PrepTest 123
[lcid:3589] Prep Test 123 LSAT — Logical Reasoning — S2
Logical reasoning
Question prompt
Double-blind techniques should be
Remaining source text redacted.
Why the credited answer is right
Credited answer: B
The notes below walk through why it fits the stem and how to eliminate the rest.
Argument or Facts
Argument
Valid or Flawed
Flawed
Question Type
Main Point Questions
Stimulus Summary
A recommendation is made ("should be used"). A benefit of that recommendation is listed, and the benefit is tied into the recommendation.
Answer Anticipation
Recommendations ("should be used") are almost always conclusions, and the first sentence here is a recommendation. The recommendation—to use double-blind studies—is supported by the stated benefit, so that second clause is a premise.
The last sentence also uses "should," so we should think about whether it's the conclusion here. However, there's no support for it—it just states what scientists should do, not why they should do it. It also supports the recommendation—double-blind studies should be used because they help prevent misinterpretations, which is something scientists should do. Since the last sentence has no support and supports the first sentence, that first sentence is the main point of the argument.
Answer choices
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AScientists' objectivity may be Remaining source text redacted.
Why choice A is not credited
Incorrect. This answer is a portion of the premise stating the benefit of using double-blind studies, so it's not the main point but rather support. -
BIt is advisable for Remaining source text redacted.
Why choice B matches the stem
Correct. "It is advisable" matches with "should be used," and "as high a proportion . . . as they can" matches with "whenever possible." This answer choice paraphrases the first sentence, which was the main point, so it's correct. -
CScientists sometimes neglect to Remaining source text redacted.
Why choice C is not credited
Incorrect. This answer choice isn't stated in the argument, so it can't be the main point of it. -
DWhenever possible, scientists should Remaining source text redacted.
Why choice D is not credited
Incorrect. While this borrows a phrase from the main point of the argument, the rest of the answer choice reflects the last clause, which supported the recommendation to use double-blind studies. -
EDouble-blind experimental techniques are Remaining source text redacted.
Why choice E is not credited
Incorrect. This answer choice misses the recommendation made in the conclusion. It also goes a step farther than the stimulus, which discusses being diligent about misinterpretations and biases, and helping to prevent these misinterpretations, not ensuring objectivity. Trap answers in Main Point questions often are a bit stronger than the actual argument!
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