Critical Reasoning

Class Location: The Internet.

Description: This class will give you detailed information on the critical reasoning portion of the GMAT test. 

Objective: Learn how to approach different types of questions, and score well on this section!

The critical reasoning portion of the GMAT is a series of short reading comprehension questions. Usually there will be a one-paragraph passage followed by a series of questions. The questions will test the same analytical and critical thinking skills that MBA programs are looking for.

With some preparation you can learn to think logically and do very well on this section. Enrolling in a logic course is definitely overkill and not the best use of your time.

Types of Questions:

Questions in this section will ask you to:

1. Strengthen an argument
2. Weaken an argument
3. Identify a parallel argument
4. Identify the assumption
5. Identify the inference
6. Select the best conclusion

Approaching these questions

1. Read the questions first. Before reading the passage, read the questions so you know what you are looking for. That way you can approach each passage differently and save time.
2. Identify the assumptions and conclusion. This can be hard because the passages do not always conclude the argument with the final sentences. They can imply conclusions instead of state them. So practice, practice, practice until you can clearly identify these patterns. The paragraph may begin with the conclusion and then give supporting material. In this case you can look for transition words like "consequently,' "hence," and "as a result" to indicate the conclusion. The assumption is the "must have" of the passage. If the assumption is not true, the conclusion is not true. To find the assumption read each sentence by itself and ask yourself if the conclusion would be true if this sentence was incorrect.
3. Try to guess the correct answer before reading the choices. Your hunch will often be right and this can help you focus on finding the best answer.
4. Read all the answers. Don't settle for the first one that you think is right.

Tips

The test will most often ask you to weaken an argument and they expect you to be able to find one of these four logic flaws.

1. Circular reasoning
2. Inaccurate cause-and-effect arguments
3. Sweeping generalizations
4. Unqualified "expert" opinions

In these cases use the process of elimination, work backwards, never choose an answer just because it is true, ignore decoys, avoid overly emotional choices and do not choose answers that make absolute statements.