Civil Service Verbal Reasoning Test Argument Analysis 2

Question 1

Argument: 'If we allow students to retake exams, they will never work hard the first time.' What type of reasoning flaw is this?

Accepted Answer

Slippery slope — assuming one action will inevitably lead to an extreme negative outcome

Answer

The argument assumes that allowing retakes will inevitably cause students to underperform initially, without showing why this consequence must follow. This is a slippery slope.

Question 2

Argument: 'You're either with us or against us on this issue.' What fallacy does this commit?

Accepted Answer

False dichotomy — presenting only two options when more exist

Answer

The argument presents only two positions — for or against — when in reality a spectrum of views exists. This is the false dichotomy (black-and-white thinking) fallacy.

Question 3

Argument: 'Dr Smith says this treatment is effective, so it must be.' What might weaken this argument?

Accepted Answer

Dr Smith has financial interests in the treatment's success

Answer

If Dr Smith profits from endorsing the treatment, her expertise does not make her objective. A conflict of interest undermines the reliability of the recommendation.

Question 4

Argument: 'Crime rates fell after the prison population increased. Therefore, imprisoning more people reduces crime.' What BEST challenges this?

Accepted Answer

Crime rates were already falling before the prison population increased

Answer

If crime was already declining before prison populations rose, the increase in prisoners may not have caused the fall. Pre-existing trends undermine the causal claim.

Question 5

Argument: 'Since introducing the loyalty card, our sales have risen. The loyalty card is clearly responsible.' What type of alternative explanation could undermine this?

Accepted Answer

A competitor closed during the same period, driving customers to this store

Answer

If a competitor closed, customers may have transferred regardless of the loyalty card. This alternative explanation removes the need to credit the card.

Civil Service Verbal Reasoning Practice Test

Civil Service Verbal Reasoning Practice Test

Civil Service Verbal Reasoning Test Argument Analysis 2