Lesson 8.6: Boldface and Argument-Structure Questions

Introduction

In this lesson, we will explore boldface and argument-structure questions, an essential part of the GMAT’s Critical Reasoning section. The objectives of this lesson are to help you identify the roles of bolded portions in arguments, distinguish between premises, conclusions, and counterpositions, and match abstract role descriptions to the text. By developing these skills, you will boost your confidence in dissecting complex arguments effectively.

Learning Objectives

• Identify the role of bolded portions in an argument.
• Distinguish premises, conclusions, and counterpositions.
• Match abstract role descriptions to the text.
• Determine the function of each bolded statement.
• Match abstract structural descriptions to argument parts.

Understanding Argument Structure

To tackle boldface questions, it is crucial to first understand the basic components of an argument. Arguments typically consist of the following elements:

• Premises: Statements or facts that provide support for the conclusion.
• Conclusion: The main point or claim that the argument is trying to prove.
• Counterpositions: Statements that present opposing viewpoints or considerations.

Worked Example 1

Consider the following argument:

The recent uptick in electric car sales can be attributed to improved battery technology and broader charging network availability. However, some critics argue that these sales will soon plateau due to a lack of affordable options. Still, many consumers have embraced electric vehicles due to environmental concerns.

In this example, let's identify the premises, conclusion, and counterpositions:

• Premises:
• Improved battery technology
• Broader charging network availability
• Environmental concerns
• Conclusion: The uptick in electric car sales is expected to continue.
• Counterposition: Critics argue that sales will plateau due to a lack of affordable options.

The boldface portions in a Critical Reasoning question will often highlight these elements, which assists in accurately mapping the argument structure.

Boldface Questions Explained

Boldface questions require you to analyze the roles that bolded statements play in the argument. Each bolded statement can either be a premise, conclusion, or counterposition, and recognizing these roles is key to answering these questions correctly.

Strategies to Identify Boldface Roles

1. Read Carefully: Understand the entire argument before attempting to identify specific roles.
2. Look for Keywords: Words such as "therefore," "since," or "however" may signal conclusions or counterpositions.
3. Eliminate Options: Once the roles are identified, you can often eliminate incorrect answer choices based on incorrect interpretations of the bolded statements.

Worked Example 2

Let’s analyze another argument with boldface questions:

Many health experts recommend a vegetarian diet because it reduces the risk of chronic diseases. However, this view is challenged by some who argue that a balanced omnivorous diet can also provide essential nutrients and prevent illness.

Let's say the bolded portions are:

1. Many health experts recommend a vegetarian diet.
2. This view is challenged by some who argue that a balanced omnivorous diet can also provide essential nutrients.

Role Analysis:

• Bold Statement 1: This is a premise supporting the conclusion that a vegetarian diet is beneficial.
• Bold Statement 2: This is a counterposition questioning the validity of the conclusion regarding vegetarian diets.

By understanding each bolded statement's role, you can grasp the argument's nuances, allowing you to make informed selections in response to boldface questions.

Common Misconceptions

As students encounter boldface questions, several misconceptions often arise:

1. Believing all bolded statements are premises: Not every bolded statement supports the conclusion. Counterpositions challenge the argument.
2. Ignoring contextual relationships: Bolded portions must be interpreted within the context of the entire argument, not in isolation.
3. Overlooking the interaction between bolded statements: Sometimes, two bolded statements interact, and understanding this relationship is crucial to answering the question correctly.

Worked Example 3

Consider the following:

Scientists are discovering new methods for renewable energy generation. Critics argue that unless these methods can be produced cost-effectively, their widespread use will be limited, which can hinder progress towards a sustainable future.

Bolded Portions:

1. Scientists are discovering new methods for renewable energy generation.
2. Critics argue that unless these methods can be produced cost-effectively, their widespread use will be limited.

Role Analysis:

• The first statement is a premise that indicates the potential for innovation in renewable energy.
• The second statement is a counterposition that presents a challenge to the optimistic view of renewable energy advancements.

Your job is to dissect these roles to navigate questions effectively, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of argument dynamics.

Conclusion

Understanding boldface and argument-structure questions is critical for success in the Verbal Reasoning section of the GMAT. By identifying the roles of bolded portions, recognizing premises and conclusions, and adequately analyzing arguments, you will enhance your overall critical reasoning abilities. Remember, practice is key — engage with various arguments and continuously refine your skills.

Study Notes

• Boldface questions test your ability to identify the roles of statements in arguments.
• Main elements of an argument: premises, conclusions, and counterpositions.
• Read arguments carefully to capture their full context before analyzing bolded statements.
• Keywords signal roles (e.g., "therefore" for conclusions, "however" for counterpositions).
• Common misconceptions include assuming all bolded statements are premises and not considering the entire argument's context.
• Practice with different examples to improve your detection and analysis of argument structures.