Core Argument
Cannot look back at the stimulus. From memory, write in as few words as possible.
Clearly note: Noun, Verb, Predicate
No referential phrasing allowed
Analysis
Helpful Tools
Argument type (if recognizable):
Correlation → Causation
Gap: reversed cause, third cause, coincidence
Sample → Population
Gap: is the sample representative?
Analogy
Gap: are the two things comparable?
Other
Gap: identify the specific assumption
Answer Choices
For each answer, complete the test. Move on if any step fails.
Answer Choice A
1. Relevance Test
Does this connect to the premise in any way? (low bar)
2. Impact Test
Premise + This Answer = What impact on conclusion?
Key: Keep if it can reasonably strengthen/weaken — even weak impact counts.
Answer Choice B
1. Relevance Test
Does this connect to the premise in any way? (low bar)
2. Impact Test
Premise + This Answer = What impact on conclusion?
Answer Choice C
1. Relevance Test
Does this connect to the premise in any way? (low bar)
2. Impact Test
Premise + This Answer = What impact on conclusion?
Key: Keep if it can reasonably strengthen/weaken — even weak impact counts.
Answer Choice D
1. Relevance Test
Does this connect to the premise in any way? (low bar)
2. Impact Test
Premise + This Answer = What impact on conclusion?
Key: Keep if it can reasonably strengthen/weaken — even weak impact counts.
Answer Choice E
1. Relevance Test
Does this connect to the premise in any way? (low bar)
2. Impact Test
Premise + This Answer = What impact on conclusion?
Key: Keep if it can reasonably strengthen/weaken — even weak impact counts.
Final Selection
From remaining answers, pick the one with:
• Fewest linguistic issues
• No unreasonable assumptions between words and reasoning
Final Answer: