LSAT 140 | Section 4 | Reading Comprehension: Q15

RC Question 15 Explanation

DISCUSSION: The final paragraph is the conclusion – 1st sentence of paragraph 4 says “therefore”. This paragraphs sums up the argument that learned skills are more important than innate talent.

The paragraphs ends by saying that since motivation is required for skills, then motivation is likely more important than talent.

___________

1. What? The final paragraph doesn’t even mention education. You can learn skills outside of the education system.
2. There’s no contradiction in the final paragraph. I have no idea what this answer choice might refer to.
3. There are two problems here. Recapitulating evidence would mean listing everything that was said in paragraphs two and three. The fourth paragraph simply didn’t do this. The fourth paragraph restated the conclusion, but it did not restate the evidence. Restating the evidence would be: “Because studies show that talent is specific to the field of expertise (paragraph 2) and because adult performers were not exceptional as children (paragraph 3)” etc.
   The second half of this answer is also false. The fourth paragraph does not discuss future research. Look all you want,  you won’t find it. Instead, the second paragraph makes a conclusion about the importance of motivation.
4. What possible objection? I have no idea how to disprove this answer. It simply has no basis in paragraph 4.
5. CORRECT. The two inferences are:
   1. Extended training + a common level of talent may account for outstanding performance.
   2. Motivation may be more important than talent.“Suggests instead” (paragraph 4) is what shows that these are inferences. This answer is very abstract. If you see an abstract answer, don’t glaze over. There are good odds it’s actually the answer. Take the time to figure out what it refers to.