Logical reasoning PrepTest 141 · Section 4 · Question 9

Incorrect. The argument isn't designed to show the F's hypothesis is wrong but that it is "unlikely to be correct." This answer is too strong.

Incorrect. While an implication of the argument is that B was a member of a mainstream church, that isn't the main point. Additionally, the statement in question is meant to call into question F's hypothesis that B was in a cult, not that he was in a mainstream church—a subtle difference, but a difference nonetheless.

Incorrect. This answer is describing an ad hominem attack, but there's no questioning of F's credibility. Bringing up reasons to doubt someone's argument isn't questioning their credibility.

Correct. Argument or Facts:
Argument

Valid or Flawed:
Flawed

Question Type:
Argument Structure

Stimulus Summary:
While F's hypothesis that B was a member of a cult explains his subject matter, there's evidence he was a member of a religion and no evidence he was in a cult, so F is probably wrong.

Answer Anticipation:
The argument starts with a hypothesis that the author of the argument states is "unlikely to be correct," and opinions on opposing points are almost always the main point of the argument. That's backed up here when the author pivots away from a concession made to F's hypothesis ("However . . . "). The statement in question is part of that pivot, highlighting why the hypothesis is likely wrong. So the answer should reflect that it's a premise calling into question an opposing point and showing that an alternative conclusion is more likely.

Answer Explanation:
This answer highlights the role of the statement in question. It's a premise that is used to rebut F's argument by stating that there's no evidence backing it up.

Key Takeaway:
Opinions on opposing points are almost always the main point of an argument. When you see an opening statement like the one here, use that trend to help you quickly get the overall structure of the argument down, including what is a premise and what is an opposing point.

Incorrect. The author does agree that F's hypothesis explains B's strange subject matter, but she doesn't state that it's the only potential explanation. The argument also isn't designed to establish that the subject matter is, was, or remains unexplained.