LSAT 115 | Section 2 | Logical Reasoning: Q8

LR Question 8 Explanation

QUESTION TEXT: The kind of thoughts that keep a person from falling…

QUESTION TYPE: Parallel

CONCLUSION: Counting sheep will let anyone get to sleep if it is only their thoughts preventing them from sleeping.

REASONING: The thoughts can occur in either the right or the left brain. Counting sheep uses both sides of the brain.

ANALYSIS: The argument has the following structure:

The problem can occur in two ways. Solution X will work, because it prevents both possibilities.

The context is that we know from practical experience that the argument will not work consistently despite its reasonableness. Context is important for parallel reasoning.

___________

1. There may be other factors apart from insulation which make stucco a better material. This is not a great argument.
2. CORRECT. Mice can solve the cat-sofa problem by distracting both a cat’s claws and teeth. Anyone who has ever owned a cat will know this doesn’t always work. Just like counting sheep doesn’t always work.
3. This is logically suspect. Is one of the roads hilly? That would make it longer, even though the length on the map was equal. Measure a hilly road if you don’t believe me.
4. This is good advice and the structure is completely different. The stimulus recommended we combine counting with imagining. This just recommends separating the materials.
5. Is the ship in question a large ship? This isn’t even a good argument.

Recap: The question begins with “The kind of thoughts that keep a person from falling”. It is a Parallel Reasoning question. Learn more about LSAT Parallel questions in our guide to LSAT Logical Reasoning question types.