GRE General TestAnalytical WritingMedium
A city council is considering a proposal to build a new public library. Proponents argue that it will foster a stronger sense of community and support local businesses by increasing foot traffic. Which of the following, if true, would most strongly support the claim that the library will support local businesses by increasing foot traffic?
- AA recent study found that public libraries in similar-sized cities are typically visited by residents multiple times per week.
- BLocal businesses have reported a decline in sales over the last five years due to online competition.
- CThe proposed library will include a large, modern cafe with outdoor seating and free Wi-Fi.
- DThe city currently lacks adequate public spaces for community gatherings.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. The proposed library will include a large, modern cafe with outdoor seating and free Wi-Fi.
The claim is specifically about increasing foot traffic to support local businesses. A modern cafe with outdoor seating and free Wi-Fi within the library itself is a direct draw for people who would then be in the vicinity of other local businesses, thus directly increasing foot traffic and potential patronage.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This shows general library usage, but doesn't explicitly connect that usage to increased foot traffic *for surrounding local businesses* nor the *support* for them.
- B. This highlights a problem local businesses face, but doesn't explain how a new library would solve it specifically by increasing foot traffic.
- D. This supports the 'stronger sense of community' aspect but doesn't directly link to increased foot traffic for local businesses.
Supporting a Trend Claim
To support a trend claim means to introduce information or evidence that strengthens the likelihood or validity of a predicted pattern, outcome, or causal relationship.
- Provide direct evidence that reinforces the predicted connection.
- Offer a mechanism or reason why the trend would occur.
- Show that similar situations have led to the predicted outcome.
Memory trick: SUPPORT: Strengthen Underpinning Principles, Provide Other Relevant Proof, Optimize Reasoning, Reinforce Theses.