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How to solve assumption based CAT RC and CR Questions

authorImageAnil Solonki4 Sept, 2023
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How to solve assumption based CAT RC and CR Questions

Assumption-based questions in CAT RC and CR sections demand a sharp eye for detecting implicit assumptions within arguments and passages. By honing your ability to identify and evaluate these assumptions, you can improve your performance in these question types.

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is known for its rigorous examination of candidates' reading comprehension (RC) and critical reasoning (CR) skills. A significant portion of these questions revolves around identifying and understanding assumptions. Mastering assumption-based questions is crucial for securing a strong score in the CAT Verbal Ability section. In this article, we will explore effective strategies for solving these challenging RC and CR questions.

Understanding Assumption-Based Questions:

Assumption-based questions assess your ability to identify the underlying assumptions or unstated premises upon which an argument or passage is based. These assumptions are often implicit and must be inferred from the context. In RC questions, you must recognize assumptions in the author's argument, while in CR questions, you evaluate the assumptions made within a given argument.

Key Strategies for Solving Assumption-Based Questions:

  1. Read Carefully and Annotate: Begin by reading the passage or argument carefully. Underline or annotate sections where assumptions are likely to be present. Look for phrases like "implicitly assumes," "presupposes," or "assumes without evidence."
  2. Identify the Conclusion: In CR questions, identify the conclusion of the argument. Understanding the conclusion helps in pinpointing the assumptions that support it.
  3. Predict Assumptions: Before looking at answer choices, try to predict what assumptions might be necessary to make the argument or passage valid. This proactive approach can help you evaluate answer choices more effectively.
  4. Evaluate Each Choice: In RC questions, assess each answer choice for its relevance to the author's argument. In CR questions, evaluate answer choices to see if they bridge the gap between the premises and the conclusion. Eliminate choices that do not fulfill this role.
  5. Look for Weakeners and Strengtheners: In CR questions, some answer choices may weaken the argument, while others strengthen it. Consider the impact of each choice on the argument's validity.
  6. Beware of Extreme Language: Avoid answer choices with extreme language, such as "always," "never," or "all." These choices are often incorrect in CAT RC and CR questions.
  7. Use Process of Elimination: If you're unsure about an answer, eliminate choices that are clearly irrelevant or contradictory to the argument. This increases your chances of selecting the correct answer.
  8. Practice Regularly: Practice with a variety of RC and CR passages to enhance your ability to identify assumptions. Familiarize yourself with common assumption types, such as causal, statistical, and evaluative assumptions.

Example Scenario - Assumption-Based RC Question:

Passage:
"The rise in online shopping has led to a decline in brick-and-mortar retail stores. This trend is likely to continue, as consumers increasingly prefer the convenience of shopping from home."
Question: "What is the assumption underlying the author's argument?" In this example, the assumption underlying the author's argument could be that consumers prioritize convenience over other factors when choosing how to shop. Example 1 - Assumption-Based RC Question: Passage: "The author argues that renewable energy sources are the key to mitigating climate change. Wind and solar power have shown immense potential in reducing carbon emissions." Question: "What assumption does the author make about the feasibility of scaling up renewable energy sources?" In this case, the assumption could be that it is possible to scale up renewable energy sources to meet a significant portion of global energy demand.
  • Example 2 - Assumption-Based CR Question:
Argument: "The company's decision to invest heavily in research and development (R&D) is a wise move. History has shown that companies that innovate tend to outperform their competitors in the long run." Question : "What assumption is the argument based on regarding the relationship between R&D investment and long-term performance?" The assumption here could be that increased investment in R&D leads to innovation, which, in turn, leads to long-term competitive advantage.
  • Example 3 - Assumption-Based RC Question:
Passage: "The author contends that increased government funding for education is essential for economic growth. Education equips the workforce with the skills needed for innovation and productivity." Question: "What is the underlying assumption regarding the link between education and economic growth in the passage?" The assumption might be that a better-educated workforce directly contributes to economic growth by fostering innovation and productivity.
  • Example 4 - Assumption-Based CR Question:
Argument: "Reducing greenhouse gas emissions is essential to combat climate change. Therefore, implementing stricter regulations on industrial emissions is a necessary step." Question: "What assumption does the argument rely on regarding the impact of industrial emissions on climate change?" The assumption in this argument could be that stricter regulations on industrial emissions will effectively reduce greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to combating climate change.
  • Example 5 - Assumption-Based RC Question:
Passage: "The historian argues that the decline of a civilization can often be attributed to internal factors rather than external threats. A civilization's internal cohesion and leadership play crucial roles in its longevity." Question: "What assumption is the historian making about the relative significance of internal and external factors in the decline of civilizations?" The assumption here could be that internal factors, such as cohesion and leadership, have a more substantial impact on the decline of civilizations compared to external threats. These examples illustrate how assumption-based questions in CAT RC and CR require you to identify the implicit assumptions that underlie arguments or passages.

CAT  Assumption based CAT RC and CR Questions by PW (Physics Wallah):

PW (Physics Wallah)  is more than just an educational platform; it's a companion in your CAT  assumption based CAT RC and CR Questions journey. With its comprehensive study materials, expert guidance, and regular practice opportunities, Physics Wallah equips you with the tools you need to tackle  assumption based CAT RC and CR Questions with confidence. So, whether you're a CAT aspirant looking to improve your  assumption based CAT RC and CR Questions Questions skills or someone starting from scratch, Physics Wallah is there to support you on your path to success in the CAT exam.

CAT Assumption based CAT RC and CR Questions Questions PDF by PW:

Here’s the clear insights of  assumption based CAT RC and CR Questions pdf list by the ultimate PW (Physics Wallah) itself:
Assumption based CAT RC and CR Questions Section Download Link
Assumption based Questions Assumption based Question set - 1
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How to solve assumption based CAT RC and CR Questions FAQs

Q1. What are assumption-based questions in CAT RC and CR? Answer : Assumption-based questions require identifying the underlying, often unstated, assumptions in arguments or passages. Q2. How can I approach assumption-based questions in CAT RC and CR? Answer : Start by carefully reading the argument or passage, then identify the assumption necessary for the argument's validity. Q3. What should I do if I can't immediately spot the assumption in an argument or passage? Answer : Try to predict what assumption would be necessary to make the argument valid before reviewing answer choices. Q4. Can I eliminate answer choices in assumption-based questions? Answer : Yes, eliminate answer choices that do not align with the argument's logic or introduce irrelevant assumptions. Q5. Why are assumption-based questions important for CAT preparation? Answer : These questions test your critical thinking skills and ability to assess the validity of arguments, essential for success in the Verbal Ability section of the CAT exam.

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