3. Structure Fam: Describe the Role/Argument

Question 1

What are the two main types of Structure-Based questions on the GMAT?

Answer 1

1. Describe the Role (more common) - identify roles of boldface portions
2. Describe the Argument - explain how author develops/responds to argument

Question 2

In the Primary Method for Describe the Role questions, what are the three classifications for boldface statements?

Answer 2

1. (C) The author’s conclusion
2. (P) A premise (supports the author’s conclusion)
3. (X) Something else (counterpremise, background info, weakness acknowledgment)

Question 3

What is the Secondary Method for analyzing Describe the Role questions?

Answer 3

After finding the conclusion, ask:
1. Is the statement a fact or opinion?
2. Is the statement for or against the conclusion?
3. Are two statements on the same side or opposite sides?

Question 4

What is the “Half Right” trap answer pattern?

Answer 4

An answer choice that correctly describes one boldface statement but incorrectly describes the other. Always verify that both parts of the answer match both boldface portions.

Question 5

What is the “One Word Off” trap answer pattern?

Answer 5

An answer that would be correct except for one crucial word that changes the meaning. Example: saying a statement “argues against” when it should be “argues for.” Read every word carefully to the end.

Question 6

What should you identify FIRST when using the Primary Method?

Answer 6

The conclusion (claim) - it’s the most basic building block. The conclusion is what the author wants you to believe. Everything else relates to this conclusion.

Question 7

How can you identify Describe the Role questions?

Answer 7

Look for:
* Boldface font portions in the argument
* The word “boldface” in the question stem
* Questions asking about the role of specific portions

Question 8

What’s the strategy tip for using C, P, and X classifications?

Answer 8

C’s (conclusions) and P’s (premises) are on the same side of the argument, while X’s (counterarguments, etc.) are on the opposite side.

Question 9

In Describe the Argument questions with dialogue, what is typically happening?

Answer 9

The second person is objecting to or challenging the first person’s argument. Focus on identifying what aspect the second person most directly attacks (conclusion, premise, or assumption).

Question 10

What are common ways a second speaker might respond in Describe the Argument questions?

Answer 10

• Questioning calculations or evidence
• Accepting conclusion but questioning implementation
• Reinterpreting evidence to weaken claims
• Introducing new contradicting information
• Pointing out unconsidered consequences

Question 11

What’s the difference between a premise and a counterpremise?

Answer 11

• Premise: Supports the author’s conclusion
• Counterpremise: Opposes the author’s conclusion (could support an alternative conclusion or weaken the author’s position)

Question 12

When should you use the Secondary Method vs. the Primary Method?

Answer 12

The Primary Method always works but may be more time-consuming. The Secondary Method can help narrow answers quickly but may not get you all the way to one answer. Use Secondary Method when you need to eliminate options fast.