"The application of principles of management is dependent upon the prevailing situation at a particular point of time".
Identify the feature of principles of Management reflected from the above statement.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The correct answer is Option (3) → Contingent
Option (1) Mainly behavioral — Incorrect. This means the principles aim at influencing the behaviour of human beings.
Option (2) Flexible — Incorrect. Flexible means the principles are not rigid and can be modified by the manager. It is close in meaning, but the words ‘dependent upon the prevailing situation’ describe ‘contingent’.
Option (3) Contingent — Correct. “The application of principles of management is contingent or dependent upon the prevailing situation at a particular point of time.” ‘Contingent’ means ‘depending on the situation’.
Option (4) Cause and effect relationship — Incorrect. This means the principles tell us what effect is likely when a principle is applied in a situation.
NCERT (2026-27 Edition): “Nature of Principles of Management … (vii) Contingent: The application of principles of management is contingent or dependent upon the prevailing situation at a particular point of time. The application of principles has to be changed as per requirements. …” |
Note: The same/similar question has been asked in different years by NTA as per the details given below:
| 2026 | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 |
| – | 15-05 S1 | – | 14-06 S1 | – |