Multiple Assumption Analysis
Multiple Assumption Analysis problems involve arguments that rely on several interconnected assumptions. You must identify all key assumptions or determine which assumption is most fundamental to the argument.
What You'll Learn
Introduction to Multiple Assumption Analysis
Multiple Assumption Analysis problems involve arguments that rely on several interconnected assumptions. You must identify all key assumptions or determine which assumption is most fundamental to the argument.
Prerequisites
How to Solve Multiple Assumption Analysis Problems
Step 1: Read the argument carefully and identify the main conclusion
Step 2: List all the logical steps from evidence to conclusion
Step 3: For each step, identify what must be true for that step to be valid
Step 4: Compile a complete list of assumptions
Step 5: Determine which assumptions are most fundamental (without which the argument collapses)
Step 6: For prioritization questions, identify the assumption that is most necessary
Step 7: Verify that all assumptions are indeed unstated
Step 8: Answer based on the specific question (list, prioritize, or identify the most critical)
Example Problem
Example: Statement: 'To solve unemployment, the government should provide free technical training and guarantee job placement.' What are the key assumptions? Solution: Step 1: Conclusion: Government should provide training and job placement Step 2: Evidence/Reasoning: This will solve unemployment Step 3: Assumptions list: - Unemployment is primarily due to skill gaps - Government has resources for such programs - Employers will hire program graduates - Technical skills are in high demand - Job placement guarantees are feasible Step 4: Most fundamental: 'Unemployment is primarily due to skill gaps' (without this, the whole solution is irrelevant) Answer: Multiple assumptions exist; the most fundamental is that unemployment is caused by skill gaps
Pro Tips & Tricks
- Create an assumption map - list each logical link and its underlying assumption
- Distinguish between necessary assumptions (argument fails without them) and strengthening assumptions (argument is weaker without them)
- The most fundamental assumption is often about the nature of the problem being addressed
- Look for assumptions about causality, feasibility, and value priorities
- In multi-step arguments, assumptions can be nested (assumptions about assumptions)
- Use the negation test on each candidate assumption
Shortcut Methods to Solve Faster
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Practice Worksheets
Practice makes perfect! Work through these worksheets to master Multiple Assumption Analysis. Each worksheet contains 20 questions with detailed explanations. Start from Worksheet 1 and progress through increasing difficulty levels.
Exam Importance
Multiple Assumption Analysis is an important topic for various competitive exams. Here's how frequently it appears:
Ready to Master Multiple Assumption Analysis?
Start with Worksheet 1 and work your way up to expert level! Each worksheet includes: