How+verb+noun vs how+noun+verb

[RahulG728]

Dear Experts,

I am finding it difficult to understand the difference between the following two statements:

1. How are items placed in shelf? -- I understand that this is right.

2. How items are placed on shelf? -- But I don't find any issue with this one as well.

Two ways of asking the same question?

I am sure that I am missing something here. Please explain.

PS: I got confused while doing a question in OG Verbal. I searched online and on this forum too. I didn't find any cues whatsoever.

[RonPurewal]

the order in your #1 is used in actual questions.
SC sentences are not questions, so #1 has no direct relevance to the exam.

your #2 is the correct order for any other type of construction.

How old is he?
I don't know how old he is.