Students rely on Class 9 English Extra Questions and Class 9 English Kaveri Poem 8 Believe in Yourself Extra Questions and Answers to improve their grades.
Believe in Yourself Poem Extra Question Answer
Believe in Yourself Class 9 Extra Question Answer
Believe in Yourself Short Question Answer
Question 1.
The poet says there is ‘no crowd to see’. Explain what this line suggests about facing challenges and making important life decisions.
Answer:
The line ‘no crowd to see’ suggests that facing challenges is a personal journey. No one else can make decisions for us. It shows that important life choices must be taken by ourselves. Success and failure both depend on our own courage and responsibility.
Question 2.
Why does the poet strongly emphasise personal responsibility when talking about shaping one’s future?
Answer:
The poet strongly emphasises personal responsibility because our future depends on our own choices and actions. No one else can decide our goals for us. If we do not take responsibility, we cannot succeed. The poem teaches that we must take control of our decisions.
Question 3.
Identify and explain any two challenges mentioned in the poem that a person may experience while thinking about or planning for the future.
Answer:
Two challenges mentioned in the poem are fear and difficult decision-making. When thinking about the future, a person may feel scared about failure. Choices also become confusing when the future comes near. These challenges make it hard to move forward confidently and take bold steps in life.
Question 4.
Examine how fear is shown as a powerful obstacle that can stop a person from moving forward or achieving success.
Answer:
Fear is shown as something that can push a person back and stop progress. It creates doubt and hesitation in the mind. When someone is afraid of failure, they avoid taking risks. The poem shows that overcoming fear is necessary to move forward.
Question 5.
The poem says that choices become difficult when the future is near. Explain why decision-making becomes more challenging at such times.
Answer:
Decision-making becomes difficult when the future is near because we fear failure and uncertainty. We worry about the results of our choices. This fear creates confusion. The poem shows that such moments need courage and confidence.
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Question 6.
Analyse how the poem presents the future as something that can be both hopeful and frightening at the same time.
Answer:
The poem presents the future as hopeful because it gives chances for success and growth. At the same time, it feels frightening because it is unknown. This mix of hope and fear shows that the future depends on courage.
Question 7.
Evaluate whether fear can sometimes help a person make better decisions, even though it is shown as negative in the poem.
Answer:
Fear is mostly shown as negative, but sometimes it can help a person think carefully. It can make someone more alert and cautious. However, too much fear can stop progress. The poem suggests we must control fear.
Question 8.
In the context of the poem, explain in detail what the phrase ‘maintain the status quo’ means and how it affects personal growth.
Answer:
The phrase ‘maintain the status quo’ means keeping things the same and not making any changes. In the poem, it shows staying in a comfort zone. This stops personal growth because without change or risk, a person cannot learn new skills or improve in life.
Question 9.
The poet uses the phrase ‘maintain the status quo’ to convey an important idea. Explain this idea in your own words with reference to the poem.
Answer:
By using the phrase ‘maintain the status quo’, the poet explains that people often prefer safety and comfort. However, this habit prevents growth and success. The poet wants to show that real progress happens only when we step out of comfort and face new challenges bravely.
Question 10.
Discuss how the poet clearly contrasts the ideas of comfort and growth and explain why this contrast is important to the overall message of the poem.
Answer:
The poet contrasts comfort and growth by showing that comfort feels easy, but it does not help us improve. Growth needs effort, courage and change. This contrast is important because it teaches that staying safe may feel good, but real success comes from hard work.
Question 11.
Why does the poet describe comfort as ‘ease’, and what deeper message does this description convey about human nature?
Answer:
The poet describes comfort as ‘ease’ because staying safe feels simple and relaxing. However, the deeper message is that humans prefer comfort even if it stops growth. The poem teaches that real success needs effort.
Question 12.
Explain why the poet states, ‘This isn’t how we grow’ and how this line connects to the theme of change and progress.
Answer:
The poet says, ‘This isn’t how we grow’ to show that staying comfortable does not help us improve. Growth needs change, effort, and courage. If we avoid challenges, we remain the same. The line connects growth with action and progress.
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Question 13.
Describe how the poet maintains a motivational and encouraging tone throughout the poem.
Answer:
The poet maintains a motivational tone by using encouraging words like ‘believe in yourself’ and ‘step up to the challenge’. These phrases inspire confidence. The poem focuses on courage and hope. It motivates readers to face problems bravely.
Believe in Yourself Long Question Answer
Question 1.
The poet suggests that an individual must take initiative to shape his or her own destiny. Analyse how the poem emphasises personal action and responsibility as essential factors in building a successful future.
Answer:
The poem clearly shows that we must take initiative to shape our own destiny. It says that it is ‘just you and the future’, which means no one else can decide our path or future for us.
The poet emphasises that we must step up to the challenge instead of waiting for others to guide or support us. Taking action is important because dreams alone cannot bring real success. We must believe in ourselves and move forward bravely, even when we feel afraid.
The poem also explains that once we take the first step, there is no turning back. This teaches that responsibility, courage, and personal effort are necessary to build a strong and successful future.
Question 2.
The poem presents life as a journey filled with choices and challenges. Discuss in detail how the poet portrays this journey as one that requires courage, determination and strong self-direction to move towards success.
Answer:
The poem presents life as a journey where a person must make important choices alone. The poet says there is ‘no crowd to see’, which shows that we are responsible for our own path. The future can either pull us forward or push us back in fear. This shows that life includes both hope and doubt.
The poet also explains that staying comfortable does not help us grow. We must step out of our comfort zone and take the first step, even if it feels difficult. Courage and determination are needed to move ahead. The poem teaches that success comes when we guide ourselves confidently.
Question 3.
The poem conveys a powerful message about overcoming difficulties. Explain in detail how the poem teaches resilience and encourages individuals to stay strong and confident during challenging times in life.
Answer:
The poem gives a strong message about overcoming difficulties through resilience and confidence. It explains that the first step is the hardest, which shows that challenges are never easy to face. However, the poet encourages us to believe in ourselves and trust our abilities. Even when fear tries to push us back and create doubt, we must remain strong and determined.
The poem teaches that we should not give up when situations become difficult or uncomfortable. Instead, we should face problems with courage and a positive attitude. By staying committed to our goals and confident in our efforts, we can keep our future on track and achieve lasting success.
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Question 4.
A student is afraid to take part in a competition because of fear of failure. Based on the poem, what advice would you give to the student? Explain how the poem’s message can help in this situation.
Answer:
The poem teaches that fear should not stop us from taking opportunities. I would advise the student to take the first step bravely because growth begins when we face challenges. The poem says the first step is the hardest, but once we begin, there is no turning back.
Staying in the comfort zone may feel easy, but it does not help us improve. If the student avoids the competition, he or she will never know their true ability. By believing in themselves and moving forward with courage, they can build confidence and learn new skills.
Even if they fail, the experience will make them stronger. The poem encourages us to take responsibility and shape our own future through bold actions.
Question 5.
Change is shown as an important step towards growth and development in the poem. Examine how the poet presents change as necessary for progress, even though it may involve discomfort, fear and uncertainty.
Answer:
The poet presents change as necessary for growth and development in life. He explains that staying in comfort and maintaining the status quo may feel easy and safe, but it does not help us improve. Real progress begins when we accept change and face challenges with courage. Change often brings fear and uncertainty because the future is unknown and unpredictable.
However, the poet makes it clear that without change, we cannot move forward or learn new skills. Taking risks and stepping out of our comfort zone help us discover our true abilities. Even though change feels uncomfortable at first, it finally leads to success, confidence and personal development.
Question 6.
Both ‘The Pot Maker’ and ‘Believe in Yourself’ highlight the importance of courage in personal growth. Discuss how Sentila’s determination and the poem’s message about taking the first step reflect the same idea about overcoming fear.
Answer:
Both ‘The Pot Maker’ and ‘Believe in Yourself’ show that courage is very important for personal growth. In ‘The Pot Maker’, Sentila wants to learn pot making even though her mother does not support her. She faces failure and fear in the beginning, but she does not give up. Her determination helps her improve slowly.
In the poem, ‘Believe in Yourself’, the poet says that the first step is the hardest and we must believe in ourselves. This message is similar to Sentila’s journey. Both texts teach that fear is natural, but we must overcome it to grow. Courage and self-belief help us move forward and achieve our goals in life.
Question 7.
Your younger sister is going to appear for her Board Examinations next month. She is feeling anxious and stressed about her preparation and performance. As her elder sibling, write a letter to her encouraging her to stay calm, believe in herself and manage her time wisely.
Answer:
24, Green Park
New Delhi
18 February 20XX
Dear Riya,
I hope you are doing well. I know your Board Exams are coming soon and you may be feeling stressed. Please do not worry too much. You have prepared sincerely throughout the year. Just revise your subjects properly and make a simple timetable to manage your time.
Take short breaks and sleep well so that your mind stays fresh. Do not compare yourself with others. Believe in yourself and stay confident. Remember, hard work never goes to waste. Even if the paper feels tough, stay calm and attempt all questions carefully.
I am always proud of you and will support you. Give your best and trust your efforts. All the best for your exams!
With love
Nikhil
Believe in Yourself Extract Based Questions and Answers
Extract 1
Step up to the challenge There is no crowd to see, It’s just you and the future And where you want to be.
I. What ideas are conveyed in the lines
Step up to the challenge
There is no crowd to see’?
Challenges must be faced individually
Personal responsibility is important
Success depends completely on others
We must take initiative in life
Life is always unfair
Select the correct option.
A. i, iii
B. i, ii, iv
C. ii, iii, v
D. iv, v
Answer:
B. i, ii, iv
II. What does the line ‘It’s just you and the future’ suggest about responsibility?
Answer:
The line suggests that a person is fully responsible for shaping his or her own future. No one else can decide our goals or take action for us. It shows that success depends on our choices, effort and determination. We must take control of our own life.
III. How does the extract encourage personal growth?
Answer:
The extract encourages personal growth by reminding us that we must face challenges alone and take responsibility for building our own future.
IV. Fill in the blank.
The phrase ‘Step up to the challenge’ symbolises taking _______ for your own future.
Answer:
responsibility
Extract 2
Will it pull you forward
Or push you back in fear?
Difficult are choices
When the future is getting near.
I. What emotions are conveyed in the lines ‘Will it pull you forward / Or push you back in fear?’
(i) Hope
(ii) Fear
(iii) Confidence
(iv) Confusion
(v) Determination
Select the correct option.
A. i, iii
B. i, iv, v
C. ii, iii, iv
D. ii, iv
Answer:
D. ii, iv
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II. How do these lines highlight the difficulty of decision-making when facing the future?
Answer:
These lines show that making choices is not easy when the future is near. A person feels confused and scared about what might happen. The fear of failure can stop progress, while hope can push someone forward. The poet shows that decision-making involves both courage and doubt.
III. How does the contrast between ‘pull you forward’ and ‘push you back’ strengthen the message of the poem?
Answer:
The contrast shows two opposite directions in life. One leads to progress and growth, while the other leads to fear and hesitation. It highlights choice clearly.
IV. Fill in the blank.
The phrase ‘push you back in fear’ symbolises ………. that stops a person from moving ahead in life.
Answer:
fear
Extract 3
There is such ease in comfort
To maintain the status quo,
But this isn’t what we are made for
This isn’t how we grow.
I. What ideas are conveyed in the lines ‘There is such ease in comfort/To maintain the status quo’?
(i) Comfort feels safe and easy
(ii) Growth requires change
(iii) Staying the same prevents progress
(iv) Comfort always leads to success
(v) Change is unnecessary
Select the correct option.
A. i, ii, iii
B. i, iv
C. ii, iv, v
D. iii, v
Answer:
A. i, ii, iii
II. Why does the poet say that staying in comfort is not how we are made to grow? Explain with reference to personal development.
Answer:
The poet says that staying in comfort does not help us grow because growth needs effort and change. When we remain in our comfort zone, we avoid risks and challenges. Personal development happens only when we step out, face difficulties and learn from new experiences.
III. How does the phrase ‘maintain the status quo’ reflect human behaviour?
Answer:
The phrase shows that people often prefer to keep things the same because it feels safe and easy, even if it stops improvement and growth.
IV. Fill in the blank.
The phrase ‘status quo’ symbolises _______ in life.
Answer:
stagnation
Extract 4
The first step is the hardest
There is no turning back,
You just need to believe in yourself
For your future to be on track.
I. What does the poet mean by saying, ‘The first step is the hardest’?
A. Starting something new is more difficult than continuing it.
B. Walking is physically painful at first.
C. Success comes without effort.
D. The future is impossible to change.
Answer:
A. Starting something new is more difficult than continuing it.
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II. Complete the following suitably.
The poet suggests that once a person takes the first step towards a goal,
Answer:
there is no turning back and he or she must move forward with confidence and determination
III. How does the extract highlight the importance of self-belief in shaping one’s future?
Answer:
The extract shows that self-belief is very important for success. The poet says that we must believe in ourselves to keep our future on track. Without confidence, we may give up easily. Self-belief gives us strength to face challenges and continue working towards our goals.
IV. Why does the poet say ‘There is no turning back’?
Answer:
The poet says there is no turning back because once we start working towards a goal, we must stay committed and continue moving forward.
Extract 5
It’s just you and the future
And where you want to be.
Will it pull you forward
Or push you back in fear?
I. What idea is highlighted in the lines, ‘Will it pull you forward/Or push you back in fear’?
A. Fear and courage both influence our decisions.
B. The future is always bright and easy.
C. People never feel confused about choices.
D. Success comes without effort.
Answer:
A. Fear and courage both influence our decisions.
II. Complete the following suitably.
A person may hesitate to move forward because ______.
Answer:
fear can stop them from taking risks
III. How does the extract show that the future depends on personal choice?
Answer:
The extract shows that the future depends on personal choice because it presents two opposite directions. A person can either move forward with courage or step back due to fear. The poet makes it clear that success or failure depends on the decision we take.
IV. Why does the poet use the words ‘pull’ and ‘push’ in the extract?
Answer:
The poet uses ‘pull’ and ‘push’ to show opposite forces in life. One leads to progress, while the other represents fear and hesitation.
Extract 6
But this isn’t what we are made for
This isn’t how we grow.
The first step is the hardest
There is no turning back,
I. What does the poet mean by saying, ‘This isn’t how we grow’?
A. Growth happens when we avoid change.
B. Growth requires effort and stepping out of comfort.
C. Growth depends only on luck.
D. Growth is not important in life.
Answer:
B. Growth requires effort and stepping out of comfort.
II. The poet says that once we take the first step, there is no turning back and we must
Answer:
continue moving forward with determination and confidence
III. How do the lines show that personal growth requires courage and commitment?
Answer:
The lines show that personal growth needs courage because the first step is always difficult. A person must leave comfort and face challenges bravely. The phrase ‘There is no turning back’ shows commitment. Once we decide to change, we must stay strong and keep moving forward.
IV. Why does the poet describe the first step as the hardest?
Answer:
The poet calls the first step hardest because starting something new brings fear and doubt, and it needs bravery to begin.
Extra Questions of Believe in Yourself for Practice
Extract Based Questions
Read the following extracts carefully and answer the questions that follow.
Step up to the challenge There is no crowd to see, It’s just you and the future And where you want to be.
Will it pull you forward
Or push you back in fear?
Difficult are choices
When the future is getting near.
There is such ease in comfort
To maintain the status quo,
But this isn’t what we are made for
This isn’t how we grow.
The first step is the hardest
There is no turning back,
You just need to believe in yourself
For your future to be on track.
I. What does the poet suggest by saying, ‘There is such ease in comfort / To maintain the status quo’?
A. Comfort always leads to success and happiness.
B. Staying comfortable may feel easy but stops growth.
C. Growth happens without effort or change.
D. Fear is more important than courage.
II. Complete the following suitably.
The poet explains that real growth happens only when _______ .
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III. How does the extract show that facing the future requires courage and personal responsibility?
IV. What does the line ‘The first step is the hardest’ suggest about beginning a new journey?
Short Answer Type Questions
Question 1.
How does the poet describe the experience of facing the future alone and what emotions are connected with this situation?
Question 2.
Explain how the message of ‘stepping up to the challenge’ can be applied in everyday life situations such as studies, competitions or personal goals.
Question 3.
What important lesson about fear does the poem convey, and how does it encourage individuals to deal with fear in a positive way?
Question 4.
In what ways does the poem show that staying in comfort can stop a person from achieving growth and progress in life?
Question 5.
Discuss how the poem highlights the importance of taking action in personal growth and explain why action is necessary for development.
Long Answer Type Questions
Question 1.
The poem suggests that personal growth does not depend on others but on one’s own choices and efforts. Analyse how the poet presents growth as an individual responsibility rather than something achieved through collective support or guidance.
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Question 2.
The poet emphasises that success cannot be achieved through wishes or dreams alone. Explain in detail how the poem highlights the importance of taking action and making conscious efforts to shape a successful future.
Question 3.
Throughout the poem, the poet develops the idea that true growth requires courage, continuous effort and strong commitment. Describe how this idea is built step by step and how it contributes to the overall message of the poem.