Logical reasoning PrepTest 145 · Section 4 · Question 8

Correct. Argument or Facts:
Argument

Valid or Flawed:
Valid

Question Type:
Main Point

Stimulus Summary:
Companies that work in technology create jobs, pay taxes, and enliven a community, so technology is improving communities through more than just the products themselves.

Answer Anticipation:
This argument starts with an opinion that seems like it needs backing up. The following sentence begins with, "After all . . . " highlighting that it's supporting the preceding statement, so that opening line is a conclusion of the argument. The final sentence is three ways that technology companies benefit communities—support for the first sentence.

So the main point of this argument is that first statement—technology is improving communities through more than just the direct application of technology.

Answer Explanation:
This answer restates the opening line of the argument, which is supported by the rest of the argument, so this answer is correct.

Key Takeaway:
There are some key structural words on the LSAT that indicate not only a premise but also a conclusion. "After all" highlights a premise supporting the preceding statement. "Since" and "Because" tend to highlight a sentence with a premise (introduced by that word) and a conclusion. These double-up words are great ways to quickly assess the structure of an argument, so be on the lookout for them.

Incorrect. This statement is introduced by, "After all . . . " highlighting that it's a premise supporting the preceding statement.

Incorrect. This is a list of benefits outside of providing technology that tech companies bring to communities, supporting the opening statement/conclusion.

Incorrect. This answer is, at best, an assumption of the argument since it's not stated anywhere.

Incorrect. This answer isn't even true according to the argument—technology is also directly being used by communities ("not only by"). That list is additional ways that tech companies are benefiting communities.