Parallel Reasoning

[khana87]

Hi,

So I'm having trouble with parallel reasoning questions...I almost always get them wrong. I try to set up conditionals if required or look for key words such as "most" and "only" in the answer choices. Overall, I just don't get them. Help!

[Dave Killoran]

Hi Khana,

Thanks for the question. We have a pretty comprehensive system for handling Parallel Reasoning questions, so I guess my first question to you would be, how familiar are you with our system? I ask that question so I will best know how to answer your question, and also to determine if there are any resources that I know of that could help you.

Please let me know. Thanks!

[khana87]

I have and am using powerscore game type training questions but have not used the bible. The strategy that I learned for PR questions was to look at the type and number of premise rather than the content. Hasn't worked out to well.

[Dave Killoran]

Hi Khana,

Thanks for the information. Using the game type training books alone will help to some degree, but I think it is essential to have strategies that you are actively practicing when using that book. Otherwise it is kind of like rushing into war without a battle plan

Looking at the type of premises is certainly helpful, but Parallel questions are more complex than that (and, the test makers wouldn't let you off that easy!). The method we lay out in our courses and the LR Bible includes that step, but it's not the first step (nor the last). Unfortunately, covering that entire strategy is beyond the scope of this forum. The quickest advice I can give you is to always emulate any identifiable form of reasoning you see (causality, source argument, etc), then to match the conclusion in the argument, then match the premises (and the number of premises isn't always matched). There are other things that can be done, but those three points solve the vast majority of Parallel questions.

If you can, grab a copy of the LR Bible. It covers all the question types and talks a lot about argument forms, reasoning types, classic tricks of the test makers, and strategies for solving questions.

Please let me know if that helps. Thanks!