Statement and Argument-Analytical Reasoning

Introduction :

The argument is a very important part of analytical reasoning expressing different opinions for or against something. In competitive examinations, different types of questions are asked from this section in the form of inferences, assumptions, course of action, syllogism, etc. This is the reason argument is called the backbone of analytical reasoning. 

In this section, we are going to cover the concept, types of statements and arguments, tips and tricks and frequently asked questions. Read this article thoroughly to clear your doubts as certain examples are also been given.

Concept of Statement and Argument :

An argument is an opposing or supporting fact given against a statement. 

In this type of question, certain statements are given which are concerned with an issue followed by certain arguments in favour or against that statement. 

Out of the followed statements we have to identify the correct arguments. 

Generally, both the arguments are contrary to each other and those refer to positive and negative results of the action as mentioned in the statement issued. 

Arguments can be of two types:

• Strong Argument: An argument is strong when it follows the exact theme as the statement given. The strong argument gives the practical or real aspect of the argument. It is backed up by the facts and reason depending upon the situation.
• Weak Argument: An argument is called weak if it does not follow the theme of the given statement and it does not address all the given points in the given statements. A weak argument is not related to the real aspects and may be related to a trivial aspect of the statement.
  

Points to Ponder:

1) To find out whether the argument follows the statement or not we must understand the theme and the deep analysis of the argument.

2) Statement based on universal truth is always strong. 

3) There is ambiguity in weak arguments.

4) Weak arguments are simple and superfluous in nature.

5) Weak arguments are contrary to established facts.

6) Weak arguments are those which are half explained.

Types of statements and Arguments:

1). Ambiguous-based arguments: In this type of weak argument, the question does not clarify how the argument is related to the action and what exactly the writer wants to say, therefore the arguments are weak in nature.

2). Superfluous arguments:  In this type of weak argument, arguments are superfluous and do not require a deep analysis of the statement.

3). Question-back argument: In this type of weak argument, the argument consists of questions asked back by the arguer.

4). Established acts: The argument of this type is strong and this is a type of established fact and usually true.

5). Experience-based where results follow: Based on past experiences these are strong arguments.

6). Prevailing notion of truth: In this type of strong argument, the arguments are universally accepted or true.

Tips and Tricks for Statement and Argument-based questions :

Tip 1: Understand the theme of the statement, and do proper screening before reaching the conclusion to answer the question.

Tip 2: Check for arguments that are not absurd or harmful in case of a strong argument.

Tip 3: Arguments can be accepted or rejected based on ambiguity.

Government Exams where statement and Argument is a part of the syllabus

• Bank PO
• Clerical cadre
• RRB (Bank)
• UPSC
• State PSC Exams
• Defence Exams (CISF, CDS, etc.)

Statement and Argument FAQs :

1) What is statement and argument reasoning?

Ans. In this type of question statement is given is followed by certain arguments one or two in number, one type of argument is strong and another is a weak argument. Candidates have to evaluate strong statements.

2) Which type of exams it is asked?

Ans. It is asked in government exams as already discussed in this article.

3) How to solve these types of questions?

Ans. To solve these types of questions tips and tricks are given in the article.

4) Where I shall find sample questions and Answers?

Ans. We have discussed a practice set on this topic in the next section.

5) What are the types of questions in this section?

Ans. Refer article for these types of statements.