Organizing Information: Quick guide | Reading Comprehension for LSAT PDF Download

How Does the Passage or Paragraph Make Its Point?

These questions test your ability to analyze how a passage constructs its argument or how ideas are structured:

• How do ideas progress in the passage?
• What role does a specific paragraph play?
  Examples:
• “Which best describes the organization of the passage’s final paragraph?”
• “Which most accurately outlines the passage’s structure?”

Strategies

1. Track Paragraph Transitions
   For questions about the entire passage, review the first and last sentences of each paragraph. These sentences often signal shifts in the argument, helping you trace the flow from one idea or claim to the next.
2. Understand the Argument’s Construction
   Consider how the author builds their case, both within paragraphs and across the passage. Common patterns include:
   • Stating a thesis, providing evidence, then addressing counterarguments.
   • Describing a paradox, illustrating it with examples, then proposing a solution.
   • Presenting one side of a debate, then another, before advocating for one or introducing a new perspective.
     Answer choices will reflect these broad organizational patterns.
3. Focus on Broad Strokes
   Correct answers are general descriptions of the passage’s structure, not detailed summaries. Don’t worry if the best choice lacks specifics—it’s meant to capture the overall approach. Incorrect choices will be similarly broad but misrepresent the passage’s organization.

Common Wrong Choice Types

• Incorrect Sequence: Choices may include correct elements but place them in the wrong order (e.g., claiming the author’s viewpoint is stated at the start when it’s at the end).
• Mischaracterized Role: Some choices misdescribe a paragraph’s function in the passage.
• Plausible but Wrong: Certain options may sound sophisticated but fail to reflect the actual structure of the argument.

Comparative Reading Questions About Organization

For comparative reading sets, questions may focus on strategies shared by both passages or their relationship. Examples:

• “Which approach do both passages use to support their point about _____?”
  • Eliminate choices if even one passage doesn’t use the described strategy.
• “Which best describes the relationship between the two passages?”
  • Consider how the passages relate: Is one more focused? Does one argue while the other provides background? Formulate a general answer in your own words, then match it to the choices.