How To Master LR | LSAT Logical Reasoning

Summary

This LSAT Lab lesson focuses on mastering the Logical Reasoning section of the LSAT, which constitutes half of the total score. The video explains key strategies for approaching different question types, such as assumption, function, and inference-based questions. It also covers how to identify flaws in arguments, understand reasoning structures, and eliminate trap answers. By breaking down the difficulty levels of questions, the lesson provides valuable tips on how to approach each section, helping students develop intuition and analytical skills to excel in the Logical Reasoning portion of the exam.

Takeaways

• 📝 The logical reasoning section is crucial, accounting for half of the total LSAT score.
• 📊 There are three main question families in logical reasoning: Assumption (64%), Function (19%), and Inference (24%).
• 🔍 The LSAT focuses on argument validity, not soundness, meaning it only tests whether conclusions logically follow from evidence, not if the evidence is true.
• 🔑 To succeed in the assumption family, students must identify gaps in the argument’s reasoning and evaluate its validity.
• 🛠️ The function family of questions tests your ability to analyze the role of statements within an argument, understanding how they contribute to the overall logic.
• 📖 Inference questions challenge students to deduce what can be inferred from given statements, often without arguments.
• 📈 Logical reasoning sections have a varied difficulty curve, with questions becoming harder in later sections, rewarding students who get through the tougher parts.
• 🧠 Intuition plays a large role in the earlier parts of the section, while more complex reasoning is needed as the difficulty increases.
• ⚠️ Trap answers fall into three categories: scope, logic, and degree. Mastering the ability to spot these traps is key to success.
• 🔗 Understanding reasoning structures—conditional logic, causality, and comparison—is crucial for tackling difficult questions in the last third of the section.

Q & A

What is the importance of the Logical Reasoning section in the LSAT?

The Logical Reasoning section is crucial because it constitutes half of the total LSAT score, with two out of the four scored sections being Logical Reasoning sections.

What are the three main families of question types in Logical Reasoning?

The three main families of question types are: the Assumption family (64% of questions), the Function family (19% of questions), and the Inference family (24% of questions).

What is the primary focus of questions in the Assumption family?

The Assumption family questions focus on evaluating arguments by identifying the gap or flaw in the reasoning, questioning whether the conclusion logically follows from the evidence.

What is the role of the Function family of questions?

The Function family of questions measures the ability to abstract reasoning and understand the purpose or role of different parts of an argument, essentially analyzing how claims function within the argument.

How does the Inference family differ from the other two families?

The Inference family asks test-takers to figure out what can be logically deduced based on a set of statements, instead of analyzing arguments. These questions focus on what can be inferred from the information provided.

What reasoning structure is the most common in Logical Reasoning questions?

Conditional logic is the most common reasoning structure, playing a role in 54% of all Logical Reasoning questions.

How does the LSAT typically increase the difficulty level in Logical Reasoning questions?

The difficulty level increases by providing more tempting but wrong answer choices, presenting more complex arguments, and introducing unfamiliar topics that make it harder to rely on intuition.

What are some common trap answer patterns to be aware of in Logical Reasoning questions?

Common trap answer patterns include scope shifts, logical reversals, and changes in degree. Understanding these traps is essential to eliminate wrong but tempting answer choices.

How should students approach the first third of a Logical Reasoning section?

In the first third of the section, students should primarily rely on intuition, using real-world knowledge to quickly identify gaps in reasoning and answer questions without overanalyzing.

Why is understanding reasoning structures important for the harder questions in Logical Reasoning?

In the more difficult questions, reasoning structures like conditional logic, causality, and comparison help identify gaps in reasoning more systematically, providing a clearer path to the correct answer.