Read the passage and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions from 2...

Read the passage and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions from 20 to 29.

The Science Behind Digital Detox: Fact or Fashion?

        In recent years, the concept of a “digital detox”- a period during which an individual refrains from using electronic devices - has surged in popularity. From luxury retreats that confiscate guests’ smartphones to mobile applications designed to limit screen time, the market for “unplugging” is expanding. While the idea of resetting the brain by disconnecting from technology is appealing to many chronically connected users, researchers are now questioning whether this practice provides genuine psychological benefits or is merely a passing health trend.

        To understand the phenomenon, one must first define its scope. For some, a digital detox involves complete abstention from all digital tools for a week. For others, it is more targeted, such as silencing notifications or deleting a specific social media app that consumes excessive time. The primary motivations behind these efforts are usually to break compulsive habits, reclaim focus, and redirect energy toward more productive, real-world activities. Proponents of the practice claim that it reduces stress and improves mental clarity.

        However, the growing demand for these interventions does not necessarily guarantee their effectiveness. Much of the support for digital detoxing comes from anecdotal evidence and online testimonials. While these positive reviews can be persuasive, they are often biased. For instance, an individual who invests a significant amount of money in an expensive tech-free retreat may feel psychologically compelled to report a positive outcome to justify the expense. This is a common bias in self-reported wellness data.

        To determine if digital detoxing truly works, scientific scrutiny is essential. [I] Controlled experimental studies are needed to distinguish between the “placebo effect” of taking a vacation and the actual benefits of removing technology. [II] Early research suggests that while temporary disconnection can lower immediate anxiety, the effects often vanish once the individual returns to their normal routine.

        [III] Therefore, the long-term solution may not be a total detox, but rather the development of sustainable digital habits. [IV] As the debate continues, the focus is shifting from “quitting” technology to finding a healthier balance in an increasingly digital world.

(Adapted from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/digital-detox#benefits)

Question 20. The word “surged” in paragraph 1 mostly means ____________.

        A. changed                B. increased                        C. remained                        D. decreased

Question 21. Which of the following is mentioned as one form of a digital detox?

A. Attending a retreat where personal smartphones are temporarily taken away.

B. Participating in therapy sessions focused on reducing workplace pressure.

C. Replacing digital communication with handwritten letters and journals.

D. Avoiding all modern technology for professional and academic purposes.

Question 22. According to paragraph 2, which of the following is mentioned as a primary motivation for engaging in a digital detox?

A. To regain concentration on meaningful activities

B. To strengthen one’s online influence and visibility

C. To increase efficiency in professional communication

D. To expand participation in digital social networks

Question 23. The word “abstention” in paragraph 2 is OPPOSITE in meaning to ____________.

        A. avoidance                B. withdrawal                        C. balance                        D. connection

Question 24. Which of the following best summarizes the main idea of paragraph 3?

A. Anecdotal evidence supporting digital detox is often unreliable and biased.

B. Scientific studies have confirmed the benefits reported by detox participants.

C. Most digital detox programs are too expensive for the average person.

D. The effectiveness of digital detox is proven by user testimonials.

Question 25. The pronoun “they” in paragraph 3 refers to ____________.

        A. interventions        B. proponents                        C. reviews                        D. testimonials

Question 26. Where in the passage does the following sentence best fit?

This suggests that the perceived benefits might be short-lived rather than transformative.

        A. [I]                        B. [II]                                C. [III]                                D. [IV]

Question 27. Which of the following best paraphrases the underlined sentence in paragraph 4?

A. The discussion about technology’s role is moving towards complete abandonment.

B. People are less concerned with stopping technology use and more with integrating it healthily.

C. A healthier balance in the digital world means completely avoiding technology.

D. The controversy around digital use is ending as everyone agrees to quit technology.

Question 28. What can be inferred about the future approach to digital wellness based on the passage?

A. Digital detox retreats may gradually lose appeal as doubts about their long-term impact increase.

B. Ongoing scientific research is likely to confirm the lasting psychological value of short detox periods.

C. Complete withdrawal from digital technology may become a widely accepted lifestyle choice.

D. Greater attention will be given to managing technology use in a balanced and sustainable way.

Question 29. Which of the following best summarises the passage?

A. Scientific discussions increasingly question whether digital detox practices can produce lasting psychological benefits beyond short-term relief.

B. Digital detox has gained widespread popularity due to strong evidence showing its effectiveness in reducing stress and improving mental well-being.

C. Although digital detox is widely promoted, its benefits remain uncertain, leading to a shift toward developing healthier long-term technology habits.

D. The rise of digital detox programs mainly reflects consumer willingness to invest in expensive retreats rather than genuine mental health concerns.