In the Logical Reasoning section of the Law School Admission Test (LSAT), “Resolve the Paradox” questions challenge test-takers to explain or reconcile apparent contradictions or inconsistencies presented in a given argument or scenario. These questions assess a candidate’s ability to think critically and identify the missing piece of information necessary to resolve the paradox. By mastering this question type, test-takers can demonstrate their logical reasoning skills and enhance their overall performance on the LSAT. Let’s explore an overview of “Resolve the Paradox” questions, along with examples and a step-by-step guide on how to solve them effectively.
Resolve the Paradox Questions on the LSAT’s Logical Reasoning Section:
“Resolve the Paradox” questions present an argument or situation that seems contradictory or puzzling. The passage contains evidence or premises that lead to a conclusion, but there is an apparent conflict or inconsistency in the information provided. Test-takers must identify the answer choice that clarifies the contradiction or provides additional information that resolves the paradox, making the argument coherent and logically sound.
Example:
Argument: “Sales of ice cream have dramatically increased during the winter months, contrary to common expectations. Even with colder temperatures, people seem to prefer ice cream over other desserts during this season.”
Question:
Which of the following, if true, resolves the paradox presented above?
A) Hot chocolate, a popular winter beverage, has experienced a decline in sales during the same period.
B) Winter festivals and events often include ice cream stands, increasing its availability.
C) Some studies suggest that consuming cold foods during colder months boosts the immune system.
D) Ice cream manufacturers offer significant discounts and promotions during the winter season.
E) People tend to gain more weight during the winter, and ice cream is a high-calorie treat.
Solving the LSAT’s “Resolve the Paradox” Questions:
Step 1: Understand the Paradox Read the argument carefully and identify the apparent contradiction or inconsistency in the information provided. Understanding the nature of the paradox is crucial to selecting the relevant resolution.
In the example, the paradox is that ice cream sales increase during the winter, despite the cold temperatures.
Step 2: Anticipate the Answer Before looking at the answer choices, try to anticipate the type of information that would resolve the paradox or explain the contradictory situation.
In this case, potential resolutions could include factors that explain why people prefer ice cream despite the colder weather.
Step 3: Evaluate the Answer Choices Carefully read each answer choice and assess whether it provides a logical explanation or resolution to the paradox. Eliminate choices that do not directly address the inconsistency.
A) Hot chocolate, a popular winter beverage, has experienced a decline in sales during the same period.
- This information does not directly resolve the paradox related to ice cream sales.
B) Winter festivals and events often include ice cream stands, increasing its availability.
- This provides a plausible explanation for the increased ice cream sales during winter.
C) Some studies suggest that consuming cold foods during colder months boosts the immune system.
- This information does not directly resolve the paradox related to ice cream sales.
D) Ice cream manufacturers offer significant discounts and promotions during the winter season.
- While this may be true, it does not directly explain the preference for ice cream during winter.
E) People tend to gain more weight during the winter, and ice cream is a high-calorie treat.
- This information does not directly resolve the paradox related to ice cream sales.
Step 4: Choose the Correct Answer The correct answer is B, “Winter festivals and events often include ice cream stands, increasing its availability.” This choice explains why ice cream sales increase during the winter despite the colder temperatures—people have more opportunities to purchase ice cream at winter events.
The Last Word
Mastering “Resolve the Paradox” questions in the LSAT Logical Reasoning section requires the ability to identify and explain apparent contradictions or inconsistencies in the provided information. By practicing this question type and honing their logical reasoning skills, test-takers can confidently tackle “Resolve the Paradox” questions and demonstrate their critical thinking abilities on the LSAT.