In the given question a sentence is given with a blank and you have to choose an appropriate word from the given options that can fill the sentence making that grammatically and meaningfully complete. In the current global atmosphere of “success at any cost”, cheating is indelibly ______________to achieving goals through an easy (and quick) route. 

The sentence is talking about cheating being connected to achieving goals through an easy and quick route. The word "linked" correctly fits the context as it suggests a direct connection or relationship, which makes sense in the context of cheating being associated with shortcuts to success. Alignment refers to being arranged in a straight line or having agreement, which doesn't fit the context here. Cooperative and coactive both refer to working together, which is unrelated to the context of cheating.