Final answer:
The theory of leadership that consists primarily of two sets of strategies—managing by exception and providing contingent rewards—is best called transactional leadership theory.
Step-by-step explanation:
The theory of leadership that consists primarily of two sets of strategies—managing by exception and providing contingent rewards—is best called transactional leadership theory. In transactional leadership, the focus is on supervision and organizational goals, which are achieved through a system of rewards and punishments. Transactional leaders maintain the status quo and typically exhibit elements of both transactional and transformational leadership styles.