Weakening the Argument
Summary
The content provides a comprehensive guide on how to approach and solve 'weaken the conclusion' question types on the GRE exam, emphasizing the importance of identifying assumptions and carefully analyzing answer choices.
- Understanding the 'weaken the conclusion' question type involves recognizing the argument's premises and conclusion, and identifying gaps or assumptions that, if challenged, could weaken the conclusion.
- A systematic approach to these questions includes reading to identify premises and conclusion, thinking about how they connect, and anticipating unstated assumptions before examining the answer choices.
- Practical examples illustrate the process of identifying assumptions and selecting the answer choice that effectively casts doubt on the conclusion without completely destroying it.
- The importance of not bringing in external assumptions or information when analyzing answer choices is highlighted to avoid being misled by incorrect options.
- A detailed walkthrough of a practice question demonstrates how to apply these strategies, emphasizing the need to consider each answer choice carefully and avoid rushing to conclusions.
Chapters
00:00
Identifying 'Weaken the Conclusion' Questions
01:00
Basic Approach to 'Weaken the Conclusion' Questions
02:34
Practical Example and Analysis
12:29
Recap and Key Takeaways
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.
