LSAT Explanation PT 19, S4, Q24: That wall is supported by several

LSAT Question Stem

Which one of the following arguments is most similar in its logical features to the argument above? 

Logical Reasoning Question Type

This is a Parallel question. 

Correct Answer

The correct answer to this question is A. 

LSAT Question Complete Explanation

This is a Parallel Reasoning question, which asks us to identify the answer choice that has the most similar logical structure to the given argument.

The given argument can be broken down as follows:

Premise: The only possible cause of the wall bulge is a broken joist.

Conclusion: Therefore, at least one joist must be broken.

Now, let's analyze each answer choice to see which one has the most similar logical structure:

Answer choice (A):

Premise: The only possible cause of the conductor's grimace is a mistake.

Conclusion: Therefore, at least one of the players must have made a mistake.

This answer choice closely parallels the structure of the given argument, making it the correct choice.

Answer choice (B):

This choice concludes that the first piece "must have been the easiest," which is very different from the "at least one" conclusion found in the stimulus. This answer choice does not parallel the given argument and is incorrect.

Answer choice (C):

This one concludes that "the players play well only when...," which is also easily distinguishable from the conclusion found in the stimulus, so this answer choice is incorrect.

Answer choice (D):

This answer choice presents a conclusion that is somewhat similar to that found in the stimulus: "(at least) One of the players must be able to play the harp." However, unlike the argument found in the stimulus, this one is not based on the notion that the harp is the only possible cause, which reflects the supporting premise from the stimulus. This answer choice does not parallel the given argument and is incorrect.

Answer choice (E):

This incorrect answer choice presents a conclusion that looks much like the premise found in the stimulus: "this is the only possible cause." But that is the only real relationship between this answer choice and the stimulus, so this one fails to parallel and is thus incorrect.

In conclusion, the correct answer choice is (A), as it has the most similar logical structure to the given argument.