Introduction to Parallel Reasoning in Application-Based Questions:

 

Parallel reasoning questions assess your ability to apply the same pattern of reasoning or logic found in a given passage to a new scenario or argument. These questions require you to identify the underlying structure of the original argument and then find the answer choice that uses a similar structure to reach a conclusion. Mastering parallel reasoning is important for success in the VARC section of the CAT exam.

 

Key Points:

 

Understanding Parallel Reasoning: Parallel reasoning questions present a passage or argument and ask you to find another passage or argument with a similar structure or pattern of reasoning. The content may be different, but the logical structure should be the same.

 

Identify the Structure: Begin by identifying the logical structure or pattern in the original passage. Look for elements such as premises, evidence, conclusions, and the relationships between them.

 

Analyse Answer Choices: Examine the answer choices to find the one that parallels the original reasoning. This means that the structure of the argument should match, even if the content is entirely different.

 

Beware of Trap Choices: Be cautious of answer choices that may seem similar on the surface but do not share the same logical structure as the original passage. Focus on the underlying reasoning.

 

Apply the Same Logic: Once you've identified the parallel reasoning structure, ensure that the conclusion drawn in the new argument is logically derived from the premises, just as in the original passage.

 

Example:

 

Let's work through an example of a parallel reasoning question:

 

Original Passage:

"The increased use of smartphones has led to a decline in face-to-face social interactions among young adults. As individuals spend more time on their devices, they have fewer opportunities for in-person conversations, which can impact their interpersonal skills."

 

Parallel Reasoning Question:

"Which of the following arguments parallels the reasoning in the original passage?"

 

Approach:

 

Identify the Structure: In the original passage, the structure involves a cause-and-effect relationship. Increased smartphone use (cause) leads to a decline in face-to-face interactions (effect). The passage also discusses the impact on interpersonal skills.

 

Analyse the Answer Choices: Examine the answer choices to find one that shares a similar cause-and-effect structure, even if the content is different.

 

Evaluate the Answer Choices:

 

a) "The expansion of online shopping has resulted in reduced foot traffic in physical stores. As more consumers shop online, traditional retail spaces are seeing a decline in customers, which affects their profitability."

 

b) "The popularity of streaming services has caused a decline in cable television subscriptions. With more people opting for streaming, cable providers are facing challenges in retaining customers, impacting their revenue."

 

c) "Recent environmental regulations have led to decreased industrial emissions. As stricter regulations are enforced, factories are reducing their emissions, which has a positive impact on air quality."

 

d) "The introduction of electric vehicles has decreased the demand for traditional gasoline cars. As consumers shift toward electric vehicles, gasoline car manufacturers are experiencing a decline in sales, affecting their profitability."

 

Correct Answer: Option a) "The expansion of online shopping has resulted in reduced foot traffic in physical stores. As more consumers shop online, traditional retail spaces are seeing a decline in customers, which affects their profitability."

 

Explanation: Option a) parallels the reasoning in the original passage. It presents a cause-and-effect relationship similar to the original argument, where increased smartphone use leads to a decline in face-to-face interactions, just as the expansion of online shopping leads to reduced foot traffic in physical stores.

 

Identifying parallel reasoning involves recognizing the logical structure of arguments and finding similar structures in answer choices. Practise parallel reasoning questions to improve your ability to apply the same pattern of reasoning across different scenarios.