In the Logical Reasoning section of the Law School Admission Test (LSAT), strengthen questions challenge test-takers to identify the answer choice that bolsters the given argument’s validity. Strengthen questions assess a candidate’s ability to critically evaluate the logic and reasoning of the presented arguments. By mastering this question type, test-takers can enhance their overall performance on the LSAT. Let’s delve into an overview of strengthen questions, along with examples and a step-by-step guide on how to solve them.
Overview of Strengthen Questions
Strengthen questions present an argument in the form of a short passage. The passage contains a conclusion supported by premises or evidence. Test-takers must identify the answer choice that provides additional information or support, making the argument more compelling and solidifying the connection between the premises and the conclusion. In essence, the correct answer must “strengthen” the argument’s reasoning, making it more difficult to challenge or refute.
Example:
Argument: “Regular exercise is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. A recent study found that individuals who engage in regular exercise have lower rates of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease compared to those who lead sedentary lives.”
Which of the following strengthens the argument best?
A) The study involved a large and diverse sample of participants.
B) Participants who exercise regularly reported feeling happier and less stressed.
C) The study’s findings were published in a reputable medical journal.
D) The individuals with lower rates of obesity and diabetes also consumed a balanced diet.
E) Individuals who engaged in moderate exercise had similar health benefits to those who engaged in intense exercise.
Solving Strengthen Questions
Step 1: Identify the Conclusion and Premises Read the argument carefully and determine the conclusion and the premises or evidence that support it. Understanding the structure of the argument is vital to identifying the gap that needs strengthening.
In the Example , the conclusion is “Regular exercise is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle,” and the premises are the results of the recent study showing lower rates of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease in individuals who exercise regularly.
Step 2: Anticipate the Answer Before looking at the answer choices, try to anticipate what kind of information could strengthen the argument based on the conclusion and premises.
In this case, potential strengtheners could include factors that validate the study’s credibility, link exercise to additional health benefits, or address possible counterarguments.
Step 3: Evaluate the Answer Choices Carefully read each answer choice and analyze its impact on the argument. Cross out choices that do not directly support or strengthen the argument.
A) The study involved a large and diverse sample of participants.
- This strengthens the argument by implying the results are more likely to be applicable to a broader population.
B) Participants who exercise regularly reported feeling happier and less stressed.
- While interesting, this does not directly impact the argument’s conclusion.
C) The study’s findings were published in a reputable medical journal.
- This strengthens the argument by indicating the study’s credibility and reliability.
D) The individuals with lower rates of obesity and diabetes also consumed a balanced diet.
- This introduces new information not directly related to the argument.
E) Individuals who engaged in moderate exercise had similar health benefits to those who engaged in intense exercise.
- This is interesting but does not directly strengthen the argument.
Step 4: Determine the Correct Answer The correct answer is C, “The study’s findings were published in a reputable medical journal.” This choice strengthens the argument by establishing the study’s credibility, making the argument more persuasive.
The Last Word
Mastering strengthen questions in the LSAT Logical Reasoning section requires careful analysis and the ability to identify the answer choice that fortifies the argument’s reasoning. By practicing this question type and developing an eye for critical details, test-takers can confidently tackle strengthen questions and improve their overall performance on the LSAT.