Conditional reasoning

(CondR)

Stimuli that feature conditional and set logic (e.g. A → B, A is true, therefore B is true).

Avg. 4.5 per section
6%
15%
35%
29%
17%

Avg. difficulty: 3.4

Key tactics

  • The Conditional reasoning tag applies to any stimulus that features conditional claims (e.g. if ___, then ____), or claims about sets (e.g. all cats are mammals).
  • Flawed conditional reasoning is one of the most tested concepts on the LSAT, but many stimuli feature valid conditional reasoning patterns as well.
  • Fluency in formal logic diagramming (we call our language "Lawgic") is immensely helpful, both in the learning process and on the test itself.
  • Diagramming takes time to learn, and it's normal for it to feel slow or confusing at first. For most students, it's worth the investment because it builds a deeper understanding of conditional logic that pays off on test day.

Answer choice tips

  • THE important thing to note about conditional claims is not to confuse a sufficient condition for a necessary condition. For example, consider the claim "All my friends are nerds":
  • That claim does NOT mean "All nerds are my friends" nor does it mean "Anyone who is not my friend is not a nerd." Both of these claims confuse a sufficient condition for a necessary condition.
  • Wrong answer will often try to tempt you to confuse a sufficient condition for a necessary condition.

Looking for more?

7Sage offers a full course of video lessons that cover each question type in depth, targeted drills, and performance analytics.

Logical reasoning question types

Argument part Evaluate Fill in the blank Flaw or descriptive weakening Inference Main conclusion or main point Method of reasoning or descriptive Most strongly supported Must be false Must be true Necessary assumption Parallel flawed method of reasoning Parallel method of reasoning Point at issue: agree Point at issue: disagree Principle PSA - find or complete the application PSA - find the rule Resolve reconcile or explain Strengthen Sufficient assumption Weaken

Reading comprehension question types

Analogy (RC) Application Author’s attitude Author’s perspective Describe approach Describe organization Describe relationship Implied Logical continuation Main point Meaning in context (of word, phrase, or idea) Other’s perspective Principle or generalization Purpose in context (of word, phrase, or idea) Purpose of paragraph Purpose of passage Stated Structure WSE (RC)

Confirm action

Are you sure?