TSA TSA Critical Thinking & Logical Reasoning 2

Question 1

Which of the following best defines a 'valid' argument in formal logic?

Accepted Answer

An argument where if the premises are true, the conclusion must be true

Answer

An argument where the conclusion is true

Answer

An argument supported by emotional appeals

Answer

An argument that has been peer-reviewed

Question 2

An argument concludes that 'since crime rates fell after a new law was passed, the law caused the reduction.' What flaw does this contain?

Accepted Answer

Post hoc ergo propter hoc (false cause)

Answer

Circular reasoning

Answer

Hasty generalization

Answer

Slippery slope

Question 3

Which of the following would most WEAKEN the argument that 'Exercise improves academic performance because students who exercise get better grades'?

Accepted Answer

Evidence that high-achieving students have more time for both studying and exercise

Answer

Studies showing exercise has health benefits

Answer

Data confirming that grades improved after exercise programs were introduced

Answer

Anecdotes from teachers praising exercising students

Question 4

What is the difference between a 'premise' and a 'conclusion' in an argument?

Accepted Answer

A premise provides reasons or evidence; a conclusion is the claim those reasons support

Answer

A premise is the final claim; a conclusion is supporting evidence

Answer

They are interchangeable terms in critical thinking

Answer

A premise is always a fact; a conclusion is always an opinion

Question 5

In TSA, what does it mean to 'draw an inference' from a passage?

Accepted Answer

To reach a conclusion that is not explicitly stated but logically follows from the given information

Answer

To copy a sentence verbatim from the text

Answer

To summarize every paragraph in one word

Answer

To identify the author's writing style

Question 6

Which of the following is an example of a 'sufficient condition'?

Accepted Answer

If it rains, the ground gets wet — rain alone guarantees wet ground

Answer

You need oxygen to survive, but oxygen alone doesn't ensure survival

Answer

A student must pass exams to graduate, but passing alone isn't enough

Answer

Exercise is one of many factors contributing to good health