Mastering the 'Analyze an Argument' Task for GMAT
The 'Analyze an Argument' task on the GMAT Integrated Reasoning (IR) section assesses your ability to critically evaluate a given argument, identify its underlying assumptions, and suggest ways to strengthen or weaken it. This isn't about agreeing or disagreeing with the argument's conclusion, but rather dissecting its logical structure.
Deconstructing the Argument Task
The core of this task involves identifying the premises, assumptions, and conclusion of a short argument. You'll then need to analyze the logical leaps and potential flaws within this structure. Think of yourself as a detective, examining the evidence presented and questioning its validity.
Common Argumentative Flaws
Arguments are rarely perfect. Recognizing common logical fallacies will significantly improve your analysis. These flaws represent gaps in reasoning that weaken the argument's validity.
| Flaw Type | Description | Example Scenario |
|---|---|---|
| Hasty Generalization | Drawing a broad conclusion from insufficient evidence. | Surveying only 10 people in a city and concluding that all residents prefer a certain brand. |
| False Cause (Post Hoc Ergo Propter Hoc) | Assuming that because one event followed another, the first event caused the second. | A company's profits increased after a new CEO was hired, so the CEO must be the reason for the increase. |
| False Analogy | Assuming that because two things are similar in one respect, they are similar in all respects. | Comparing a company's business strategy to a sports team's strategy without considering fundamental differences. |
| Appeal to Popularity (Bandwagon) | Assuming something is true or good because many people believe it. | This product must be the best because it's the most popular. |
| Circular Reasoning | The conclusion is used as a premise to support itself. | This book is a bestseller because it's so popular. |
Strategies for Analysis
To excel, you need a systematic approach. This involves not only identifying flaws but also suggesting how the argument could be improved.
Identify flaws/assumptions and suggest ways to strengthen/weaken the argument.
When analyzing, focus on these key questions:
- What is the conclusion?
- What evidence (premises) is offered to support it?
- What assumptions are being made?
- What are the logical flaws or weaknesses in the reasoning?
- What additional evidence or information would strengthen or weaken the argument?
Imagine an argument as a bridge. The premises are the pillars supporting the bridge, and the conclusion is the destination. The assumptions are the unseen structural supports and engineering principles that hold the bridge together. A flawed argument is like a bridge with weak pillars, missing supports, or faulty engineering, making it unstable and unreliable. Your task is to point out these structural weaknesses and suggest how to reinforce them.
Text-based content
Library pages focus on text content
Crafting Your Response
Your response should be structured and clear. Begin by identifying the argument's main conclusion and the evidence provided. Then, dedicate the bulk of your analysis to discussing the assumptions and flaws. Finally, offer specific suggestions for how the argument could be improved or further investigated. Use precise language and avoid personal opinions.
Remember: The goal is to analyze the logic of the argument, not to agree or disagree with its content.
Learning Resources
Official overview from GMAC explaining the 'Analyze an Argument' task, its purpose, and what is expected from test-takers.
A comprehensive guide from Magoosh covering strategies, common flaws, and practice tips for the 'Analyze an Argument' task.
This resource provides a step-by-step approach to tackling the 'Analyze an Argument' section, including common pitfalls and effective strategies.
Official practice questions from GMAT that allow you to apply your understanding and test your analytical skills.
This article details common logical fallacies that appear in GMAT arguments, helping you identify them more easily.
Manhattan Prep offers insights into the 'Analyze an Argument' task, focusing on how to dissect arguments and construct strong critiques.
A video tutorial that visually breaks down the 'Analyze an Argument' task, explaining key concepts and providing examples.
An explanation of the entire IR section, with a specific focus on the 'Analyze an Argument' task and its importance.
A discussion thread on GMATClub where users share and discuss common assumptions found in 'Analyze an Argument' prompts.
While not GMAT-specific, this Wikipedia entry on logical fallacies provides a foundational understanding of flawed reasoning, which is crucial for argument analysis.