'The judge ordered that the accused be set free'.
The sentence above expresses _________ mood.
(a) Subjunctive
(b) Imperative
(c) Indicative
(d) Expressive
Answer options :

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

Key Points:
• Core Language Concept Tested: The question primarily tests the candidate's understanding of Verb Moods in English grammar. Identifying whether a sentence is in the indicative, imperative, or subjunctive mood is critical for advanced syntactical analysis.
• Why the Correct Option is Right: The official answer key marks option 3 as correct, which corresponds to '(a) Subjunctive'. This is absolutely accurate. The subjunctive mood is used to explore conditions that are contrary to fact, or to express commands, demands, wishes, or suggestions. When verbs like *order, demand, suggest, insist* are followed by a 'that' clause, the verb in that clause takes the base form (here, 'be' instead of 'should be' or 'is'). This is known as the mandative subjunctive.
• Common Exam Traps and Pitfalls: MPSC often uses sentences with the word "ordered" to bait candidates into choosing the "Imperative" mood (option b). However, an imperative sentence directly gives a command to someone (e.g., "Set the accused free!"). The sentence structure here relies on a dependent clause to express the order, mandating the subjunctive.
• Elimination of Incorrect Options: It is not Indicative because it isn't stating a simple objective fact (like "The accused was set free"). 'Expressive' is not a standard grammatical mood. Thus, by strict application of advanced grammar rules, we arrive safely at the Subjunctive choice.
• Preparation Strategy: Master the mandative subjunctive structure: Subject + verb of demand + that + subject + base verb.
• Key Takeaway: Remember: A 'that' clause following verbs expressing a command, demand, or suggestion takes the base form of the verb, indicating the subjunctive mood.