Exam LSAT Section 1 Logical Reasoning topic 1 question 141 discussion

Actual exam question from Test Prep's LSAT Section 1 Logical Reasoning

Question #: 141
Topic #: 1

[All LSAT Section 1 Logical Reasoning Questions]

More and more computer programs that provide solutions to mathematical problems in engineering are being produced, and it is thus increasingly unnecessary for practicing engineers to have a thorough understanding of fundamental mathematical principles. Consequently, in training engineers who will work in industry, less emphasis should be placed on mathematical principles, so that space in the engineering curriculum will be available for other important subjects.
Which one of the following, if true, most seriously weakens the argument given for the recommendation above?

A. The effective use of computer programs that provide solutions to mathematical problems in engineering requires an understanding of mathematical principles.
B. Many of the computer programs that provide solutions to mathematical problems in engineering are already in routine use.
C. Development of composites and other such new materials has meant that the curriculum for engineers who will work in industry must allow time for teaching the properties of these materials.
D. Most of the computer programs that provide solutions to mathematical problems in engineering can be run on the types of computers available to most engineering firms.
E. The engineering curriculum already requires that engineering students be familiar with and able to use a variety of computer programs.

Show Suggested Answer

Suggested Answer: A 🗳️
Were told in the stem that we need a choice that weakens a recommendation, so we should search for the recommendation while at the same time keeping our eye out for possible problems with it. According to the author, practicing engineers need not be math whizzes any longer due to the abundance of computer programs that solve engineering math problems. "Consequently. . ." (note the excellent conclusion Keyword), engineering programs "should" place less emphasis on math to free up time for other subjects. That, of course, is the recommendation were looking to weaken. A good weakner would seek to demonstrate that math is not as superfluous as the author maintains, and A. accomplishes this by forging a link between math skills and the operation of the programs that the author believes makes math skills unnecessary. If no special skills are required to utilize the programs, then the author may have a point. But if the programs themselves require a certain level of math proficiency to use effectively, the authors recommendation to deemphasize math in engineering training would seem ill-advised.

by [deleted] at March 9, 2025, 1:28 p.m.

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