LSAT Tip of the Week How to Read an Argument

LSAT Tip of the Week How to Read an Argument LSAT Law School Blog The Argument Section of the LSAT, also known as the logical reasoning section, is made up of 24 to 26 arguments. Helpful LSAT course sites like 7Sageusually include an entire section devoted to logical reasoning and arguments. The first step to answering a logical reasoning question is, surprise, surprise, thinking critically. Usually when we think of arguments, we think of heated or emotional exchanges between people. For the purposes of the LSAT, it is very important that you do not respond to the information presented in an emotional way. Your goal is not to agree or disagree with the content, but rather to analyze the strengths or flaws of the argument itself. You want to make sure that you understand the author’s conclusion and how they used evidence to form their argument. If you are able to understand HOW the author argues, you will be better prepared to answer the question at hand. As you try to understand the HOW, it is crucial to remember that it is usually pretty difficu lt to make a nuanced and full argument within the span of three or four sentences. This means, that usually there will be some gap in the author’s argument. As you read, train your brain to be on the lookout for flaws in the argument. Stay on the lookout for what the author is attempting to convince you of, how the author is using evidence to support their point, and where in the argument the author has failed in that effort.