GATE CS 2011 Q58 — General Aptitude

The correct option is C: visiting.

Explanation:

The verb contemplate is a transitive verb that requires a gerund (the -ing form of a verb acting as a noun) when it is followed by another action.

• Rule: $\text{contemplate} + \text{gerund (verb-ing)}$
• Example: "She contemplated moving to a new city."

Applying this rule to the sentence:

"I contemplated visiting Singapore for my vacation but decided against it."

Why other options are incorrect:

• A. to visit: The verb "contemplate" cannot be followed by an infinitive (to + verb).
• B. having to visit: This introduces an unnecessary sense of obligation ("having to"), which distorts the meaning of planning a vacation.
• D. for a visit: This is grammatically incorrect because "Singapore" immediately follows, making the phrasing "contemplated for a visit Singapore" structurally invalid.