What is the best way for me to approach Critical Reasoning questions in the GMAT Verbal section?

16 Oct 2026 · Answered by Geetha Muthu · 1 min read

Quick Answer verified

For GMAT Critical Reasoning, read the question first so you know the task, identify the argument's structure, and try to predict the answer before viewing the choices. Then read all options, eliminate wrong ones, and pick the answer that is a logical extension of the argument.

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Critical Reasoning questions test the reasoning skills involved in making arguments, evaluating arguments, and formulating or evaluating a plan of action. A clear step-by-step method helps you stay in control.

Step by Step Approach

Step	What to do
1	Read the question first so you know what kind of question it is
2	Identify the structure of the argument
3	Try to guess the correct answer before reading the choices
4	Read all answer choices and eliminate the ones you know are wrong
5	Analyze the remaining ones and choose the most correct answer

Question Type Tips

For strengthen or weaken questions, find the type of reasoning the author uses and choose the answer that helps or hurts that reasoning.
For conclusion questions, choose the answer that contains the basic idea of the author.
The answer must be a logical extension of the argument. Never choose one just because you feel it is true.

My Advice

Practise labelling each question type and the argument's conclusion before looking at options. Check the official GMAT website for the latest Verbal format.

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