Subsistence farming is practiced when people

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks what defines subsistence farming, that is, the purpose for which the farming is done.

Step 2: Explain the concept Subsistence farming is a type of agriculture where farmers grow crops (and sometimes rear animals) mainly to feed themselves and their families. Any surplus is usually small, and it may be sold locally or bartered. Its key features are:

• Small farm sizes
• Simple tools such as hoes and cutlasses
• Low output and little capital
• Production mainly for the family's own consumption, not for sale or export

In Nigeria, many farmers in rural areas practice it. Examples include growing yam, cassava, maize, and vegetables for the household.

Step 3: Check each option

• A. Grow crops for consumption: Correct. This matches the definition, since the farmer produces food mainly for their own use.
• B. Grow only one crop: This describes monoculture, which is common in plantation farming. Subsistence farmers often practice mixed cropping instead.
• C. Export only one crop: This describes commercial or cash-crop farming, such as cocoa in the southwest.
• D. Grow many crops for export: This is also commercial farming, and it is the opposite of subsistence.

Step 4: Answer

Tip: Link the word "subsistence" with "survive". If the farmer is growing food to survive and feed the family, it is subsistence. If the focus is on selling or exporting, it is commercial. In WASSCE, whenever you see "export" or "sale" in the options, eliminate them for subsistence questions.