#5 - Local, Could Be True, List

[Dave Killoran]

Complete Question Explanation
(The complete setup for this game can be found here: lsat/viewtopic.php?t=15987)

The correct answer choice is (C)

This question is quite easy. From the Not Laws, we know that H cannot be placed first or seventh, and this information eliminates answer choices (A), (B), and (E). Next, the local condition in the question stem establishes that Z is in the fifth position. From the fourth rule, if Z is in the fifth position, them M must be in the sixth position. This information eliminates answer choice (D), and thus answer choice (C) is correct.

As you review the game, closely examine questions #2 and #4 as they both can be effectively attacked by using hypotheticals.

[kenswil]

I looked it up and the answer is C but if you put H in 4 then O must be in at least 7 which is two spaces. So if X is in 1 then V must be in 4, 2 then 5 and so on. I don't see how H can possibly be in 4. I'm sure I'm missing something foolish.

[Dave Killoran]

Hi Ken,

Thanks for the question. You're close, but it looks like you've assumed O has to be 7th, when it could be 8th.

If O was in 8, instead of being in 7, that would put H in 4 and O in 8, meaning there are 3 spaces between them. V could be in 7, and then X could be in 3 (satisfying X > V). P and T are 1 and 2 in some order.

The resulting hypotheticals are:

• P-T-X-H-Z-M-V-O
  
  T-P-X-H-Z-M-V-O

In both cases, H can successfully be 4th.

Please let me know if that helps. Thanks!