LSAT Explanation PT 36, S1, Q17: The best way to write a

LSAT Question Stem

Which one of the following illustrates a principle most similar to that illustrated by the passage? 

Logical Reasoning Question Type

This is a Parallel question. 

Correct Answer

The correct answer to this question is E. 

LSAT Question Complete Explanation

This is a Parallel Reasoning question, which asks us to identify an answer choice that illustrates a principle most similar to that illustrated by the passage. The passage's principle can be abstracted as: the best way to achieve a goal is to work backwards by planning the outcome and then figuring out the elements that lead to that outcome.

Let's analyze the answer choices:

a) This answer choice starts off well by mentioning planning a trip, but then introduces a contrasting idea, stating that financial planning must be done before choosing the destination. This somewhat counters the principle in the passage, making it not the best match.

b) This option reverses the order of events described in the principle. It suggests preparing the soil first and then deciding what vegetables to plant, which is not working backward from the desired outcome.

c) This choice does not parallel the principle in the passage, as it states that architectural plans and constructions are intertwined and cannot be separated into a linear progression that moves backward after a goal has been established. It emphasizes the connection between design and construction, rather than working backward from the desired outcome.

d) This option promotes a principle where multiple paths are taken in an attempt to reach a goal, which is different from the principle in the passage. It focuses on trying out various strategies to solve a problem rather than working backward from the outcome.

e) This choice is the correct answer, as it follows the principle of working backward from the desired outcome. It suggests visualizing where you want the tennis shot to go and then determining the position needed to execute the shot properly, which aligns with the principle in the passage.

In conclusion, the correct answer is (E), as it best illustrates the principle of working backward from the desired outcome to achieve a goal, similar to the principle outlined in the passage.