GMATxpert

Critical Reasoning: Weakening type

Primarily two types of questions:

1. Fact followed by Conclusion: For this type, pick an answer that adds extra information not already given in the paragraph. This should further prove the given conclusion is incorrect. Never argue with or try to dispute the facts. Keeping the facts in mind, prove the conclusion is incorrect or prove the connection between the given facts & the conclusion is invalid. Write down what conclusion you want to reach, and then start reading the answer choices. (SEE Q 23, 26, 34 from OG diagnostic test)

2. Fact followed by reason: For this type, pick an answer that adds extra information not already given in the paragraph. This should disprove the given reason. Never argue with or try to dispute the facts. Keeping the facts in mind, prove that there is some other reason. The original reason is automatically weakened. (See Q - 20,30 from OG Diag test)

AWA writing tips 2:

General Structure

Intro - Restate argument, point out flaws or state intention to discuss them below

1st Para - First,...

2nd Para - Second/In addition,...

3rd Para - Third/Finally,...

Conclusion - The argument is flawed/weak/unconvincing because of the above -mentioned...Ultimately, the argument can be strengthened if/by...

2. Structural Word (should be all over the essays)

Supporting examples - for example, to illustrate, for instance, because, specifically

Additional support - furthermore, in addition, similarly, just as, also, as a result, moreover

Importance - surely, truly, undoubtedly, clearly, in fact, most importantly

Contrast - on the contrary, yet, despite, rather, instead, however, although, while

Decide against - one cannot deny that, it could be argued that, granted, admittedly

Ying-yang - on the one hand/on the other hand

Concluding - therefore, in summary, consequently, hence, in conclusion, ultimately, in closing

AWA writing tips

The Analysis of an Argument section requires you to analyze the reasoning behind a given argument, and to write a critique of that argument. You are not being asked to present your own views on the subject.

Consider the following when developing your essay:

What questionable assumptions underlie the thinking behind the argument?

What alternative explanations or counterexamples might weaken the conclusion?

What sort of evidence could help strengthen or refute the argument?

Tips for the AWA assessment:

1. Structure: Clearly divide your essay into the introductory paragraph, two to three content paragraphs and a conclusion. Take time out before you start writing to set up an organizational structure.

2. Transitions: Use transitional phrases. Words and phrases like “first", "on the other hand," and "therefore" help the computer identify concepts between and within the paragraphs.

3. Conform: The E-rater is not programmed to appreciate individuality, humor, or poetic inspiration; computers aren't known for their sense of humor. It will be comparing the style and structure of your essay to those of other high-scoring essays.

4. Clearly state your critique: Identify the logical fallacies

Since Java coffee shop began advertising on the local radio station 3 months ago, its business volume has increased by 15%. In order to increase its business volume, Java’s next door competitor, Kahva, should also start advertising on the local radio station.

Which of the following most weakens the argument’s conclusion?

A. Kahva’s number of customers went down 15% last year.

B. Of the 9 coffee shops that advertised on the local radio, only Java’s business increased.

C. 78% of the businesses that advertise on the local radio report an increase in business volume.

D. The local radio station has over 10,000 listeners.

E. The local radio station dedicates 15% of its air time to commercials.

Tell us, what's the right answer?

In critical reasoning, weakening type questions, pick an answer that adds extra information not already given in the paragraph. This should further prove that the given conclusion is incorrect. Never argue with or try to dispute the facts. Keeping the facts in mind, prove the conclusion is incorrect or prove the connection between the given facts & the conclusion is invalid. Write down what conclusion you want to reach, and then start reading the answer choices.

CR Tip 3

Avoid harsh and categorical answer choices unless the questions stem is equally strong. Instead
choose answers that give your room to maneuver- e.g. may, might, can

Till the time our resource website gets ready and our phone lines active, please feel free to contact us through this page. Post your questions and queries here. We'd revert immediately.

RC Tip 1:
Most questions in RC are location based. This implies that you need to go back to the relevant location, re-read (maybe even a sentence before and after) and then answer the
given question.

CR Tip 2:
Words such as ‘ information’, ‘findings’, ‘evidence’, ‘assertion’ are taken as ‘FACTS’

CR Tip 1:

Words such as ‘ not less’, ‘not more’, ‘not lower’, ‘not higher’ are all interpreted as ‘EQUAL’

Get a chance to learn from the best trainers. Join our individual learning programme.

Post your doubts on this page, and get to know the simplest way to solve the problem.