Sample Questions: Necessary Assumption
Find the unstated premise the argument needs to work. Three original questions below. No timer. Check each answer and read the explanation before moving on.
The new highway bypass will cut commute times, because drivers will be able to avoid the congested downtown corridor.
The argument assumes that
If the bypass clogs up just like downtown, nobody saves time. Negate B and the conclusion dies.
Organic vegetables must be healthier, because they are grown without synthetic pesticides.
The reasoning depends on the assumption that
Avoiding synthetic pesticides only matters for health if those pesticides are harmful. Without B, the "healthier" conclusion has no support.
The software upgrade will save the company money, since it automates the invoicing process.
Which of the following is an assumption required by the argument?
Automation only saves money overall if the upgrade costs less than what it replaces. A pricey upgrade could cost more than the labor it saves.
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Last updated October 12, 2026