Why (D) is right: the true-premise trap
A Main point explanation from our free library. The question below is original, written for this page. Then the full breakdown: why the right answer is right, and why each wrong answer is wrong.
The question
Critics call the new bike-share program a waste of money, pointing to its empty docking stations. But the stations are empty because every bike is in use. Ridership is at record levels. The program is a success by the only measure that matters: people are riding the bikes.
Which one of the following most accurately expresses the main conclusion of the argument?
- The bike-share program's docking stations are empty because every bike is in use.
- Ridership on the bike-share program is at record levels.
- The program's critics are wrong about everything they say.
- The bike-share program is a success. Correct
- The city should expand the program to more neighborhoods.
Why (D) is correct
Strip the argument to its skeleton: critics say it fails, here is why their evidence misleads, here are the real numbers, therefore it succeeds. The "therefore" lands on (D).
The test-writers love putting true premises in the answer choices, (A) and (B) here, because test-takers confuse "true according to the argument" with "the point of the argument." The main point is the claim the author most wants you to walk away believing.
Why the wrong answers are wrong
(A) Half-right: premise, not conclusion
This explains the critics' evidence away. It is a rebuttal offered in service of the larger claim, not the claim itself.
(B) Half-right: premise, not conclusion
Another piece of evidence. It supports the verdict; it is not the verdict.
(C) Too strong
The argument disputes one criticism, about wasted money. "Wrong about everything" is far broader than anything stated.
(E) Out of scope
Expansion is never proposed. The argument judges the program as it is; it does not recommend next steps.
Last updated October 12, 2026