LSAT Explanation PT 39, S2, Q6: Poor writers often express mundane ideas

LSAT Question Stem

Which one of the following completes the passage most logically? 

Logical Reasoning Question Type

This is a Principle question. 

Correct Answer

The correct answer to this question is D. 

LSAT Question Complete Explanation

First, let's analyze the argument in the passage. The passage states that poor writers often express mundane (ordinary) ideas with elaborate syntax and esoteric vocabulary. Inattentive readers may be impressed but may misunderstand the writing, while alert readers will easily see through the pretentiousness. The argument's structure is as follows:

Premise 1: Poor writers often express mundane ideas with elaborate syntax and esoteric vocabulary.

Premise 2: Inattentive readers may be impressed but may misunderstand the writing.

Premise 3: Alert readers will easily see through the pretentiousness.

The conclusion is missing, and our task is to find the most logical principle for writers based on the given premises.

An "Evaluate" question for this argument could be: "What is the relationship between the complexity of the writing style and the clarity of the ideas expressed?"

Now, let's discuss each answer choice:

a) the simpler the style, the better the writing

This answer choice is not the most logical principle based on the given premises. While it suggests that simplicity is better, it doesn't address the relationship between the complexity of the writing style and the clarity of the ideas expressed. The passage doesn't imply that all complex writing is bad; it only criticizes poor writers who use elaborate syntax and esoteric vocabulary to express mundane ideas.

b) inattentive readers are not worth writing for

This answer choice is not supported by the premises. The passage doesn't suggest that writers should disregard inattentive readers; it only states that inattentive readers may misunderstand the writing.

c) only the most talented writers can successfully adopt a complex style

This answer choice is not the most logical principle based on the given premises. It's not provable that only the most talented writers can successfully adopt a complex style. The passage doesn't exclude talented writers from being able to adopt a complex style successfully.

d) a writing style should not be more complex than the ideas expressed (Correct Answer)

This answer choice is the most logical principle based on the given premises. It addresses the relationship between the complexity of the writing style and the clarity of the ideas expressed. The passage criticizes poor writers who use elaborate syntax and esoteric vocabulary to express mundane ideas, suggesting that the writing style should match the complexity of the ideas being expressed.

e) alert readers are the only readers who are sensitive to writing style

This answer choice is not supported by the premises. The passage doesn't imply that only alert readers are sensitive to writing style; it only states that alert readers can easily see through pretentious writing.

In conclusion, the correct answer is (D) because it provides the most logical principle for writers based on the given premises, addressing the relationship between the complexity of the writing style and the clarity of the ideas expressed.