Parallel flawed method of reasoning

(PF)

Stems that tell us the stimulus will exhibit flawed reasoning, then ask us to identify the answer choice that preserves that flaw.

Avg. 1.0 per section

“The flawed reasoning in which one of the following is most closely parallel to the flawed reasoning in the argument above?”

8%
13%
29%
33%
18%

Avg. difficulty: 3.4

Correct answer criteria

  • An argument that most closely matches the flawed reasoning in the argument in the stimulus.

Key tactics

  • Identify the conclusion and premises
  • Try to identify why the argument is flawed - why doesn't the conclusion follow from the premises?
  • Try to summarize the key elements of the premises and conclusion that you're looking to match in the correct answer
  • Be ready for conditional logic, which is common on these questions
  • Pay attention to the strength of language in the conclusion

Answer choice tips

  • Remember that the correct answer is supposed to have the same flaw. So if the answer's argument is valid, it's not going to be correct
  • If you're stuck on an answer, make sure to check whether the strength of the conclusion matches what we're looking for. (e.g., If the answer choice conclusion says "X will probably occur" but the stimulus conclusion said "X will occur" then this doesn't match and the answer is unlikely to be correct.) There are notable exceptions to this for Parallel Flaw questions, but eliminating based on strength of conclusion is still a good general rule of thumb

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?