SATs Logical Reasoning & Analysis 2

Question 1

Which of the following is an unstated assumption in this argument: 'Maria studies every night, so she will pass the exam'?

Accepted Answer

Studying every night is sufficient to pass the exam.

Answer

The argument assumes that nightly studying alone is enough to guarantee passing, which is never stated.

Question 2

A student argues: 'If it rains, the game is cancelled. The game was not cancelled. Therefore, it did not rain.' This reasoning is an example of:

Accepted Answer

Modus tollens

Answer

Modus tollens is the valid form: if P→Q and ¬Q, then ¬P.

Question 3

Which statement, if true, most weakens the claim that 'schools with longer lunch periods produce better academic outcomes'?

Accepted Answer

Wealthier districts, which also have more resources, tend to have longer lunch periods.

Answer

If wealth explains both longer lunches and better outcomes, lunch period length itself may not be the cause.

Question 4

All athletes are disciplined. Some disciplined people are successful. Which conclusion is definitely true?

Accepted Answer

It cannot be determined whether any athlete is successful.

Answer

The overlap between disciplined people and successful people may or may not include any athletes.

Question 5

A passage states: 'Since attendance at the museum doubled after the new exhibit opened, the new exhibit caused the increase.' Which flaw does this reasoning contain?

Accepted Answer

Post hoc ergo propter hoc

Answer

Assuming that because B followed A, A caused B, is the post hoc fallacy.

SATs (Standard Assessment Test) Practice Test

SATs (Standard Assessment Test) Practice Test

SATs Logical Reasoning & Analysis 2