In all cases, whether it is an oath or affirmation, the notary should respect the solemnity of the oath and require the affiant to raise the affiant's __________ hand before administering the oath.

• A. Left
• B. Right
• C. Both
• D. Other

Answer: (B)

Raising the right hand is the traditional gesture that accompanies taking an oath or affirmation. It signals the affiant’s willingness to be bound by the truth of what is said and marks the moment the oath takes effect. The notary should require the affiant to raise the right hand so there is a clear, observable action the notary can witness and record, reinforcing the solemnity of the moment. The left hand isn’t the standard gesture for this ritual, and raising both hands isn’t typical; an “Other” situation would only apply if the right hand cannot be used for a lawful reason. In ordinary practice, the right hand is raised.