Before administering an oath in connection with an affidavit, the notary should require the affiant to raise the affiant's what?

• A. Arm
• B. Hand
• C. Eye
• D. Mouth

Answer: (B)

Raising the right hand is the traditional gesture that accompanies taking an oath. This physical action signals solemn intent and a binding commitment to tell the truth, which is the purpose of the oath in connection with an affidavit. The notary’s role includes witnessing this gesture to help establish that the affiant is knowingly and seriously swearing to the statements being made.

The hand is the element involved because the gesture of lifting a hand, specifically the right hand, is what conveys that formal promise to tell the truth. Other body parts listed—arm, eye, or mouth—do not carry the same established ceremonial meaning in oath-taking, so they would not fulfill the standard requirement. Therefore, instructing the affiant to raise the hand (with the right hand being the usual emphasis) aligns with proper oath administration.