BA Critical Thinking and Academic Writing

Question 1

Which type of reasoning moves from specific observations to a general conclusion?

Accepted Answer

Inductive reasoning

Answer

Inductive reasoning builds a general conclusion from a series of specific observations or examples, a foundational skill in liberal arts thinking.

Question 2

What is a 'thesis statement' in academic writing?

Accepted Answer

A clear, arguable claim that the paper will support

Answer

A thesis statement is a concise, debatable claim that tells readers the central argument the essay will develop and defend.

Question 3

Which of the following is an example of a logical fallacy?

Accepted Answer

Ad hominem (attacking the person rather than the argument)

Answer

An ad hominem fallacy occurs when someone attacks the character of the person making the argument rather than addressing the argument itself.

Question 4

What is the primary purpose of a 'topic sentence' in a body paragraph?

Accepted Answer

To introduce the paragraph's main idea and connect it to the thesis

Answer

A topic sentence introduces the specific claim of a paragraph and links it back to the overall thesis of the essay.

Question 5

In academic writing, what does 'synthesis' mean?

Accepted Answer

Combining information from multiple sources to form a new, coherent argument

Answer

Synthesis involves drawing together ideas from multiple sources and integrating them into a unified argument or analysis, going beyond simple summary.

BA - Bachelor of Arts Degree Practice Test

BA - Bachelor of Arts Degree Practice Test

BA Critical Thinking and Academic Writing