Civil Service Verbal Reasoning Test Argument Analysis 3

Question 1

Argument: 'My neighbour smoked all his life and lived to 95. So smoking cannot be that bad for you.' What flaw does this contain?

Accepted Answer

Hasty generalisation — drawing a broad conclusion from a single case

Answer

One example — however striking — cannot overturn large-scale statistical evidence. Drawing a general conclusion from a single case is a hasty generalisation.

Question 2

Which of the following STRENGTHENS the argument that 'working from home increases productivity'?

Accepted Answer

A study of 10,000 employees showed those working from home completed 20% more tasks per day on average

Answer

A large-scale study showing a direct productivity increase provides direct empirical support for the claim. This strengthens the argument more than anecdotal or indirect evidence.

Question 3

Argument: 'Advertising junk food to children should be banned because children cannot critically evaluate advertising.' Which statement WEAKENS this argument?

Accepted Answer

Parents can explain advertising to children and limit their exposure

Answer

If parents can mediate children's exposure to and understanding of advertising, a ban may not be necessary. This offers an alternative solution that weakens the case for banning.

Question 4

A politician argues: 'Cutting taxes will increase government revenue because people will spend more, generating more VAT income.' What BEST describes this argument?

Accepted Answer

It is a logical argument that could be valid but rests on an uncertain economic assumption

Answer

The argument has a logical structure (tax cuts → more spending → more VAT) but the assumption that this effect is large enough to offset lost tax revenue is uncertain and contested.

Question 5

Argument: 'Schools that spend more per pupil achieve better exam results. Therefore more school funding improves results.' Which BEST challenges this?

Accepted Answer

Schools in wealthier areas both receive more funding and have more advantaged pupils — wealth is the real driver

Answer

Wealthier areas may have better-funded schools AND more academically advantaged pupils. The apparent link between funding and results may be driven by socioeconomic factors, not spending.

Civil Service Verbal Reasoning Practice Test

Civil Service Verbal Reasoning Practice Test

Civil Service Verbal Reasoning Test Argument Analysis 3