Verbal Reasoning 2: Reasoning

Verbal Reasoning 2: Reasoning / Analytical Reading

For questions that deal with reasoning ability, it is important to look very precisely what exactly is in the text and whether it corresponds exactly with the thesis. It is important not to jump to conclusions based on assumptions or general knowledge.

Always ask yourself: is it possible that the statement is not true based on the text. Then you see whether it is possible that the statement is true. By doing this very precisely, you will arrive at the correct answer. Below are some examples of conclusions drawn too quickly:

• The text contains a statement by someone, or “It is reported that…”. These are not facts and therefore no conclusive proposition can be based on the statements.
• "The light in the house is turned on." This does not mean that anyone is home.
• "Someone is being convicted of a crime." This does not mean that the person committed the crime.
• "A is greater than B." This does not mean that A is large, it may be that B is very small and / or that A and B are very close to each other.
• etc.

We work out three examples and then you can do three practice exercises that deal with the part reasoning and analytical reading.