In the Logical Reasoning section of the Law School Admission Test (LSAT), inference questions challenge test-takers to draw logical conclusions based solely on the information presented in the given argument. Inference questions assess a candidate’s ability to make deductive reasoning and logical connections, revealing implicit information that can be logically derived from the passage. By mastering this question type, test-takers can demonstrate their analytical acumen and enhance their performance on the LSAT. Let’s explore an overview of inference questions, along with examples and a step-by-step guide on how to solve them effectively.
Inference Questions in the LSAT’s Logical Reasoning Section
Inference questions present an argument in the form of a short passage. The passage contains a set of premises or evidence, and test-takers must identify the answer choice that logically follows or can be reasonably inferred from the information provided. The correct answer must be a conclusion or statement that can be drawn directly from the given premises without introducing new information.
Example:
Argument: “Studies have shown that regular exercise improves cardiovascular health and reduces the risk of heart disease. Therefore, engaging in a daily exercise routine is essential for maintaining a healthy heart.”
Which of the following can be properly inferred from the argument above?
A) People who exercise daily are guaranteed never to develop heart disease.
B) Those who don’t exercise regularly are at a higher risk of heart disease.
C) The only way to achieve a healthy heart is through regular exercise.
D) Everyone who maintains a daily exercise routine will experience improved cardiovascular health.
E) The risk of heart disease can be entirely eliminated by engaging in regular exercise.
Solving The LSAT’s Inference Questions in the Logical Reasoning Section
Step 1: Identify the Premises Read the argument carefully and determine the premises or evidence presented. Understanding the information provided is vital to making accurate inferences.
In the example, the premises are the results of studies showing that regular exercise improves cardiovascular health and reduces the risk of heart disease.
Step 2: Anticipate the Answer Before looking at the answer choices, try to anticipate what logical conclusions can be drawn based on the premises presented.
In this case, potential inferences could include statements that logically follow from the connection between exercise and cardiovascular health.
Step 3: Evaluate the Answer Choices Carefully read each answer choice and assess whether it can be logically derived from the premises without introducing new information.
A) People who exercise daily are guaranteed never to develop heart disease.
- This statement is too strong and goes beyond the information provided in the premises.
B) Those who don’t exercise regularly are at a higher risk of heart disease.
- This logically follows from the premise that exercise reduces the risk of heart disease.
C) The only way to achieve a healthy heart is through regular exercise.
- This statement is too extreme and not directly supported by the premises.
D) Everyone who maintains a daily exercise routine will experience improved cardiovascular health.
- This statement is too strong and not directly supported by the premises.
E) The risk of heart disease can be entirely eliminated by engaging in regular exercise.
- This statement is too strong and not directly supported by the premises.
Step 4: Choose the Correct Answer The correct answer is B, “Those who don’t exercise regularly are at a higher risk of heart disease.” This statement can be logically inferred from the premise that regular exercise reduces the risk of heart disease.
The Last Word
Mastering inference questions in the LSAT Logical Reasoning section requires careful analysis and the ability to draw logical conclusions based solely on the information provided. By practicing this question type and honing their deductive reasoning skills, test-takers can confidently tackle inference questions and demonstrate their analytical prowess on the LSAT.
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