Logical reasoning PrepTest 155 · Section 2 · Question 19

Correct. Argument or Facts:
Argument

Valid or Flawed:
Flawed

Question Type:
Parallel Reasoning

Stimulus Summary:
Non-matching paint is noticeable, but matching during the painting process will result in it fading to a different shade, and thus doing so is pointless.

Answer Anticipation:
A goal is set up (matching paint), and one course of action is given to reach it (getting paint to match during the painting), but that's thrown out because of a change that will happen, so the goal is viewed as not worth worrying about.

Also, the extreme nature of the conclusion ("pointless") can help us eliminate answers.

Answer Explanation:
A goal is set up (aligned wheels), a course of action is stated (aligning them before riding), but that's throw out because the alignment shifts while riding, so the goal is thrown out. This is our answer!

Key Takeaway:
If you note particular language that is relevant to the logic of the argument, use that to help with eliminations! Here, "pointless" in the conclusion mismatched with two of the wrong answers' conclusions.

Incorrect. This argument doesn't set out a goal, per se, instead considering two different options—buying a new car vs. restoring an old car. The conclusion also doesn't have similarly extreme language ("best" is relative).

Incorrect. This answer concludes that two solutions should be alternated between, not that a single goal isn't worth pursuing. The conclusion also uses "should" language, which doesn't match with "pointless."

Incorrect. This answer compares two options, and prioritizes cost over texture, which is a much different argument.

Incorrect. The reason for throwing out the goal is that people won't notice it, not that a change will undercut the goal, so this answer is wrong.