LSAT Logical Reasoning

Master the art of analyzing, evaluating, and constructing arguments for the LSAT and beyond.

Understanding ArgumentsCommon Question TypesLogical Indicators & Conditional Reasoning
Spotting Logical FallaciesAdvanced Conditional ReasoningEvaluating Evidence and Strengthening Arguments
Analyzing News & MediaDebates and Everyday DiscussionsDecision Making & Problem Solving
Reading Efficiently Under Time PressureAnswer Elimination TechniquesPrephrasing and Predicting Answers
Understanding Argume...Common Question Type...Logical Indicators &...Spotting Logical Fal...Advanced Conditional...Evaluating Evidence ...Analyzing News & Med...Debates and Everyday...Decision Making & Pr...Reading Efficiently ...Answer Elimination T...Prephrasing and Pred...
Basic Concepts

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.

Key Terms

Conditional Statement
A statement that asserts if one thing happens, another will follow.
Contrapositive
A logically equivalent statement where both conditions are negated and reversed.
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Spotting Logical Fallacies