Dear Veritas Prep,

When I start doing a critical reasoning question, I first determine a type of question using SWIMMER, but then if for example it is a strengthen question I am always puzzled whether I have to read the passage from the beginning or whether I have to start from determining a conclusion or assumptions first. Tell me please in what order should I approach critical reasoning questions? And if you say that we should focus on the conclusion in strengthen questions, does it mean that we ignore assumptions for that conclusion and just choose an answer choice that supports that conclusion?

I am really looking forward to your reply!

Thank you!!!

First, you're right - you identify the question type. This will help you read through the passage with a critical eye and determine what information is most important.

If it's a strengthen, we read the passage paying particular attention to the conclusion, but NOT ignoring the premises. Ideally, the correct answer will strengthen the conclusion directly, but it could also strengthen one of the premises and be correct.

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