LSAT (Law School Admission Test)Analytical ReasoningHard
A chef is preparing a three-course meal, consisting of an appetizer, a main course, and a dessert. She has six dishes to choose from: Focaccia, Gazpacho, Halibut, Lasagna, Mousse, and Sorbet. The following rules apply to her selection: 1. The appetizer must be Focaccia or Gazpacho. 2. The main course must be Halibut or Lasagna. 3. The dessert must be Mousse or Sorbet. 4. If Focaccia is chosen, then Lasagna must be chosen. 5. If Gazpacho is chosen, then Mousse cannot be chosen. Which of the following is a complete and accurate list of the main courses that CANNOT be chosen if Mousse is chosen as the dessert?
- ANeither Halibut nor Lasagna
- BHalibut
- CHalibut, Lasagna
- DLasagna
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Halibut
If Mousse is chosen as dessert (rule 3), then Gazpacho cannot be chosen as an appetizer (rule 5). Since the appetizer must be Focaccia or Gazpacho (rule 1), and Gazpacho is out, Focaccia *must* be chosen as the appetizer. If Focaccia is chosen, then Lasagna *must* be chosen as the main course (rule 4). Therefore, Halibut CANNOT be chosen as the main course.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Halibut cannot be chosen, so this option is incorrect.
- C. Lasagna must be chosen, so this option is incorrect.
- D. Lasagna must be chosen if Mousse is chosen, so it cannot be the answer.
Chaining Conditional Rules
Combining a series of 'if-then' statements to derive a new, often indirect, conclusion.
- The conclusion of one rule becomes the condition for another.
- Allows for multi-step deductions.
- Crucial for identifying 'must be true' or 'cannot be true' scenarios.
Memory trick: Conditions Link, Resulting In New Knowledge.