CCTST Inference 3

Question 1

A researcher notices that regions with higher literacy rates also have lower infant mortality. The most cautious inference is:

Accepted Answer

Literacy and infant mortality are inversely correlated.

Answer

Observational data establish a relationship between the two variables but cannot on their own prove causation or direction.

Question 2

A coin is flipped ten times and lands heads each time. What is the best inference about the eleventh flip?

Accepted Answer

The probability of heads on the next flip remains approximately 50% for a fair coin.

Answer

For a fair coin, each flip is independent, so past results do not change the probability of future outcomes.

Question 3

A news article states that a new drug reduced symptoms in 70% of trial participants. What is the most warranted inference?

Accepted Answer

The drug was effective for a majority of participants in the trial.

Answer

The stated statistic only justifies concluding that most trial participants experienced symptom reduction.

Question 4

Tom says, 'Every time I wash my car, it rains.' From this statement alone, what can be inferred?

Accepted Answer

Tom has observed a coincidental pattern that he has not causally explained.

Answer

Tom is describing a perceived pattern, but the statement provides no causal mechanism linking car washing to precipitation.

Question 5

An advertisement claims 'four out of five dentists recommend SparkleBright toothpaste.' Which inference is best supported?

Accepted Answer

In the survey cited, 80% of dentists recommended SparkleBright.

Answer

The claim only justifies inferring that 80% of dentists in the cited survey gave that recommendation; no broader conclusion is warranted.

(CCTST) California Critical Thinking Skills Test Practice Test