LSAT Explanation PT 20, S1, Q25: Tom: Employers complain that people graduating

LSAT Question Stem

Which one of the following most accurately describes how Mary's response is related to Tom's argument? 

Logical Reasoning Question Type

This is a Method of Reasoning question. 

Correct Answer

The correct answer to this question is D. 

LSAT Question Complete Explanation

First, let's analyze the passage's argument. Tom argues that since high school graduates often lack vocational skills, they should be required to work part-time jobs to acquire these skills. This is Tom's conclusion. Mary responds by pointing out that there are already too few part-time jobs for students who want to work, and requiring students to work will not create more jobs. This is Mary's counterargument.

Now, let's discuss the question type and what it's asking us to do. This is a Method of Reasoning (MOR) question, which means we need to identify how Mary's response is related to Tom's argument.

Let's go through each answer choice:

a) It analyzes an undesirable result of undertaking the course of action that Tom recommends.

Mary does not discuss any negative consequences of Tom's plan; she simply argues that the plan isn't feasible due to the lack of available part-time jobs. Therefore, this answer choice is incorrect.

b) It argues that Tom has mistaken an unavoidable trend for an avoidable one.

While Mary disagrees with Tom's proposed solution, she does not claim that the trend of graduates lacking vocational skills is unavoidable. She only argues that Tom's plan is unworkable. This answer choice is not correct.

c) It provides information that is inconsistent with an explicitly stated premise in Tom's argument.

Mary's response does contradict the idea that Tom's plan is practical. However, Tom never explicitly states that his plan is practical, so Mary's response doesn't directly conflict with a stated premise in Tom's argument. This answer choice is incorrect.

d) It presents a consideration that undercuts an assumption on which Tom's argument depends.

This is the correct answer choice. Mary's response challenges the assumption that Tom's plan is workable by pointing out the lack of available part-time jobs. While Tom may not explicitly state this assumption, it is likely that he believes his plan is feasible, and Mary's response undermines this belief.

e) It defends an alternative solution to the problem that Tom describes.

Mary does not propose an alternative solution to the problem of high school graduates lacking vocational skills. She only argues against Tom's plan. Therefore, this answer choice is incorrect.

In conclusion, the correct answer is (d) because Mary's response presents a consideration that undercuts an assumption on which Tom's argument depends.