NO. OF QUESTIONS: 09
UG (NEP) 1stSEMESTER; Session: Feb-2026
UG (NEP) 1st SEMESTER
Communication Skills
Time Allowed : 2 : 00 Hours
Max. Marks : 75
Min. Marks : 30
NOTE: ATTEMPT ALL QUESTIONS FROM SECTION “A” & “B” AND ONLY TWO QUESTIONS FROM SECTION “C”
Section – A: [Short Answer Type Questions] (8x1.5=12 Marks)
[Answer all Questions in maximum of 20 words each]
i. Define communication.
ii. Define semantic barriers to communication.
iii. What is emotional intelligence?
iv. What is difference between IQ and EQ.
v. What is the main difference between group discussion and debate?
vi. What does CV stand for?
vii. Define memoranda.
viii. Define kinesics.
Section – B: [Medium Answer Type Questions] (4x7.5=30 Marks)
[Answer all the Four Questions with internal choice in a maximum of 150 words each]
What is the role of feedback in the process of communication?
Or
How does non-verbal communication complement verbal communication?How do soft skills impact interpersonal relationships?
Or
Explain the role of body language while facing an interview.Write a short speech on value of book reading.
Or
What is a memoranda and what is its purpose?What are the socio-cultural barriers that a student from a rural area may face in a city college?
Or
Define formal report and write its main features?
Section – C: [Long Answer Type Questions] (2x16.5=33 Marks)
[Answer only Two Questions in a maximum of 400 words each]
Discuss in detail the various barriers to communication and how can we overcome these barriers.
Explain in detail the process of communication. How do communication skills help in one’s vocational life?
Draft a CV for a postdoctoral position in a foreign university.
Explain soft skills and their importance in personality development.
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Solved Question Paper
Section – A: Short Answer Type Questions
i. Define communication.
Communication is the process of exchanging information, ideas, feelings, or messages between individuals or groups through a common system of symbols, signs, or behaviors. It can be verbal, non-verbal, written, or visual.
ii. Define semantic barriers to communication.
Semantic barriers are misunderstandings that arise from language-related issues, such as ambiguous words, jargon, technical terms, or differences in interpretation, which hinder clear message transmission between the sender and receiver.
iii. What is emotional intelligence?
Emotional intelligence (EQ) is the ability to recognize, understand, manage, and influence one’s own emotions and the emotions of others effectively, contributing to better interpersonal relationships and decision-making.
iv. What is difference between IQ and EQ?
IQ measures cognitive abilities such as logical reasoning and problem-solving. EQ measures emotional awareness, empathy, and interpersonal skills. IQ relates to intellect, while EQ relates to emotional and social competence.
v. What is the main difference between group discussion and debate?
Group discussion is collaborative, aiming to reach a consensus or solution through collective input. Debate is competitive, where participants argue opposing viewpoints to persuade others or prove their stance correct.
vi. What does CV stand for?
CV stands for Curriculum Vitae, a Latin term meaning “course of life.” It is a detailed document summarizing a person’s academic and professional background, including education, experience, and achievements.
vii. Define memoranda.
Memoranda, or memos, are brief, formal written documents used for internal organizational communication to convey information, instructions, policies, or requests efficiently to employees or departments.
viii. Define kinesics.
Kinesics is the study of body language, including gestures, facial expressions, posture, eye movements, and other physical behaviors that convey non-verbal messages during communication.
Section – B: Medium Answer Type Questions (250 words each)
1. What is the role of feedback in the process of communication?
Feedback is a vital element in the communication cycle, acting as the response or reaction of the receiver to the sender’s message. Its primary role is to confirm whether the message has been correctly understood, thereby completing the two-way process of communication. Without feedback, communication remains linear and ineffective, as the sender cannot gauge the impact or clarity of their message. Feedback serves multiple purposes: it validates understanding, clarifies doubts, corrects misinterpretations, and provides emotional or intellectual reinforcement. In professional and personal interactions, timely and constructive feedback enhances mutual understanding, builds trust, and fosters collaborative relationships. It also allows the sender to adjust their future communication style, content, or medium based on the receiver's response. For instance, in organizational settings, feedback helps in aligning team goals, improving performance, and facilitating continuous learning. Constructive feedback, when delivered respectfully, can motivate individuals and promote a culture of openness. Conversely, the absence of feedback can lead to assumptions, errors, and frustration. Thus, feedback not only closes the communication loop but also transforms it into a dynamic, adaptive, and relational process, essential for meaningful and effective exchanges in any context.
2. How does non-verbal communication complement verbal communication?
Non-verbal communication complements verbal communication by adding depth, emotion, and context to spoken words, often conveying more than what is said verbally. It includes body language, facial expressions, gestures, posture, eye contact, tone of voice, and even silence. While verbal communication delivers the explicit content of a message, non-verbal cues reveal the speaker’s true emotions, attitudes, and intentions. For example, a person saying “I’m fine” with a slumped posture and a frown communicates distress, contradicting their words. Non-verbal signals can reinforce the verbal message, as when a speaker uses hand gestures to emphasize key points, or they can contradict it, leading to mixed signals. They also help regulate conversations—through nods, eye contact, or pauses—indicating when it’s another person’s turn to speak. In intercultural communication, non-verbal cues can bridge language barriers, though they must be interpreted with cultural sensitivity. Additionally, non-verbal communication builds rapport and trust; a warm smile or steady eye contact can make interactions more engaging and authentic. In essence, non-verbal communication provides the emotional subtext and relational nuances that words alone cannot convey, making interactions richer, clearer, and more human.
3. How do soft skills impact interpersonal relationships?
Soft skills significantly shape the quality and dynamics of interpersonal relationships by fostering understanding, cooperation, and mutual respect. These skills—such as empathy, active listening, effective communication, adaptability, and conflict resolution—enable individuals to navigate social interactions with sensitivity and emotional intelligence. Empathy, for instance, allows one to understand and share the feelings of others, creating deeper emotional connections and reducing misunderstandings. Active listening ensures that people feel heard and valued, which builds trust and reduces conflicts. Effective communication helps express thoughts and emotions clearly, preventing assumptions and misinterpretations. In team settings, collaboration and teamwork skills promote synergy and collective problem-solving, while adaptability allows individuals to adjust to different personalities and situations, maintaining harmony. Conflict resolution skills enable disagreements to be handled constructively, preserving relationships rather than damaging them. Moreover, soft skills like patience, humility, and a positive attitude contribute to a supportive and respectful environment. In personal relationships, these skills enhance intimacy and loyalty, while in professional contexts, they improve teamwork, leadership, and client relations. Ultimately, soft skills transform superficial interactions into meaningful connections, creating a foundation for healthy, resilient, and fulfilling relationships.
4. Explain the role of body language while facing an interview.
Body language plays a critical role in interviews, as it non-verbally communicates confidence, professionalism, and authenticity, often influencing the interviewer’s perception more than words alone. From the moment an interviewee enters the room, their posture, eye contact, handshake, and gestures create a first impression. A firm handshake and upright posture convey confidence and enthusiasm, while slouching or avoiding eye contact may signal nervousness or disinterest. During the interview, maintaining appropriate eye contact demonstrates honesty and engagement, though it should be natural and not overly intense. Nodding occasionally shows active listening and understanding, while leaning slightly forward indicates interest in the conversation. Gestures can emphasize points but should be controlled; excessive fidgeting or crossed arms might suggest anxiety or defensiveness. Facial expressions, such as smiling genuinely, project a positive and approachable demeanor. Additionally, mirroring the interviewer’s positive body language subtly builds rapport and connection. Consistency between verbal responses and non-verbal cues is crucial; discrepancies can raise doubts about sincerity. For example, claiming enthusiasm while sitting rigidly with a blank face sends mixed signals. In essence, body language reinforces verbal messages, helps establish a connection with the interviewer, and conveys traits like confidence, professionalism, and cultural fit, making it a decisive factor in interview success.
5. Write a short speech on the value of book reading.
Good morning, respected teachers and dear friends. Today, I stand before you to speak about a timeless treasure—books. In an age dominated by screens and fleeting digital content, the habit of reading books holds profound and enduring value. Books are more than just words on pages; they are gateways to knowledge, imagination, and empathy. Through reading, we travel across time and space, explore diverse cultures, and gain insights into the human experience. Books sharpen our intellect, enhance our vocabulary, and improve critical thinking—skills essential for academic and lifelong success. Beyond utility, reading nurtures our emotional and mental well-being. It reduces stress, fosters creativity, and cultivates patience in a fast-paced world. Whether it’s fiction that transports us to magical realms or non-fiction that deepens our understanding of reality, every book leaves an imprint on our minds. Moreover, reading builds empathy by allowing us to see the world through others’ eyes, making us more compassionate and understanding individuals. Let us not forget that some of the greatest thinkers, leaders, and innovators were avid readers. I urge each of you to embrace reading as a daily habit—a companion for growth, reflection, and joy. Let’s turn the pages to unlock endless possibilities. Thank you.
6. What is a memorandum and what is its purpose?
A memorandum, commonly known as a memo, is a concise, formal written document used for internal communication within an organization. It typically follows a standardized format, including headers such as “To,” “From,” “Date,” and “Subject,” and is designed to convey information efficiently and clearly. Memos are usually brief, direct, and focused, avoiding the informality of emails while maintaining professionalism. The primary purposes of a memorandum are multifaceted. Firstly, it serves to inform employees or departments about policies, procedures, announcements, or updates, ensuring everyone is aligned with organizational goals. Secondly, memos can instruct or direct, providing clear guidelines or tasks to be accomplished. Thirdly, they are used to request information, actions, or feedback from colleagues or teams. Additionally, memos serve as official records of communication, which can be referenced later for clarity or accountability. Unlike lengthy reports, memos prioritize brevity and relevance, making them ideal for routine internal correspondence. By streamlining communication and reducing misunderstandings, memos enhance operational efficiency, foster transparency, and maintain a structured flow of information within an organization.
7. What are the socio-cultural barriers that a student from a rural area may face in a city college?
A student transitioning from a rural area to a city college often encounters several socio-cultural barriers that can affect their academic and social integration. Firstly, linguistic challenges may arise, including difficulty with the medium of instruction (often English) or the urban dialect, impacting classroom participation and peer interactions. Secondly, cultural capital gaps can lead to feelings of alienation; urban social norms, etiquette, fashion, and pop culture references may be unfamiliar, making it hard to connect with peers. Thirdly, economic disparities become evident in lifestyle differences, access to technology, and participation in paid extracurricular activities, potentially causing self-consciousness or exclusion. Fourthly, digital divide issues may surface, as rural students might have limited prior exposure to online learning platforms, digital tools, or even basic computer skills, hindering academic performance. Additionally, social confidence can be affected; urban environments often emphasize assertiveness and networking, which might contrast with the more reserved rural social style. Lastly, differences in value systems—such as attitudes toward competition, individualism, or gender roles—can create misunderstandings or conflicts. These barriers, if unaddressed, may lead to academic stress, social isolation, and diminished self-esteem, highlighting the need for institutional support systems like mentoring programs, language workshops, and inclusive campus policies to facilitate a smoother transition.
8. Define formal report and write its main features.
A formal report is a structured, detailed document that presents factual information, analysis, findings, and recommendations on a specific topic or issue, typically prepared for a particular audience, such as management, clients, or stakeholders. It is characterized by its objective tone, logical organization, and adherence to a standardized format. The main features of a formal report include:
Title Page: Contains the report’s title, author’s name, date, and the organization’s name.
Table of Contents: Lists all sections and subsections with page numbers for easy navigation.
Executive Summary: Provides a concise overview of the report’s purpose, key findings, conclusions, and recommendations.
Introduction: Outlines the report’s objectives, scope, and background context.
Methodology: Describes the methods, tools, and procedures used to gather and analyze data.
Findings/Analysis: Presents the data or evidence in an organized manner, often using tables, charts, or graphs, followed by interpretation and analysis.
Conclusions: Summarizes the main insights derived from the analysis, directly addressing the report’s objectives.
Recommendations: Suggests actionable steps or solutions based on the conclusions.
Appendices: Includes supplementary material, such as raw data, questionnaires, or detailed calculations.
References/Bibliography: Lists all sources cited in the report.
Formal reports are impersonal, precise, and evidence-based, avoiding emotional language or bias. They serve to inform decision-making, document research, or propose solutions in academic, business, or professional settings.
Section C: Long Answer Type Questions (500 words each)
1. Discuss in detail the various barriers to communication and how can we overcome these barriers.
Communication is a complex and multifaceted process that can be disrupted by numerous barriers, which may be physical, psychological, cultural, linguistic, or organizational in nature. These barriers hinder the accurate transmission of ideas, leading to misunderstandings, reduced productivity, and strained relationships. Understanding and addressing them is crucial for effective communication.
Physical Barriers include environmental factors such as noise, poor lighting, physical distance, and technological failures. For example, background noise in an office or a poor internet connection during a virtual meeting can distort messages. Overcoming these barriers involves creating conducive environments—choosing quiet spaces, ensuring good acoustics, using reliable technology, and minimizing visual distractions. In hybrid or remote settings, investing in good-quality audio and video equipment can mitigate these issues.
Psychological Barriers arise from mental and emotional states, including stress, anxiety, bias, prejudice, and closed-mindedness. For instance, a person who is highly stressed may misinterpret feedback as criticism. To overcome these barriers, fostering emotional intelligence is key. This includes developing self-awareness, empathy, and active listening skills. Creating an atmosphere of trust and openness encourages individuals to express themselves without fear of judgment. Mindfulness practices and stress management techniques can also help individuals stay present and receptive during conversations.
Cultural Barriers stem from differences in cultural norms, values, beliefs, and non-verbal cues. Gestures, eye contact, and personal space can have different meanings across cultures, leading to unintended offense or misunderstanding. Overcoming cultural barriers requires cultural sensitivity and awareness. This involves educating oneself about different cultural practices, avoiding assumptions, and being respectful of diversity. In multicultural settings, using clear and simple language, avoiding idioms, and seeking clarification can bridge gaps.
Linguistic and Semantic Barriers occur when language differences, jargon, ambiguous terms, or technical language create confusion. For example, a specialist using industry-specific jargon with a non-specialist audience can lead to miscommunication. To address these barriers, communicators should use plain language, define technical terms, and tailor their message to the audience’s level of understanding. Visual aids, such as diagrams or charts, can also enhance clarity.
Organizational Barriers are structural obstacles within an organization, such as hierarchical layers, inefficient communication channels, and information overload. These can delay or distort the flow of information. Overcoming organizational barriers involves streamlining communication processes, encouraging open-door policies, and leveraging technology for efficient information sharing. Flattening hierarchies where possible and promoting a culture of transparency can also enhance communication.
Perceptual Barriers occur when individuals interpret messages based on their personal experiences, beliefs, or biases. Two people may perceive the same message differently due to their unique perspectives. To overcome perceptual barriers, it is important to practice empathy and strive to understand the other person’s viewpoint. Asking questions, paraphrasing, and providing feedback can ensure alignment.
In summary, overcoming communication barriers requires a proactive and multifaceted approach. This includes creating conducive environments, fostering emotional intelligence, developing cultural awareness, using clear language, streamlining organizational processes, and practicing empathy. By addressing these barriers, individuals and organizations can enhance understanding, build stronger relationships, and achieve more effective communication outcomes.
2. Explain in detail the process of communication. How do communication skills help in one’s vocational life?
The process of communication is a dynamic and interactive exchange of information between a sender and a receiver. It involves several key stages: encoding, transmission, decoding, and feedback. Understanding this process is essential for effective communication in both personal and professional contexts.
1. Sender and Encoding: The process begins with the sender, who formulates an idea or message. The sender then encodes the message into a form that can be transmitted, such as words, gestures, or symbols. The clarity of encoding depends on the sender’s language proficiency, cultural context, and understanding of the receiver.
2. Message and Channel: The encoded message is conveyed through a channel, which could be verbal (e.g., face-to-face conversation, phone call), written (e.g., email, report), or non-verbal (e.g., body language, facial expressions). The choice of channel affects how the message is received.
3. Receiver and Decoding: The receiver decodes the message by interpreting its meaning. This interpretation is influenced by the receiver’s knowledge, attitudes, cultural background, and emotional state. Misunderstandings can occur if the receiver misinterprets the sender’s intent.
4. Feedback: Feedback is the receiver’s response to the message, which completes the communication loop. It allows the sender to assess whether the message was understood as intended and make adjustments if necessary.
5. Noise: Noise refers to any interference that disrupts the communication process, such as physical distractions, linguistic barriers, or psychological biases. Minimizing noise is crucial for effective communication.
How Communication Skills Help in Vocational Life:
Strong communication skills are indispensable in the workplace. They enable individuals to articulate ideas clearly, collaborate effectively with colleagues, and build positive relationships with clients and stakeholders. In team settings, effective communication fosters collaboration, reduces conflicts, and enhances problem-solving. For example, a project manager who communicates goals and expectations clearly can align team efforts and drive success.
Communication skills also play a vital role in leadership. Leaders must inspire, motivate, and guide their teams, which requires clarity, empathy, and active listening. Additionally, in client-facing roles, the ability to convey information persuasively and address concerns empathetically can strengthen client trust and loyalty.
Moreover, communication skills are critical for career advancement. From writing compelling resumes and cover letters to excelling in interviews and presentations, these skills help individuals showcase their value. In negotiations, effective communication can lead to mutually beneficial outcomes, while in conflict resolution, it can de-escalate tensions and foster reconciliation.
In today’s globalized and digital workplace, communication skills extend to virtual collaboration. The ability to communicate clearly via email, video conferencing, and messaging platforms is essential for remote work and cross-cultural teams.
In conclusion, mastering the communication process and honing communication skills are foundational to vocational success. They enhance teamwork, leadership, client relations, and career growth, making them a key determinant of professional achievement.
3. Draft a CV for a postdoctoral position in a foreign university.
Curriculum Vitae
Dr. Ananya Sharma
Email: ananya.sharma@email.com | Phone: +91-9876543210
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ananyasharma | ORCID: 0000-0001-2345-6789
Research Objective
To contribute to cutting-edge research in molecular biology and epigenetics as a Postdoctoral Fellow, leveraging expertise in CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing, next-generation sequencing, and data analysis to advance understanding of gene regulation in cancer therapeutics.
Education
Ph.D. in Molecular Biology | Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore (2021–2025)
Thesis: “Epigenetic Modulations in Breast Cancer Metastasis Using CRISPR-Cas9”
Advisor: Prof. Rajesh Mehta
M.Sc. in Biotechnology | University of Delhi, Delhi (2019–2021)
CGPA: 9.2/10
B.Sc. in Life Sciences | St. Stephen’s College, Delhi (2016–2019)
CGPA: 8.8/10
Research Experience
Doctoral Researcher | Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore (2021–2025)
Developed a novel CRISPR-Cas9 screening method to identify epigenetic regulators in metastatic breast cancer.
Analyzed RNA-seq and ChIP-seq data to map gene expression patterns under hypoxic conditions.
Published 4 peer-reviewed articles in journals including Nature Communications and Cell Reports.
Research Intern | National Centre for Biological Sciences, Bangalore (2020)
Assisted in high-throughput sequencing and bioinformatics analysis of single-cell RNA data.
Publications
Sharma, A., et al. (2024). “CRISPR-based epigenetic editing in triple-negative breast cancer.” Nature Communications, 15(3), 456-467.
Sharma, A., & Mehta, R. (2023). “Hypoxia-induced gene regulation via histone modifications.” Cell Reports, 12(8), 234-245.
Skills
Technical: CRISPR-Cas9, Next-Generation Sequencing, RNA-seq/ChIP-seq, Flow Cytometry, Cell Culture, Western Blot
Bioinformatics: R, Python, Bioconductor, Galaxy Platform, Statistical Analysis
Soft Skills: Scientific Writing, Presentation, Team Leadership, Project Management
Grants & Awards
Senior Research Fellowship, Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (2023–2025)
Best Paper Award, National Conference on Cancer Biology (2024)
Conference Presentations
Oral presentation at International Conference on Genomics, Singapore (2024)
Poster presentation at EMBO Meeting, Heidelberg, Germany (2023)
References
Available upon request.
4. Explain soft skills and their importance in personality development.
Soft skills refer to a set of interpersonal, social, and emotional competencies that enable individuals to interact effectively with others. Unlike hard skills, which are technical and job-specific, soft skills are transferable across various contexts and include communication, teamwork, adaptability, problem-solving, emotional intelligence, leadership, and time management. These skills play a pivotal role in shaping an individual’s personality, which encompasses their behavior, attitudes, and interactions with the world.
1. Enhancing Self-Awareness and Emotional Regulation:
Soft skills such as emotional intelligence foster self-awareness, allowing individuals to recognize their emotions, strengths, and weaknesses. This awareness is the foundation of emotional regulation, enabling people to manage stress, control impulses, and respond thoughtfully to challenges. A person with high emotional intelligence exhibits resilience, patience, and composure, which are key traits of a mature and balanced personality.
2. Improving Social Interactions and Relationships:
Effective communication, empathy, and active listening are essential for building and maintaining positive relationships. These skills enable individuals to express themselves clearly, understand others’ perspectives, and resolve conflicts amicably. By fostering trust and mutual respect, soft skills enhance social connectedness and reduce feelings of isolation. A person who communicates empathetically and collaborates effectively is perceived as approachable, trustworthy, and socially adept.
3. Fostering Adaptability and Problem-Solving Abilities:
In a rapidly changing world, adaptability and problem-solving are critical soft skills. They enable individuals to navigate uncertainty, embrace new challenges, and find innovative solutions. Cultivating these skills encourages a growth mindset, where failures are viewed as learning opportunities. This adaptability shapes a personality that is flexible, resourceful, and proactive, rather than rigid or resistant to change.
4. Building Leadership and Influence:
Leadership skills, such as motivating others, delegating tasks, and taking initiative, are integral to personality development. These skills help individuals inspire trust, drive collective goals, and positively influence their surroundings. A person with strong leadership abilities exudes confidence, responsibility, and vision, which are hallmarks of a charismatic and influential personality.
5. Boosting Confidence and Professional Success:
Proficiency in soft skills often leads to vocational achievements, such as excelling in interviews, working effectively in teams, and advancing in careers. These successes reinforce self-esteem and confidence, contributing to a positive self-image. Additionally, soft skills like time management and organization enhance productivity, reducing stress and promoting a sense of accomplishment.
6. Promoting Ethical and Responsible Behavior:
Soft skills such as integrity, accountability, and ethical judgment guide individuals in making principled decisions. These traits are fundamental to developing a character that is respected and admired. A person who acts with integrity and takes responsibility for their actions demonstrates moral strength and reliability.
In conclusion, soft skills are the building blocks of a well-rounded personality. They empower individuals to navigate social complexities, manage emotions, adapt to change, and achieve personal and professional goals. By consciously developing these skills, individuals can cultivate a personality that is not only effective in various life roles but also resilient, empathetic, and respected by others.
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