Quiz: How to Win Friends and Influence People

Question 1:

According to Carnegie, what is the best way to win an argument?

A. Present irrefutable evidence
B. Raise your voice to show conviction
C. Avoid it altogether
D. Challenge the other person’s intelligence

Question 2:

Which of the following is one of Carnegie’s core principles for making people like you?

A. Always talk about yourself to show confidence
B. Give frequent advice
C. Smile
D. Criticize constructively

Question 3:

What does Carnegie recommend when trying to influence others?

A. Start by telling them they are wrong
B. Get them to say “yes, yes” immediately
C. Interrupt frequently to guide the conversation
D. Offer monetary incentives

Question 4:

When giving feedback, what method does Carnegie suggest?

A. Be blunt and direct to show authority
B. Start with criticism and end with praise
C. Criticize in public for accountability
D. Begin with honest appreciation

Question 5:

What is the key idea behind the principle “Give the other person a fine reputation to live up to”?

A. Remind them of their past failures to motivate improvement
B. Flatter them without sincerity
C. Assign them a positive identity to encourage better behavior
D. Let them define their own standards

Answers & Explanations

1. Answer: C – Avoid it altogether

Explanation: Carnegie emphasizes that the best way to win an argument is to avoid it. Winning an argument may damage relationships or hurt someone’s pride, and rarely changes their mind.

2. Answer: C – Smile

Explanation: A simple, sincere smile makes a strong positive impression. It’s one of Carnegie’s key tools for making people feel valued and comfortable.

3. Answer: B – Get them to say “yes, yes” immediately

Explanation: Carnegie suggests using the Socratic method—starting with questions that will lead the other person to say “yes” several times—creating a sense of agreement and openness.

4. Answer: D – Begin with honest appreciation

Explanation: Starting with genuine praise softens the delivery of feedback and opens people up to constructive suggestions.

5. Answer: C – Assign them a positive identity to encourage better behavior

Explanation: Carnegie advises giving people a good reputation to live up to, which motivates them to act in a way that aligns with that image.