PrepTest 122

Incorrect. This answer is close, but it goes too far. The Statistician believes that the studies are flawed, but that doesn't mean she believes the conclusion is wrong, just that it's not supported. She could believe there is no causal link between X and Y, but that a large study would need to be done to show that.

Correct. Argument or Facts:
Argument

Valid or Flawed:
Flawed

Question Type:
Main Point

Stimulus Summary:
Two major studies: There's no causal link between X and Y

Statistician: Those studies had sample sizes that are too small, so they're flawed.

Answer Anticipation:
The Statistician's argument starts with the conclusion reached by two studies, and she then goes on to state her opinion of that conclusion—it's flawed. When the author of an argument states her opinion of an opposing point, that's almost always the main point of the argument.

Here, the rest of the argument then goes on to state why the Statistician believes the studies are flawed, supporting that opinion and reinforcing the initial determination that it was the main point. We should therefore find an answer stating that the argument made by the two major studies is flawed.

Answer Explanation:
This answer reflects the Statistician's conclusion—that the studies are flawed/unsound. (An unsound argument is one that is based on faulty evidence or logic—i.e., it's flawed.)

Key Takeaway:
The author's opinion of an opposing point is almost always the main point of the argument. But be sure that you don't go too far and read too much into an opinion that states an opposing point is flawed—that doesn't mean it's wrong, just that it's unproven.

Also, viewing this question through the lens of the Statistician pointing out a sampling flaw (a sample that's too small) could definitely help in approaching it—bringing your knowledge of errors in reasoning to this question would definitely be useful!

Incorrect. The Statistician limits her argument to analyzing the current studies and their results, not to suggesting a future course of action.

Incorrect. The Statistician establishes that they did reach a conclusion, but that it was flawed.

Incorrect. First, there's no indication that the major studies were done by medical experts, or that the results reflect the views of that group. Second, even if it did, the Statistician's conclusion is that it hasn't been established that there isn't a link between X and Y, not that it hasn't been established that there is.