Identifying underlying Assumptions

[bbox]

I'm having a hard time finding gaps or underlying assumptions in logical reasoning questions. I can identify the argument core just fine, but when it comes to evaluating the logic core for the underlying assumptions i just draw a complete blank. It's pretty frustrated. I'm pretty much just identifying the argument core then diving right into the answers as i can't draw up any underlying assumptions. Are there any tips I can use to fix this problem? Or does it get better with practice?

[tommywallach]

Hey Bbox,

Yes, it will definitely get better with practice. However, it's good to practice it outside of trying to actually solve questions. (Because under time constraints, you'll just give up every time and go to the answers.) You can't predict the assumption on every question or anything, but you should be able to discuss the gap in the logic the vast majority of the time. If you're struggling with that, you definitely want to work on it. Are you using our books? The LR book has a lot of examples and drills for finding assumptions! : )

-t