Chapter 2: Identify the Assumption

Question 1

Define Assumption.

Answer 1

Unstated information that must be true for the logic of the argument to work

Question 2

What does an “indentify the assumption” question type require us to do?

Answer 2

Fill in a gap in the logic author’s arguments. Find the implicit belief that underpins the conclusion.

Question 3

Define a malicious variable

Answer 3

Something that an author has failed to consider in the construction of an argument which spoils the argument and renders it unsound.

Question 4

How can we use the idea of a malicious variable to find the correct answer in “identify the assumption” questions?

Answer 4

Find an answer that states a malicious variable is NOT TRUE.

i.e. some variable the author failed to consider does not effect the argument

Question 5

Name a common type of flawed assumption that relates to the planning fallacy.

Answer 5

The assumption that no offsetting factors will ruin or work against a plan.

That is true for plans, laws, proposals, or courses of action.

Question 6

When an author makes a bold cause & effect argument with no evidence what are the 4 possibilities as to their veracity?

Answer 6

1. Author is correct.
2. Cause-Effect relation is reversed.
3. Third factor caused both conditions.
4. Conditions developed independently & aren’t related.

Question 7

What is the missing assumption when an author uses evidence from one time period to make an argument about a different time period?

Answer 7

That the data / evidence can actually be used to support the conclusion.

Question 8

When Critical Reasoning question stems involve the words “except” or “not” how should you change your approach?

Answer 8

4 answers will be correct & 1 incorrect.
Cross off each answer that is definitely correct.
Process of elimination to find the incorrect answer.

Question 9

What technique can we use to check if an assumption must be true for the logic of the argument?

Answer 9

Negation.
Invert the answer choice so that it says the opposite of what it actually says.
If the argument is now severely weakened then is assumption is essential.
If the negation has not effect on the argument, the assumption was not important.

Question 10

What is the most important step in “identify the assumption” question types?

Answer 10

Find the Conclusion!

You must be able to repeat it word for word when reviewing the answer choices.

Question 11

What are the 5 incorrect answer choices for “identify the assumption” question type?

Answer 11

1. Supports the wrong conclusion.
2. Choices that do the reverse of what the question asks for.
3. Explains an aspect of the scenario presented in the passage.
4. Statement that is a conclusion supported by what is said in the passage
5. Mentions a better, alternative plan
6. Supports the conclusion but is not an assumption upon which the argument depends

Question 12

What is the most common form of a correct answer for the “identify the assumption” question type?

Answer 12

Often includes the word “not” & mentions something that weakens the argument

Question 13

What are the hardest kind of assumptions to identify?

Answer 13

The extremely obvious and simple ones.

Question 14

What are 6 types of correct answers to identify the assumption questions?

Answer 14

1. no offsetting factor
2. must be true in order for a Cause & Effect conclusion to be true
3. no other paths to success
4. solving a problem will not result in the same problem or a similar one
5. Something that is likely true is actually true
6. change occurring over time does not render conclusion invalid