LSAT Logical Reasoning
Master the art of analyzing, evaluating, and constructing arguments for the LSAT and beyond.
Logical Indicators & Conditional Reasoning
Cracking the Code: Logical Indicators
Many LSAT questions use certain words to signal relationships between statements. These are called logical indicators.
Groups of Logical Indicators
- Cause & Effect: because, leads to, results in
- Conditional: if, only if, unless, except
Conditional Reasoning Basics
Conditional statements follow the pattern: "If A, then B" (\(A \rightarrow B\)).
Contrapositive: Flip and negate: "If not B, then not A" (\( eg B \rightarrow eg A\)).
How This Helps
Spotting these indicators lets you diagram arguments and spot hidden assumptions.
Life Skills
From following instructions to understanding contracts, conditional reasoning is everywhere!
Examples
If you study, then you will pass. If you don't pass, you didn't study.
You can go to the party only if you finish your homework. (Finish homework → Go to the party)
In a Nutshell
Unlock the meaning behind logical keywords and master 'if-then' statements.