Weakening the Argument
Summary
The content provides an in-depth guide on how to approach and solve 'weaken the conclusion' question types on the GRE, emphasizing the identification of assumptions and careful analysis of argument structures.
- Understanding the 'weaken the conclusion' question type involves identifying the premises and conclusion, and recognizing the gaps or assumptions that link them.
- A strategic approach includes not rushing to answer choices but instead focusing on the argument's structure to identify unstated assumptions.
- Practical examples illustrate how to apply these strategies, highlighting the importance of not bringing in outside information or assumptions when choosing an answer.
- The correct answer choice directly addresses the gap or assumption in the argument, weakening the conclusion without completely destroying it.
- Analyzing each answer choice methodically and avoiding the trap of selecting an answer that strengthens or is irrelevant to the argument is crucial.
Chapters
00:00
Identifying 'Weaken the Conclusion' Questions
00:00
Strategic Approach to 'Weaken the Conclusion' Questions
02:34
Practical Example and Analysis
06:12
Advanced Application and Avoiding Traps
FAQ: Why isn't A the correct choice?
A: Although something that is effective in a lab setting may not be effective outside of the lab, we cannot assume that this is always true.
There's no information given in (A) or in the text that would lead us to believe that because Eradicon is effective in the lab means that it is not effective outside of the lab. Assuming as much would be assuming too much.
(D), in contrast, gives us a clear reason why Eradicon won't be effective in returning cotton production to previous levels.
