Argument Structure and Reasoning Questions

This practice set focuses on questions about how a passage's argument is constructed — what role different parts play, how evidence supports claims, and how the author builds their case. These questions test your ability to analyse the structure of reasoning, not just the content.

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Quick-Reference Strategy

1. Map the argument. Identify the main claim, supporting evidence, counterarguments, and conclusions.
2. Identify the role of each part. Is a sentence providing evidence, making a claim, offering a counterargument, or drawing a conclusion?
3. Look for structural markers. Words like "however," "therefore," "because," "despite," "in contrast" signal argument structure.
4. Answer the structural question, not a content question. These questions ask HOW the argument works, not WHETHER it is correct.

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Focus Notes

Common Argument Structures

Structure	Description	Signal Words
Claim → Evidence	Author makes a point then supports it	"For example," "evidence shows," "studies indicate"
Problem → Solution	Passage identifies an issue then proposes a response	"To address this," "one solution," "the response was"
Comparison	Two or more things are compared	"In contrast," "similarly," "whereas," "unlike"
Cause → Effect	Passage explains why something happened	"Because," "as a result," "consequently," "led to"
Concession → Rebuttal	Author acknowledges a counterpoint then responds	"Although," "while it is true that," "however," "nevertheless"

Types of Structural Questions

Question Type	What It Asks
"What is the function of paragraph 2?"	What role does this section play in the overall argument?
"The author mentions X in order to..."	Why is this specific detail included?
"Which of the following best describes the passage's structure?"	Identify the overall argument pattern
"The author's main method of persuasion is..."	How does the author build their case?

Common Traps

• Content distraction: An option that correctly describes WHAT is said but not the STRUCTURAL role it plays
• Misidentifying the main claim: Confusing a supporting point for the main argument
• Missing the counterargument: Not recognising when the author acknowledges the opposing view

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Approach Each Question