Some Study Notes on CR Strategy

These are my basic principles for approaching CR. This is based on a very successful strategy from GMAT 2006, Premier Program (Kaplan Gmat (Book & CD-Rom)) .

1. Understanding the structure of the argument

Separate out, Conclusion, evidence, Assumption


2. Preview The Question.

This is the first thing to do when you see a CR Question. Read the question actively. Keep it in the back of your mind.


3. Paraphrase Author's point.

An active mind is required when you read the stem. Keep Criticizing every sentence you go over. Also in your mind do some sort of paraphrasing / summarizing. This will help to not to lose track of the argument.


4. Judge argument's persuasiveness.


Think, 'Does it really make sense !!'. Don't be afraid to call Bullshit a Bullshit.


5. Answer the Question being asked.


If you understand the Qn wrong there is a high chance of picking a wrong answer. So keep an eye out for that minor words like, 'Except', 'not'.


6. Try to Pre-phrase an Answer.


Where ever possible keep an idea of what the answer is. Some times you may be right on the money. Nothing to lose. This strategy helps to treat CR like a game.

(I tell myself, Full marks to you and JK tires, when ever Pre-Guess an answer. It's reference to an old quiz program on Doordarshan TV).


7. Keep the scope of the argument in mind.


Some of the answer choices will go to an extra length to support or weaken an argument. Same is true for Assumptions, Conclusions etc. But the right answer will be from what ever is stated as a TRUTH by the specific question.