What is the difference between a "strengthen" and a "weaken" question type?

What is the difference between a "strengthen" and a "weaken" question type?

• A. "Strengthen" questions increase the argument's validity while "weaken" questions challenge it
• B. "Strengthen" questions ask for conclusions while "weaken" questions provide evidence
• C. "Strengthen" and "weaken" questions are virtually the same
• D. "Strengthen" questions ask for alternative scenarios while "weaken" questions seek support

Answer: (A)

The distinction between "strengthen" and "weaken" question types lies in their fundamental purpose regarding the argument presented. "Strengthen" questions are designed to reinforce or bolster the argument, typically by providing additional support or evidence that aligns with the conclusion. This validation can come from various sources, such as statistics, expert testimony, or logical reasoning that helps solidify the argument's claims. On the other hand, "weaken" questions aim to challenge the argument's validity, often by introducing information that may undermine the conclusion or suggest alternative interpretations. These questions seek to expose flaws, assumptions, or gaps in the reasoning, ultimately questioning the strength of the argument. Understanding this core difference helps in effectively tackling these question types on the LSAT, as the goal with "strengthen" questions is to find supportive evidence, while with "weaken" questions, the objective is to identify information that casts doubt on the argument.

The distinction between "strengthen" and "weaken" question types lies in their fundamental purpose regarding the argument presented. "Strengthen" questions are designed to reinforce or bolster the argument, typically by providing additional support or evidence that aligns with the conclusion. This validation can come from various sources, such as statistics, expert testimony, or logical reasoning that helps solidify the argument's claims.

On the other hand, "weaken" questions aim to challenge the argument's validity, often by introducing information that may undermine the conclusion or suggest alternative interpretations. These questions seek to expose flaws, assumptions, or gaps in the reasoning, ultimately questioning the strength of the argument.

Understanding this core difference helps in effectively tackling these question types on the LSAT, as the goal with "strengthen" questions is to find supportive evidence, while with "weaken" questions, the objective is to identify information that casts doubt on the argument.