SAT Vocabulary, SAT PREP, SAT, HUGE vocab for SAT 1
Weaken a causal argument
Provide an alternate cause Show that cause and effect are reversed Show there is no causal relationship (merely a coincidence)
Q is inspected before R is inspected.
Q > R
Emphasis Keywords
Remarkable (more / most) important Compelling Substantial Even more than
A tutor is planning a daily schedule of individual tutoring sessions for each of six students--S, T, W, X, Y, and Z. The tutor will meet with exactly one student at a time, for exactly one hour each session. The tutor will meet students starting at 1 P.M., for six consecutive hours.
This is a 1-1-1-1-1-1 relationship (balanced).
peer
equal
parity
equality
raiment
especially fine or decorative clothing
component
essential element
intrinsic
essential nature of a thing
vignette
A short sketch that provides a clear picture
unassailable
not questionable, not doubtable
~h --> s
not s --> h can have both but must have at least one
quixotic
not sensible about practical matters
frivolous
not serious in content or attitude or behavior
tenuous
not solid, weak
immutable
not subject or susceptible to change or variation
reticent
not talkative
inopportune
not timely, inappropriate
opaque
not transparent, not letting light through
incompatible
not well matched, unsuited
salient
noticeable, prominent
flagrant
noticeably offensive
quorum
number of members of a governing body necessary in order to proceed
manifest
obvious
sporadic
occasional, infrequent
periodic
occurring at regular intervals
apocryphal
of questionable authenticity
pique
offense, resentment, provoke or excite
garish
offensively bright
punctual
on time
foil
one that enhances or underscores by contrast
connoisseur
one who appreciates fine things
cynic
one who has an attitude of contempt, distrust
zealot
one who has great enthusiasm esp for a cause
misanthrope
one who hates humanity
heretic
one who holds unorthodox or unapproved beliefs
gourmand
one who likes to eat alot
hedonist
one who lives for pleasure
recluse
one who lives in solitude
benefactor
one who offers financial help
proctor
one who supervises students at an exam
seminal
original or relating to seed or semen
outmoded
out of fashion
gregarious
outgoing, friendly
peripheral
outside, surrounding, auxiliary
ellipse
oval
solicitude
over-attentive care, anxiety
arrogant
overbearing, proud
ebullience
overflowing with enthusiasm
pedantic
overly scholarly
eclipse
overshadowing, esp sun or moon
inadvertence
oversight, unwillingness
refute
overthrow by argument, evidence, or proof
ecstatic
overwhelmingly emotional
extenuating
partially excusing
bucolic
pastoral, relating to country life
methodical
performed in an orderly manner
incubation
period of gestation
cyclical
periodic and repeating
tangential
peripheral, no on the subject at hand
obstinate
persist stubbornly
mosaic
picture made of many small parts such as tiles
placate
please, pacify
profuse
plentiful
civility
politeness
bombastic
pompous or overblown in language; full of high-sounding words intended to conceal a lack of ideas
bombast
pompous speech
latent
potential, hidden quality
mundane
practical, ordinary
aggrandize
praise greatly, make seem greater
approbation
praise, approval
extol
praise, glorify, or honor
As indicated by
premise
Because
premise
Due to
premise
For
premise
For example
premise
For the reason that
premise
Given that
premise
In that
premise
Owing to
premise
Since
premise
this can be seen by
premise
innate
present at birth but not necessarily hereditary
charade
pretense
tout
solicit or promote
Some + Some
some or most
redundant
repetitive, and thus unnecessary
diffident
showing modest reserve
pomp
showy display
acumen
shrewdness shown by keen insight
diffident
shy, reserved
lateral
sideways, on the side
inane
silly, empty-headed
funereal
similar to a funeral; grave
comparable
similar, equivalent
soporific
sleep inducing
nuance
slight distinction
torpid
slow and apathetic
scapegoat
someone who bears the blame for others
deplore
to express strong disapproval of
plummet
to fall suddenly
straddle
to favor opposing sides
elate
to fill with joy
reciprocate
to give and take, to return, to pay back
corroborate
to give evidence for
diverge
to go apart in different directions
endow
to grant, as a gift
demur
to hesitate, protest
obscure
to hide or hidden, vague, not easily understood
induce
to influence or cause
entangle
to involve in trouble
consolidate
to join together, merge
relinquish
to let go of, give up
demean
to lower in status
orate
to make a speech, esp. pompously
flourish
to make bold, sweeping gestures
illuminate
to make clear
augment
to make greater
negate
to make invalid
curtail
to make less
redouble
to make twice as great
commemorate
to mark by a ceremony
correspond
to match, to conform, to parallel
digress
to move away from
occlude
to obstruct, block up
heed
to pay attention to
defer
to postpone or to submit to another
regurgitate
to pour out or throw back
extol
to praise highly
feign
to pretend
lactate
to produce milk
affirming the consequent
x->y to y->x If it's a fish, then it lives under water. If it lives under water, then it must be a fish.
fledging
young, inexperienced
temperment
your usual mood
implausible
unbelievable
gratuitous
uncalled for, not warranted
ambivalent
uncertain, having conflicting feelings
comprehensible
understandable
intelligible
understandable, comprehensible
trivial
unimportant, insignificant
vapid
uninteresting, without liveliness
oblivious
unknowing, unheeding
altruism
unselfish behavior
naivete
unsophisticatedness, artlessness
tacit
unspoken yet understood
volatile
unstable, likely to explode or vaporize
labile
unstable, open to change
eccentric
unusual, strange
veracity
unwillingness to tell lies
instigate
urge, incite
laconic
using few words
trove
valuable collection
fluctuate
vary widely
vindictive
vengeful, spiteful
prodigy
very talented child
amble
walk leisurely
errant
wandering, traveling
equivocal
wavering, vacillating
affluent
wealthy
prosperous
wealthy, well-off
articulate
well- spoken, intelligible, speak clearly and distinctly
sybil
witch
grandiose
with an affectation of grandeur
ferrous
with iron
impunity
without fear of punishment
futile
without purpose, completely ineffective
amorphous
without shape, unclassifiable
denying the antecedent
x->y to (not y)->(not x) If it's a fish, then it lives under water. If it's not a fish, then it doesn't live under water.
iconoclast
someone who tries to destroy traditional ideas or institutions
enigma
something that baffles understanding and cannot be explained
antidote
something that relieves or counteracts
urbane
sophisticated, wordly
contrite
sorry, repentant
solace
source of consolation
jargon
specialized vocabulary
stipple
speckle or fleck esp with paint, effect of many small dots
eulogy
speech or writing in praise of a dead person
accelerate
speed up
piquant
spicy, as in hot sauce, stimulating, provocative
camaraderie
spirit of friendship
impromptu
spontaneous, spur of the moment
pervasive
spreading or spread throughout
apocryphal
spurious, not genuine
stasis
stagnation, equilibrium
stagnant
stale, foul, motionless
Which one of the following is most strongly supported by the statements above, if they are true?
Must Be True
Which one of the following logically follows from the statements above?
Must Be True
The information above provides the LEAST support for which one of the following?
Must Be True X
The principle above, if established, would justify which one of the following judgments?
Must PR
Which one of the following judgments best illustrates the principle illustrated by the argument above?
Must PR
Which one of the following judgments most closely conforms to the principle above?
Must PR
Which one of the following most accurately conforms to the principle above?
Must PR
Cannot be false - def
Must be true
Could be false - opposite
Must be true
In Formal Logic "Cannot " identifies
Mutually Exclusive
In Formal Logic "Impossible " identifies
Mutually Exclusive
In Formal Logic "Incapable " identifies
Mutually Exclusive
In Formal Logic "Neither....nor " identifies
Mutually Exclusive
In Formal Logic "Never " identifies
Mutually Exclusive
In Formal Logic "No " identifies
Mutually Exclusive
In Formal Logic "None " identifies
Mutually Exclusive
Except
Necessary
Must
Necessary
Only
Necessary
Only if
Necessary
Required
Necessary
Then
Necessary
Unless
Necessary
Until
Necessary
Without
Necessary
What key words in a Logical Reasoning QUESTION indicates that you should use the denial test
Necessary, Depends, Required
In Formal Logic "Always " identifies
Necessity
In Formal Logic "Are destined to " identifies
Necessity
In Formal Logic "Bound to lead to " identifies
Necessity
In Formal Logic "Guarantees " identifies
Necessity
In Formal Logic "Must " identifies
Necessity
In Formal Logic "Necessary " identifies
Necessity
In Formal Logic "Only (if) " identifies
Necessity
In Formal Logic "Produces " identifies
Necessity
In Formal Logic "Requires " identifies
Necessity
In Formal Logic "Results in " identifies
Necessity
In Formal Logic "Sure to " identifies
Necessity
In Formal Logic "Then " identifies
Necessity
In Formal Logic "Unless " identifies
Necessity
Must be' Negated is
Need not be
unprecedented
Never done or known before
R → B
No person who buys the red shirt does not buy the blue shirt. If someone buys the red shirt, that person buys the blue shirt. In other words, buying the blue shirt is a necessary condition for buying the red shirt. Since it is impossible to buy the red shirt without also buying the blue shirt, buying the blue shirt is a necessary condition for buying the red shirt. In other words, one can't buy the red shirt without buying the blue shirt, too.
"Could Be False"
Not Necessarily True
Opposite of "Must Be True"
Not Necessarily True
Raimundo appears in every photograh that Yakira does not appear in
Not Y--> R
All' Negated is
Not all
Ways that author supports conclusion.
Offer an alternative explanation? Eliminate possible alternative explanations? Apply a general principle to a specific case? Argue by analogy? Use an example to prove a point? Cite a relevant authority?
To help determine what an author's conclusion is, use the
One Sentence Test
No budget committee member serves on the planning committee.
P -->not B
PREMISE/CONCLUSION During last nights robbery, the thief was unable to open the safe. Thus, last nights robbery was unsuccessful despite the fact that the thief stole several documents. After all, nothing in those documents was as valuable as the money in the safe.
P1: During last nights robbery, the thief was unable to open the safe. P2: After all, nothing in those documents was as valuable as the money in the safe. CP: despite the fact that the thief stole several documents. C: Thus, last nights robbery was unsuccessful
PREMISE/CONCLUSION Every professor at Fillmore University teaches exactly one class per semester. Fillmore's Professor Jackson, therefore, is teaching exactly one class this semester. Moreover, I heard Professor Jackson say she was teaching only a single class.
P1: Every professor at Fillmore University teaches exactly one class per semester. P2: Moreover, I heard Professor Jackson say she was teaching only a single class. C: Fillmore's Professor Jackson, therefore, is teaching exactly one class this semester.
PREMISE/CONCLUSION Anne: Halley's Comet, now in a part of its orbit relatively far from the Sun, recently flared brightly enough to be seen by telescope. No comet has ever been observed to flare so far from the Sun before, so such a flare must be highly unusual. Sue: Nonsense. Usually no one bothers to try to observe comets when they are so far from the Sun. This flare was observed only because an observatory was tracking Halley's Comet very carefully.
P1: Halley's Comet, now in a part of its orbit relatively far from the Sun, recently flared brightly enough to be seen by telescope. P2: No comet has ever been observed to flare so far from the Sun before C: so such a flare must be highly unusual. P: Usually no one bothers to try to observe comets when they are so far from the Sun. C: This flare was observed only because an observatory was tracking Halley's Comet very carefully.
Which one of the following arguments is most similar in its pattern of reasoning to the argument above?
Parallel
Which one of the following exhibits a pattern of reasoning most similar to that exhibited by the argument above?
Parallel
Which one of the following is most closely parallel in its reasoning to the reasoning in the argument above?
Parallel
The flawed pattern of reasoning in the argument above is most similar to that in which one of the following?
Parallel Flaw
The flawed reasoning in which one of the following is most similar to that in the commentator's argument?
Parallel Flaw
The pattern of reasoning displayed in the argument above is most closely paralleled by that in which one of the following arguments?
Parallel Flaw
The questionable reasoning in the argument above is most closely paralleled by that in which one of the following?
Parallel Flaw
Which one fo the following arguments exhibits flawed reasoning most similar to that exhibited by the argument above?
Parallel Flaw
Which one of the following arguments has a flawed pattern of reasoning most like the flawed reasoning in the argument above?
Parallel Flaw
Which one of the following exhibits a flawed pattern of reasoning most similar to that in the argument above?
Parallel Flaw
Which one of the following exhibits both of the logical flaws exhibited by the argument above?
Parallel Flaw
Larew and Mendota disagree about whether
Point at Issue
On the basis of their sentiment, Logan and Mendez are committed to disagreeing over whether
Point at Issue
The dialogue above lends the most support to claim that Sherrie and Fran disagree with each other about which one of the following statements?
Point at Issue
The dialogue most supports the claim that Tony and Raoul disagree about whether
Point at Issue
Which one of the following most accurately expresses the point at issue between Ted and Mary?
Point at Issue
Which one of the following most accurately represents what is at issue between Jorge and Ruth?
Point at Issue
as indicated by
Premise Indicator
because
Premise Indicator
due to
Premise Indicator
for
Premise Indicator
for example
Premise Indicator
for the reason that
Premise Indicator
given that
Premise Indicator
in that
Premise Indicator
owing to
Premise Indicator
since
Premise Indicator
this can be seen from
Premise Indicator
we know this by
Premise Indicator
Prescriptive Conclusion
Prescriptive Conclusionsstate what "should" or "ought" to be the case. Prescriptive Conclusions are always some form of recommendation.
Possible Certainty
Something is likely or maybe the case. A course of action should perhaps be undertaken.
red herring
Something that draws attention away from the main issue. "The police should stop environmental demonstrators from inconveniencing the general public. We pay our taxes. '" "Surely global meltdown is infinitely worse than a little inconvenience?"
Which one of the following discoveries, if it were made, would most support the above hypothesis about South America and Africa?
Strengthen
Which one of the following, if true, does most to justify the conclusion above?
Strengthen
Which one of the following, if true, most strengthens the argument?
Strengthen
Which one of the following, if true, most strongly strengthens the argument?
Strengthen
Which one of the following, if true, most strongly supports the statement above
Strengthen
Which one of the following, if true, most strongly supports the statement above?
Strengthen
Which one of the following, if true, most supports the argument
Strengthen
Which one of the following, if true, would most strengthen the medical doctor's argument?
Strengthen
Which one of the following, if true, would provide the most support for the economists' assertion?
Strengthen
The information above most closely conforms to which one of the following principles?
Strengthen PR
The principle above conforms most to which of the following?
Strengthen PR
Which one of the following principles most helps to justify the reasoning above?
Strengthen PR
Which one of the following propositions most helps to justify the reasoning above?
Strengthen PR
Each of the following, if true, strengthens the toxicologist's argument EXCEPT
Strengthen X
Each of the following, if true, supports the claim above EXCEPT
Strengthen X
Each of the following, if true, supports the claim above EXCEPT:
Strengthen X
Each of the following, if true, would strengthen the argument EXCEPT
Strengthen X
Which one of the following, if all of them are true is LEAST helpful in establishing that the conclusion above is properly drawn?
Strengthen X
Which one of the following, if true, LEAST strengthens the argument above?
Strengthen X
SUFFICIENT/NECESSARY CONDITIONS If you get an A+, then you must have studied.
Sufficient: If you get an A + Necessary: Then you must have studied. Depicted as: A+ --> Study
In Formal Logic " Any" identifies
Suffucient Condition
In Formal Logic " If " identifies
Suffucient Condition
In Formal Logic " Incapable" identifies
Suffucient Condition
In Formal Logic "All " identifies
Suffucient Condition
In Formal Logic "Each " identifies
Suffucient Condition
In Formal Logic "Every " identifies
Suffucient Condition
In Formal Logic "The only " identifies
Suffucient Condition
In Formal Logic "Whenever " identifies
Suffucient Condition
TIP: Always identify the conclusion, if one exists.
TIP:
TIP: Always read each of the five answer choices before deciding which answer is correct. ALWAYS choose the BEST answer.
TIP: On average, you have 1 minute and 25 seconds to complete each question.
Lower case 'since' means
That the preceding clause is the conclusion
A doctor must see six patients--C, D, E, F, G, and H--one after another, not necessarily in that order. The patients must be seen according to the following conditions: E is seen exactly three patients after C. D is seen immediately before F is seen. * If G is seen third, which one of the following must be true?
The CE split-block must be placed into slots 1-4 because if it is placed in slots 2-5 there will be no room for the DF block.
Which one of the following, if true, most seriously weakens the argument?
Weaken
Which one of the following, if true, most seriously weakens the reasoning above?
Weaken
Which one of the following, if true, most undermines the researcher's argument?
Weaken
Which one of the following, if true, would most call into question the analysts' explanation of the price increase?
Weaken
All of the following weakens the politician's argument EXCEPT?
Weaken X
Each of the following, if true, weakens the argument EXCEPT
Weaken X
Abstract Rules & Considerations J and K have at least one symptom in common...Question you ask yourself?
What symptom could that be?
Reading Comprehension pay attention
What's interesting What questions would you ask yourself Any ideas that are compared or contrasted Predictions
Reading Strategically
Whatever strategy you choose, you should give the passage or pair of passages at least one careful reading before answering the questions. Try to distinguish main ideas from supporting ideas, and opinions or attitudes from factual, objective information. Note transitions from one idea to the next and identify the relationships among the different ideas or parts of a passage, or between the two passages in Comparative Reading sets. Consider how and why an author makes points and draws conclusions. Be sensitive to implications of what the passages say.
K marches exactly three groups after J.
[ J _ _ K ]
R and Q are separated by four spaces, and R is ahead of Q.
[ R _ _ _ _ Q ]
Each rock classic is immediately preceded on the CD by a new composition.
[NR] is wrong because it doesn't state that each new composition is immediately followed by a rock classic.
temper
a characteristic state of feeling
farce
a comedy characterized by broad satire
derivative
a compound obtained from another compound
resolution
a decision to do something or to behave in a certain manner
histrionics
a deliberate, exaggerated display of emotion for effect
trepidation
a feeling of alarm or dread
dirge
a funeral hymn or lament
rift
a gap or fissure
precept
a general rule of action
fallacy
a logical flaw, mistake
paradigms
a model that provides a framework for interpreting observations
precursor
a necessary predecessor
ingrate
a person who shows no gratitude
cathartic
a purging medicine
pathos
a quality that evokes sympathetic pity
caricature
a representation of a person exaggerated for comic effect
recrimination
a retaliatory accusation
acrimony
a rough and bitter manner
monolith
a single, huge structure, or a large organization acting as one force
gaffe
a socially awkward or tactless act
sustenance
a source of materials to nourish the body
rhapsody
a state of great happiness
premise
a statement that is held to be true
penchant
a strong liking
anachronism
a thing or person out of place in time
catalyst
a thing that sets another in motion or causes change
stymie
a thwarting and distressing situation
platitude
a trite saying, bromide
melee
a tumultuous fight among several people
crusade
a zealous campaign for a cause
derelict
abandoned
prescience
ability to foretell events
clairvoyance
ability to see things beyond ordinary perception
transcendental
abstract, supernatural
inveigle
acquire through sneakiness
combustion
act of burning
conform
adapt or compliant with
hydrate
add water
orthodox
adhering to a strict set of beliefs
contigeous
adjacent with, borders touching
adulation
admiration
demure
affectedly modest or shy especially in a playful or provocative way
[ A _ B ] ... B is inspected __?__ A
after / behind
exacerbate
aggravate, make worse
concur
agree
amenable
agreeable, obediant
comprehensive
all inclusive
dilettante
amateur, dabbler
dilettante
an amateur who engages in an activity without serious intentions and who pretends to have knowledge
premonition
an early warning about a future event
stratagem
an elaborate or deceitful scheme to deceive or evade
What is a sufficient condition?
an event or circumstance whose occurrence indicates that a necessary condition must also occur. If a sufficient occurrence occurs, then you automatically know that the necessary condition also occurs. If (sufficient), then (necessary)
What is a necessary condition?
an event or circumstance whose occurrence is required in order for a sufficient condition to occur. If a sufficient occurrence occurs, then you automatically know that the necessary condition also occurs. If (sufficient), then (necessary)
paragon
an ideal, perfect model
placebo
an inactive substance used in medical testing
dearth
an insufficient quantity or number
complusion
an irresistible impulse
compulsion
an irresistible impulse
petulance
an irritable, cranky feeling
phenomenon
an occurrence
renegade
an outlaw, one who is unconventional
carrion
animal remains
caustic
any chemical substance that burns or destroys living tissue
ephemeral
anything short-lived, as an insect that lives only for a day
ostensible
apparent, under pretext
ostensible
appearing as such but not necessarily so
propriety
appropriateness, social acceptability
discord
argument, strife
redolent
aromatic, having an odor
aesthetic
artistic, relating to beauty
dormant
asleep, inactive
synchronous
at the same time
fawning
attempting to win favor by flattery
effrontery
audacious (even arrogant) behavior that you have no right to
ascetic
austere, disciplined
definitive
authoritative
prattle
babble, as a child
fallow
barren, not cultivated or sown
rudimentary
basic
immediately/far
be on the look out
some/most
be on the look out
vacillate
be undecided about something
[ A _ B ] ... A in inspected __?__ B
before / ahead of
incipient
beginning, budding
demeanor
behavior towards others
hedonism
belief that pleasure is the sole aim of life
[ A _ _ _ B ] ... There are exactly three spaces __?__ A and B / A and B are __?__ three spaces.
between / separated by
immoderate
beyond usual or proper limits
corrosive
bitingly sarcastic
obstreperous
boisterously and noisily aggressive
intrepid
bold, fearless
flagrant
bold, open, apparent
effrontery
boldness
insolence
boldness or rudeness
epitaph
brief statement honoring a dead person
terse
brief; concise; to the point
Evoke
bring or recall to the conscious mind
reprehensible
bringing or deserving severe rebuke or censure
composed
calm
serenity
calmness
Must be false - def
cannot be true
Not necessarily false - opposite
cannot be true
venal
capable of being corrupted
viable
capable of living, capable of working
whimsy
caprice, a playful thing
circumspect
careful to consider potential consequences and avoid risk
because of
causal term
caused by
causal term
determined by
causal term
induced by
causal term
is an effect of
causal term
leads to
causal term
played a role in
causal term
produced by
causal term
product of
causal term
promoted by
causal term
reason for
causal term
responsible for
causal term
was a factor in
causal term
cloy
cause surfeit through excess though initially pleasing
dissipate
cause to separate and go in different directions
lurid
causing horror, shocking
noisome
causing or able to cause nausea
transpose
change from one place to mode to another
fickle
changeable, not constant
welter
chaotic mess
archaic
characteristic of an earlier time
archetypal
characteristic of the original model or perfect example
iconoclastic
characterized by attack on established beliefs
staid
characterized by dignity and propriety
decorous
characterized by propriety and dignity and good taste in manners and conduct
prate
chatter, talk meaninglessly
espouse
choose and follow a theory, idea, policy, etc.
limpid
clear, serene, transparent`
lucid
clear, understandable
trenchant
clearly or sharply defined to the mind
pertinent
clearly relevant
proximity
closeness
pigment
coloring element in paint
preceding
come before
converge
come together, merge
riveting
commanding full attention, fascinating
vernacular
common speech, ordinary language
prevalent
common, frequent
querulous
complaining, whining
consummate
complete, accomplish, perfect, to a high degree
succinct
concise, stating in few words
Thus is a key word to signal
conclusion
proscribe
condemn, forbid
affiliation
connecting, association
nexus
connection, center
vociferous
conspicuously and offensively loud
epistolary
contained or carried on in letters
fallacious
containing or based on incorrect reasoning
perpetual
continuing forever or indefinitely
belie
contradict, give false cover to
discourse
conversation, long paper or speech on a subject
commensurate
corresponding in size or degree or extent
Cannot be true - opposite
could be true
Must be false - opposite
could be true
Not necessarily false - def
could be true
deference
courteous regard for people's feelings
doctrine
creed, belief
perjury
criminal offense of making false statements under oath
artlessness
crudeness, naturalness
guile
cunning, trickery
inquisitive
curious, seeking knowledge
extant
currently existing
opaque(opacity)
dark; unclear; impossible to see through or understand
demise
death, cessation
duplicity
deceptive thought, speech, or action
tapestry
decorative wall hanging
profound
deep, thoughtful
subordinate
depending on, subservient
reprobate
depraved, condemned
culpable
deserving of blame
extirpate
destroy completely, as if down to the roots
predestine
determined ahead of time
resolute
determined, faithful
aberrant
deviating from the norm
vacuous
devoid of significance or point; foolish
voracious
devouring or craving food in great quantities
variance
difference, disagreement
arduous
difficult to accomplish
elusive
difficult to find or pin down
abstruse
difficult to understand
obtuse
difficult to understand, unable to understand, stupid
arduous
difficult, strenuous
antithesis
direct opposite
liability
disadvantage
opposition
disagreement; opinions against; people against; the other side
censure
disapprove, condemn, disapproval, condemnation
amenable
disposed or willing to comply
temperament
disposition, sensibility
discrete
distinct, separate
hallmark
distinguishing mark
disquiet
disturb or upset
multifarious
diverse, of great variety
dubious
doubtful, questionable
arid
dry
vapid
dull, lacking significance or liveliness or spirit or zest
combative
eager to fight
precedent
earlier example setting a rule
docile
easily handled or managed
petulant
easily irritated or annoyed
retroactive
effective as of a prior time
objective
empirically provable, existing independently
cryptic
encoded, secret, indecipherable
ephemeral
enduring a very short time
plaudits
enthusiastic approval
tenuous
having little substance or significance
porous
having pores, having minute holes
iridescent
having shiny rainbow colors, shimmery
specious
having the deceptive look of truth
eclectic
having varying elements
beneficial
helpful
tentative
hesitantm, uncertain
esoteric
hidden, available only to the initiate
thwart
hinder or prevent, as an effort, plan, or desire
unprepossessing
homely, plain
probity
honesty
aspiration
hope, ambition, breathing in
antagonism
hostility, enmity
meek
humble in spirit or manner
simulate
imitate, make seem real
colossal
immense, enormous
implicit
implied, tacitly understood
prominence
importance
gravity
importance, significance
essential
important, vital, absolutely necessary
incumbent
imposed as a duty
incisive
impressively direct and decisive
caprice
impulsive action, whim
indecorous
in bad taste, inappropriate
vulnerable
in danger, unprotected
decorous
in good taste, very proper
dynamic
in motion
subversive
in opposition to an established system or government
sequential
in order, arranged serially
inherent
in the essential nature of a thing
propensity
inclination
prone
inclined, or the position of lying face down
tacit
indicated by necessary connotation though not expressed directly
pulverize
smash into dust
If George does not buy A, then he buys B
~ A --> B ~ B --> A This rule says we must have A, or B, or both
Testing Strategy
• Expect questions that reward your ability to identify points of agreement and disagreement between the passages
Common Logical Reasoning & Reading Comp Wrong Answer Types
• Extreme Language • Faulty use of detail • Outside of scope • 180 • Distortion • Half Right, Half Wrong • Irrelevant Comparison
Question Types
• Global • Detail • Inference • Logic Function • Logic Reasoning
Detail Questions
• Identify the question type: "According to the author", "The passage states", "the author mentions" • Task: Research the relevant text
Global Questions
• Identify the question type: "Main idea", "Purpose", "Organization" • Task: Think big picture, Review T/S/P/MI, Consult you roadmap • You should be able to predict an answer to most Global questions • Do global questions first • Global questions are usually the first and next to last questions
The statements above, if true, most seriously undermine which one of the following assertions?
Cannot Be True
Each of the following precepts is logically consistent with the columnist's conclusion EXCEPT
Cannot PR
Each of the following principles is logically consistent with the columnist's conclusion EXCEPT
Cannot PR
Can be' Negated is
Cannot be
Could be true - opposite
Cannot be true
Reading comprehension 4 points
Cast of Characters Author's Opinion Main Idea Passage Structure
Words that reveal the author's viewpoint - Positive
Cogent Completing Promising
A and B tend to occur together, so A must cause B.
Common Causal Flaw
A is one possible cause, so A must be the only cause.
Common Causal Flaw
A occurred before B, so A must have caused B.
Common Causal Flaw
As a result' signals
Conclusion
Clearly is a key word that signals
Conclusion
Consequently is a key word to signal
Conclusion
Hence is a key word to signal
Conclusion
It follows that' signals
Conclusion
It is clear' signals
Conclusion
Obviously is a key word to signal
Conclusion
So is a key word to signal
Conclusion
Studies suggest' signals
Conclusion
That is why' signals
Conclusion
Therefore is a key word to signal
Conclusion
This proves that' signals
Conclusion
This shows' signals
Conclusion
accordingly
Conclusion Indicator
as a result
Conclusion Indicator
clearly
Conclusion Indicator
conclude that
Conclusion Indicator
consequently
Conclusion Indicator
follows that
Conclusion Indicator
for this reason
Conclusion Indicator
hence
Conclusion Indicator
must be that
Conclusion Indicator
shows that
Conclusion Indicator
so
Conclusion Indicator
therefore
Conclusion Indicator
thus
Conclusion Indicator
"Not Necessarily False"
Could Be True
Opposite of "Cannot Be True"
Could Be True
admittedly
Counter-premise Indicator
although
Counter-premise Indicator
but
Counter-premise Indicator
despite
Counter-premise Indicator
even though
Counter-premise Indicator
however
Counter-premise Indicator
in contrast
Counter-premise Indicator
in spite of
Counter-premise Indicator
on the other hand
Counter-premise Indicator
still
Counter-premise Indicator
whereas
Counter-premise Indicator
yet
Counter-premise Indicator
Because is a key word to signal
Evidence
For is a key word to signal
Evidence
From the fact that' signals
Evidence
It is clear from" signals
Evidence
Since always signals
Evidence
What is the evidence and the conclusion? It is inaccurate to say that a diet high in refined sugar cannot cause adult-onset diabetes, since a diet high in refined sugar can make a person overweight, and being overweight can predispose a person to adult-onset diabetes.
Evidence: A diet high in refined sugar can make a person overweight. Being overweight can predispose a person to adult-onset diabetes. Conclusion: It is inaccurate to say that a diet high in refined sugar cannot cause adult-onset diabetes. Method of Argument: It is inaccurate to say that A cannot cause C because A can cause B and B can cause C.
post hoc fallacy
False assumption that because one event occurred before another event, it must have caused that event. Bill purchases a new PowerMac and it works fine for months. He then buys and installs a new piece of software. The next time he starts up his Mac, it freezes. Bill concludes that the software must be the cause of the freeze. The Republicans pass a new tax reform law that benefits wealthly Americans. Shortly thereafter the economy takes a nose dive. The Democrats claim that the the tax reform caused the economic woes and they push to get rid of it.
A questionable aspect of the reasoning above is that it
Flaw
The argument is flawed because it
Flaw
The reasoning above is flawed because it fails to recognize that
Flaw
The reasoning in the argument is fallacious because the argument
Flaw
The reasoning in the argument is most vulnerable to criticism on the ground that the argument
Flaw
The reasoning in the argument is most vulnerable to criticism on the grounds that the argument
Flaw
The reasoning in the astronomer's argument is flawed because this argument
Flaw
Which one of the following most accurately describes a flaw in the argument's reasoning?
Flaw
Each of the following describes a flaw in the psychologist's reasoning EXCEPT
Flaw X
If she selects G, she can select neither H nor Y...scribe as...
G---> ~H and ~Y H or Y --> ~G
Cannot/Unless
Get rid of the cannot - arrow through the unless
If harriers are in the forest, then grosbeaks are not.
H --> no G or G --> no H (not both)
Q is inspected before R is inspected but after H is inspected.
H > Q > R
If all of the statements above are true, which one of the following must be true?
Must Be True
If the information above is correct, which one of the following conclusions can be properly drawn on the basis of it?
Must Be True
If the information above is correct, which one of the following conclusions can be properly drawn?
Must Be True
If the statements above are true, which one of the following must also be true?
Must Be True
Opposite of "Not Necessarily True"
Must Be True
The educators' reasoning provides grounds for accepting which of the following statements?
Must Be True
The statements above, if true, most strongly support which of the following?
Must Be True
bandwagon
"Everyone is doing it so you should too." You appealed to popularity or the fact that many people do something as an attempted form of validation. The flaw in this argument is that the popularity of an idea has absolutely no bearing on its validity. If it did, then the Earth would have made itself flat for most of history to accommodate this popular belief. e.g. Shamus pointed a drunken finger at Sean and asked him to explain how so many people could believe in leprechauns if they're only a silly old superstition. Sean, however, had had a few too many Guinness himself and fell off his chair.
TIP- The same type of wrong answer will show up REPEATEDLY throughout the Logical Reasoning section the following are examples
(A) Most art is shocking ( C ) Art used to be more shocking than it currently is ( E ) Anything that shocks is art
slippery slope fallacy
*not all slippery slope arguments are fallacious.* *if A happens, and then Z happens later, it doesn't necessarily mean that A caused Z to happen. This is a post hoc fallacy.* You said that if we allow A to happen, then Z will eventually happen too, therefore A should not happen. The problem with this reasoning is that it avoids engaging with the issue at hand, and instead shifts attention to extreme hypotheticals. Because no proof is presented to show that such extreme hypotheticals will in fact occur, this fallacy has the form of an appeal to emotion fallacy by leveraging fear. In effect the argument at hand is unfairly tainted by unsubstantiated conjecture. e.g. Colin Closet asserts that if we allow same-sex couples to marry, then the next thing we know we'll be allowing people to marry their parents, their cars and even monkeys.
[Logical Opposition] Which one of the following cannot be true?
1 = Cannot Be True 4 = Could Be True
[Logical Opposition] If G is seated second, which one of the following could be true?
1 = Could Be True 4 = Cannot Be True
[Logical Opposition] If R is selected fifth, which one of the following must be true?
1 = Must Be True 4 = Not Necessarily True
[Logical Opposition] Which one of the following must be true?
1 = Must Be True 4 = Not Necessarily True
[Logical Opposition] Each of the following must be true except:
1 = Not Necessarily True 4 = Must Be True
Some
1 to everyone
Types of Descriptive Conclusion
1. Assertions of Truth 2. Comparisons 3.Predictions 4.Conditionals
The "unless" rule
1. Changes the other part into the opposite. 2. The part with the unless goes last.
How should you attack a Method of Argument question?
1. Identify what the question is asking you to do. What is your job? 2. Engage the stimulus as directed by the question. How do you do your job? 3. Consider the requirements of the correct answer. What should the correct answer look like? 4. Evaluate the choices looking for the correct answer. Which answer looks like your prediction? Eliminate answer choices that do not accurately describe the author's method of reasoning.
The statements above, if true, most strongly support which one of the following?
Must Be True
A is in a group with exactly two members ....scribe as...
A _ _ (Boxed in)
Which one of the following can be inferred from the statement above?
Must Be True
Which one of the following can be logically inferred from the passage?
Must Be True
What is a premise?
A fact, proposition, or statement from which a conclusion is made. A premise gives a reason why something should be believed. "What reasons has the author used to persuade me? Why should I believe this argument? What evidence exists?"
On the day after the day
2 days next to each other
consistent
2 things that CAN be true
inconsistent
2 things that cannot be true
Most
51% or more
Illustration Keywords
: In contrast to For example
Contrast Keywords
; In addition Also As well Similarly Likewise
A is not selected unless B is selected....scribe as...
A ---> B ~ B ---> ~ A
If George buys A, then he does not buy B....Scribe as....
A ---> ~ B B ---> ~ A
What is a conclusion?
A statement or judgement that follows from one or more reasons. A conclusion is the point the author tries to prove by using another statement. "What is the author driving at? What does the author want me to believe? What point follows from the others?"
transgression
A violation of a law, command, or duty
If A is not seventh, he is fith
A ̰₇ --> A ₅ A ̰₅ -->A ₇
Which one of the following can be properly inferred from Rosen's statement?
Must Be True
Which one of the following can be properly inferred from the passage?
Must Be True
A gets out some time before B....Scribe as...
A...B
A is a lower numbered position than B....Scribe as...
A...B
Either A or B must be selected, but A and B cannot both be selected....scribe as...
A//B
Exactely one person gets out b/w A and B ....Scribe as...
A/B_B/A
C: X-->Z E: Y--> Z A: ?
A: A-->Y
Common Argument Structure C: We Should/Should not... E: One reason "X" is good/bad A: S: W:
A: There are no other considerations to take into account S: This reason is particularly IMPORTANT/ Eliminating another possible factor W:There is another factor that is relevant
Common Argument Structure C: The First thing did Cause the Second E: One thing can cause another A: S: W:
A: There is no other possible explanation for the 2nd event to occur S:Eliminate other possible explanations W: Suggest an alternative explanation
C: X-->Z E: X--> Y A: ?
A: Y --> Z
C: X-->W E: X--> Y E: Z --> W A: ?
A: Y--> Z
Common Argument Structure C: One caused the other E: Two things are correlated (Occur Together) A: S: W:
A:Correlation wasn't a coincidence, due to third factor, or due to reversed causation S:Eliminating the possibility of coincidence, third factor, or reversal; or stregthening the liklihood that the first really causes the 2nd W: Evidence that the correlation may really be just a coincidence, due to a third factor or reversed
Common Argument Structure C: The event did not occur at all E: Something did no occur in a particular way A: S: W:
A:The event could not have happened for any other reason S:Eliminate other possible reasons the event could have occured W:Give another possible way for the event to have occured
Common Argument Structure C: The Event WILL occur E: Reason an event is likely to occur A: S: W:
A:The evidence is relevant to the prediction; there isn't some other factor that's not being taken into account S: The basis for the prediction is more relevant W: Some other factor that makes the given basis for the prediction less important/less relevant
A gets out immediately before B....Scribe as...
AB
A can come neither immediately before nor immediately after B....Scribe as...
AB BA (With line through them)
A is imediately next to B....Scribe as...
AB or BA
tu quoque (too-KWO-kwee)
AKA the appeal to hypocrisy. The "you too" argument. "How can you tell me not to join the military? You did when you were young." "Why should we listen to Brown's support for the new carpark when only last year he opposed the whole idea?" "Nicole identified that Hannah had committed a logical fallacy, but instead of addressing the substance of her claim, Hannah accused Nicole of committing a fallacy earlier on in the conversation."
A and B are always in the same group....scribe as...
ALWAYS AB
At least one person gets out after A but before B ....Scribe as...
A_...B
A is exactly two positions before B....Scribe as...
A_B
Exactly one person gets out after A but before B....Scribe as...
A_B
Absolute Certainty
Absolute Something definitely is or is not the case. A course of action should definitely be undertaken.
after all
Additional Premise Indicator
besides
Additional Premise Indicator
furthermore
Additional Premise Indicator
in addition
Additional Premise Indicator
moreover
Additional Premise Indicator
what's more
Additional Premise Indicator
an argument vs. a set of facts
An argument: " All professors are ethical (premise). Mason is a professor (premise). So Mason is ethical (conclusion). " A set of facts: " The Jacksonville area has just over one million residents. The Cincinnati area has almost two million residents. The New York area has almost twenty million residents. " (a set of facts does not include a conclusion)
What is an assumption?
An assumption is an unstated premise. It is what must be true in order for the argument to be true.
ad hominem
An attack on the person rather than on the opponent's ideas. "You shouldn't listen to him. He is an uneducated alcoholic."
A dance academy instructor must schedule eight dance classes--a charleston class, a foxtrot class, a jitterbug class, a limbo class, a polka class, a rumba class, a tango class, and a waltz class--for a single day. Exactly two classes will be scheduled at a time, and the scheduling must be made according to the following conditions: The limbo class and the rumba class are not scheduled for the same time. The charleston class and the polka class must be scheduled for the same time. The limbo class is scheduled at some time after the polka class. The rumba class and the waltz class are not scheduled for the same time. If the tango class is scheduled for the same time as the foxtrot class, which one of the following must be true? (A) The jitterbug class and the limbo class must be scheduled for the same time. (B) The jitterbug class and the rumba class must be scheduled for the same time. (C) The jitterbug class and the waltz class must be scheduled for the same time. (D) The limbo class and the rumba class must be scheduled for the same time. (E) The rumba class and the waltz class must be scheduled for the same time.
Answer choice (B) is correct. If F is scheduled with T, then only J remains to be paired with R.
A driver must pick up exactly eight passengers—P, R, S, T, V, X, Y, and Z—one at a time, not necessarily in that order. The pickups must be made in accordance with the following conditions: Either T or V must be picked up fifth. Either Y or Z must be picked up third. The driver picks up exactly one passenger between picking up T and picking up Z. S is picked up eighth when Y is picked up third. Z must be picked up ahead of T. If V is picked up fifth, which one of the following must be true? (A) P is picked up first. (B) R is picked up sixth. (C) S is picked up eighth. (D) X is picked up seventh. (E) Z is picked up sixth.
Answer choice (C) is correct. If V is picked up fifth, Y must be picked up third, and when Y is picked up third then S must be picked up eighth.
A doctor must schedule nine patients—L, M, O, P, R, S, T, V, and X—during a given week, Monday through Sunday. At least one patient must be scheduled for each day, and the schedule must observe the following constraints: M and S must be scheduled for the same day. On the day P is scheduled, P must be the only patient scheduled to see the doctor. Exactly one patient is scheduled for Wednesday. T cannot be scheduled for Thursday. If P is scheduled for Monday, then V and X must be scheduled for Saturday. R is not scheduled for Thursday unless L is scheduled for Monday. If L is scheduled for Monday, which one of the following must be true? (A) R is scheduled for Thursday. (B) V is scheduled for Saturday. (C) S is scheduled for Saturday. (D) P is not scheduled for Monday. (E) V is not scheduled for Monday. Which one of the following statements about the doctor's schedule must be true? (A) The maximum number of patients scheduled for Monday is one. (B) The maximum number of patients scheduled for Tuesday is two. (C) The maximum number of patients scheduled for Friday is three. (D) The minimum number of patients scheduled for Saturday is two. (E) The minimum number of patients scheduled for Sunday is two.
Answer choice (D) is the correct answer. If L is scheduled for Monday, then according to the second rule P cannot be scheduled for Monday. Answer choice (C) is correct since the maximum number of patients that can ever be scheduled for a single day is three (3-1-1-1-1-1-1).
On which one of the following assumptions does the argument rely?
Assumption
The argument assumes which one of the following?
Assumption
The conclusion cited does not follow unless
Assumption
The conclusion in the passage above relies on which of the following assumptions?
Assumption
The conclusion in the passage above relies on which one of the following assumptions?
Assumption
The position taken above presupposes which one of the following?
Assumption
Which one of the following is an assumption on which Barnes's argument depends?
Assumption
Which one of the following is an assumption on which the columnist's argument depends?
Assumption
Which one of the following is an assumption required by the argument above?
Assumption
Which one of the following is an assumption that the art historian's argument requires in order for its conclusion to be properly drawn?
Assumption
Which one of the following is an assumption upon which the argument depends?
Assumption
A is forth, B is seventh....Scribe as...
A₄ --> B₇ B ̰₇ --> A ̰₄
Which one of the following conclusions is most strongly supported by the information above?
Must Be True
Which one of the following inferences is most strongly supported by the information above?
Must Be True
A gets out at some time after B....Scribe as...
B...A
A gets out immediately after B....Scribe as...
BA
Evidence Keywords
Because Since This is clear from
Conclusion Identification Method
Because... We can conclude that...
Opinion Keywords
Believed by Thought to be Asserts Some maintain Argues that According to As X sees it The astronomers assumed
Sierra goes for a walk if and only if Columbine goes for a walk.
Both or us go or neither of us go
Contrast Keywords
But Despite Yet Although However Even So Nevertheless Whereas On the other hand Conversely Instead
A gets out at some time before B but after C....Scribe as...
C...A...B
"Must Be False"
Cannot Be True
If all of the claims made above are true, then each of the following could be true EXCEPT:
Cannot Be True
If the statements above are true, each of the following could be true EXCEPT
Cannot Be True
If the statements above are true, then which one of the following must be false?
Cannot Be True
If the statements above are true, which one of the following CANNOT be true?
Cannot Be True
If the statements above are true, which one of the following must be false?
Cannot Be True
Opposite of "Could Be True"
Cannot Be True
The argument can most reasonably be interpreted as an objection to which one of the following claims?
Cannot Be True
The statements above, if accurate, can best be used as evidence against which one of the following hypotheses?
Cannot Be True
Which one of the following inferences is most supported by the information above?
Must Be True
How does the Denial Test work
Deny the answer choice & see if it makes the conclusion fall apart
Two types of Conclusions
Descriptive or Prescriptive which are either absolute or possible.
impugn
Dispute the truth
Words that reveal the author's viewpoint - Negative
Doubtful Unconvincing Unlikely Danger Harmful
Clarification of which one of the following issues would be most important to an evaluation of the skeptics' position?
Evaluate
The answer to which one of the following questions would contribute most to an evaluation of the argument?
Evaluate
The answer to which one of the following questions would most help in evaluating the columnist's argument?
Evaluate
Which one of the following would be most important to know in evaluating the hypothesis in the passage?
Evaluate
Which one of the following would it be most helpful to know in order to judge whether what the scientist subsequently learned calls into question the hypothesis?
Evaluate
Which one of the following would it be most relevant to investigate in evaluating the conclusion of George's argument?
Evaluate
"After all' Signals
Evidence
Abstract Rules & Considerations L has greater number of symptoms than K... Question you ask yourself?
How many could L have how many could K have?
Abstract Rules & Considerations Exactly twice as many people are in group 1 as in group 2. ...Question you ask yourself?
How many people can be in group one?
Terms that introduce the sufficient condition
If When
First part (*X* --> Y)
If / When
It cannot snow unless it is cold.
If S happens then C happens
It is snowing only if it is cold.
If S happens then C happens
We know it is cold if it is snowing.
If S happens then C happens
If it is snowing, then it must be cold.
If S happens then C happens.
Sara cannot be second unless Trang is first.
If S is second then T is first. Or if T is not first then S is not second. (Get rid of the cannot - arrow through the unless)
Z is needed for Y translats to
If Y ---> Z
Y needs z translats to
If Y --->Z
Y depends on Z translats to
If Y -->Z
Without Z, Y translats to
If ~Y --->Z If ~Z ---> ~Y
All except Z are Y translats to
If ~Y --> Z
Either Y or Z translats to
If ~Y -->Z
Comparison
In a Comparison, the author makes a claim about one thing in relation to another thing. "This advantage makes B.t. toxins preferable tochemical insecticides for use as components of insect pest management programs." "On the basis of these results the official concluded that the new pesticide was more effective thanthe old pesticide, at least in the short term, in limiting the loss of certain fruit to insects."
Conditional
In a Conditional, the author states the conclusion in terms of, "if...then..." "Clearly, ifyou buy a Sturdimade, you can rely on being able to drive it for a very long distance." "So ifthey were not so brittle, one could reliably determine a rattlesnake's age simply from the number of sections in its rattle."
Prediction
In a Prediction, the author states what will happen or what is likely to happen in the future. "So once humans begin to tap into this tremendous source of creativity and innovation, many problems that today seem insurmountable will be within our ability to solve."
Recommendation Conclusion
In a Recommendation, the author proposes a course of action. "Additional restrictions should be placed on driver's licenses of teenagers." "So individuals who want to reduce their risk of cancer should reduce their fat intake."
Define Assertion of Truth
In an Assertion of Truth, the author states that something is or is not the case. "So, there are always situations in which it is healthy to try to express one's anger." "Clearly, then, our patrons prefer not to eat potatoes."
inculcate
Instill by persistent instruction
What is, "to identify an inference"?
It means, to identify something that must be true.
Jameson does not attend the concert unless Steve does.
J --> S
If jays, martins, or both are in the forest, then so are harriers.
J or M --> H or no H --> no J and no M
The conclusion above follows logically if which one of the following is assumed?
Justify
The conclusion above is properly drawn if which one of the following is assumed?
Justify
The environmentalist's conclusion would be properly drawn if it were true that the
Justify
Which one of the following is an assumption that would serve to justify the conclusion above?
Justify
Which one of the following, if assumed, allows the conclusion above to be properly drawn?
Justify
Which one of the following, if assumed, enables the argument's conclusion to be properly inferred?
Justify
Which one of the following, if assumed, would allow the conclusion to be properly drawn?
Justify
Which one of the following, if true, enables the conclusion to be properly drawn?
Justify
Which one of the following most accurately expresses the principle underlying the argumentation above?
Justify PR
If she selects K, she nust select M ...Scribe as ...
K --> M ~M ---> ~K
More' Negated is
Less-than or Equal
When the conclusion introduces a term NOT mentioned in the evidence, the assumption will provide a..
Logical basis for the term
Which one of the following is most strongly supported by the information above?
Must Be True
When M is shown first, then O is shown sixth.
M1 --> O6
Of the following, which one most accurately expresses the main point of the argument?
Main Point
The main point of the argument is that
Main Point
Which one of the following most accurately expresses the conclusion of the argument?
Main Point
Which one of the following most accurately expresses the conclusion of the journalist's argument?
Main Point
Which one of the following most accurately expresses the main conclusion of the argument?
Main Point
Which one of the following most accurately restates the main point of the passage?
Main Point
Which one of the following most logically completes the argument?
Main Point
Which one of the following most logically completes the passage
Main Point (fill in the blank)
Aiesha responds to Adam's argument by
Method
Ruth responds to Jorge's criticism by
Method
Sue challenges Anne's reasoning by
Method
The advertisement proceeds by
Method
The argument derives its conclusion by
Method
The argument employs which one of the following reasoning techniques?
Method
The argument proceeds by
Method
The claim that humans are still biologically adapted to a diet of wild foods plays which one of the following roles in the nutritionist's argument?
Method
The claim that people have positive or negative responses to many nonsense words plays which one of the following roles in the argument?
Method
The method of the argument is to
Method
The phrase, "certain traits like herding ability risk being lost among pedigreed dogs" serves which one of the following functions in the argument?
Method
Which one of the following describes the technique of reasoning used above?
Method
Which one of the following is an argumentative strategy employed in the argument?
Method
Which one of the following most accurately describes the relationship between Jane's argument and Mark's argument?
Method
Which one of the following most accurately describes the role played in the argument by the statement that zooplankton feed upon phytoplankton?
Method
Which one of the following most accurately describes the role played in the psychologist's argument by the claim that the obligation to express gratitude cannot be fulfilled anonymously?
Method
Fewer' Negated is
More than or Equal
If A sits next to B, then B does not sit next to C.
Most people diagram this as AB --> -B-C-. This is incorrect!
"Cannot Be False"
Must Be True
PREMISE/CONCLUSION Phenylketonurics are people who cannot metabolize the amino acid phenylalanine. There are dangers associated with phenylketonuria, and products containing phenylalanine must carry a warning label that states, "Phenylketonurics: contains phenylalanine." In addition, all children in developed societies receive a phenylketonuria test at birth. Hence, at the moment, we are doing as much as possible to protect against this condition.
P1: Phenylketonurics are people who cannot metabolize the amino acid phenylalanine. P2: There are dangers associated with phenylketonuria, and products containing phenylalanine must carry a warning label that states, "Phenylketonurics: contains phenylalanine." P3: In addition, all children in developed societies receive a phenylketonuria test at birth. C: Hence, at the moment, we are doing as much as possible to protect against this condition.
PREMISE/CONCLUSION The rapid diminishment of the ecosystem of the Amazon threatens the entire planet. Consequently, we must take immediate steps to convince the Brazilian government that planned development projects need to be curtailed for the simple reason that these development projects will greatly accelerate the loss of currently protected land.
P1: The rapid diminishment of the ecosystem of the Amazon threatens the entire planet. P2: for the simple reason that these development projects will greatly accelerate the loss of currently protected land. C: Consequently, we must take immediate steps to convince the Brazilian government that planned development projects need to be curtailed
PREMISE/CONCLUSION Television has a harmful effect on society. This can be seen from the poor school performance of children who watch significant amounts of television and from the fact that children who watch more than six hours of television a day tend to read less than non-television watching children.
P1: This can be seen from the poor school performance of children who watch significant amounts of television P2: from the fact that children who watch more than six hours of television a day tend to read less than non-television watching children. C: Television has a harmful effect on society.
PREMISE/CONCLUSION Wine is made by crushing grapes and eventually separating the juice from the grape skins. However, the separated juice contains impurities and many wineries do not filter the juice. These wineries claim the unfiltered juice ultimately produces a more flavorful and intense wine. Since these winemakers are experts, we should trust their judgement and not shy away from unfiltered wine.
P1: Wine is made by crushing grapes and eventually separating the juice from the grape skins. P2: These wineries claim the unfiltered juice ultimately produces a more flavorful and intense wine. P3: Since these winemakers are experts CP: However, the separated juice contains impurities and many wineries do not filter the juice. C: we should trust their judgement and not shy away from unfiltered wine.
PREMISE/CONCLUSION Fraud has cost the insurance industry millions of dollars in lost revenue. Thus, congress will pass a stricter fraud control bill since the insurance industry has one of the most powerful lobbies.
P1: fraud has cost the insurance industry millions of dollars in lost revenue. P2: since the insurance industry has one of the most powerful lobbies. C: thus, congress will pass a stricter fraud control bill.
PREMISE/CONCLUSION Because the Vikings have the best quarterback in football, they therefore have the best offense in football. Because they have the best offense in football, they will win the Super Bowl next year.
P: Because the Vikings have the best quarterback in football Sub-C: they therefore have the best offense in football C: They will win the Super Bowl next year.
PREMISE/CONCLUSION The economy is in tatters. Therefore, we must end this war.
P: The economy is in tatters. C: Therefore, we must end this war.
PREMISE/CONCLUSION The best way of eliminating traffic congestion will not be easily found. There are so many competing possibilities that it will take millions of dollars to study every option, and implementation of most options carries an exorbitant price tag.
P: There are so many competing possibilities that it will take millions of dollars to study every option, and implementation of most options carries an exorbitant price tag. C: The best way of eliminating traffic congestion will not be easily found.
PREMISE/CONCLUSION So, as indicated by the newly released data, we should push forward with our efforts to recolonize the forest with snowy tree crickets.
P: as indicated by the newly released data. C: so we should push forward with our efforts to recolonize the forest with snowy tree crickets.
PREMISE/CONCLUSION Humans cannot live on Venus because the surface temperature is too high.
P: because the surface temperature is too high. C: Humans cannot live on Venus.
PREMISE/CONCLUSION We must reduce our budget due to the significant cost overruns we experienced during production.
P: due to the significant cost overruns we experienced during production. C: we must reduce our budget.
PREMISE/CONCLUSION Given that the price of steel is rising, we will no longer be able to offer discounts on our car parts.
P: given that the price of steel is rising C: we will no longer be able to offer discounts on our car parts
PREMISE/CONCLUSION The political situation in Somalia is unstable owing to the ability of individual warlords to maintain powerful armed forces.
P: owing to the ability of individual warlords to maintain powerful armed forces. C: the political situation in Somalia is unstable.
PREMISE/CONCLUSION The data show that people who eat chocolate are generally happy people. As a result, more and more people are buying chocolates.
P: people who eat chocolate are generally happy people. C: more and more people are buying chocolates.
PREMISE/CONCLUSION Therefore, since higher debt has forced consumers to lower their savings, they now have less money to loan.
P: since higher debt has forced consumers to lower their savings C: therefore, banks now have less money to loan.
PREMISE/CONCLUSION Since we need to have many different interests to sustain us, the scientists' belief must be incorrect.
P: since we need to have many different interests to sustain us. C: the scientists' belief must be incorrect.
The structure of the reasoning in the argument above is most parallel to that in which one of the following?
Parallel
Which one of the following arguments is most similar in its logical features to the argument above?
Parallel
Which one of the following, if true, most helps to explain the behavior of the vervet monkeys described above?
Resolve
Which one of the following, if true, most helps to explain the finding of the nicotine study?
Resolve
Which one of the following, if true, most helps to explain the puzzling fact cited above?
Resolve
Which one of the following, if true, most helps to explain the viewpoint of the historians described above?
Resolve
Which one of the following, if true, most helps to explain why raisins contain more iron per calorie than do grapes?
Resolve
Which one of the following, if true, most helps to reconcile the discrepancy indicated above?
Resolve
Which one of the following, if true, most helps to reconcile the safety experts' belief with the apparently contrary evidence described above?
Resolve
Which one of the following, if true, most helps to resolve the apparent conflict described above?
Resolve
Which one of the following, if true, most helps to resolve the apparent discrepancy in the passage above?
Resolve
Which one of the following, if true, would most effectively resolve the apparent paradox above?
Resolve
Which one of the following, if true, does NOT help to resolve the apparent discrepancy between the safety report and the city's public safety record?
Resolve X
Wendy appears in every photograph that Selma appears in.
S -> W
Words that reveal the author's viewpoint - Uncertainty / Qualification
Seems Appears Mysterious
Temporal Keywords
Since Until recently Recent developments In the past Historically Traditionally
Socrates is a man All men are mortal
Socrates is mortal
Most + Most
Some
None' Negated is
Some
amphiboly
The fallacy of ambiguous construction. It occurs whenever the whole meaning of a statement can be taken in more than one way, and is usually the fault of careless grammar. I met the ambassador riding his horse. He was snorting and steaming, so I gave him a lump of sugar.
If presented w/ an answer choice that is difficult to comprehend then...?
The more confussing it is , the more likely the answer choice is a distracter
Section Strategy
The most effective and efficient order approach the section: choose your passage # of questions and degree of difficulty Read the passage strategically Identify the Question Type Research the Relevant Text Make a Prediction Evaluate the Answer Choices
What is, the scope of an argument?
The scope of an argument is the range to which the premises and conclusion encompass certain ideas. For example, consider an argument discussing a new surgical technique. The ideas of surgery and medicine are within the scope of the argument. The idea of federal monetary policy, on the other hand, would not be within the scope of the argument.
Terms that introduce the necessary condition
Then Only Only if Unless
Second part (X --> *Y*)
Then / Only / Only if / Unless
Seven passengers--G, H, L, M, O, P, and S are assigned to nine seats.
This is a 1-1-1-1-1-1-1-1-1 relationship (underfunded). The deficit of variables can be countered by creating two "E" placeholder variables to represent the two empty seats.
Dr. Saitawa schedules six patients--G, H, L, M, O, and P--for surgery during a single week on Monday through Friday. Dr. Saitawa will operate on exactly one patient each day, except for one of the days when Dr. Saitawa will operate on two patients in separate, non-simultaneous sessions.
This is a 2-1-1-1-1 relationship (overloaded). One a patient has been assigned a day, it is still possible that another patient could be assigned to that day and thus the day is not "closed off" from further consideration.
Some professors at the school teach Spanish. Some Spanish teachers have been to Spain.
This tells you nothing because you don't know that the Spanish teachers are from the school.
Numerical Keywords
Three possible explanations There are two reasons for this Abrams describes a fourfold structure
Conclusion Keywords
Thus Clearly as a result And so
An Assumption is an..
Unstated gap b/w the evidence and conclusion
M got out after either V or G but not both....Scribe as...
V...M...G AND G...M...V or V//G...M...G/V
If wrens are in the forest, then so are grosbeaks.
W--> G or no G --> no W
Which one of the following statements, if true, most weakens the speaker's argument?
Weaken
Which one of the following, if shown to be a realistic possibility, would undermine the argument?
Weaken
Which one of the following, if true, casts the most doubt on the conclusion above?
Weaken
Which one of the following, if true, could be used by Cora to counter Bernard's rejection of her explanation?
Weaken
Which one of the following, if true, is the strongest logical counter parent P can make to parent Q's objection?
Weaken
Which one of the following, if true, most calls into question the claim above?
Weaken
the fallacy of accident
When a general rule is applied to a situation in which it was not intended to apply. General rule: Birds normally can fly. Fact: Penguins are birds. Therefore, penguins can fly. General rule: 55 mph speed limit on the road Fact: It's raining, there's heavy fog, and it's dark out Should we continue to go 55 mph? NO!
runaway train
When an argument used to support a course of action would also support more of it. The state should subsidize opera because it would be too expensive to mount productions without the extra support from public funds. (And as the train heads off into the distance, wait for the stations marked son et lumière concerts, civil war re-enactments, and gladiatorial displays. If opera is different, we need to know why.)
Abstract Rules & Considerations Exactly one entity is in every group. ...Question you ask yourself?
Which entity could that be? Must it be? Could it be not?
callow
Without experience; immature, not fully developed; lacking sophistication and poise; without feathers
loaded words
Words which are slanted for or against the subject. Scotland stole a goal in the first half, but England's efforts were well rewarded in the second half when... Can you guess which side the reporter comes from?
X if, but only if Y translats to
X ---> Y AND Y---->X
loaded question
You asked a question that had a presumption built into it so that it couldn't be answered without appearing guilty. Loaded question fallacies are particularly effective at derailing rational debates because of their inflammatory nature - the recipient of the loaded question is compelled to defend themselves and may appear flustered or on the back foot. e.g. Grace and Helen were both romantically interested in Brad. One day, with Brad sitting within earshot, Grace asked in an inquisitive tone whether Helen was having any problems with a drug habit.
Roadmap the Text
You may find it helpful to mark key parts of passages. For example, you might underline main ideas or important arguments, and you might circle transitional words—"although," "nevertheless," "correspondingly," and the like—that will help you map the structure of a passage. Also, you might note descriptive words that will help you identify an author's attitude toward a particular idea or person. • Always circle colon • Always circle a question mark
strawman
You misrepresented someone's argument to make it easier to attack. By exaggerating, misrepresenting, or just completely fabricating someone's argument, it's much easier to present your own position as being reasonable, but this kind of dishonesty serves to undermine honest rational debate. e.g. After Will said that we should put more money into health and education, Warren responded by saying that he was surprised that Will hates our country so much that he wants to leave it defenceless by cutting military spending.
begging the question
You presented a circular argument in which the conclusion was included in the premise. This logically incoherent argument often arises in situations where people have an assumption that is very ingrained, and therefore taken in their minds as a given. Circular reasoning is bad mostly because it's not very good. e.g. The word of Zorbo the Great is flawless and perfect. We know this because it says so in The Great and Infallible Book of Zorbo's Best and Most Truest Things that are Definitely True and Should Not Ever Be Questioned.
appeal to authority
You said that because an authority thinks something, it must therefore be true. It's important to note that this fallacy should not be used to dismiss the claims of experts, or scientific consensus. Appeals to authority are not valid arguments, but nor is it reasonable to disregard the claims of experts who have a demonstrated depth of knowledge unless one has a similar level of understanding and/or access to empirical evidence. However it is, entirely possible that the opinion of a person or institution of authority is wrong; therefore the authority that such a person or institution holds does not have any intrinsic bearing upon whether their claims are true or not. e.g. Not able to defend his position that evolution 'isn't true' Bob says that he knows a scientist who also questions evolution (and presumably isn't a primate).
D is inspected exactly two days before E is inspected.
[ D _ E ]
F marches exactly three groups behind G.
[ G _ _ F ]
H is inspected exactly two days ahead of when L is inspected.
[ H _ L ]
There are four spaces between D and H, and D is behind H.
[ H _ _ _ _ D ]
mundane
everything, pedestrain
ubiquitous
everywhere, in all places
malevolent
evil, having evil intent
concise
exact
transcendent
exceeding or surpassing usual limits
superfluity
excess
superfluous
excess, extra
hyperbole
excessive exaggeration
circumlocution
excessive speaking, wordiness
verbiage
excessive wordiness
lugubrious
excessively mournful
egress
exit
disparage
express a negative opinion of
profligate
extravagent, prodigal
turmoil
extreme confusion, agitation
chauvinist
extreme patriot, one who believes one group is superior to another
meticulous
extremely careful regarding details
meticulous
extremely careful, fastidious
ingenious
extremely clever, original
penurious
extremely stingy
garrulous
extremely talkative
loquacioius
extremely talkative and articulate
countenance
face, expression or allow to happen
equitable
fair and equal
facade
false front
pretense
false intention or purpose
facade
false or superficial appearance
spurious
false, fradulent
zeal
fanatical enthusiasm
authoritarian
favoring absolute obedience to authority
servile
fearfully submissive
disdain
feeling of contempt
euphoria
feeling of great happiness
reverent
feeling or showing profound respect or veneration
repentant
feeling regret
parry
fend off, dodge
truculent
ferocious, extremely harsh
laconic
few words, reticent
contend
fight with, oppose
dogma
firmly held disbelief
seine
fishnet
ephemeral
fleeting, or short life or duration
supple
flexible
chicanery
flim-flam, trickery
florid
flowery or reddish
eloquent
fluent, expressive
voluble
fluent, talkative
buffoonery
foolish behavior
fatuous
foolish, silly
prodigal
foolishly generous, not thrifty
indictment
formal charge against a person
mandate
formal order
redoubtable
formidable, illustrious
What is the difference between an inference and an assumption?
inference (something that must be true) is what follows from an argument (in other words, a conclusion). P: People who read a lot of books are smart. P: David reads a lot of books. C: David is smart <-- This is an inference. An assumption (unstated premise) is what is taken for granted while making an argument. P: People who read a lot of books are smart. P: David goes to the library every day. C: David is smart. Assumption: David reads books whenever he goes to the library.
castigate
inflict severe punishment on
shard
fragment esp glass or pottery
affable
friendly, pleasant
sonorous
full and loud and deep
garrulous
full of trivial conversation
loquacious
full of trivial conversation
coalesce
fuse or cause to come together
Any language learned by the geologist is learned by the the historian.
g --> h
gist
general meeting, essence
stereotype
generalized judgment of a group
magnanimous
generous and understanding and tolerant
authentic
genuine, trustworthy
colossus
giant statue, very large thing
gargantuan
gigantic
capitulate
give in, surrender
secrete
give off or to hide
gluttonous
given to excess in consumption of especially food or drink
fastidious
giving and careful attention to detail
somber
gloomy; serious
presumptuous
going beyond what is appropriate, permitted, or courteous
absolve
grant remission of a sin to
avarice
greed
troupe
group of performers
burgeon
grow and flourish
taciturn
habitually reserved and uncommunicative
felicity
happiness, pleasantness
halcyon
happy, prosperous, peaceful
elusive
hard to grasp
adamant
hard, unyielding, very hard stone
detrimental
harmful, working against
vitriolic
harsh or corrosive in tone
perfunctory
hasty and without attention to detail
scruple
have moral qualms about, moral principle
iridescent
having a lustrous or attractive quality
viscous
having a thick consistency, gelatinous
commodious
having ample space
scintillating
having brief brilliant points or flashes of light
intricate
having complex and interrelated parts
discreet
having good judgment, prudent
grandiloquent
having high sounding speech
negligible
insignificant, not to be considered
appalling
inspiring dismay or disgust
turbulance
instability in the atmosphere
didactic
instructive, especially excessively
coherent
intelligible, consistent
esoteric
intended for or understood by only a small group
maverick
intrepid person, innovator
convoluted
intricate, coiled, twisted
prologue
introductory passage
anomalous
irregular, unusual
bilious
irritable as if suffering from indigestion
petulance
irritable, peevish, or impatient
When an Assumption stimulus contains formal logicstatements, think about what can be deduced from each statement. In particular, identify the contrapositive because...
it is likely to be the correct answer
perspicacious
keen, mentally sharp
suppress
keep secret, contain, inhibit
erudition
knowledge, esp gained from books
intuitive
known through immediate insight not gained through rational thought
discord
lack of agreement or harmony
oblivious
lacking awareness
pallid
lacking color
fickle
lacking consistency, changeable
ingenuous
lacking in sophistication or worldiness
derivative
lacking originality
unscrupulous
lacking principles
impenitent
lacking remorse
diffident
lacking self-confidence
languid
lacking spirit or liveliness
juggernaut
large vehicle that crushes anything in its path
strata
layer
depletion
lessening
mercurial
liable to sudden unpredictable change
dissemble
lie
prevaricate
lie
levity
lightness, good humor
pontifical
like a pontiff, pope, extremely authoritative
runic
like runes, mysterious, secret
flaccid
limp, drooping
alacrity
liveliness and eagerness
harangue
long, complaining speech
tirade
long, harsh, highly critical speech
forage
look for food
emollient
lotion that moisturizes
nadir
low point, point opposite the zenith
tepid
lukewarm, room temperature
recumbent
lying down, resting
vitrified
made to look like glass
elucidate
make clear, explain
mollify
make more temperate, acceptable, or suitable by adding something else
lionize
make much of
debilitate
make weak
pretentious
making unjustified claims
plasticity
malleability, stretchiness
pendantic
marked by a narrow focus on or display of learning
insouciant
marked by blithe unconcern
rancorous
marked by deep ill will
vituperative
marked by harshly abusive criticism
wary
marked by keen caution and watchful prudence
genteel
marked by refinement in taste and manners
prudent
marked by sound judgment
prudent
marked by wisdom; shrewd
labyrinth
maze
conduit
means for transmitting or distributing
fusion
merging of diverse parts into a whole
lenient
mild or tolerant
euphemism
mild word or phrase substituted for an offensive one
incidental
minor
trivial
minor, not important
heterogeneous
mixed, made up of unlike elements
alloy
mixture esp of metal
travesty
mockery, parody
paradigm
model, theoretical framework
turbid
muddy, obscurd
pied
multi- colored and blotchy
plethora
multiplicity, excessive amount
proliferate
multiply, procreate
Not necessarily true - opposite
must be true
indigenous
native, originating in a place
imperative
necessary, immediately important
exigent
needing swift action
Tautology
needless repetition of an idea, statement, or word
nullify
negate, make invalid
shirk
neglect or ignore
nugatory
negligible, having no effect
interminable
never ending, or seemingly endless
Neither giraffes nor bears are on display
no giraffes and no bears. Make sure that you are looking at the NOT ~ conditional.
pandemonium
noisy chaos, bedlam
raucous
noisy, rowdy
implacable
not able to be changed
untenable
not able to be defended
inextricable
not able to be untangled
quiescent
not active or activated
implausible
not believable
inauspicious
not favorable
incongruous
not harmonious, incompatible
Cannot be false - opposite
not necessarily true
Could be false - def
not necessarily true
Must be true - opposite
not necessarily true
impalpable
not physical, not able to be touched
erudition
profound scholarly knowledge
proscribe
prohibit; ostracize; banish; outlaw
alacrity
promptness, eagerness
susceptible
prone to, open to
exonerate
pronounce not guilty of criminal charges
dimension
property of space, as in height, width, depth
buffer
protective barrier
assuage
provide physical relief, as from pain
dubious
questionable
placid
quiet, calm
arbitrary
random, capricious, impartial
spectrum
range of all colors, complete range
inductive reasoning
reasoning from detailed facts to general principles. e.g. All of the ice we have examined so far is cold. Therefore, all ice is cold."
deductive reasoning
reasoning from the general to the particular (or from cause to effect). "Teenagers cause the most car accidents. You're a teenager, you will get in a car accident."
demean
reduce in worth or character, usually verbally
allusive
referring to or hinting t something esp in literature
repudiate
refuse to acknowledge, ratify, or recognize as valid
catastrophic
relating to extreme misfortune
aural
relating to or characterized by an aura or the ear
subjective
relating to the mind as the subject of experience
apposite
relevant, to the point
reticent
reluctant to draw attention to yourself
palliative
remedy that alleviates pain without curing
relic
remnant, souvenir, venerated object
vestige
remnant, trace
hackneyed
repeated too often; over familiar through overuse
banal
repeated too often; overfamiliar through overuse
enigmatic
resembling an oracle in obscurity of thought
inhibit
restrain, forbid
subdued
restrained in style or quality
constrain
restrict, confine
opulent
rich and superior in quality
conundrum
riddle, puzzle
ludicrous
ridiculous, absurd
fracas
riot, fight
torque
rotational force, twist
circuitous
round-about, indirect
churlish
rude and boorish
abscond
run away secretly
h --> ~ s
s --> not h can have none but not both
castigate
scold severely
vituperate
scold with excessively harsh language
derision
scorning, ridicule
arcane
secret, esoteric
furtive
secret, sneaky
inviolable
secure from assault or trespass
paradox
seeming contradiction or an actual contradiction
disingenuous
seemingly honest while not being so
eclectic
selecting what seems best of various styles or ideas
egotist
self important person
dichotomy
separation into two parts
ideology
set of beliefs
heinous
shockingly evil
terse
short, curt
pedantic
show off, excessively concerned with book learning and formal rules
urbane
showing a high degree of refinement
flippant
showing an inappropriate lack of seriousness
defiant
showing bold resistance
phlegmatic
showing little emotion
apathetic
showing little or no emotion
equilibrium
state of balance
fidelity
state of being faithful
cessation
stoppage, ceasing
candor
straightforwardness, sincerity
vigor
strength, liveliness
antipathy
strong feeling against, dislike for
pungent
strong tasting or smelling
recalcitrant
stubborn, defiant
intransigent
stubborn, uncompromising
obdurate
stubborn, unfeeling
obstinate
stubborn, unmoving
peruse
study thoroughly
falter
stumble, hesitate
daunt
subdue or tame
precipitate
sudden or steep, rain, snow, to bring about suddenly
All
sufficient
Any
sufficient
Every
sufficient
If in order to
sufficient
People who
sufficient
When
sufficient
Whenever
sufficient
opportune
suitable or convenient
congenial
suitable to your needs
potency
the power or right to give orders or make decisions
bolster
support
buttress
supporting piece of a structure, strengthen, support
reconnaissance
survey, esp military action
cloying
sweet, sentimental
distend
swell from or as if from internal pressure
obsequious
sycophantic-flatter, fawning
genial
sympathetic, friendly
retract
take back, recant
jeer
taunt, deride
tantalize
tease, give taste of
prolix
tediously prolonged or tending to speak or write at great length
proclivity
tendency
perfidious
tending to betray
inflammatory
tending to excite anger
provocative
tending to simulate
curtail
terminate or abbreviate before its intended or proper end or its full extent
serenity
the absence of mental stress or anxiety
impetus
the act of applying force suddenly
dissembling
the act of deceiving
deferment
the act of delaying
larceny
the act of taking something from someone unlawfully
derision
the act of threatening with contempt
efficacy
the capacity to produce an effect
synthesis
the combination of diverse elements into one
flotsam
the floating wreckage of a ship
mutability
the quality of being capable of mutation
candor
the quality of being honest and straightforward
candor
the quality of being honest and straightforward in attitude and speech
incongruity
the quality of disagreeing
mendacity
the tendency to be untruthful
nonchalance
the trait of remaining calm and seeming not to care
chicanery
the use of tricks to deceive someone (usually to extract money from them)
synergy
the working together of two things (muscles or drugs for example) to produce an effect greater than the sum of their individual effects
abstract
theoretical or to summarize or a summary
frugal
thrifty, cheap
pervasive
throughout, in every part
timorous
timid, fearful
acculturate
to adapt to a culture
regale
to amuse
censure
to blame
conflate
to blend together, esp a text
burgeon
to bloom, flourish
polarize
to break up into opposing factions or groups
refurbish
to brighten or freshen
revive
to bring back to life
Elict
to bring out something from someone's action
soothe
to calm, to ease pain, to relieve
revoke
to cancel by taking back
implement
to carry out or accomplish
chagrin
to cause feelings of shame or embarassment
nucleate
to cluster, to form a nucleus
mediate
to come between parties in order to reconcile
constrict
to compress, contract
corroborate
to confirm or make certain
connive
to conspire, to be in secret sympathy with
enumerate
to count
fabricate
to create
engender
to create, foster
sever
to cut off completely
embellish
to decorate
drub
to defeat decisively
disarm
to deprive of weapons or to win over, ingratiate
dissent
to disagree
rehash
to discuss again
flaunt
to display showily
refute
to disprove, to argue against
perturb
to disquiet, upset
desiccate
to dry out, dehydrate
exalt
to elevate by praise
eradicate
to eliminate completely
appraise
to evaluate the worth of
decry
to express strong disapproval of
discern
to recognize as separate or distinct
recapitulate
to repeat, sum up
stifle
to repress or discourage
resuscitate
to revive, renew
preclude
to rule out in advance
salvage
to save from ruin
rail
to scold in harsh language
isolate
to separate and make alone or single
brandish
to shake or wave menacingly
extemporize
to speak spontaneously
disperse
to spread out
diffuse
to spread thinly, or scattered
qualify
to state exceptions to a general statement
assert
to state without need of proof
striate
to stripe
insinuate
to suggest indirectly
supersede
to supplant
aerate
to supply or combine with oxygen or air
corroborate
to support with evidence
adjourn
to suspend, as a meeting
vacillate
to swing indecisively from one idea or course of action to another; to waver weakly in mind or will
espouse
to take to oneself, to adopt a belief
cogitate
to think hard, ponder
disconcert
to throw into confusion
condone
to treat as acceptable
expend
to use up
saunter
to walk in an easygoing swagger
collaborate
to work together, cooperate
concede
to yield, grant
quisling
traitor
onerous
troubling; burdensome
veracity
truthfulness
relinquish
turn away from; give up
avert
turn away, avoid
tortuous
twisting, winding, tricky
Fewer than three
two or less
implacable
unable to be calmed down or made peaceful
impenetrable
unable to penetrate, pierced
Inference Questions
• Identify the question type: "the author implies", "the passage suggests", "likely to agree" • Task: Read between the lines, Perhaps combine statements, Identify what must follow from the passage • Inference means "must be true". It's a statement that must be true if everything in the stimulus is true. • Inference questions require you to paraphrase the relevant text or make a deduction • Common wrong answer choices; 180, faulty use of detail, extreme, out of scope • Answer inference questions after you've already picked up points with Global and Detail questions • The correct answer to an inference question doesn't require any information that isn't included in the stimulus • Valid inferences aren't necessarily mind-blowing • Beware of extreme wording in inference answer choices • The correct answer doesn't have to take the entire stimulus into account
Logical Function Questions
• Identify the question type: "the author...primarily in order to", "primary purpose of the first passage", "best describes the function of" • Task: Looks at the context of the detail or paragraph and ask why the author put it there • Common wrong answer choices; 180, distortion, faulty use of detail
Logical Reasoning Questions
• Identify the question type: Will mimic LR question types, including o strengthening / weakening - "supports" / "undermines" o Principle - "principle" o Parallel Reasoning - "analogies" • Task: Use the appropriate LR strategy
Approach
• Identify the topic • Scope • Purpose • Main idea
Locate and use keywords
• Logic - Evidence and Conclusion (Therefore..., Since...) • Contrast (However...) • Continuation (Moreover...) • Illustration (Examples of...) • Emphasis / Opinion (Critics, Voices, Even) • Sequence / Timing (Frame of reference, Dates, More Recently)
Use the clues
• Proper Nouns & Names; look for same key word in the text or margin notes • Line Reference; context is key. Look at the surrounding paragraph (+/- 2 sentences) • Direct Quotes; context is key. Who is quoted (author, critic) Associated Keywords • Paragraph References; consider paragraph in totality. Consider paragraph in context of larger argument • Content Clues; word or phrase of the text. What paragraph. Look for associated key words
Comparative Reading
• Two short passages • 6-8 questions
