PrepTest 152

This answer is the opposing point. It's rare to get a conclusion about what is widely believed.

Correct. Argument or Facts:
Argument

Valid or Flawed:
Flawed

Question Type:
Main Point

Stimulus Summary:
There's a belief, but it must be mistaken, because a counterexample exists.

Answer Anticipation: The word But indicates a shift, usually from the counterpoint to the author's argument. Here, the author pivots to an assessment of the opposing point, mainly that it's mistaken. When the author gives their opinion of the validity or correctness of a different viewpoint, it's almost always the main point of the argument. Here, the argument goes on to offer a counterexample, which will almost always serve as a premise.

Since the author uses a word to refer back to an earlier idea in the conclusion (this), our prephrase should include that earlier idea. So let's look for The belief that England's mild winters are due to the Gulf Stream is wrong.

Answer Explanation:
(B) is almost exactly the prephrase!

Key Takeaway:
When the author pivots to her view of the opposing point, it's almost certain to serve as the main point of the argument.

A concession the author makes before introducing her counterexample, not the main point. In the given argument, this clause is introduced with While, which is an indicator the author is agreeing with the opposing point, or bringing up a point that is true but doesn't undermine her conclusion.

A fact used as a premise/counterexample to the counterpoint.

Another fact used as the other half of the premise/counterexample.