Critical Reasoning

Question 1

4 step methodology
QDSW

Answer 1

1. Identify the Q type
2. Deconstruct argument
3. State the goal
4. Eliminate, wrong to right

Question 2

3 basic categories of questions:

Answer 2

1. Structure based
   - Describe role of a building block used (how it impacts argument)
2. Assumption based
   - What piece of evidence when evaluated would determine validity
   - Author depends on it!
   - or it has the ability to further support or weaken the conclusion
3. Evidence based
   - all lack conclusions and only offers premises, must make an inference
   - resolve a paradox

Question 3

Deconstruction techniques:

Answer 3

Use abbreviations, annotate key parts and form an argument map

Question 4

During state the goal you should…

Answer 4

1. Tie together the question type and the author’s conclusion
2. Think of major assumptions and logical fallacies

Question 5

Last phase of the methodology…

Answer 5

1. Write out all 5 letters corresponding to an answer
2. Strike out the obviously false
3. remember there is only ONE right answer NO “best” bullshit
4. use squiggly mark if unsure