Critical Reasoning

Critical reasoning is the process of logically analyzing and evaluating arguments to determine their validity and soundness. It is commonly tested in exams like GMAT, GRE, LSAT, and UPSC CSAT, as well as in job assessments and interviews.

Key Aspects of Critical Reasoning:

1. Identifying Arguments

   • An argument consists of a premise (evidence) and a conclusion (claim).
   • Example:
     • Premise: "All humans need oxygen to survive."
     • Conclusion: "Without oxygen, humans will die."

2. Types of Critical Reasoning Questions

   • Strengthening the Argument: Find an option that makes the conclusion more valid.
   • Weakening the Argument: Find an option that undermines the conclusion.
   • Finding Assumptions: Identify unstated ideas that link premises to the conclusion.
   • Drawing Inferences: Determine what logically follows from the given statements.
   • Evaluating the Argument: Analyze logical consistency and flaws in reasoning.
   • Paradox/Resolution: Identify an explanation that resolves a contradiction.

3. Common Logical Flaws

   • Causal Fallacy: Assuming correlation equals causation.
   • Circular Reasoning: Using the conclusion to support itself.
   • Straw Man Argument: Misrepresenting an argument to refute it easily.
   • False Dilemma: Presenting only two extreme options when more exist.

Strategies to Solve Critical Reasoning Questions

• Read the question before the passage to understand what is being asked.
• Identify the premises and conclusion.
• Look for logical gaps or assumptions.
• Use elimination techniques to discard irrelevant options.
• Avoid emotional reasoning—stick to logic.

Would you like practice questions or explanations for specific types of critical reasoning problems?

Critical Reasoning 

Critical-Reasoning-Book.pdf - Dronacharya Group of Institutions

Important Critical Reasoning Questions for SBI PO, IBPS ...

gmat critical reasoning sample questions

LSAT-Critical-Reasoning-Book.pdf

Critical reasoning - Dronacharya Group of Institutions

Critical Reasoning Questions (Easy Level Part-1) - ...