#22 - Local, Must Be True

[Administrator]

Complete Question Explanation
(The complete setup for this game can be found here: lsat/viewtopic.php?t=15015)

The correct answer choice is (E)

If there is exactly one painting between T and W, we need to create a T _ W split-block in compliance with the first rule. Consequently, our diagram needs to accommodate the following three blocks:

PT71_D13 LG Explanations_Game #4_#22_diagram 1.png

If these blocks were aligned consecutively, they would occupy eight unique positions, which is impossible given our scenario. Consequently, we need to ensure that the two split-blocks overlap. There are only two ways that they can do so, each option resulting in a super-block of four consecutive variables:

PT71_D13 LG Explanations_Game #4_#22_diagram 2.png

The position of either super-block is severely restricted by the third rule, requiring V to be either third or fourth. Clearly, if V were fourth, we would be unable to accommodate a block of four consecutive variables on either side of V. Therefore, V must be third—proving answer choice (E) correct.

The two local diagrams below are shown for academic purposes only, and confirm that answer choices (A), (B) and (C) are not necessarily true, while answer choices (D) cannot be true:

PT71_D13 LG Explanations_Game #4_#22_diagram 3.png

With Templates, it is immediately apparent that only Templates 4 and 5.1 allow for the creation of a T _ W block. In Template 4, V is third. In Template 5.1, V would be forced into the third position because T must be fourth in accordance with the local condition in this question. Thus, in both templates, V must be third—proving answer choice (E) correct.