Reasoning – Deriving Conclusions From Passages
What is Deriving Conclusions From Passages?
These questions provide a short passage followed by conclusions. You must identify which ones logically follow from the information provided.
Types of Passages
1. Factual: Based on data or information.
2. Opinion-based: Author’s viewpoint.
3. Mixed: Factual data with interpretation.
Example Questions
- Passage: Online education is becoming more popular due to its flexibility and cost benefits.
Conclusion I: Online education is better than classroom learning.
Conclusion II: People find value in flexible learning.
Answer: Answer: Only II follows
- Passage: Many cities are investing in metro rail to reduce traffic.
Conclusion I: Metro rails reduce traffic.
Conclusion II: Cities are improving infrastructure.
Answer: Answer: Both follow
Exam Tips
- Focus on what is directly supported in the passage.
- Identify the tone (positive, neutral, critical).
- Beware of exaggerated conclusions.
Common Mistakes
- Assuming outside facts.
- Choosing too broad or extreme interpretations.
- Misreading author’s intention or tone.
Quick Revision Checklist
- Underline key facts in the passage.
- Match each conclusion back to those facts.
- Eliminate conclusions requiring assumptions.
Summary: This topic sharpens reading comprehension and inference skills. Focus only on what the passage justifies—nothing more, nothing less.