Scope Shift

A scope shift happens when the conclusion talks about something different from what the premises established. The terms slide from one meaning or group to another. It is one of the most common LSAT flaws.

Example

"The policy helped small businesses, so it helped the whole economy" shifts from small businesses to the whole economy.

See also

• Equivocation
• Flaw in the Reasoning
• Necessary Assumption

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Last updated October 12, 2026