Setup and Rule Diagrams

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Setup and Rule Diagram Explanation

This is a Basic Linear: Balanced game.

Because Basic Linear games are generally easy to handle for most test takers, this was an excellent way to begin the Logic Games section of the October 2015 LSAT.

The game scenario establishes that a criminal recruited seven accomplices, one at a time. Because there are no ties, this is a Balanced game. The following linear scenario underpins the sequence:

PT76_O15 LG Explanations_Game #1_setup_diagram 1.png

The first rule establishes a rotating ST Not Block:

PT76_O15 LG Explanations_Game #1_setup_diagram 2.png

Alternatively, you can represent this rule with a circle, as shown below:

PT76_O15 LG Explanations_Game #1_setup_diagram 3.png

Although Not Blocks are usually relegated to the lower rungs of significance, you need to stay mindful of the separation requirement conveyed by this rule.

The second rule establishes the following sequence:

• Q R

This sequence creates a Q Not Law and a R Not Law:

PT76_O15 LG Explanations_Game #1_setup_diagram 4.png

The third rule establishes a VW Block:

PT76_O15 LG Explanations_Game #1_setup_diagram 5.png

As with the previous rule, Not Laws can again be drawn:

PT76_O15 LG Explanations_Game #1_setup_diagram 6.png

The last rule indicates that P must be fourth:

PT76_O15 LG Explanations_Game #1_setup_diagram 7.png

You should immediately notice the implication of this rule on the placement of the VW Block: if P is 4, then V cannot be 3, and W cannot be 5. When these two Not Laws are added to the diagram, we arrive at the final setup for this game:

PT76_O15 LG Explanations_Game #1_setup_diagram 8.png