LSAT Explanation PT 28, S3, Q9: Market research traditionally entails surveying consumers

LSAT Question Stem

Which one of the following, if true, provides the strongest support for the market researchers' claim? 

Logical Reasoning Question Type

This is a Strengthen question. 

Correct Answer

The correct answer to this question is A. 

LSAT Question Complete Explanation

In this Strengthen question, we are asked to find the answer choice that provides the strongest support for the market researchers' claim that observational research yields information about consumer behavior that surveys alone cannot provide. Let's first analyze the argument in the passage:

Premise: Market research traditionally entails surveying consumers about why they buy and use particular products and brands.

Premise: Observational research is now increasingly used by market researchers to supplement surveys.

Conclusion: Market researchers claim that observational research yields information about consumer behavior that surveys alone cannot provide.

Now, let's come up with an "Evaluate" question about the argument: "What kind of information can be obtained through observational research that cannot be obtained through surveys?"

With this question in mind, let's evaluate each answer choice:

a) This answer choice directly addresses our "Evaluate" question by providing an example of the kind of information that can be obtained through observational research but not through surveys. When consumers pick up and put down products while shopping, they reveal their preferences even if they are unable to explain them. This strengthens the market researchers' claim that observational research provides additional information about consumer behavior. This is the correct answer.

b) While it's true that consumers may be willing to participate in observational research, this answer choice doesn't address the comparison between the information provided by surveys and observational research. It doesn't tell us what kind of information can be obtained through observational research that cannot be obtained through surveys. Therefore, this answer choice is not as strong as choice A.

c) This answer choice talks about consumers becoming self-conscious about their buying habits, but it doesn't provide any information about the benefits of using observational research over surveys. It doesn't answer our "Evaluate" question, and therefore, it doesn't strengthen the claim.

d) This answer choice focuses on the market researchers' enjoyment of data collection in observational research, which is irrelevant to the claim that observational research provides additional information about consumer behavior. It doesn't address our "Evaluate" question, so it doesn't strengthen the claim.

e) This answer choice talks about consumers being more likely to respond to oral surveys than written questionnaires. However, it doesn't mention observational research, which is the focus of the claim. Therefore, it doesn't answer our "Evaluate" question and doesn't strengthen the claim.

In conclusion, the correct answer is A, as it directly addresses our "Evaluate" question and provides an example of the kind of information that can be obtained through observational research that cannot be obtained through surveys, thus strengthening the market researchers' claim.