Logical reasoning PrepTest 127 · Section 2 · Question 18

Incorrect. This answer does bring up a downside to an action, but it doesn't discuss long-term effects. The principle underlying this answer is something like: When the cons outweigh the pros, you should find another solution.

Incorrect. This answer highlights a situation where almost the opposite is true of an action—it may cost more short-term, but it pays off long-term.

Correct. Argument or Facts:
Argument

Valid or Flawed:
Flawed

Question Type:
Principle (Illustration)

Stimulus Summary:
Skipping payments leads to accrued finance charges that are more expensive in the long-run, so skipping payments isn't a good idea.

Answer Anticipation:
The argument highlights a situation where doing something costs more in the long-run, concluding that it's not in one's interests to do that thing. The correct answer should similarly highlight a situation where the long-term costs make something a bad idea.

Answer Explanation:
This answer highlights a situation where the long-term costs of a course of action make it a bad idea. Like skipping payments, there may be a short-term benefit to having new roads, but, over the long haul, it'll cost more and thus be unwise.

Key Takeaway:
Illustration questions of any variety frequently feature scenarios that match common pieces of advice. It's a bit weird and corny, but it's true. Think about what aphorism a parent or aunt/uncle told you at some point that best fits the stimulus, and you may very well be heading straight to the correct answer.

Incorrect. This answer choice raises a possibility that costs more in the long-run, but it recommends that option, so it doesn't match the stimulus.

Incorrect. This answer weighs the immediate pros and cons of a certain option, not the long-term costs.