it. All of this is settled before any work starts. It needs foresight, clear thinking, good judgement and imagination, not guesswork. So it is an activity of the mind, not of the hands.
Option (4) Planning is a secondary function of management — Incorrect. Planning is the first function of management. Organising, staffing, directing and controlling all follow from the plan.
NCERT (2026-27 Edition): “Features of Planning … (vii) Planning is a mental exercise: Planning requires application of the mind involving foresight, intelligent imagination and sound judgement. It is basically an intellectual activity of thinking rather than doing, because planning determines the action to be taken. However, planning requires logical and systematic thinking rather than guess work or wishful thinking.” “(ii) Planning is a primary function of management: Planning lays down the base for other functions of management. …” “(iv) Planning is continuous: Plans are prepared for a specific period of time, may be for a month, a quarter, or a year. …” |