Logical reasoning PrepTest 146 · Section 1 · Question 18

Incorrect. This answer justifies focusing on a single project, but it doesn't justify focusing on Project 2 over Project 1.

Incorrect. There's no indication that the projects can't be finished, just that the first is late and the second is at risk of missing the deadline.

Incorrect. There's no indication that either project is optional—in fact, they're noted as being equally important, so it's unlikely that one is optional and the other isn't.

Incorrect. This answer justifies not worrying about something, but it doesn't justify focusing on Project 2.

Correct. Argument or Facts:
Argument

Valid or Flawed:
Flawed

Question Type:
Strengthen (Principle)

Stimulus Summary:
Two equally important, undone projects:

Project 1 Ð Late already, working on it would make Project 2 late
Project 2 Ð No guarantees it can be done on time

Conclusion Ð All time should be dedicated to Project 2

Answer Anticipation:
Strengthen (Principle) questions require us to find a principle that connects the details in the premise to the judgment in the conclusion.

Here, the judgment in the conclusion is that all time should be spent on Project 2. The premises bring up a lot of details about Project 1 and Project 2 that could lead to that conclusion, however, so we need to stay flexible. Anything that connects a piece of information we know about these projects to focusing on Project 2 will serve as a correct answer—for instance, something stating that finishing a project on time is more important than finishing a late project.

Answer Explanation:
This answer connects to the details in the stimulus. Project 1 is late; Project 2 isn't; and they're both equally important. If it's better to work to finish a project on time than finish one that's late, then Project 2 should be the focus, as the conclusion states.

Key Takeaway:
Don't overcomplicate Strengthen (Principle) questions! The answer will connect a detail from the premise to the judgment in the conclusion.