- A
Use the meta module to declare dependencies and the environment directive in tasks.
Why wrong: The meta module cannot declare role dependencies; that is done in meta/main.yml. While the environment directive can set environment variables, it does not directly change the shell interpreter.
- B
Use the strategy plugin and a custom lookup to set interpreter.
Why wrong: Strategy plugins affect the order of play execution, not individual tasks. Custom lookups retrieve data but do not set the interpreter.
- C
Use tags to control execution order and a custom inventory script.
Why wrong: Tags select which tasks to run, but do not enforce order. Inventory scripts manage host inventory, not interpreter settings.
- D
Use the block directive to order tasks and a vars file for interpreter.
The block directive groups tasks so they execute in the defined order. A vars file can set variables like ansible_shell_executable to change the shell interpreter for tasks in the block.
Ansible Role Task Order and Environment — Using meta and environment | Red Hat Certified Engineer Explained
This EX294 practice question tests your understanding of implement advanced ansible automation. Read the scenario carefully and evaluate each option against the stated constraints before committing to an answer. A key principle to apply: block directive. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
An Ansible role has tasks that need to run in a specific order, and some tasks must use a different shell interpreter. Which feature allows the role to control task execution order and environment settings?
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
Use the block directive to order tasks and a vars file for interpreter.
The block directive groups tasks that run in the order they appear, allowing control over task execution order within a role. Environment settings, such as a different shell interpreter, can be achieved using a vars file to define variables like ansible_shell_executable, which applies to tasks in the block. Option A is incorrect because the meta module (ansible.builtin.meta) does not declare role dependencies; role dependencies are defined in meta/main.yml. Options B and C are incorrect as strategy plugins and tags do not directly control task order or interpreter settings.
Key principle: block directive
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Use the meta module to declare dependencies and the environment directive in tasks.
Why it's wrong here
The meta module cannot declare role dependencies; that is done in meta/main.yml. While the environment directive can set environment variables, it does not directly change the shell interpreter.
- ✗
Use the strategy plugin and a custom lookup to set interpreter.
Why it's wrong here
Strategy plugins affect the order of play execution, not individual tasks. Custom lookups retrieve data but do not set the interpreter.
- ✗
Use tags to control execution order and a custom inventory script.
Why it's wrong here
Tags select which tasks to run, but do not enforce order. Inventory scripts manage host inventory, not interpreter settings.
- ✓
Use the block directive to order tasks and a vars file for interpreter.
Why this is correct
The block directive groups tasks so they execute in the defined order. A vars file can set variables like ansible_shell_executable to change the shell interpreter for tasks in the block.
Related concept
block directive
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: answer the scenario, not the keyword
Confusing the meta module (flush_handlers, end_play) with meta/main.yml, which defines role dependencies.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
Treat this as a scenario question. Identify the problem, the constraint, and the best action. Then compare each option against those facts.
KKey Concepts to Remember
- block directive
- ansible_shell_executable
- vars files
- meta/main.yml
TExam Day Tips
- Watch for words such as best, first, most likely and least administrative effort.
- Review why wrong options are wrong, not only why the correct option is correct.
Key takeaway
block directive
Real-world example
How this comes up in practice
A practitioner preparing for the EX294 exam encounters this exact type of scenario on the job. The correct answer here is not the most general option — it is the best answer for the specific constraint described. block directive Real exam questions reward reading the full scenario before eliminating options, because the constraint defines which answer fits.
What to study next
Got this wrong? Here's your next step.
Review block directive, then practise related EX294 questions on the same topic to reinforce the concept.
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FAQ
Questions learners often ask
What does this EX294 question test?
Implement advanced Ansible automation — This question tests Implement advanced Ansible automation — block directive.
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: Use the block directive to order tasks and a vars file for interpreter. — The block directive groups tasks that run in the order they appear, allowing control over task execution order within a role. Environment settings, such as a different shell interpreter, can be achieved using a vars file to define variables like ansible_shell_executable, which applies to tasks in the block. Option A is incorrect because the meta module (ansible.builtin.meta) does not declare role dependencies; role dependencies are defined in meta/main.yml. Options B and C are incorrect as strategy plugins and tags do not directly control task order or interpreter settings.
What should I do if I get this EX294 question wrong?
Review block directive, then practise related EX294 questions on the same topic to reinforce the concept.
What is the key concept behind this question?
block directive
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Last reviewed: Jun 24, 2026
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