Business StudiesDirecting

Depending on the _______, there are three basic styles of leadership.

Answer & explanation

Correct answer: option 4

The correct answer is Option (4) → Use of authority

Option (1) Freedom — Incorrect. The freedom given to subordinates differs from one style to another, but it is the result of how the leader uses his authority. It is not the basis of the classification.
Option (2) Power — Incorrect. A leader may draw power from his position or his personal qualities. But the three basic styles are not told apart by the power a leader has.
Option (3) Wisdom — Incorrect. Wisdom is a personal quality of a good leader, like intelligence or initiative. It is not a basis for classifying styles.
Option (4) Use of authority — Correct. The most popular classification of leadership styles rests on how the leader uses his authority. An autocratic leader keeps all authority and gives orders. A democratic leader shares it and involves subordinates in decisions. A laissez-faire leader leaves the subordinates free to decide for themselves.

NCERT (2026-27 Edition): “Leadership Style … There are several bases for classifying leadership styles. The most popular classification of leadership styles is based on the use of authority. Depending on the use of authority, there are three basic styles of leadership:
(i) Autocratic (ii) Democratic, and (iii) Laissez-faire”

Depending on the _______, there are three basic styles of leadership.

Answer & explanation

Correct answer: option 4

The correct answer is Option (4) → Use of authority

Option (1) Freedom — Incorrect. The freedom given to subordinates differs from one style to another, but it is the result of how the leader uses his authority. It is not the basis of the classification.
Option (2) Power — Incorrect. A leader may draw power from his position or his personal qualities. But the three basic styles are not told apart by the power a leader has.
Option (3) Wisdom — Incorrect. Wisdom is a personal quality of a good leader, like intelligence or initiative. It is not a basis for classifying styles.
Option (4) Use of authority — Correct. The most popular classification of leadership styles rests on how the leader uses his authority. An autocratic leader keeps all authority and gives orders. A democratic leader shares it and involves subordinates in decisions. A laissez-faire leader leaves the subordinates free to decide for themselves.