Justify the conclusion questions

[sjam]

Hi Powerscore,

I am having trouble identifying certain justify the argument questions. I know that if the question begins with an if...and assumed at the end that it's a justify question. But what about the questions that end or specifically say does it justify the conclusion or reasoning? Do those questions fall into that category? Thanks
Sasha

[Adam Tyson]

Question stems that ask you to justify the conclusion will usually include that "if", as you said - "which of the following, if true" or "if which one of the following is assumed", etc. They will also use language that directs you to prove, or justify, the conclusion - "follows logically" or "is properly drawn" or, an easy one to spot, "justifies". Beware, though, of modifiers that lessen the degree of justification - "helps to justify" or "tends to justify" or "most justifies". Those modifiers tell you that you don't have to prove the conclusion, just help it, and that makes them Strengthen questions.

There are many examples in the lesson on Strengthen and Justify questions that will help you see the difference. Go through the lesson and the homework, and take note of any that you struggle with, asking yourself whether you need to prove the conclusion or just support it. Check the answer keys after you have done your best to figure them out, and note any that you missed. Then go back and see if you can see what key language made the difference.

With practice, this will all get much easier. Keep at it!