Argument Analysis Essay Flashcards
6 cards from real GRE practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Argument Analysis Essay flashcards as text
What is the primary task in the GRE 'Analyze an Argument' essay?
Answer: Evaluate the logical soundness of a given argument
The 'Analyze an Argument' task requires you to critique the logical reasoning of a provided argument, not express your own views.
Which logical flaw involves drawing broad conclusions from an insufficient or unrepresentative sample?
Answer: Hasty generalization
A hasty generalization draws sweeping conclusions from too little or unrepresentative evidence.
When an argument incorrectly assumes that because one event followed another the first caused the second, this fallacy is called:
Answer: Post hoc ergo propter hoc
Post hoc ergo propter hoc is the fallacy of treating a temporal sequence as proof of causation without eliminating other explanations.
In a GRE Argument Analysis essay, what should each body paragraph primarily address?
Answer: A distinct logical flaw or unwarranted assumption in the argument
Each body paragraph should identify and explain a specific logical weakness, keeping the analysis focused and organized.
Which flaw occurs when an argument presents only two options when more exist?
Answer: False dichotomy
A false dichotomy incorrectly limits possibilities to just two when other alternatives exist.
What score range is used for the GRE Analytical Writing section?
Answer: 0–6
GRE Analytical Writing is scored on a 0–6 scale in half-point increments by both a human rater and an automated e-rater.