In the GMAT Critical Reasoning section, identifying conclusions is a crucial skill. A conclusion is the statement that the author is trying to prove or support through evidence. This article will help you understand how to recognize conclusions, differentiate them from premises, and analyze their validity.

A conclusion is a judgment or decision reached after consideration. In arguments, it is the main point that the author wants you to accept based on the premises provided. For example:

Premise: All humans are mortal.

Premise: Socrates is a human.

Conclusion: Therefore, Socrates is mortal.

To identify conclusions in an argument, look for indicator words such as:

• Therefore
• Thus
• Hence
• As a result
• Consequently

These words often signal that a conclusion is being drawn from the preceding premises.

Premises are the statements that provide support for the conclusion. They are the evidence or reasons that lead to the conclusion. In the example above, the statements about humans and Socrates are premises. To differentiate between premises and conclusions, ask yourself:

• What is the main point being argued?
• What statements are providing support for that point?

Once you have identified the conclusion, it is essential to evaluate its validity. Consider the following:

• Are the premises true?
• Do the premises logically lead to the conclusion?
• Are there any assumptions made that are not supported by the premises?

For instance, in the argument:

Premise: All cats are mammals.

Premise: Felix is a cat.

Conclusion: Therefore, Felix is a dog.

The conclusion is invalid because the premises do not support it. Instead, the correct conclusion would be that Felix is a mammal.

To master identifying conclusions, practice with various arguments. Here are a few examples:

1. Premise: If it rains, the ground will be wet.

Premise: It is raining.

Conclusion: Therefore, the ground is wet.

2. Premise: Most dogs are friendly.

Premise: Rex is a dog.

Conclusion: Therefore, Rex is friendly.

In both cases, identify the conclusion and evaluate its validity based on the premises.

Understanding how to identify and evaluate conclusions is vital for success in the GMAT Critical Reasoning section. By practicing these skills, you will improve your ability to analyze arguments effectively and enhance your overall performance on the test.