Read the sentences carefully and find out which one of them is incorrect ?

a. The thief hid himself in a shed.
b. The thief hid in a shed.

The correct answer is Option C (a is incorrect).

Key Points:
• Grammar Rule - Reflexive Pronouns with Intransitive Verbs: Certain verbs in English like *hide, qualify, bathe, keep, stop, turn, rest, move* are generally used intransitively without reflexive pronouns.
• Detailed Explanation: The verb 'hide' naturally implies reflexive action when the subject hides. Therefore, writing "The thief hid in a shed" (sentence b) is the grammatically standard and correct usage. Adding 'himself' after 'hid' in standard grammar is considered redundant or incorrect in formal test patterns.
• Evaluation of Options: Sentence 'a' is incorrect because of the unnecessary reflexive pronoun 'himself'. Thus, statement 'a is incorrect' accurately describes the error.
• Exam Context: MPSC tests precise knowledge of reflexive verb usage where reflexive pronouns should not be added unnecessarily.
• Official Answer: As per the official MPSC Final Answer Key, option 3 ('a is incorrect') is the correct choice.
• Key Takeaway: Remember: Verbs like 'hide', 'bathe', 'keep', and 'qualify' do not take reflexive pronouns after them in standard English.