Before buying a farm machine, what should a small farmer analyse first?

Correct answer: Cost, frequency of use and rental options

The direct answer is Option C: cost, frequency of use, and rental options. A small farmer should first ask whether the machine will be used often enough to justify its purchase. Step 1: find the complete cost, including purchase, fuel, repair, maintenance, and interest. Step 2: estimate how many times it will be used in a season or year. Step 3: compare ownership with renting or using a custom-hiring service. Step 4: choose the option that gives useful work at a manageable total cost. Option A is wrong because colour and decoration do not decide productivity or affordability. Option B is wrong because merely counting trees does not show whether the machine is needed or profitable. Option C is correct because it connects investment with actual use and a cheaper alternative. Option D is irrelevant because village festivals do not determine farm-machine economics. Memory cue: before buying, ask “cost, use, or rent?”