15 Logical Reasoning Question Types

Main Conclusion Question

The authors opinion and what they want us to believe.

• What is the author trying to prove?

• What is the author fighting for or against?

• (indicator words: because, sense, for)

Paradox Question

A contradicting statement.

• Identify the contradicting statement or the discrepancy then explain.

Strengthen Question

Provide an answer that strengthens the arguments conclusion

• Must know the conclusion.

Weaken Question

Provide an answer choice that weakens the arguments conclusion..

• Must know the main conclusion

Sufficient Conditions

• If A, then B

• Fills ANY and ALL gaps that the argument has

• Guarantee’s that the argument is 100% percent correct

Necessary Conditions

• Must be True for the arguments to work or for the outcome to occur.

  • Indicator Words: Then, Only, Only If, Must, Need, Depends, Requires, Relies.

Sufficient Assumption

An unstated premise that makes the argument valid

Necessary Assumptions

Flaws

• The gap in the in the argument’s reasoning

Method of Reasoning Questions

• How the entire argument is making its argument

Role Question

• Define what role that statement plays in an argument

Parallel Reasoning

• Identify the answer choice that contains the exact same reasoning as the stimulus.

Parallel Flaw

• Identify the answer choice that contains the exact same reasoning as the stimulus.

Principle Questions

• Justify the reasoning, will strengthen the argument

• Will fill any and all gaps

Must Be True

choose the stem that MUST be true